Check out this great recipe for creamy chickpea curry loaded with sweet potato, IDEAL for a carb refuel, from Joe Wicks and Gousto Lean in 15 range.
“Creamy, coconutty chickpea curry tastes so good piled into a baked sweet potato. Top it off with cashews, red chillies and a sprinkle of coriander for plant-based, Indian fusion at it’s best!” – Joe Wicks.
INGREDIENTS (SERVES 2)
1 brown onion
1 red chilli
1 lime
1 garlic clove
15g fresh root ginger
25g cashew nuts
5g coriander
120g baby leaf spinach
1 tbsp korma curry powder
1/2 Knorr vegetable stock cube
2 medium sweet potatoes
16g tomato paste
25g solid coconut cream
1 can of chickpeas (400g)
METHOD
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 220°C/ 200°C (fan)/ 425°F/ Gas 7. Pierce the sweet potatoes with a fork, then cook in the microwave for 5-7 min or until slightly softened. Transfer the sweet potatoes to a baking tray with a drizzle of vegetable oil and a generous pinch of salt then put the tray in the oven and cook for 12-15 min or until the skin is crispy.
Step 2: Meanwhile, boil half a kettle. Peel and finely chop the brown onion, ginger and garlic.
Step 3: Heat a large, wide-based pan (preferably non-stick) with 1 tbsp [2 tbsp] vegetable oil over a medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion with a pinch of salt and cook for 4-6 min or until softened. Then add the chopped ginger, chopped garlic and korma curry powder, and cook for 1-2 more minutes.
Step 4: Whilst the onion is softening, dissolve 1/2 Knorr vegetable stock cube and the coconut cream in 200ml boiled water. Add the tomato paste and stir it all together – this is your coconut stock.
Step 5: Drain and rinse the chickpeas, then add the coconut stock and drained chickpeas to your pan and cook for 4-5 min or until the sauce has thickened.
Step 6: Meanwhile, wash the spinach, then add it to a colander and pour boiled water all over it so that it starts to wilt. Rinse the wilted spinach under the cold tap until it’s cool, then squeeze as much water out of it as you can.
Step 7: Once the curry has thickened, add the wilted spinach and the juice of 1/2 lime – this is your chickpea curry.
Step 8: Once the potatoes are cooked, add the cashew nuts to the tray and return it to the oven for a further 2-3 min or until the cashews are golden and toasted.
Top tip! Watch them like a hawk so they don’t burn.
Step 9: Slice the red chilli[es] into rounds. Chop the coriander roughly, including the stalks and cut the remaining lime into wedges.
Step 10: Cut the sweet potatoes in half, lengthways, and fill with the chickpea curry. Garnish with the chilli rounds, chopped coriander, toasted cashew nuts and a lime wedge – bosh!
In collaboration with brand ambassador Joe Wicks, recipe box company Gousto’s new range of Lean in 15 recipes is on the menu now at www.gousto.co.uk.
Check out this great recipe for Spicy Chicken Chilli with Feta and Avocado, IDEAL for a carb refuel, from Joe Wicks and Gousto Lean in 15 range.
“This fiery chilli is absolutely banging! You’ll shred spiced chicken and stir it into a smoky chipotle chilli sauce with creamy black beans. Serve it with a feta and avo salsa and brown rice. Hot stuff!” – Joe Wicks.
INGREDIENTS (SERVES 2)
1 lime
1 garlic clove
1 spring onion
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp dried chilli flakes
100g brown rice
20g chipotle paste
1 avocado
30g Greek feta cheese
32g tomato paste
1 can of black beans
2 British chicken breast fillets
METHOD
Step 1: Boil half a kettle. Meanwhile, rinse the brown rice, add it to a pot with plenty of cold water and bring to the boil over a high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and cook for 15-20 min or until it’s tender with a slight bite. Once the rice is cooked, drain, return it to the pot and keep covered until serving.
Step 2: Add the smoked paprika and ground cumin to a plate with a pinch of salt and 1/2 tbsp vegetable oil. Mix it all up, then add the chicken breasts and turn until well coated.
Step 3: Heat a large, wide-based pan (preferably non-stick, with a matching lid) over a high heat with 1/2 tbsp [1 tbsp] vegetable oil. Once hot, add the coated chicken breasts and cook for 3 min on each side or until browned.
Step 4: Whilst the chicken is browning, peel and finely chop (or grate) the garlic. Dissolve the tomato paste in 200ml boiled water and add the chipotle paste (can’t handle the heat? Use half!) – this is your chipotle stock.
Step 5: Drain and rinse the black beans. Once the chicken has browned, add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add the chipotle stock, drained black beans and chilli flakes and bring to the boil. Then cook, covered, for a further 12-15 min or until the chicken is cooked through (no pink meat!) and the sauce has thickened.
Step 6: Cut the avocado in half lengthways, around the stone, remove the flesh and dice roughly. Trim, then slice the spring onion and crumble the feta into large pieces. Cut the lime in half.
Step 7: Combine the chopped avocado, crumbled feta and sliced spring onion in a small bowl with the juice of 1/2 lime and stir it all together – this is your feta & avocado salsa. Cut the remaining lime into wedges.
Step 8: Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a clean board and pull and shred apart using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the sauce and give everything a good mix up – this is your chicken chilli.
Step 9: Serve the chicken chilli with the brown rice and feta & avocado salsa to the side. Bangin’!
In collaboration with brand ambassador Joe Wicks, recipe box company Gousto’s new range of Lean in 15 recipes is on the menu now at www.gousto.co.uk.
Check out this great recipe for Miso Tofu with Stir-Fried Ginger Greens, IDEAL for a low carb lunch or dinner, from Joe Wicks and Gousto Lean in 15 range.
“I’ve packed heaps of flavour into protein-packed tofu with this super easy miso mirin glaze that’s full of umami. For lean, low-carb satisfaction, serve it with ginger and garlic stir-fried greens.” – Joe Wicks.
INGREDIENTS (SERVES 2)
1 garlic clove
15g fresh root ginger
8g soy sauce
2 tbsp white miso paste
200g pak choi
150g spring greens
280g plain tofu
15ml mirin
5g black sesame seed
80g blanched edamame beans
METHOD
Step 1: Boil half a kettle. Drain the tofu and pat it dry with kitchen paper, then cut the tofu into cubes.
Step 2: Rip the leaves off the spring greens, discard the tough stalks, then layer the leaves over each other, roll them up and slice into thin strips.
Step 3: Cut the pak choi in half, separating the white bases and green tops. Then cut the white bases into bite-sized pieces.
Step 4: Put the edamame beans in a bowl and cover with boiled water.
Step 5: Add the miso paste and mirin to a small bowl with 1 tbsp vegetable oil and mix until smooth – this is your miso glaze.
Step 6: Peel and finely slice (don’t chop!) the garlic and peel and finely chop the ginger into batons.
Step 7: Heat a large, wide-based pan (preferably non-stick) with 1 tbsp vegetable oil over a high heat. Once hot, add the tofu cubes and cook for 5-6 min or until browned all over and starting to crisp
Step 8: Meanwhile, heat a separate wide-based pan (preferably non-stick) with 1 tbsp vegetable oil over a medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shredded spring greens and pak choi bases and cook for 2-3 min or until starting to wilt.
