Whether it’s a New Year’s resolution, a post holiday guilt trip or a more holistic, all encompassing get healthy regime, we all need a little help with exercise sometimes. It can be difficult enough to simply tread on that ‘mill, let alone actually break into a run; and that’s where a personal trainer can come in. And nope, we’re not talking about the fat-shaming, uber-macho kind characterised on T.V and in Hollywood. We mean the motivational, caring, compassionate type who simply have your health and well being in mind. If that sounds your thing, then read on; our 5 IDEAL reasons to get a personal trainer.
THEY DON’T HAVE TO BE EXPENSIVE
These days you don’t have to be worth as much as Beyonce or Gwyneth Paltrow to afford a one-on-one workout. Yep, today hiring a personal trainer is inexpensive and it’s not only Hollywood stars who seek professional help in getting fit. While a personal trainer in Londoncan cost up to £150 an hour, the average range is somewhere between £40 to £60 a session.
And if you can’t afford to see them once a week, many personal trainers will set you up with a program and book in a session every four to six weeks to see how you’ve progressed and give updated tips according to your every changing goals and needs. You can even get an online personal trainer who can provide a month-long training plan for the same cost as the average hour training session – bargain.
PROVIDE MOTIVATION
If you’re a sofa slacker by nature then you likely need someone to stand over you, to issue forth the diktat to work out. And even if you’re extremely motivated and prefer to do things independently, a PT will be able to push you harder than you’ll ever be able to push yourself. Working with one will help you make the progress that you wouldn’t make working out alone.
ESPECIALLY HELPFUL IF YOU’RE NEW TO FITNESS
Even though seasoned gym bunnies often have personal trainers so they can meet very specific goals, the time you need a personal trainer most is when you’re new to exercise. PT’s can show you how to get started and comfortable properly, reducing the risk of injury and getting the most of each and every rep.
PERSONALISED TO YOUR NEEDS
Sure, everyone knows that a few bicep curls and bench presses may make you a little more stacked, or a spin on the bike could shed some pounds. But everyone’s body is different, as well as their fitness levels, and as such, we all require different regimes to hit our body targets. Personal trainers have a wealth of knowledge at their disposal to help with this, and can completely personalise workouts to suit your needs; whether you want to lose shape, get in shape, gain muscle or lose muscle.
Personal trainer to the stars Craig Budgen reveals that a good PT will even create bespoke nutritional guidelines for you that will include a full breakdown of how much protein, fat and carbohydrate you should aim to be consuming on a daily basis and how you can easily track this in order to obtain your desired results. Indeed, once you’ve told them what you want to do, the personal trainer will make a plan of attack pointing towards your ultimate goals, including extra-curricular elements like diet and sleep planning.
THEY WILL HELP YOU CHANGE
…While a personal trainer will always work towards achieving the outcome you want inside the gym, the good ones will go above and beyond to help you out in all walks (shouldn’t that be jogs?) of life. A PT will work on fixing your behaviours, educate you and give advice on picking up better habits.
The role of a personal trainer is to provide you with the right skills so you can do ‘it’ for yourself, whatever that it might be. So while on the face it, you’re paying for a 12 week personal training plan, your actually investing in a healthier, happier life.
With the average wedding costing a surprising £27,000 based on a survey of 4,000 UK brides, which was reported in the Independent newspaper, getting hitched is anything but cheap. Indeed, prices rose from the year before by almost 10 percent, despite far lower inflation, so weddings are increasing in price.
As a result of increasing costs, it’s up to couples to hustle in search of frugal wedding hacks that they can use to reduce the bill when compared to the average wedding price tag. To get you started, here are 6 IDEAL ways to save money on your wedding day and potentially allow for that earlier wedding date you’ve been wishing for because the total cost has been lowered.
BOOZE BILLED PER HEAD, NOT PER DRINK
You’ll be surprised how much alcohol and soft drinks that guests put away at a wedding. Many people indulge in a way that they just don’t do when they’re paying for the drinks themselves. Bearing this in mind, when negotiating how the drinks budget will be allocated, ensure you make a contract that stipulates how much is to be paid per head.
Being billed by the head avoids getting a nasty headache when the drinks bill arrives after the honeymoon. You have a fixed price, you know the number of guests who are coming, and it’s clear what the invoice will be.
Also, see if you can get a discounted price for children under a certain age because they’ll only be consuming water or soft drinks, which aren’t as expensive. Not every caterer will agree to this stipulation, but it’s a negotiating point to use (or give away) to get the per head agreement. Negotiate between multiple caterers to obtain the best per head prices.
GET THE VIDEOGRAPHER & PHOTOGRAPHER AWAY EARLY
The length of the booking matters to a videographer and photographer. Depending on when and where the nuptials are being held, they might be able to squeeze in two events that top and tail the day. Alternatively, it frees up their time to get back to the office to preview the snaps they’ve taken or take a look at the video footage to begin planning how they’ll edit it up. When their day is shorter, it’s easier to negotiate a cheaper deal because they’re effectively working a half day. With professionals who don’t see the benefit of this request, find their replacement.
The key when completing the critical events like the wedding ceremony, photos with the happy couple and in-laws, and the cutting of the cake is scheduling them early enough to avoid delays. While you might think that you’ll want photos of everyone partying the night away, the reality is that they’ll be plenty of selfies taken. Best to get the official wedding photos taken earlier when everyone is bright eyed and bushy tailed.
CUSTOM WEDDING FRAMED PHOTOS
While most happy couples aim to have multiple photosets put together for their wedding album, little thought goes to how they will display the best photo in their home. With a wedding album, it’s unlikely that you’ll look at it as often as you think. Putting wedding photos in an online cloud service to view at any time you like – they can be password-protected to avoid the album become public – is more accessible than an album.
The frame used for the best wedding photo that will have pride of place in your home is important. It says much about the meaning of the moment captured in the shot. To learn more about affordable wedding photo framing, find more info here.
BUY LOCALLY
Compare national wedding services with local ones. It’s difficult to get a truly personalised service from a national company when they’re managing numerous upcoming weddings. A local provider is likely to treat each customer who lives nearby a little differently too.
Another advantage of buying locally is they won’t have far to travel to perform the service. For providers coming from a greater distance, their travel costs and travel time is bundled into the pricing. You’re paying for that. Avoid doing so by seeking local providers that offer better value. If you are serious about local, dig down into the marquee wedding concept. This is all the rage right now and you can save a bundle on a traditional hotel or stately home. Click here to see a decent offering from Marquee Vision who serve local regions including Berkshire, Oxfordshire, Hampshire, London, Bristol, Bath, Somerset and Gloucestershire.