Step 9: Drain, then add the edamame beans, pak choi tops and chopped ginger and garlic to the greens and cook for a further 2-3 min or until fragrant and everything is tender with a bite.
Step 10: Add the soy sauce and give everything a good mix up – these are your stir-fried ginger greens.
Step 11: Once the tofu is golden, add the miso glaze and cook for 2-3 min or until the sauce has coated the tofu and starting to caramelise.
Step 12: Sprinkle over the black sesame seeds and serve the miso tofu with the stir-fried ginger greens to the side. Get in!
In collaboration with brand ambassador Joe Wicks, recipe box company Gousto’s new range of Lean in 15 recipes is on the menu now at www.gousto.co.uk.
Wondering how to keep up your healthy new habits as lockdown rules begin to ease? Concerned you’ve let yourself go a little in past few months? Joe Wicks, aka The Body Coach, has shared his top tips on keeping a healthy mind and body this summer.
The tips accompany a new study by food box company Gousto which reveals that 58% of Brits have made a more conscious effort to get active during lockdown. Great news!
Gousto’s recent study on lockdown habits also found that:
A quarter of Brits have formed new positive habits
95% of those are aiming to sustain their new habits after lockdown
Cooking fresh food at home tops the list of new habits that are here to stay
Research by Gousto discovered over 25% of Brits will continue working out at home, rather than pay for a gym membership
The nation’s PE teacher, Joe Wicks, said
”It’s an uncertain time for everyone at the moment, so it can be really difficult to put your mental and physical well being first. My top tips for you this summer are all about making long-term lifestyle changes.
There are loads of amazing activities people have been getting involved in during the lockdown with more people cooking and walking than ever before… and there’s no reason why this should change. If you’re someone who’s struggled to find a healthy balance during this time, I hope these tips will get you going!”
So, let’s get this thing started! Here are 8 IDEAL tips for staying healthy this summer from Joe Wicks.
MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR HOME
You don’t need a gym or lots of equipment to get fit and healthy. Lots of people have been getting creative and finding space at home for exercise. I’ve always believed in the power of home workouts because it’s so much easier to maintain a daily routine when you’re exercising on your own terms. I’m a big fan of HIIT training and you can do it anywhere; at home, in the garden or even in the park.
RISE AND SHINE
I love to exercise first thing in the morning, it wakes me up, boosts my energy and sets me up to win the day. It’s also a perfect way to make the most of the longer days. Plan your workouts in advance and try and stick to them like appointments you can’t miss. If you can’t train in the morning, that’s fine, it’s all about finding what works for you. Remember, whatever time of day you exercise, it’s going to make you feel awesome physically and mentally.
KEEP COOKING
Cooking at home with fresh ingredients means you know what’s going into your food. You can have loads of fun experimenting with different recipes and that’s one of the things I love about Gousto. You have 50 recipes at your fingertips every week, including four from my new Lean in 15 range. The new recipes combine high carb, post workout recipes with low carb recipes for less active days, so there’s always a banging, balanced recipe to try.
MAKE EXERCISE FUN
Exercise should be fun, not something you dread. We’ve all found new ways to workout during lockdown and most don’t need equipment, or even much time. Put some fun into your routine: do a HIIT workout in the front room, walk a new route, offer to walk a neighbour’s dog or go for a run with someone from your household. It doesn’t matter what exercise you do, find something you enjoy and you’ll find it much easier to stick to.
GET SOME FRESH AIR
I love getting outside and going for a long walk in the summer. We’re all finding a new appreciation for getting outside, so try to keep that going as we get back to normal. Get out into the garden or find a local, quiet space to do your workout. If you’re not feeling a heavy workout every day, a light walk and some fresh air will still make you feel great.
DON’T FEAR THE CARBS
Carbs give you energy, help your brain function and give your muscles fuel to recover after a workout. Carbs are not the enemy, so don’t be afraid of them, I like to refuel with a high carb meal after a workout.
Cutting out any food group or depriving yourself of the foods that you love is not sustainable. If you make balanced food choices most of the time and stay active, you absolutely shouldn’t feel guilty about treating yourself to an indulgent meal or a delicious dessert.
MAKE THE TIME
So many people are super busy at the moment, juggling home working, childcare, homeschooling and other responsibilities. Other people are finding they have more time on their hands than ever before. As our routines change all over again, it’s important to make time to look after yourself. Quick daily workouts and easy home cooking are a great place to start.
No matter what pressures you’re feeling during this time, be healthy on your terms. Find exercises that get you up in the morning, food that you’re excited to eat and make goals that work around your lifestyle.
Ideal for entertaining and for your own entertainment, too.
Everyone dreams of having a home that their friends love to hang out in. Right now, with heading out for your entertainment needs either impossible, advised against or associated with increased risk, making your house a more fun place to spend time in is actually the responsible thing to do! As if we needed an excuse.
It’s time to create a space friends want to visit, and equally, where you love spending time! With that in mind, here are 6 things to buy to make your home more fun, IDEAL for entertaining and for your own entertainment, too.
GET A POOL OR PING PONG TABLE
You said you wanted to add some fun to your home, and nothing says fun better than shooting some pool or playing a bit of ping pong! Both a pool and table tennis table can create a sociable and fun atmosphere, perhaps with a little competitiveness thrown in, and are ideal for the home setting right now, as pubs and bars won’t be allowed to provide games like these for the foreseeable future.
You can find a range of English pool tables from Home Leisure Direct at homeleisuredirect.com.
GATHER AROUND A FIREPIT
There’s just something about gathering around a fire, staring into it enigmatically and contemplating life’s bigger questions. To entice friends over to do the same, and share in some existential soul searching, why not invest (or build your own) firepit?
Essentially, a giant sandbox for adults, with a fire pit right in the centre, you can add some permanently fixed benches around the area, or have friends bring their own beach or camping chairs. A great focal point and conversation starter, we think.
INSTALL WOOD FIRED OVEN
For foodies who love bringing friends and family together, then a wood fired oven in your garden is exactly what you need. A fun addition to your outdoor space and a hub for entertaining, too, the most affordable outdoor oven on the market will set you back around £250 for a portable one, whilst a larger version tops £2500. That, or you could make your own. Check out our guide on doing just that; how to build your own pizza oven in your garden in 5 simple steps.
Though this bit of kit is perfect for throwing a pizza party, don’t let the al fresco cooking stop there; fish, meat, veggies and even some baked desserts all taste amazing in a wood fired oven!
A PROJECTOR
A home cinema in your house is the ultimate source of entertainment for your family and friends, whether it’s for gathering around to watch the footy or to screen the latest Hollywood blockbusters.
If you have kids, they will love watching their favourite films on the big screen, homemade popcorn in hand. A projector works best for this, with a white wall to project on. Keep all the other walls dark to make it more effective and you’re good to go!
A SURROUND SOUND SYSTEM
For the perfect home cinema set up, you’re going to need an appropriate sound system alongside that projector. When it comes to sound, there are generally two main options: 5.1 surround sound and 2.1 surround sound. The former means you’ll need five additional speakers spread out around the room while the second calls for just two.
To go layman on you, in a smaller space, two speakers do the trick perfectly but in a large room designed specifically as an entertainment space or dedicated completely to film watching, a 5:1 will do that dedication justice.