DECIDE IF YOU NEED A WEDDING PLANNER
In most cases, a wedding planner makes sense. However, there are planners all the way up and down the spectrum in terms of experience and pricing. If you’re looking for a bargain, then you don’t want the brand shiny new planner who’s never been in charge of a wedding before. Who wants to be their first? We don’t, certainly.
Instead, look for a planner with a few weddings under their belt. This is where they have built up enough real-world experience to know what they’re doing right and have seen where they fell down; enough to learn from their mistakes at least. Catch them before they’ve raised their prices significantly to afford a wedding planner on a lower wedding budget. They’ll also have their own ideas on how to cut costs too.
USE PLASTIC, NOT CASH
Paying for important wedding costs by credit card offers extra protections that don’t come when paying a bill using cash or bank transfer. Should the photographer fail to show, or details aren’t as were agreed, then you have some extra options. Either send a lower payment or make a claim with the credit card company for the trader failing to deliver the promised goods or services. This is very difficult to do when you’ve paid cash in advance.
Going through the early stages of planning a wedding – even if you eventually hire a proper wedding planner – it becomes evident that costs add up fast. Containing the total price of the nuptials and honeymoon by knowing what your priorities are sets things up right. That way, you can be proud of the wedding. The last thing you want on your wedding day is to be concerned about how much it’s all costing. Plan and know everything in advance, so you don’t have to think about it. It’s the best way.
Have you recently booked a European vacation? If so, then the chances are high that the excitement is overtaking pretty much every moment of your day, especially as your departure date grows closer. A hurdle exists though, and we all know what that is; packing. Everyone hates it, everyone longs to shirk it, but if not done right, it can put a big dent on the smooth running of your trip.
Well, we’re here to provide all the practical advice and emotional support you’ll need to get through the big bag burden we call carry pre-holiday. Read on and get ready, with this; our 8 IDEAL items to pack for your European vacation.
COMFORTABLE WALKING SHOES
One of the unique features about Europe is the walkability of most of the great, much loved cities; and the many charming, cobblestone streets and sidewalks that exist within them. However, while historic and beautiful they most certainly are, they aren’t exactly easy to negotiate for long periods; often uneven and containing dips, cracks and crevices just ready to trip you up and take you down. Moreover, cobblestones can be slippery when wet.
As such, function over fashion is vital and a good pair of comfortable walking shoes with good grip is essential. You can wear them while you travel, or pack them and wear a second pair instead.
A PORTABLE PHONE CHARGER
If you plan on using your phone to take photos, videos and use the internet (maps, especially) then get a portable charger or risk your battery dying with nowhere to give it juice. One will allow you to keep your device charged up at all times, plus it doesn’t take up much room so it can be carried in your purse or backpack – much more convenient than traipsing around a city looking for a cafe with a socket to charge your phone. And we speak from experience.
A TRAVEL SIZED PAD AND PAINTING SET
Museums, art galleries, the world’s great buildings and fantastic archaeological sites; there’s a reason why art and travel seem to go hand-in-hand. If you’re going on a Grand European tour to embrace the bohemian way of life, then, like many of the artistic types before, consider taking a pad and painting set with you. You could even create a watercolor travel journal – a great way to pass the time and add a twist to your average photo diary. The memories made, rendered in paint, will last with you forever.
A TRAVEL-SIZED UMBRELLA
Depending on what time of year you plan to travel in Europe you may also want to throw a travel-sized umbrella in your bag. Indeed, an umbrella could be the difference between a wonderful day spent exploring a city or a miserable one feeling cold and sodden after you’ve been caught in an unexpected shower. Moreover, an umbrella is much cooler than those plastic ponchos you see other tourists wearing; it certainly gets sweaty under there in countries with hotter climates.
A POWER ADAPTOR
Keep in mind the travel outlets in Europe are probably different from back home. As such you’ll need to bring a power adapter with you. Make sure to get one with a USB port, so you’ll be able to charge up your phone, tablet or other portable devices with ease.
While we’re on the topic of the tech side of things, why not reserve a spot for a multiport adapter in your backpack? It is travel-friendly, light, and helps you get stuff done on-the-go or when in transit. Suddenly, those boring bus journeys can be put to some use, updating your Instagram feed or firing off a few emails to family or, heaven forbid, the office. Isn’t that convenient?
A PASSPORT WALLET OR POUCH
When it comes to your travel documents, the item that tops the list of importance is your passport. Unfortunately, most European capitals and bigger cities positively teem with pickpockets and a passport can be a rather attractive item to steal. Therefore, you’ll want to keep it somewhere safe and secure when you’re the move. Look for a pouch, then, that can be strapped against your body, under your clothes, to keep things concealed.
THE PERFECT SIZED BACKPACK FOR ALL YOUR NECESSITIES
A big part of a European vacation is touring around, taking in the sites, and exploring as much as possible. Chances are, you won’t be spending much time in your room, so you’ll need to carry around a few essential items with you; a backpack is usually the best option when looking for that perfect travel bag.
When shopping for a travel backpack, look for one that is water resistant, has various pockets that allow you to stay organized, has padded shoulder straps, and has a separate pocket/pouch for carrying a water bottle.
TRAVEL SIZED EMERGENCY KITS
Obviously, you don’t want to think of any accidents or injuries happening while you’re on your trip, but minor incidents are inevitable. Consequently, it’s a good idea to put together a small first-aid kit that you can throw in your backpack. Items such as bandages, pain relievers, antiseptic wipes, medical tape and allergy medicine can cover a number of issues that can arise. Making your own kit is certainly do-able, but if you don’t have the time or are afraid you’ll forget items, you can always pick up a pre-assembled kit meant for traveling.
Speaking of pre-assembled kits, no doubt at some point on your European getaway something will go wrong and you’ll find yourself in a pinch. Maybe your dress zip breaks and you need a safety pin or you unexpectedly come on your period. Enter Pinch Provisions mini-emergency kits. Small enough to fit into the palm of your hand and containing 17 must-have items, these little pouches are a little lifesaver we think that no girl should be without while travelling. Here’s what one contains:
As the leaves start to change color and pumpkin lattes become the go-to drink of the season, New York City comes alive. With the city’s sweltering summer days behind, and the winters sub-zero temperatures a mere fear in the not too distant future, the cool and progressively crisper days of autumn make for comfortable exploring – think clear blue skies, cool sunshine and the unshackled spirit that imbues. No better time, then, to take a bite out of the Big Apple. It’s as easy as getting your ESTA, buying a plane ticket and reading this list; our 6 IDEAL reasons to visit New York in autumn (or should we say Fall).
THE CITY’S CHANGING COLOURS
Come autumn, New York’s city parks, walkways, and tree lined streets are ablaze with the glow of autumnal hues. The fall foliage in Central park is something else – its 20,000 (or that number there about) trees are a riot of colour and while the park is impressive at anytime of year, come autumn it’s a real showstopper. The Brownstone lined streets of Manhattan’s West Village or Brooklyn’s Williamsburg become the perfect backdrop for the colours of the season. On one of the city’s crisper days, there is nothing more pleasant than walking the Highline, leaves crunching under foot. Indeed an October stroll along this elevated walkway will have you ‘falling’ (sorry we had to) for the city big time.
HALLOWEEN EVENTS
Halloween in New York City is an all-out celebration, full of fright-filled activities and events; and depending on your feelings about it, can be simply spooktacular or a hectic, hellish affair. There are plenty of opportunities for organised fun, including seances, scary film screenings and fancy dress parties, spooky haunted houses and ghost tours that bill themselves as scary, blood-curdling and bone-chilling. The city’s annual Village Halloween parade is the perhaps the biggest draw; an extravagant display of some the most outlandish and incredible costumes the world.
PUMPKIN’S ON THE MENU
Find yourself in the Big Apple, hungry for some autumnal flavours, and even the greediest, most scrutinizing soul will likely be satisfied, especially if you’re after a taste of pumpkin. Indeed, fall’s favorite flavour can be found in more than just a pumpkin latte and if you’re a fan of the much beloved orange gourd, then New York is the place to come. A staple, of course is the pie with dozens of Manhattan’s bakeries selling them by the dozen. Pumpkin beer also reigns over other crafts during the fall season. And if you want to squash your craving for it (sorry we had to, again) then some favourites include Smuttynose Pumpkin Ale, Brooklyn Post Road Pumpkin, brewed by none other than the legendary Brooklyn Brewery, and Chelsea Pumpkin Ale brewed by Chelsea Craft Brewing Company – to name but a few.
THE THEATRE & FESTIVALS
If you’re a culture vulture with a penchant for the arts and the theatre, then autumn is one of the best times to visit. Many of the locals have come back to the city from their summer holidays, which for people in the know means that many of the main museums and theaters debut their headline exhibits and shows in time for their return.
The season is also full of festivals. If you want to see New Yorkers merrymaking and dressed up in lederhosen, then Oktoberfest, a Bavarian celebration of some rowdy repute, takes place across the city. Expect copious amounts of beer served in stein glasses and plates of bratwurst sausages.
One of New York’s most important annual events, the Oyster Festival, also takes place every fall. Indeed, oysters are a major part of the city’s history and it was once the oyster capital of the world. And while pollution eventually took its toll and the ones in the city’s waters were no longer safe to eat, it hasn’t stop New York’s love affair with the bivaine.
Fall is the perfect time to catch some of Broadway’s best, making it the perfect season for drama lovers. Also in autumn, there’s the New York Film Festival – a great place to catch NYC premieres of some of the biggest and most eagerly anticipated flicks of the year. Regardless of the festival you’re planning on attending, make sure to buy your New York City event tickets in advance as they can often sell out.
OPEN HOUSE NEW YORK
For two days each October, Open House New York happens. And happens with some gusto. Usually falling on a weekend, it’s a citywide celebration of architecture, urban design, and everything cultural. You can visit more than 200 locations during Open House New York, so there’s no excuse for missing it.
THANKSGIVING
Towards the end of the season, on the border between fall and winter, is Thanksgiving. Which of course, needs little introduction. More pumpkin pies, more parades and turkey. And be sure to attend The Macy’s Day Thanksgiving Day Parade to enjoy the festivities with the locals.
Nigma Talib is a leading naturopathic doctor who certainly knows her stuff when it comes to skin problems. She has developed a worldwide following looking at the body as a whole and at all the contributing factors that might be affecting her patients, internally as well as externally. She shares with IDEAL her top anti aging tips:
Sunscreen
Your number 1 beauty weapon and defence: Sunscreen SPF between 30 and 50. The best protection comes from products that contain the mineral active micro zinc oxide at 5% or more concentration. It should also be made by a highly reputable lab because sun screen ingredients inactivate each other as they sit in the bottle and so you need a product that’s stood up to years of successful use under the highest scrutiny.
The zinc oxide (also called a physical or ‘inorganic’ sunscreen ingredient) is a physical block because it sits on the outer layers of your skin and bounces light off into the stratosphere, like tennis balls off a racket. The micro/nano zinc products will go on completely transparent if you keep rubbing the product into your skin until you can’t see it anymore. That’s when you’ve created a fine invisible protective layer of particles covering your skin and the UV bouncing is ready to begin!
Do not leave home without this daily sunscreen which goes on smooth and gives you a luminous glow and some coverage to even out your skin tone.
Makeup goes on top of sunscreen and it ideally should be a mineral makeup which gives you even more physical sun protection by this same bouncing mechanism. Then, if you’re really out in the sun, you need a great hat and to try to aim for staying in the shade as much as possible. (Of course, for extreme and sustained outdoor sun exposure, like a day at the beach, you just have to reapply sun screen every 2 hours.)
Skin Protector Foods
Certain foods can help prevent sun damage and nourish your skin: A diet rich in fresh, local fruits and vegetables is one that will keep you young and healthy. Studies show that those who consume a diet rich in fresh fruits and veggies suffer less oxidative damage (due to environmental toxins). Plus, both fruits and veggies contain plenty of antioxidants, which reverse the signs of aging.
In addition to your first and foremost weapon and defence for sunscreen, add some antioxidants to your diet to protect the inside and reflect oxidative protection on the outside. like blackberries and blueberries. Interestingly a study published by Tufts University showed that anthocyanins in blueberries, the pigments that give them their deep color, appear to combat oxidative stress.
Oxidative stress is one of the main causes of aging. Strawberries, tomatoes (rich in lycopene help improve your skin’s natural protection from ultraviolet radiation), and green tea (EGCG) rich in antioxidants may help protect cells on your skin from DNA damage caused by the UV A and UV B rays.
There are good fats and then there are bad fats. It just so happens that the fats you get from avocados, olive oil, nuts, coconut, and fatty fish (i.e., like salmon and tuna) are really good for you and your skin. Beneficial omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids will infuse your skin, hair, and nails with the necessary vitamins and nutrients to keep them glowing.