CHALKBOARD WALL
When you were a kid, you’d get scolded for scribbling on the wall, but with a chalkboard wall you (and your children) can draw as much as you want, guilt and scold free.
Yep, kids will love playing games of noughts and crosses or hangman on the chalkboard wall. And for your adult friends, you can keep score while playing games like pool, beer pong, or have fun and draw some silly doodles. When you’re done, you can simply wipe it off and start again. A chalkboard wall makes a great addition to an area where you often entertain, such as your garage or games room, particularly.
Ideal for those whose boiler is on the brink, the blink, or if you’re simply looking to save money on energy bills.
Replacing a boiler on the blink; could there be a more universally resented purchase? Because although the device is instrumental in your everyday, it’s also a piece of home equipment we all take for granted. As such, buying a new boiler feels like an expense few have properly budgeted for.
As one of the most important purchases that a homeowner can make, it’s vital that you conduct research into the different types of boilers, models, and manufacturers beforehand, as this investment is one which you’re going to be living with for a while. So, whether you’ve noticed an increase in your energy bills and want to get them lower, or your old boiler has packed in, a little bit of research can go a long way. With that in mind, here’s our IDEAL guide to buying a new boiler, IDEAL for those whose boiler is on the brink, the blink, or if you’re simply looking to save money on energy bills.
WHY INVEST IN A NEW BOILER?
Because the old one is on the blink, of course. Though a broken boiler is the most common reason for needing a new one, it might actually be a smart move to invest in a new boiler even if your old one isn’t showing any signs of immediate decay.
Instead, look for hints that your central heating might not be working to its full potential; perhaps your radiator is staying cold after you’ve turned the heating on or the pump is making unusual noises? Time to investigate further.
If it’s over 10 years old or you have to keep getting it repaired, then you might actually save yourself the significant outlays on regular maintenance by bringing your boiler bang up to date.
As the experts at Boiler Central suggest in their article 10 Reasons to Buy a New Boiler, boilers which are older than ten years may contain parts which can longer be replaced easily and cheaply.
What’s more, ”as a boiler ages, it can develop problems like corrosion and internal limescale buildup”, and as such, often boiler issues aren’t visible to the naked eye until it’s too late. Don’t wait until your boiler packs in before you replace it; a little foresight goes a long way here.
THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF BOILER ON THE MARKET
With numerous brands, models, and types of boilers to pick from, knowing where to start can be difficult. While all modern boilers are created to high levels of safety spec, it’s important that you’re aware of the 3 main boiler types that are commonly found in most properties, which are:
Regular/Conventional
System
Combi
Although there are pros and cons for each of the boiler types listed, the size of your property and the number of people in your family will determine which type is right for you.
Combi boilers are best suited for homes that have a single bathroom, whereas a regular boiler is recommended for larger homes. System boilers sit in between the two with regards to how they function. Each boiler type will differ in size, so you will need to determine whether the boiler can fit snugly in your kitchen cupboard, or whether it’s best housed in the loft.
UNDERSTAND YOUR HOT WATER & HEATING DEMANDS
The number of people living in your home, alongside its size, is a major factor to take into account when picking the right boiler for you. You will also need to pick a suitable output rating for your hot water and heating demands. If you have a low output rating, this will have a negative effect on your domestic hot water and central heating, whereas a higher output rating could cause your energy bill to increase.
If you live in a small terrace house or flat, a suitable output rating ranges between 24-27 kW. A suitable output rating for a medium terrace or semi-detached house is between 28-34 kW, whereas a large semi-detached or detached house’s suitable output rating is between 35-42 kW. This will be easily obtained from your water supplier or it can be found on your water bill.
COST DIVERGENCE
According to recent market analysis by the experts at The Heating Hub, prices vary hugely when it comes to boiler purchase. For a combi, expect to pay between £1600 and £3500, and for a system boiler, costs range from £1500 to £2800. Check out their superbly detailed breakdown on the divergence in boiler costs for more.
CHECK THE WARRANTY
Should you experience a problem with your boiler once it has been installed, being covered will bring you huge peace of mind (not to mention save you a lot of money). No matter what kind of boiler or provider you go for, it must come with a warranty period, period. However, what is covered and what is not will depend on the boiler and brand. Before you shell out on a boiler, it’s vital that you look into the warranty, as well as the terms and conditions. If your boiler breaks down and you don’t have cover, getting it fixed can prove extremely costly.
SEEK RECOMMENDATIONS
If you aren’t sure which boiler to go for, asking family members and friends for recommendations is advised, as there’s plenty of anecdotal evidence out there on these temperamental machines.
Whilst we’re on the subject of recommendations, ask around for advice on reliable, responsible technicians in the area to carry out the installation. Whichever route you choose, make sure that you always use a heating engineer who is qualified and Gas Safe registered. Checking their credentials beforehand will mean that you can ensure you’re held in safe hands.
For those who want to become more eco-friendly, a new energy-efficient boiler can save you up to 40% on your central heating bills. While the initial cost may be alarming, an energy-efficient boiler is seen as a worthwhile investment by many homeowners. According to the EST (Energy Saving Trust), you could save up to £225 annually.
GET SEVERAL QUOTES
To avoid being overcharged, the last thing you should do is accept the first boiler quote you’re given. It’s sensible to compare several quotes and make sure that you have them in writing. If you find a quote that’s too good to be true, it probably is, so instead of picking the cheapest quote you find, finding out what you will get for your money is important.
Installing a new boiler in your home can improve boiler efficiency, improve heating control, and create a quieter boiler operation. Before making your final decision, make sure that you put all the tips listed above into practice, which should help you find an affordable and reliable boiler.
Kevin McCloud, can you hear us? Lawrence Llewelyn-Bowen, then? Still silence. How about Piers Taylor? Hello?
If, like us, you’re not blessed with having a home renovation expert on speed dial, then fear not; the layperson can still make serious savings without having to sacrifice style and finesse during their next domestic project. All it takes is assiduous planning, meticulous budgeting, a fair amount of accurate prediction, a do-it-yourself sensibility and an unwavering focus on seeking value at every hammer of the nail.
We’ve done the legwork, spoken to the experts, and narrowed it down to five key tenets of thrifty residential renovation for you; here are 5 insider tips on simple ways to save money on your next home renovation.
DO DILIGENT RESEARCH BEFORE DEVISING YOUR BUDGET
Before you dive headfirst into the renovation process, it’s vital you take some time to conduct research and develop a meticulous budget. Don’t simply settle on guestimates and take the first costing you receive as gospel; shop around so that you have a realistic idea of costs. You can do this, quite simply, by looking at local hardware shops and calculating the prices of things you need. Additionally, reach out to local contractors for quotes.
Be sure to look at multiple options and do some cost comparison calculations, and for heaven’s sake, do not rush this stage. As your mother used to say, proper planning prevents poor performance. She might just have been on to something.
You can develop a simple spreadsheet to keep track of your outgoings and reallocate funds as the project develops. Remember to add room in your budget for contingency planning, as unexpected costs are common in a renovation project.
Setting and sticking to a budget gives you a solid framework to save and plan for your project. By planning out the prices, you’re less likely to spend recklessly and will save money in the long run.
SECOND GUESS THOSE INEVITABLE HIDDEN COSTS
Did someone mention hidden costs? Yep, it’s a tale as old as time itself; hidden costs plague every home development and renovation project, and are just as certain in life as death and taxes. But just because they’re unexpected doesn’t mean they can’t be accounted for in your initial budget.