Hyaluronic Acid
Though you probably associate the word “acid” with harsh and abrasive, hyaluronic acid is the exact opposite. It’s a humectant, meaning that it draws out water from the air and dermis (the skin that lies below the surface).s a major component of the connective tissue matrix in the dermis—the dense, inner layer of skin beneath the epidermis. The other two main components of skin are collagen and elastin, both of which are connective fibers.
Because hyaluronic acid retains 1,000 times its weight in water it attracts and maintains water within the extracellular space, hydrating your skin and increasing its volume and density. However, hyaluronic acid is also involved with the transport of essential nutrients to the skin’s viable cells. These amazing properties make it a popular ingredient in hydration serum for face health and rejuvenation, so all you need to do is find a serum and start using it each morning!
Vitamin C
According to a 2007 study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, middle-aged women who consumed more vitamin C appeared to have fewer wrinkles and less skin dryness. Vitamin C is a vital nutrient for the skin and helps form collagen and elastin (essential to keep the skin looking young) and applying liposomal vitamin c liquid directly to your skin is a fantastic way to easily absorb this nutrient.
Retinol
Retinol is the term used for the entire vitamin A molecule. Applied to skin, retinol is a beneficial cell-communicating ingredient and an antioxidant. Simply put, it helps skin cells create better, healthier skin cells and increases the amount of skin-support substances.
Retinol has been shown to increase the skins collagen production and glycosaminoglycan content, resulting in firmer skin with an improved texture and enhanced barrier function.
Although it is not the only ingredient to look for in an anti-aging product, it deserves strong consideration by anyone who wants to keep their skin in top shape through the years. In skin-care products, it is found in the form of retinol, retinyl palmitate, and retinylaldehyde. In prescription-only skin-care products, it is in the form of retinoic acid (also called tretinoin).
Ideal Tip: For someone who is starting off using Retinol use a mild strength of retinol that is gradually released into the skin to avoid irritation.
Avoid Skin Enemies
Sugar, smoking – Skip the Refined Sugar. A diet high in refined sugars—the sweeteners you consume in processed snacks, soda, and baked goods—will greatly reduce your energy levels and your longevity.
Instead, seek sweetness from natural sources, such as fresh fruits, honey, real maple syrup in moderation, and use other spices (i.e., cinnamon). Sugar in your diet causes “glycation”, in which the sugar in your bloodstream attaches to proteins that form harmful new molecules called advanced glycation end products (AGEs).
The cumulative “sugar eating” sprees can increase the development of the AGEs that damage surrounding collagen and elastin which are needed to keep your skin firm and elastic.
Exercise
Exercise is one of the best to increases circulation that improves the blood flow to your face, nourishing your cells with oxygen. In addition, exercise helps you balance your stress levels that can affect a potent ageing accelerator cortisol to be more balanced.
We also know from the latest research that people who exercise regularly have longer telomeres. Telomeres are cellular biomarkers that shorten as we age, so the longer the telomeres, the more protection and youth offered to our DNA preventing premature ageing by the adrenal glands.
If you are not sleeping at least 7 -8 hours of sleep per night, this can cause imbalanced cortisol levels, a hormone secreted by your “adrenal glands” which can cause inflammation in your body thereby accelerating your ageing. In addition, not having enough sleep can age your skin by preventing night time repair processes and also suppress your immune system.
Stay Hydrated
One easy way to remain youthful is to sip from nature’s elixir, and by that I mean drink plenty of water. Simple H20 will prevent dry skin, wrinkles, and ensure your hair, nails, and skin remain soft and supple, in addition to keeping your organs and digestive system running efficiently. Plus, those who sip water or herbal teas regularly flush their bodies of stressful, age-causing toxins.
Exfoliation
Exfoliation helps prevent excessive build-up of dead skin cells and hormonally driven moisture loss. Exfoliating at least one time per week revitalises the epidermis of the skin and allows for antioxidant serums to penetrate more effectively.
It’s probably fair to say that we’d all like a little more money in our pockets when we go on holiday. After all, all those entertainment and dinning bills soon add up.
Holidays are no time for cutting corners or selling yourself short, but at the same time you have to be realistic. Which is why it’s a good idea to arm yourself with a few tips, tricks and hacks from the experts, before you set sail for foreign shores.
From clever packing tips that can help you avoid additional charges to how to save your phone data and still be able to keep sharing those great holiday moments, there are loads of nifty tricks to help you spend less. So with the help from our friends at Skyscanner, here are 7 IDEAL hacks for saving money when travelling.
DON’T GET CARRIED AWAY WITH YOUR LUGGAGE
Packing conservatively and weighing and measuring your bags in advance can mean you avoid being charged additional fees. Check out these great packing tips here to help you save space and weight and save money. Some airlines charge £65 for each bag that exceeds their weight allowance at the airport.
If you think you’re going to be close to your airline’s baggage limits, invest in some luggage scales and weigh before you leave the house. The AmazonBasics Digital Luggage Scale is a snip at £6.49 and is small enough to travel with you. It came second only to a £39.60 Beurer model when tested by the Good Housekeeping Institute.
When you don’t trust the tap water at your destination, stocking up on the bottled variety for an entire holiday can cost a small fortune – not to mention the environmental impact of all that single-use plastic. Fortunately, technology is on your side, as you can now invest in reusable water bottles complete with their own filtration systems. The 50cl GO! Water Bottle by Water-to-Go (£12.99) has an in-built filter, which means you can have access to safe drinking water almost anywhere in the world. It removes chemicals such as chlorine and fluoride from tap water, plus 99.9% of contamination from untreated water sources. Its replaceable filter lasts for 130 litres or two months: more than enough for your whole trip.
PUT A PAY-AS-YOU-GO SIM CARD IN YOUR PHONE
We all know that mobile phone roaming charges are now banned in the EU: but hefty charges can still be levied outside its borders. An increasing number of pay-monthly plans shield you from those charges – either at no extra cost, or for a daily fee (Vodafone offers a total of 152 destinations in its Global Roaming programme). But if yours doesn’t, or you don’t like the look of the fees, pay-as-you-go SIM cards are a handy solution (provided your phone is unlocked of course). Buy them abroad once you’ve arrived, or check out Three’s “Feel at Home Around the World” SIMs, available in the UK. These start from £10 for 3,000 texts and minutes, and can be used in 71 destinations around the world, including America, Australia, Brazil and Singapore.
PACK A TRAVEL FRIENDLY BANK CARD
Many of us avoid punitive currency-exchange rates at the airport by using our debit and credit cards on a summer trip. Then, when we get our statements at the end of the month, we realize it wasn’t such a smart move. We’re often charged 2.5%-5% on foreign transactions, and a £1.50-£3 fee every time we withdraw cash from an ATM.
However, a handful of companies offer travel-friendly plastic. For example, the app-based Starling Bank charges no fees for the use of its debit card when you’re abroad – whether you’re making purchases or withdrawing cash. The app also has a handy card-locking function, so you can shut it down if you think it’s lost or stolen (and then unlock it if you find it again). The Halifax’s Clarity Mastercard also does not charge for overseas transactions and cash withdrawals. See moneysavingexpert.com for more options.
DO YOUR OWN COOKING
If you’re travelling as a family, the cost of eating out when staying in a hotel can quickly mount up. Self-catering apartments can be a great budget alternative, giving you the freedom to shop in the supermarket for breakfasts and picnics, pick up cheaper food from colourful markets or street-food vendors – or sample the best local restaurants when you need an evening off from the kitchen. It also allows you to cater for picky eaters. Just be sure to book an apartment with a dishwasher to lighten the workload.
WATCH YOUR WASH BAG
They may save weight and valuable space in your luggage, but branded mini travel products are an excruciatingly expensive option, especially if purchased at the airport. Instead, pack unused hotel freebies, buy some refillable travel bottles for £1 from Primark and decant the products from your larger bottles at home, or simply get some cheap-and-cheerful toiletries at your destination.
Sunscreen is, however, one product that’s worth buying in the UK, so you know you can get your hands on it as soon as you land. Bear in mind that the big brands don’t necessarily offer more protection. The latest sun-cream research by consumers’ association Which?, released in May 2018, found that budget buys performed just as well in both the SPF and UVA tests as branded products costing twice as much.
VENTURE OFF THE BEATEN TRACK
Booking a trip to a less “fashionable” destination can cut your summer-holiday costs without compromising on the sun, sea or sand. Look out for alternative beach holidays in destinations such as the palm-fringed sands of Macau or, closer to home, the sandy and serene hideaway of Juist, one of Germany’s East Frisian islands off its northwest coast in the Wadden Sea. It’s a car-free haven on its way to becoming the world’s first carbon-neutral destination. Or seek out a European beach that the locals try to keep a secret such as Cala de sa Forcanera, just an hour from Barcelona in Spain, or the white beaches of Liepaja in Latvia.
Bleisure – the fine art of creating a trip that combines both business and leisure – is growing ever more popular and travelling for business can be exciting. However, for many travellers “All I saw was the inside of a meeting room” is a common refrain amongst business folk when they get back from a trip. But how can travellers turn a business trip into something much more exciting?
With the help of Skyscanner.net , here are 8 IDEAL tips to help you make the most out of your business trip … whilst at the same time complying with company travel policy and not annoying any bosses!
RESEARCH YOUR DESTINATION
Time on a business trip can be short and there’s always a lot to pack in, however, taking the time to do some research ahead of a trip is a must. Travellers can find out what their destination has to offer by checking online travel guides and buying a guidebook to browse on the plane.
Another trick is to focus their research on the districts they can easily reach, either before or after business meetings? In Paris for example, many of the most famous museums and art galleries open on selected weekday evenings, so travellers could be paying their respects to the Mona Lisa in the Louvre, rather than flicking idly through the TV channels in your hotel.
BREAK THE JOURNEY EN ROUTE
It sounds counter-intuitive, but adding an extra few days in a new destination, en route to a business meetings, can actually save money. Non-stop flights are often more expensive than ones that involve a change of plane, particularly if travellers use an overseas carrier rather than home airlines.
A classic example of this trick is the route between London and New York. No-frills flights with WOW stop off in Iceland on the way – which means travellers might be able to see the Northern Lights on the way back home from Manhattan.
DON’T BOOK AN AIRPORT HOTEL
Airport hotels are a constant feature of the frequent traveller’s life. They’re comfortable and efficient, but almost always set in interest-free neighbourhoods. Most companies offer a range of preferred properties in their corporate hotel programme, and there’s usually one that’s more central, or set in a cool suburb. In Melbourne, for example, it could be that travellers could stay by the beach in St Kilda. Or the trendy Sodermalm in Stockholm, which is packed with bars and restaurants.
ASK TO KEEP YOUR ROOM
Big companies have bulk-buying power and can get hotels far cheaper than individuals. Even if travellers think they can get a better rate, the corporate deal will often have fewer strings attached and increasingly comes with extras such as free Wi-Fi and breakfast.
It is worth asking the hotel manager to stay on for a few extra days at the corporate rate. It’s rare to be turned down. Hotels like loyal customers and they know travellers may end up spending extra in the hotel whilst they are there.
GO SIGHTSEEING BETWEEN MEETINGS
Even if travellers are stuck in a business district, it doesn’t mean they have to stay there between meetings. When it comes to public transport, these areas are usually some of the best-connected. In Amsterdam, the RAI centre is just 15 minutes from the Centraal railway station. Jump on one of the line 2 trams there, and they would be at the door of Van Gogh Museum 15 minutes after that. Meanwhile, Munich’s Messe expo centre is only 25 minutes by underground from the city centre.
DON’T WORK OUT IN THE HOTEL GYM
Gyms are great places to burn off some steam on a business trip – but they can add to that eerie sense of isolation. Why not go for a run through the city instead? Some hotels now have running concierges to tell you where to jog safely, while running apps such as Plotaroute also offer suggestions. Travellers could also join a running tour, or hire their own private guide – these days, they’re a feature in many cities. Run With Me’s programme includes Zurich, Oslo and Johannesburg.
ASK FRIENDS OR FAMILY TO JOIN IN
Rather than pining for partners and family whilst away, it’s worth travellers considering getting them to come and join them after their business commitments are completed. Or travellers could ask their best friend to fly over and have a weekend on the town together. Traveller must be sure to keep the work and leisure separate – so there’s no confusion about expenses on their return. It is also worth travellers clearing the idea with their boss beforehand to be sure their plan doesn’t conflict with any company policies.
SAVE YOUR COMPANY SOME MONEY
A number of start-ups including Rocketrip work with companies to incentivise employees to spend less on their business travel. How will that help? Well, consider this. On platforms such as Rocketrip, companies and their employees share the savings. So travellers could travel in economy rather than business class – and use your percentage of the savings to fund some leisure time at the end of the trip.
National Baking Week is back and we couldn’t be happier. Inevitably, thousands of amateur bakers will be dusting off their weighing scales and getting ready to be inspired – we know we are. We all know from bitter experience that home baking is fraught with hurdles. Therefore, bearing a few fundamentals in mind can be the difference between a pert and soggy bottom. With that in mind, here are our 7 IDEAL tips to take your baking to the next level.