We’ve all seen those Grand Designs episodes when an ambitious amateur attempts to build their dream home. And time and time again these budding architects come across the same problem – escalating costs. While we can all predict this eventuality from the sofa, being objective can be tough with your head under a hard hat and your knees deep in rubble.
Yep, hidden costs are one of the biggest hurdles to completing home renovations successfully. So, always add a recommended minimum contingency of 15% for unforeseen problems, overruns and even inflation.
On top of that, try to second guess what areas of the project are most susceptible to the threat of hidden costs. For example, more often than not, materials which are particularly prone to price fluctuation account for the largest hidden cost in a renovation project. Accordingly, do your research about both local and international prices and keep your eye on the markets.
DIY WHENEVER POSSIBLE
One of the most significant costs (and another huge contributor to those much-feared hidden ones) associated with home renovation projects is labour. As such, you can dramatically slash your budget by taking a DIY approach whenever possible.
This is particularly true for furniture, which you should endeavour to be taking into your own hands. For example, investing in some of the best online cabinets, tables, chairs stools and anything else manageable, and assembling them yourself rather than paying to have them professionally installed, will save you money on your budget. Every little helps, as they say.
What’s more, if you’re fairly handy in the home setting, then replacing toilets and faucets yourself rather than hiring a plumber is another great way to save. Watch online tutorials, get your hands a little dirty, and learn to lay your own tile, install your own trim, and paint your own walls, and you may never lok back.
Of course, there will always be tasks that should be delegated to a professional. Any time you’re dealing with wiring and electricity, it’s well worth the expense to have an electrician handle the work. Nuanced tasks like hanging and mudding drywall should be outsourced to someone who has experience with those tasks, as well as issues involving entry points to your home. If not, your property’s security may be compromised.
As the Garage Door Guru in Whitestone, NY cautions, ”if you’re like most homeowners, you probably don’t pay too much attention to the most important component of this space: the door”. But really, this is one area which shouldn’t be forgotten due to financial concerns.
When it comes to safety and value, spending money on professional help will save you money later.
PLAY THE LONG GAME
The longer you project for your home renovation completion timeline, the more money you’ll be able to save. Generally speaking, there’s no need to rush a home renovation project, so play the long game for a thrifty finish. Indeed, you can start preparing now for a kitchen remodel that you won’t start for another year, or begin laying the groundwork for a bathroom retiling several months in advance. By extending your timeline, you give yourself time to wait for sales, pick up discontinued items, and save money or pay as you go.
Consider shopping ahead of time and storing bits and pieces for later rather than putting everything on credit. Use tax refunds and unexpected sources of income to fund your project. Taking a slow and steady approach will prevent interest payments and impulse purchases.
If you choose to buy things well in advance, be sure to pick up extra supplies for things like tile and paint. One of the challenges of buying in advance is that if an item gets discontinued, you may be out of luck if you run out before the project is complete.
PRACTICE A BALANCED APPROACH
When it comes to home renovation projects, there are areas to spend and areas to save. It makes sense to cut costs on certain aspects of the home remodel while investing in others. Investing in areas that will improve the resale value of the home and have the most potential for a high return on investment is key.
Take the kitchen, for example. Many homeowners doing renovations in a kitchen make the mistake of creating a luxury space that doesn’t always fit the rest of the home. This practice stems from the fact that kitchens tend to have the highest resale value. However, overdoing it can actually deter buyers from selecting your home, as such focus on one room can actually make the rest of the home feel unappointed and neglected in comparison. A more balanced furnishing of the home as a whole will generate more resale value than having one luxurious room.
Every time that you begin a new lease or sign a rental agreement, you are required to pay a security deposit. That’s the unfortunate truth and unless there’s a massive, much needed shake up of the housing market, this necessity is here to stay.
As you know, the deposit will be returned to you when your lease is terminated, providing you adhere to specific conditions. If you’ve ever rented, you might also know that when the time comes to move out, the goalposts are often shifted, the conditions apparently changed, and suddenly, you’re facing a dispute about whether getting your deposit back at all.
If you want to ensure you leave your rental agreement with a nice chunk of cash, there are a few steps you should follow to cover all bases and satisfy even the most pedantic, pound hungry landlord. These are those; here’s how to ensure you get your security deposit back when you move out.
GET IT PROFESSIONALLY CLEANED
When you terminate your lease, you must legally leave your home spotless. That doesn’t mean sweeping the floors, wiping down the counters and furiously scrubbing off last week’s bolognese stains from the wall.
Instead, every inch of the home must be adequately cleaned to industry standards. Don’t leave definitions of ‘clean’ up to chance. Your best bet is to hire those who specialise in move out cleaning London, Glasgow, Cardiff or otherwise, since they know exactly what landlords will be looking for on inspection and specialise in these types of deep cleans.
Covered within such a service are carpet cleaning, upholstery cleanings and stain removal, window cleaning, oven cleaning and more. One dirty cabinet could mean losing your whole security deposit, so don’t risk it. Instead, defer to the professionals here.
SEND A LETTER
You’ll need to notify your landlord that you intend to move out. Do not send a text or tell them via telephone. It’s essential to send a ‘tenants notice to end tenancy’ letter which includes your new address, and make sure to send it well in advance. They need to receive the message outside of your notice period, or you might risk your lease renewing automatically. Also, make sure you make a copy of the letter before you send it in case the landlord claims they didn’t receive it. Send it via certified mail, so that you get notified when it is accepted and signed for.
THOROUGHLY READ YOUR LEASE
Each lease is slightly different, though they all have a clause regarding termination. Make sure you read all the stipulations in the lease thoroughly and follow them to a tee. Any deviation from the agreement could mean you won’t receive your security deposit back.
Check how much notice is required for you to terminate the list and make sure you give it. Most leases will also require you to return any changes you’ve made within the property back to their original condition.
ALWAYS PAY LAST MONTH’S RENT
Many people will assume that their security deposit will count for their last month’s rent. 99% of the time this is not the case. Unless it specifically says so in your contract, you are required to pay your last month’s rent. If your landlord does an inspection when you move out and there are damages, or if it’s not clean, they can sue you saying that you’ve not paid rent. Always pay your last month’s rent and request a receipt. That way, you’re covered in case of any issues.
If you follow these steps, you will have the best chance of getting back your full security deposit without any issues. Should you be taking on the cleaning yourself, then check out these 10 professional home cleaning hacks for some insider tips.
How we long for the old days of TV shopping. The paradox of choice didn’t grip us. There was a single choice between colour and monochrome. And the tiny yet weirdly cumbersome box would fit perfectly in the corner of your living room. Cue squinting, having to stand up to change the channel, and fuzzy, interrupted resolution.
Actually, we don’t miss it. TV shopping is one hell of a thrill now, full of exciting jargon like refresh rate and megahertz and choices you never knew you had to make between OLED and LCD. To illuminate and provide greater clarity, here are our 5 tips for choosing the IDEAL TV for you.
DISCOUNTS & DEALS
Let’s start with the most important thing first – budget. How much cash you’re willing to spend will have a big impact on the quality of your TV, make no mistake, but that doesn’t mean you can’t snag a bargain. In fact, major outlets – both online and in store – seem to be in a constant state of discounts and offers, and that competitiveness benefits the consumer hugely.
Therefore, once you’ve settled on a model, it’s prudent to shop around and price compare scrupulously. If that feels like too much effort, then Amazon Prime memberships (of which you can enjoy a free 30 day trial) have price alert features including Lightning Deals, which can represent a significant discount.
CHOOSE YOUR TV SIZE
Some think bigger is better when it comes to TV’s, and that size should be the primary driving force behind your purchase – we don’t. That said, size does matter. And while it depends on personal preference, the wrong size can affect your viewing experience. Go too big and you risk it dominating your living room and actually rendering your tele difficult to watch. Too small and your eyes will be permanently squinting. Striking the right balance is key here.
Before you start shopping, you need to take into account the size of your room and choose where you want your TV to live. Measure the height, width and depth of your space, and then measure again.
Don’t leave things up to chance here; ask those searching questions. Are you going to mount the TV, or will it sit on a console? Wherever you place the TV, you need to ensure it’s wide enough to accommodate the stand too. How close are you going to sit to the TV? Will it suffer from reflection issues? Lucikly there are some handy equations you can use to calculate how big your TV should be like this formula.
BE BOLD & RESOLUTE
Just when you’re done considering the size of your TV, the matter of screen resolution is going to present you with another string of numbers and terminology.
As a general rule of thumb, if you really value your viewing experience, don’t go with a screen resolution that’s lower than 4K, and avoid 1080P – while it’s’ sufficient for casual watching, 4k is significantly better in term of picture quality. Indeed, 4k Ultra HD TVs are considered a safe investment and a good compromise in terms of cost versus quality, delivering better clarity than HD, but not being as prohibitively expensive as TVs offering 8K screen resolution.
DON’T FORGET THE REFRESH RATE
Yep, we did warn you that there’s a fair amount of jargon here. The refresh rate refers to the frames of images shown per second. Or, in other words, it’s the number of times per second it refreshes its images. Most movies are filmed 24 frames per second (24Hz), while live TV shows are at 30 or 60.
When it comes to refresh rates, the higher the better – the more the rate, the smoother the picture and the reduced chance of motion blur. When shopping around, look for 60Hz or 120 Hz refresh rate. You’ll also want to watch out for the ‘effective refresh rate’, which means the actual refresh rate (sometimes referred to as the ‘native’ rate) is half of what is described – if it is written to have a 120Hz effective refresh rate, it is equivalent to 60Hz, which is broadcast standard. Yep, it’s confusing but in layperson’s terms, the higher refresh rate, the better.
DISPLAY TYPE
Display type (also known as TV lighting) refers to those confusing OLED, QLED and LED letters you see in your TV’s description, and is another consideration when it comes to choosing the ideal TV for you.
They allow or block the path of light in specific areas on your screen, with that contrast giving you a richer viewing experience. According to the experts at Help To Choose OLED gives you the greatest contrast, more vibrant colours and the greatest viewing angles, so prioritise this when you can.
With more of us set to be working from home in the long term, the days of formal fashion and workwear feel numbered. We don’t think we’re the only ones who welcome that development. In its place, the rise of feelgood fashion, the natural heir to lockdown leisurewear, seems inevitable.
Because let’s be honest, who wants to be sat in their home office in a full shirt, jacket and trousers ensemble, high heels, makeup and all? Not us. Some may say it stokes productivity. Others, that it’s masochism in outfit form. We fall firmly in the latter camp.
Instead, it’s time to embrace a looser and ultimately more comfortable approach to our clothes to coincide with our more flexible, looser working futures. Here’s how to stay at home in style, with these 4 feel food fashion tips.
EMBRACE LOCKDOWN LOUNGEWEAR
While some people are declaring a desire to get back into fitted, formal clothes as soon as possible, believing the novelty has worn off lockdown loungewear, we’re still all for comfortable co-ord sets worn around the home. In fact, we’re wondering if we’ll ever don something tight and smart again.
However, wearing loungewear doesn’t mean your outfit choice has to look sloppy or ill considered. In fact, many of these so-called loungewear co-ord sets are more stylish than the majority of other types of ‘casual workwear’ like jeans and t-shirts (let’s face it – wearing denim around the home just doesn’t feel right) or a maxi dress. The best part is their flexibility; suitable for work, working out and even a trip to the corner shop. Transitioning from indoors to outdoors, and home office to surface; we just love that sense of stylish convenience. Working from home never felt so good.
INVEST IN CHIC, STYLISH PYJAMAS
The first rule of working from home is to never wear pyjamas – if you’re dressed for bed, your brain will think it’s time for bed and go all sleepy. As such, we don’t recommend staying in your pyjamas all day during the working week. However, weekends at home are made for lazy mornings in your PJs, and we’re not talking about those shapeless t-shirts and baggy tracksuit bottoms that many of us have become accustomed to wearing during lockdown.
Investing in some chic, stylish, good quality sleepwear will keep you feeling fabulous at home from dusk till dawn, whether you’re having a quiet evening watching a movie or a lazy Sunday morning reading the newspaper. Moreover, sleep is made so much better in beautifully cut pyjamas crafted from breathable, refined natural fibres. This article is about feeling good after all, and the pyjamas you wear can have a serious effect on how well you sleep and subsequently your mood the next day.
We digress, but chic pyjamas are, quite simply, good for the soul. Time to banish sleeping in your ex’s tatty t-shirt for good, for many reasons, we think.
THINK WITH YOUR FEET
The philistines think that the most comfortable, indoor footwear is simply achieved by not wearing any, preferring to go barefoot and fancy-free. But you’re not one of those, are you?
Nope, you, my friend, are a comfort connoisseur, and as such, you’re a shoes-off-at-the-door, straight into slippers kinda guy. Not just any old mules will do, though. We’re in love with these slippers from Woolenstocks, handmade in the Himalayas and stitched with precise attention to detail. You’ll look forward to slipping into them whenever you’ve left the house, of that we can guarantee!
That said, when the weather is hot, it’s lovely to let it all hang out and go barefoot around the house. To make the experience all the more feel good, give yourself a pedicure. And as if by magic, here’s our top tips for a DIY pedicure; check it out. Feels good to take a load off, right?
DRESS UP FOR THE THRILL OF IT
Feel good fashion is ultimately all about wearing clothes that bring you joy. And oh how we miss getting glammed up for a night on the tiles in our favourite ‘going out’ outfit. Putting on some makeup for Zoom and struggling with a lousy internet connection rather than the zip on your designer dress just isn’t the same, we think. And while we’re certainly stoked about enjoying our first pint of freedom when the pubs reopen, we’re slightly apprehensive to jump straight back in.
Instead, enjoy dressing up for the gratification it brings you; it can really boost the self esteem to get dressed up, even if you’re not heading out. In fact, studies have shown that clothing choices have a significant impact on the way we view ourselves, reflective of and contributing to your mood. Set the tone right and feel good by dressing up from time to time.
Ideal for those looking to get things done quickly and efficiently.
Selling a house is often a lengthy process, with many hurdles for you to jump over (or to trip you up) along the way. To say it makes for a stressful affair is to put things very mildly, indeed. Fortunately, there are a few ways to speed up the process and make life a little easier for yourself.