PRECISION MATTERS
Baking is a science, and an exact one at that. Be precise with your weighing. Use grams and digital weighing scales (those pesky cups would never be used in a professional kitchen). Leave nothing to chance and you’ll be rewarded accordingly.
PREPARATION IS KING
The chef’s term ‘mis en place’, and having it all in order before you begin, is key to successful baking. Have everything out and ready – you shouldn’t be scrambling around for plain flour when chemical reactions have already begun. Have everything weighed and make sure temperatures are correct (as a general rule, all ingredients should be at room temperature to avoid ingredients splitting when they meet).
KNOW YOUR OVEN INSIDE OUT
Ovens are temperamental beasts, and need to be understood as individuals. One man’s 200°C is another’s 180°C, and like we said, the small details count. Invest in an oven thermometer to get a true reading and avoid burning your labour of love. Also, be aware that different sections of the oven hold vastly different temperatures, so rotate cakes, trays and the rest so everyone gets fair exposure to the heat. Opening your oven door for even a short time can dramatically drop the temperature, wreaking havoc on your creation, so avoid doing this at all costs.
ENTRY INTO THE OVEN IS NOT THE FINAL STEP
There is a tendency to view the closing of the oven door, cake safe and warm inside, as the conclusion to a day’s cooking. It isn’t. Do NOT crack open a celebratory glass of something until that cake/tart/loaf is out of the oven, removed from its tin and allowed to cool as per the recipe. Don’t get complacent.
PROFESSIONAL EQUIPMENT CAN LEAD TO PROFESSIONAL RESULTS
The pastry section of a professional kitchen utilises a whole host of gadgets, some more affordable than others. At the very least, a microplane for zesting, a pastry scraper for gathering and some silicone mats to prevent sticking will all enhance the efficiency of your baking.
EVERYTHING SHOULD BE UNSCRUPULOUSLY CLEAN
In the pastry world, cleanliness is so vital. Mixing bowls with residual food debris will lead to failed meringues every time. Water splashing your melted chocolate will lead to splitting and clumping. You get the picture – keep it clean.
GOOD QUALITY INGREDIENTS GO A LONG AWAY
Vanilla essence just doesn’t compare to fresh pods. Dark, high percentage cocoa chocolate will raise the bar. Even a good quality, unrefined muscovado sugar will give real body to a dish. As the pastry game is all in the detail, don’t substitute key ingredients for inferior products.
When’s the last time you baked a cake, experimented with a cookie recipe or created a pavlova from scratch? Here at IDEAL we love baking. Indeed, we believe the methodical nature of baking makes it a very therapeutic activity. First, you get to weigh and measure the ingredients, next you can appreciate their delicious aroma as they bake. And finally, you get to eat whatever it is you baked. You could even have the pleasure of sharing your baked goods with your nearest and dearest if you so wish.
According to research (funded by the GBBO perhaps?), baking, especially when it’s done for others, has a host of psychological benefits. It’s been proven that people who take on creative projects like baking feel more relaxed and happier in their everyday lives. Moreover, few things are more indulgent than a soft, sweet cake or a melt-in-your-mouth biscuit after a busy day, while nothing tastes better than a fresh slice of bread or delicious pastry in the morning.
So it’s about time you put on your apron and rustled up some brownies, don’t you think? And there’s no better time to do it than now, it’s National Baking Week from the 15th to 21st October 2018 after all. If you want to embrace the event, here’s 5 IDEAL ways to celebrate National Baking Week.
START BAKING AT HOME
Grab some eggs, flour and sugar and make your way into the kitchen to whip up a tasty cake in honour of National Baking Week. It is the perfect excuse to try one of the many fantastic baking recipes available online or in cookbooks, as you can make everything from a Victoria sponge cake and chocolate chip cookies to a pain au chocolat, Danish, or a fresh loaf of bread. The choice is yours.
TREAT YOURSELF TO A NEW BAKING GADGET
National Baking Week provides the perfect excuse to treat yourself to a brand-new baking gadget. If you are tired of whipping up cakes with a manual whisk, consider buying a professional mixer, which can make it much easier to create your favourite treats in the kitchen.
You could even upgrade your current baking tools, as you could buy new recipe books, dishes and utensils, which will make you want to spend more time in the kitchen to create various baked goods for your family, friends and colleagues.
ORDER PROFESSIONAL BAKES FOR YOUR FRIENDS OR COLLEAGUES
Of course, if you don’t have the time or inclination to bake a cake or biscuits, you could always leave it up to the professionals and order stunning creations directly to your address. For example, Greenhalgh’s have been running a popular craft bakery since 1957 and are dedicated to only using the finest ingredients.
What’s more, they can deliver their bakes and sandwiches directly to your home or office, which is the perfect way to embrace National Baking Week with your friends, family, or colleagues.
ATTEND A BAKING CLASS NEAR YOU
If you have always wanted to bake but never have the time or skill to do so, why not attend a baking class near you either alone or with your friends? Here you will learn the basics of baking, such as how to create a soft, light sponge cake, make royal icing or buttercream, or create fun and tasty cookies. It will also provide an opportunity to connect with other students so that you can share baking tips and recipes outside of the classroom.
HOST A BAKEOFF AT WORK
Why not get everyone involved in National Baking Week by hosting a bakeoff at work? Everyone will be responsible for bringing in their homemade creations, which could be judged by members of management. People could even pay to enter the competition to help raise money for a company’s chosen charity. It is a great way to have a little fun in the office while raising money for a worthy cause.
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. While it often feels that there’s not a lot we can do about the size of our bills, the fact is that you have a lot more control than you think. In an age where people are not just keeping track of every penny, but also looking at becoming more eco-friendly, the solutions for lowering your ongoing costs are already available.
So if you’re looking for ways to reduce the potential of a heart attack every time you glance at your bill totals, these solutions might just help mitigate the risk. Here’s 4 IDEAL ways to get smaller bills and transform your finances.
GET INSULATION
Although this is not a new or small solution, insulating your home is one of the fastest and most efficient ways of reducing your overall energy costs. It’s quite simple really, in that the more insulation you have, the less heat can escape your home. The less that heat escapes, the less you need your heating on. Many professionals call home insulation the most important change to make to your home, and if you’re looking for the ultimate in eco-friendly solutions, then you could even opt for sustainable insulation materials like wool or cotton. Use recycled materials instead of the more common fibreglass, and you’ll be reducing your carbon footprint at the same time that you reduce your heating bills.