If you have ever sold a house or are currently attempting to sell a property for the first time, you’ll know full well that it can be a complex, anxiety-inducing ordeal. With so many moving parts and so much money involved, a quick house sale, though the dream of everyone involved, is a pretty much unheard of concept.
Speed and efficiency are made nigh on impossible because of several factors — such as property chain delays, sales falling through and additional complications you may stumble upon along the way. That said, there are steps you can take to mitigate the threat of the sale slowing to a complete standstill. These are those; our 5 ways to speed up a house sale, IDEAL for those looking to get things done quickly and efficiently.
CHOOSE AN EXPERIENCED AND REPUTABLE ESTATE AGENT
It sounds like the most simple and obvious advice in the world, doesn’t it? But you’d be surprised how often people endure a hideously lengthy sale simply because their estate agent has dropped the ball or neglected to be diligent enough.
Choosing an estate agent who has experience selling similar properties in your area, at similar valuations, is a huge advantage when it comes to advertising to buyers who are more likely to purchase.
When you hire an estate agent, you gain access to their previous experience of selling houses near you, with their expertise able to inform you which offers are reasonable and which are not, rooting out the unrealistic ones and honing in on those which might have legs, equally.
A real estate agent can also help you to look for a new place of your own, rather than having to do it by yourself. If you’re wondering “how much house can I afford?”, use a mortgage calculator to figure out your budget, and bring your price range to your realtor to get started on your house hunt.
FOCUS ON SERIOUS BUYERS
You’ll soon find that selling a property involves having to wade through a lot of potential buyers who are merely testing the waters and seeing what’s about, rather than having any serious intention to make a bid on your place. Before you find someone willing to make a serious offer, you’re unfortunately going to need to learn to tolerate a fair bit of this back and forth.
But how do you know if a buyer is serious or not? Possessing such a discerning eye will help you save huge amounts of time during the selling process. Having dealt with many, many different buyers and sellers, your estate agent will know how to gauge who is serious and who isn’t. For example, if they have been to see a mortgage adviser, confirmed their budget, and have an agreement in principle — it’s a good sign that they are committed. Defer to your agent on doing the detective work and getting these details confirmed behind the scenes.
KEEP THE CONTROL IN YOUR HANDS
We mentioned above that you need to hire an estate agent who will be diligent and won’t drop the ball, but that doesn’t mean you should kick back and relax. If you want to ensure that your property is sold as quickly as possible, you need to keep your head in the game and stay on top of all of your responsibilities as a seller. This means that you need to be aware of what needs to be done and when you need to do it, particularly in ways you can increase your property’s sell on value, as it will make life a lot easier when managing the various aspects of the sales process and following up to speed things along.
A crucial part of this is maintaining regular contact with your estate agent and, in the process, consistently reminding them to contact the seller or the seller’s estate agent. This is especially beneficial for sales with a property chain, as you will have a clear idea of the sale’s progress as it advances or stalls.
REQUEST CHAIN-FREE BUYERS
The term “chain-free” refers to buyers who are not relying on the sale of their current property to provide the funds to buy your home. Being part of a property chain is a common cause of frustration in the housing market, as a break in a link somewhere along the line is so often the culprit for lengthy delays and the heartbreak of a sale falling through. By requesting chain-free buyers in your property ad, you instantly eliminate the risks that come with property chains and make sure the sales process is as swift and hassle-free as possible, relying on just one successful transaction, rather than many.
CONSIDER A QUICK HOUSE SALE SERVICE
A quick house sale service is the fastest way to sell a property. By using this service, you can receive a cash offer almost immediately. Following a valuation of your home and the acceptance of the no-obligation offer you are presented with, you can complete the sale in as little as seven days.
Speed isn’t the only advantage of a quick house sale. It also frees you of the stress of the property chain and the additional fees that come with selling on the housing market. While choosing this option will mean the company you go with gets a small percentage of the selling price, the money, time and stress you save make it worth it and then some.
Though there are often fewer legal fees involved in these quick sale arrangements, do be aware that the offer will likely be lower than if you go through a more protracted process, but if you prioritise doing business fast above all else, then this one’s for you. Check if the company is a member of the National Association of Property Buyers and given the thumbs up by the Property Ombudsman, too, to ensure everything is legit and above board before progressing.
With the world in such upheaval, and seismic shapeshifting occurring across the planet, it feels like now is not the time to rest on your laurels. Life’s short and time precious, and if you’ve been dreaming of your giving your house an overhaul, now might be the perfect time to do so.
What are you waiting for? Enhancing your home’s aesthetic appeal will likely see its value climb after you’ve completed your home renovation project, whether that’s landscaping improvements to enhance curb appeal, or the injection of some refreshing interior décor to make your house a home.
Of course, funding is going to be crucial to the success of any home improvement project, making it the number one priority when homeowners contemplate such plans. Right now, some of the more conventional channels of finance are a little trickier to gain access to, with banks cautious to be doling out the cash. Not to worry; there are still plenty of ways you can gather the money for a domestic revamp. With that in mind, here are 5 ways to fund your home renovation project in 2020.
TAP INTO THE FUNDS YOU ALREADY HAVE
We realise it may be stating the obvious, but any tax refunds, dividends payments, and other payouts are great options for financing home improvement projects. So often, these are treated as an added bonus of sorts, frittered away on far flung holidays or clothes shopping. But going this route to renovate your home means avoiding the repayment obligation that comes with borrowing.
Unfortunately this does not work for everyone. Some people for example, may prefer to hold on to their cash or invest it rather than spending it while others simply do not have the amount of money needed at their disposal. This is where financial products like loans come into the picture.
BORROW AGAINST YOUR HOME…
You can get the funds you need for your home renovation project by borrowing against your home. This type of loan, known as a home equity loan, typically carries a lower interest rate than a line of credit or personal loan. Indeed, some lending agencies offer a line of credit backed by home equity.
That said, the risks of such a loan are high. With your home put up as collateral, your ownership of it could be under threat if you fall behind on repayment. The closing costs are also high (as much as 5% of the loan amount) and taking on debt like this isn’t a prudent financial move, particularly if the renovation project is speculative on your property gaining value because of the potential upgrades you’re making.
…OR YOUR CAR
If you are the owner of a vehicle that has a finance/loan-free title then you have a valuable tool to help finance your home improvement project; a car equity loan. Via this channel, you can leverage the value of your car to secure a logbook loan from the likes of V5 Solutions. Because this loan is secured by your car, you will likely pay a lower rate of interest than you would for a personal loan or line of credit. Though that represents a relatively easy channel to funding, do be aware that your car is at risk if you fall behind on payments.
LINE OF CREDIT
A line of credit can help you to fund your home improvement project. This is a loan facility that functions similarly to a credit card, and sees the lending agency pre qualify you for a set sum, allowing you to draw from that fund as needed. You are only obligated to repay based on what you use, and because of this, any people find this to be a very convenient way to fund their home renovation projects, especially since the costs are often a little tough to predict, and can end up being higher than planned.
PERSONAL LOAN
Another option you can use to get the money you need to carry out your home renovation project is a personal loan. This loan is heavily dependent on your existing relationship with the lending agency and/or bank. Since a personal loan is not secured, it typically attracts a higher interest rate than secured loans. Reputable high-street banks such as Santander provide online loan calculators to breakdown your ‘estimated’ repayment terms and costs, so do check out such a calculator prior to making any snap decisions.
Do endeavour to be particularly mindful about your spending in the period of potential normalisation following coronavirus, as many people’s finances will be in an unpredictable state for some time. Check out our tips on how to future-proof your post-COVID finances for more on the subject.
It’s a time of huge upheaval, readjustment and uncertain futures. As such, perhaps you’re considering a seismic life shift? Whether that’s a career change, lifestyle realignment or moving city in search of new inspiration, this isn’t a decision to be taken lightly.
We’re here to talk to those considering moving house to a new city to buy property, in the hope of a fresh start. Enlightened by a recent research study carried out by Open Property Group, which shed light on the Top 10 LEAST and the Top 10 MOST affordable UK cities to buy a house, today we’re looking closer at the four most affordable cities, and what attracts home-buyers to them across the nation. With that in mind, here are the top 4 most affordable cities to live in England, IDEAL for those seeking new beginnings.
MOST AFFORDABLE CITY: DURHAM – EMPLOYMENT, EDUCATION, AND ENTERTAINMENT
Durham has spent the last few years transforming many of its factories, historic mills, and warehouses into culinary and cultural gems, and the city now boasts a broad range of cultural and entertainment hotspots.
This, along with the city’s strong reputation for education and history, makes Durham extremely appealing as a residential space and somewhere to up sticks to. For a city of its size, Durham also has a plethora of employment opportunities. Its famous university, Duke University, alone employs 8000 people.
And to top it all off, Durham was highlighted by Open Properties Group as being the most affordable English city to live in with housing that is deemed to be ‘reachable’ by single buyers earning average incomes. Moreover, if you’re looking for beautiful places in England to live then look no further than County Durham, it boasts a beautiful coastline and covers part of the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty – bliss.
SECOND MOST AFFORDABLE CITY: STOKE-ON-TRENT – AFFORDABLE AND STRATEGICALLY LOCATED
Stoke-on-Trent is second only to the aforementioned Durham in terms of affordability, with residential real estate prices as low as £114,301, or just 4% above the city’s calculated affordable housing price of £110,184, according to Open Property Group.
The city, which actually comprises 6 town centres, is also home to some of the UK’s most intriguing cultural and historical gems, such as the bottle ovens formerly used for baking pottery, the noble red brick universities, and Biddulph Grange Gardens, particularly the gold cow at the entrance and Japanese quarter, truly unique.
The city’s fine tradition for ceramics (it’s the World Capital of the stuff) means kitting out your crockery cupboard is a doddle (and a damn lot of fun, too). As good an excuse as any to move here, we think.
Easy access to major urban centres such as Liverpool and Manchester is facilitated through the M6 and other efficiently run transportation networks. Residents also benefit from the services provided by the many high quality primary and secondary schools in the city as well as a combination of serene and lively entertainment spots like The Zero Art Café located on Foundry Street and Hanley.
THIRD MOST AFFORDABLE CITY: HULL – NATURAL WONDERS AND SOCIAL WARMTH
Hull is a city with so much to offer, and the world is taking note. Indeed, in 2017, Hull was named the UK’s City of Culture in 2017 and it has continued the momentum which that accolade bestowed ever since. Indeed, £676 million worth of investment in the city can be attributed to this acknowledgement of Hull’s standing, with various events since 2017, such as the Big Malarkey Festival and Back To Ours, owing their success to the announcement.
That Big Marlarkey Festival is particularly brilliant, a huge family friendly affair celebrating children’s literature. In fact, Hull as a whole boasts plenty of things for families to do and close knit communities to boot.
Scenery wise, the city’s major water body, The River Humber, is a majestic sight as are other gems such as the East Park, Burton Agnes Hall (which is also a delightful historic treat) and the Lincolnshire Wolds.
Owning a home in Hull is slightly out of the comfort zone of the salaries earned in the city, with the average house price being £112,904, a price that sits 12% above the city’s calculated affordable housing price of £98, 975. That said, it’s still an affordable place to buy property and to live.
FOURTH MOST AFFORDABLE CITY: SUNDERLAND – BEACHES, CONCERTS AND AFFORDABLE RESIDENTIAL PROPERTIES
Those who seek pristine beauty may not first think of Sunderland. But with its gorgeous surrounding landscape, economic opportunities, and a lively entertainment scene, this city will do so much to surprise you.
Located right on the coast, Sunderland is a beach lover’s dream with its miles of beautiful coastal lands, the finest perhaps being Roker or Seaburn. Simply stunning, and just a two mile drive northeast from the city centre to Roker, and another seven minutes drive north to Seaburn. Few cities in England boast such close proximity to sand and surf!
Additionally, Sunderland boasts a cultural scene that has won the hearts of millions with its frequent, sold-out stadium shows by acts like Rihanna, Beyoncé and Coldplay. To buy a residential property in Sunderland you’ll have to fork out an average of £119,758 which is 12% higher than the city’s affordable housing price of £105,730. With the average salary in the city being £31.7K, many couples who work in the area should be able to easily afford that average house price.
Ideal for those people who can’t keep a green thing breathing.
During lockdown many of us have turned to houseplants for a little bit of solace, bringing the outside in and evoking the soothing nature of, erm, nature at home. Indeed, The Royal Horticultural society reports a huge rise (by a third) in houseplant sales as people in the UK turn to indoor gardening during lockdown.
Nick Woodward, Head of Lettings at Essential Living explains that houseplants are a great way to create a relaxing and mindful environment. As such, not only do they have a positive impact on mental wellbeing, they also help improve concentration – something that’s been handy while we’ve all been working from home and resisting the urge to look in the fridge for the zillionth time.
If you’re now returning to work and are worried about who’s going to take care of your indoor garden while you’re gone, then fear not. With the help of the apartment retail experts at Essential Living, here are 7 simple steps to keep your houseplants alive for longer.
THE CORRECT AMOUNT OF WATER
When returning to work and leaving the house for longer stretches than you and your plants have recently been used to, an obvious solution to keeping your plants hydrated might be to overcompensate and overwater. But doing this can potentially damage the plant’s roots, prevent growth and in some instances, actually kill them. As an alternative we suggest your soil is moist, but not wet.
If your plant leaves begin to turn brown and wilt, this is a clear sign of over watering. Though different plants require different levels of hydration, as a general rule, to check your plant’s hydration level, place your finger into the soil – if there is a lot of soil sticking to your finger, then the plant doesn’t need watering and if there is no soil on your finger, this suggests your plant needs more water. Simple!
CHOOSE A PLANT THAT’S EASY TO CARE FOR
If you are yet to pick the perfect plant for your home, and have experienced disappointing results so far, then choosing a plant that requires minimal effect is the best solution. There are a large variety of indoor plants that don’t need regular attention, for example the snake plant and spider plant, or succulents such as aloe vera or a jade plant. Find an indoor plant to match your busy work schedule and you might see great longevity in your green leafed companions.
REMEMBER TO CLEAN YOUR HOUSEPLANTS
On return to work you may find yourself with a lot less time to focus on your plants. As such, they may even begin to catch dust. That isn’t only an aesthetic threat. Dust on your plants prevents sunlight from reaching them, which will have an impact on growth.
Using a damp cloth or fluffy duster, clean your plant leaves once a month but remember to be extra cautious, you don’t want to damage the leaves through being heavy handed.