HEATING OPTIONS
Your heater and boiler will no doubt play a major factor in the size of your bills. If you have an old heating system in your home, then the chances are that it’s not going to be running at full efficiency. While you should always schedule a heating system check-up once a year, talk to professionals like Cooldudeac.co.uk, and you might find that they can offer you solutions and ideas to reduce your heating bills even more. With options like solar panels or biomass use and even dedicated heat pumps, you could end up with much greater control over your heating bills.
SMART LIGHTING
We’re all guilty of leaving lights on unnecessarily. Recent research has revealed that Brits waste an estimated £4.4billion a year, and all because they are not turning off their lights when they’re not needed! If you’re in the habit of leaving the lights on when you head out to work, or you keep accidentally leaving the lights on when you go to bed, then you’re going to notice the price when your bill arrives.
Smart lighting can transform your lighting controls, and you don’t need to invest in any outlay either. Simply buy a smart light bulb instead of your usual option, and you will be able to control your lighting wherever you are. Link up a smart thermostat, and you’ll really start to notice the difference in your monthly bills.
GROCERY SHOP MINDFULLY & USE YOUR LEFTOVERS
We’ve all been there; a long, stressful day at work and a late finish leads you straight to the ready meal section in the nearest supermarket section on your way home, the ingredients for that Bolognese safe in the fridge for at least another day.
If find yourself haemorrhaging money each month on your grocery bills, then it’s time to start shopping mindfully. Indeed, cutting back on frivolous food expenditure can have a major impact on your food shopping bills each month which you’ll notice almost immediately.
Start by making a shopping list, sticking to it and consider buying non-perishable items in bulk. One sure-fire way to save money on your grocery bills is to get busy in the kitchen. Cook large batches of whatever takes your fancy, saving money on lunch and dinner further down the week.
If you think that you can’t afford to head off on holiday, then think again. There are a number of ways to cut costs when it comes to the planning of your next vacation, and there are also ways to be frugal with your spending while on it, meaning you can make your getaway as cheap and as affordable as you want or need it to be. Indeed, it’s probably fair to say that we’d all like a little more money in our pockets when we go on holiday. After all, all those entertainment and dinning bills soon add up.
While holidays are no time for selling yourself short, at the same time you have to be realistic. Which is why it’s a good idea to arm yourself with a few tips, tricks and hacks from the experts, before you set sail for foreign shores.If you take these easy-to-follow tips on how to stop spending and start saving while you’re on holiday, you’ll make any travelling experience into one that doesn’t break your bank.
BE SMART WITH FLIGHT BOOKING
Don’t leave booking your flight until the last minute, as prices can be erratic and you don’t want to leave it too late. Be smart with your flight booking – you can subscribe to price alerts on numerous websites like skyscanner.net, which will give you notice of a drop in prices. Equally as important, keep your eye on promotions as flight ticket websites often run them temporarily, with a window of sometimes as little as an hour in which to grab a bargain.
ASK HOTEL STAFF FOR ADVICE
Nobody knows how to save money in an area like the locals, so ask them where you should and should not be hanging out. The locals that you will come into the most contact with will be the staff at the hotel that you are staying at, so make sure you’re having conversations with them about where to go and what to do. By doing so, you might, say, find a restaurant that provides even better food and service than another, for half the price you would have paid without any insider information.
BOOK ALL INCLUSIVE
By booking an all inclusive break, you will see yourself save on having to pay out on a bucket load of different expenses. You may have to pay more upfront, but the money that you save on not having to splash out on eating will more than make up for it. What’s more, you won’t have to go through the stress of having to find a suitable restaurant for your party, something that is a difficult task when there are fussy eaters in your midst; your food will be brought to you instead. You can find cheap all inclusive deals at Teletext Holidays, so make sure to head there and check out the different packages on offer.
USE A SMART WATER BOTTLE
When you’re abroad and avoiding the local water like the plague in fear that it’ll make you ill, you will find yourself spending ludicrous amounts on bottled water. By investing in and using a smart water bottle, however, you will stop yourself from spending in this manner. Such a bottle has its own built-in filtration system, meaning you’d be able to use it to drink the local, free, running water safely. You may have to spend a bit on the bottle in the first place, but you’ll save loads in the long run by not having to buy copious amounts of bottled water.
GET A MONZO CARD
Many of us avoid punitive currency-exchange rates at the airport by using our debit and credit cards on a summer trip. Then, when we get our statements at the end of the month, we realize it wasn’t such a smart move. We’re often charged 2.5%-5% on foreign transactions, and a £1.50-£3 fee every time we withdraw cash from an ATM. Instead of paying these fees, get yourself a Monzo card. With one, you’ll be able to make one free overseas withdrawal a month, up to a max of £200. Moreover, when you use your Monzo card to buy things at restaurants and shops abroad, you won’t get charged.
It is essential to put your own stamp on your property, so it can make you feel happy to be home every single day. All you might need to do is embrace a little creativity throughout the space, so your personality will shine through your interior design.
If you want to know how to create a truly unique property that will impress your guests, here are six ideal ways to personalise your home creatively.
HIGHLIGHT YOUR HOBBIES
Your hobbies will be a big part of your personality, which is why you shouldn’t be afraid to showcase them in your décor. For example, if you’re a musician, hang your guitar on the wall to create an interesting focal point that will grab people’s attention. If you’re a movie lover, frame posters of your favourite flicks, which you can hang in your bathroom or bedroom.
SHARE YOUR TRAVEL EXPERIENCES
Express who you are and where you have been by shining a spotlight on your travel experiences. For example, you could turn your bookcase into a display of your vacation souvenirs, travel photographs, postcards, travel guides, and keepsakes. It is bound to become an interesting focal point in a room and it could become a great conversation starter.
CREATE A SCENT THAT REMINDS YOU OF HOME
Scent is a powerful sense, one that can help us recall emotions and memories. We associate certain smells with people and places. When you wish to create a scent to remind you of home, there are many companies who can help you do just that. By visiting Pairfum.com, you can choose from natural reed diffusers, perfume room sprays or luxury scented candles. Once you know how you would like to diffuse your scent, you can decide on the fragrance itself. For a rich, oriental perfume, Black Orchid could be for you. Or, for something more masculine, Cedar Noir is perfect balance of bergamot notes and juniper berry. The trick is to choose from a perfumery house with unique scents rather than just settling for standard smells from your supermarket.
SEEK UNIQUE
Due to mass production, many people across the country will have homes that are a carbon copy of one another. If you want your home to be truly individual, you should seek furniture and furnishings that will make your home stand out in your neighbourhood. For instance, rather than settling for a generic dining chair, you could source a hand-carved bench from a local Artisan or find a stunning antique that will addsophistication, class and intrigue into your interior design.