PROVIDING THE RIGHT HOME TEMPERATURE
You may find that when returning to work the temperature of your home may alter, without heating systems on, drying the air, or without windows open keeping things cooler. In general, although most indoor plants prefer slightly warmer surroundings, excessive heat or cold can cause plant leaves to dry up and go brown.
An easy way to increase the humidity for your plant is to create a pebble tray. Add clean pebbles into a shallow water-filled tray and place your plant on top, and the water will gradually evaporate around the plant. Ensure that you never leave your greenery on or near a heated radiator!
FIND THE PERFECT PLANT LOCATION & KEEP IT
You may be worrying about the exposure to sunlight your indoor plant is going to get with you at work all day, unable to move the pot around to catch the sun’s rays at optimum, changing positions. Don’t worry; plants have the ability to acclimate themselves to their surroundings, meaning it’s actually better for them that you don’t move them around so much. That said, each plant classification is different, so research your chosen plant carefully to find their ideal living environment.
AVOID USING COMMON FERTILISERS
While you’re working and have less time to care for your indoor plants, it’s best to keep them growing as slowly as possible. Fertilisers increase the growth speed of your indoor plants, sometimes at an unmanageable pace. Best, then, to lay off the fertiliser if possible.
Should you want to see results fast, then consider creating a makeshift greenhouse by watering your plant thoroughly and covering your plant with a clear plastic back with holes in for circulation.
REDUCE THE PLANT’S EXPOSURE TO LIGHT
Try moving your plants away from windows and direct sunlight when you leave for work each day, so that photosynthesise is reduced and the plant will require less moisture in the long run. That said, it’s not a good idea to move your indoor plant into a dark corner; just a little back from the window is fine. A great location to store your plants in a bathroom, as it provides humidity and moisture for your plant.
Yep, we know what you’re thinking; that title might seem a little superfluous. After all, you know if you’ve had a restless night’s sleep. You’re yawning. You’re exhausted. Your eyes are drooping, red, or both. It’s easily recognisable and hard to ignore.
But we’re not here to talk about those external signs. Rather, we’re here to look at the signs you’re a restless sleeper which occur when you’re actually in the land of nod, and the resultant issues which follow the next day.
While turning and tossing in bed is a normal part of the bedtime experience, restless sleeping is a little different, and can disrupt your everyday life. Once it becomes a chronic issue, you should start determining the possible reason and address the problem, particularly in case there’s an underlying condition involved which requires further medical attention.
With that in mind, here are the top 4 signs you’re a restless sleeper, and the IDEAL ways to remedy them.
AWKWARD MOVEMENTS AND NOISES DURING SLEEP
Kate Barrington @ BedAdvisor.com explains the importance of sleeping on the right mattress when dealing with restless sleep; ‘’a good bed reduces movements and promote restful sleep, most especially at night, preventing the attack or triggering of sleep disorders’’.
Movements, such as punching, kicking, jumping from bed, or arm flailing, occur in people with Rapid Eye Movement Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD). These movements are responses to violent dreams, like defending oneself from an attack or being chased. What’s more, noises like laughing, talking, shouting, cursing, and emotional outcries are indicative of RBD, too.
A little more about REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD):
The exact cause of REM sleep behaviour disorder is unknown. It usually occurs in relation to different degenerative neurological conditions, including Parkinson’s disease, diffuse Lewy body dementia, multisystem atrophy or Shy-Drager syndrome.
This sleep disorder can lead to injuries. As such, it’s important that you seek medical consultation with a sleep doctor if you suspect that you or a loved one has RBD.
The medication treatment for REM sleep behaviour disorder includes melatonin or clonazepam.
BREATHING PROBLEMS DURING SLEEP
Loud snoring, frequent gasp-like breathing interruptions, and any abnormal breathing throughout the night are indicative of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA).
Other signs of obstructive sleep apnea include, drowsiness during the day and waking up with a sore throat, a headache, or dry mouth. Untreated OSA may lead to diabetes, heart trouble, and restless sleep.
Investing in the right bed could reduce abnormal breathing problems during sleep or restless sleep, as well as sleeping with your head slightly raised at night.
Sleep doctors highly recommend lifestyle changes, like exercising more frequently, losing weight and cutting back on the cigarettes and alcohol (sorry Liam). A sleep mask may also be prescribed to keep the airways open during the night.
UNCOMFORTABLE SENSATIONS
If you keep moving your legs at night because of uncomfortable sensations, you’re likely suffering from Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) or Willis-Ekbom disease. The possible causes of this sleep disorder include iron deficiency or low levels of iron in the blood, uremia, blood in the urine due to worsening kidney function, fibromyalgia, hypothyroidism, and diabetes.
Sufferers often describe the uncomfortable sensations as like a creeping, crawling, burning, tugging, itching, pulling, throbbing, or gnawing feeling, wherein the person experiences a strong urge to move.
These uncomfortable sensations may occur when sitting for prolonged periods of time, like while at the cinema, while driving, or when you’re lying down in bed, which makes falling asleep difficult. Most often than not, patients want to shake their arms or legs and walk around to relieve these sensations.
Treatment options for RLS include:
Leg massage
Ice packs or heat pads
Putting pressure on foot muscles using a foot wrap
Iron supplementation
Prescribe medications, such as benzodiazepines, anti-seizure drugs, and dopaminergic agents.
DAYTIME SLEEPINESS
Since you lack sleep at night or are experiencing sleep deprivation, daytime sleepiness is a sign that you’re a restless sleeper. It occurs when you get less sleep than you need to feel alert and awake. Sleep deprivation leads to obesity, poor job performance, emotional difficulties, and a general lower quality of life.
Don’t just brush this thing off as ‘tiredness’ and move on. Sleep deprivation can be a manifestation of undiagnosed medical problems or sleep disorders. It alters normal functioning, disrupting a person’s ability to focus and even raising the chance of accidents.
Young adults and children are the most vulnerable groups to sleep deprivation’s negative effects.
Here are the other symptoms of sleep deprivation caused by restless sleep:
Moodiness
Frequent yawning
Irritability
Clumsiness
Easily get tired
Depressed mood
Inability to learn new concepts
Increased carbohydrate cravings
Difficulty focusing or concentrating
Forgetfulness
Lack of motivation
Reduced sex drive
The remedy for sleep deprivation without an obvious medical cause should be all-encompassing a holistic. Make sure you’re enjoying a healthy, varied diet, and taking regular exercise. It’s also a smart move to take stock of your sleep hygiene; is your bedtime routine optimised, is your bedroom at a comfortable temperature, do you sleep in the appropriate clothes for a restful night of Zzzeds? All of these things make a huge difference.
THE BOTTOM LINE
Restless sleep can be caused by the presence of sleep disorders. While the exact cause of sleep disorders is unknown, they’re thought to be prompted by nutrient deficiency, neurological problems, or other medical conditions.
A restless sleeper experiences difficulty sleeping, breathing problems, uncomfortable sensations, and awkward movements while asleep. Also, sleep deprivation leads to restless sleep, which can compromise the immune system, causing the restless sleeper to develop chronic illness. Don’t just put your continued bad night’s sleep to the demands of modern day life. Instead, take back control and you might find yourself feeling more energetic, active and positive in no time.