PLAY WITH YOUR FAVOURITE COLOURS
The colours you choose will say a lot about who you are to your guests. If you want to express your taste and personality across the home, you should incorporate your favorite hues into your interior design. You could even add splashes of colour by piling on pretty cushions, pillows or throw blankets onto your furniture. Another suggestion is to change the colours with the seasons or occasion, for example, Christmas versus Spring.
HANG YOUR FAVOURITE ARTWORKS
If you have a favorite artist or painting, you should hang it on the wall in your home. While you might not be able to afford the original, you will more than likely be able to source a print of the artwork online or at an art store near you. Add an elaborate picture frame to personalise it to your liking. This will provide your guests with an insight into your personality & style much more than any wallpaper or furniture choice. If you have a flair for art, you could even create your own works to hang on a wall.
Sushi, sashimi, beef yakitori and ramen noodle soup. It’s safe to say that Japanese is one of our favourite cuisines ever. Moreover, the Japanese diet is considered one of the healthiest in the world and because of this, the Japanese have an average life expectancy far greater than the western world. Our experts explain the health benefits and offer their top tips that you should try for yourself. Here’s 6 IDEAL ways Japanese dining could benefit you.
THE BONUS OF OMEGA 3 IN OILY FISH
As you probably already know Omega 3 is great for you and the human body is unable to make this on its own, so we need to get Omega 3 from our diets. This can be found in oily fish such as salmon.
The UK’s leading nutritionist, Dr. Marilyn Glenville, and author of The Natural Health Bible for Women, explains “Omega 3 oils can help lower blood pressure, reduce risk of heart disease, soften the skin, increase immune function, increase metabolic rate, improve energy and help with eczema.” Nutritionist and Fitness instructor, Cassandra Barns, suggests that if you can, “be sure to eat a good serving of oily fish, such as salmon three times a week.
IT COULD STAVE OFF PARKINSON’S DISEASE
The Japanese diet consists of lots of oily fish and sushi and eating these allows for numerous health benefits. According to the latest research, a protein called Parvalbumin that is commonly found in fish could help to prevent Parkinson’s disease. It has been found that Parvalbumin is able to fire up the immune system by avoiding our digestive juices and passing straight into the blood, it collects up the Parkinson’s protein and prevents any action by acting first itself. Salmon is a great option to get more Parvalbumin into your diet and the Japanese have it in abundance in sushi.
Avocado is often found in the Japanese delicacy sushi, and its skin improving ingredients show another way Japanese dining could benefit you. Cassandra explains that avocado has great nutritional value, “avocado is a good source of vitamin E, which is thought to have several roles in skin health. Similar to vitamin C, it works as an antioxidant so may protect skin cells against damage. It is also thought to help protect the skin from harmful UV rays and have anti-inflammatory activity in the skin where inflammation can often cause rashes, blemishes and acne.”
MINDFUL EATING
Mindful eating is a prominent part of Asian dining culture. Amy Wright, an integrative nutrition health coach, working in alliance with itsu explains, “essentially mindful eating is all about reducing stress, savouring the flavours of our food and enjoyinghealthy, balanced portions of food that enhance our lives. Simply stopping to be present in the moment is a mindfulness practice and this is especially pertinent during a meal. In our busy modern lives, we tend to rush our food between commitments, ’stress eat’, skip meals or rarely stop to savour the flavour.
Food is often an afterthought or something we “do” whilst we are doing something else that doesn’t require hands!”Instead of scrolling through your phone or watching TV, switch off and observe your food, savour the flavours, textures, feelings and thoughts that arise in you.”
A diet rich in plant-based products is really beneficial for overall wellbeing, as well as the planet. Amy Wright describes how “western cultures put meat at the forefront of meal times. Whereas, the Asian diet, that varies between its many countries, focuses on plant foods, vegetables, whole grains, fruit with moderate amounts of lean protein.
Meat is often served as a side element, whilst vegetables, soy products, spices and soups take the main stage.” A vast amount of research points to the health and sustainability benefits of a plant-based diet, therefore being mindful of our meat consumption and exploring new ways to incorporate plant-based protein onto our dinner plates is a great lesson to learn from Japanese dining.
FOOD TO IMPROVE YOUR MOOD
Where sushi and fish are so prominent in Japanese dining so is the vitamin B12 that is found in fish. This vitamin keeps the brain ‘happy’ and reduces the chances of depression, anxiety and brain fog. The fish oils could even help with conditions like psychosis and bipolar disorders.
We’ve all been there and had an impromptu sleepover or gone for a weekend away and forgotten to pack our toothbrush. The problem is, by the time you realise you need a one, the shops are often closed. And there’s nothing worse than going to bed or waking up in the morning with that horrible, furry teeth feeling. With this in mind and with the help of leading celebrity dentist Dr Richard Marques, known by the industry as the ‘King Of Smiles’, here’s 10 IDEAL ways to clean your teeth without a toothbrush.
FRESH WATER
The simplest thing to do for a quick clean is swish some fresh water around your mouth and spit it out. This will loosen up surface debris on the teeth reducing the build-up of plaque
PAPER TOWEL
Wrap a piece of paper towel or clean cloth around your finger, dampen with water and rub along your teeth. If you have toothpaste or mouthwash, add a drop of that too!
KEEP SOME SUGAR-FREE GUM HANDY
Chew some sugar-free gum to help stimulate the production of saliva in the mouth. This will help to neutralise acids and freshen your breath.
AVOID CONSUMING SUGAR
Avoid consuming anything with sugar as it feeds on the bacteria in your mouth and turns acidic. These acids can eat away at tooth enamel and lead to more long-term problems
RAID THE KITCHEN CUPBOARD
Mix a small amount of baking soda with water and rub gently on your teeth. This will help remove surface stains, whitening the teeth and removing excess food particles
USE DENTAL FLOSS
Use dental floss or interdental sticks to remove any food debris trapped between the teeth. Rinse thoroughly with water afterwards for maximum effect
SNACK ON SOME VEG
Snack on some crunchy vegetables such as celery or cucumber to help gently budge plaque from teeth and remove the bacteria that causes bad odours
COCONUT OIL SWILL
Swill a teaspoon of coconut oil round your mouth for at least 15 minutes. Oil pulling helps lift toxins from the mouth and whiten teeth at the same time!
EAT SOME HARD CHEESE
Hard cheeses actually contain enzymes that neutralise odour-causing bacteria, so eating a small cube will lessen the spread of bacteria in your mouth
SWISH A NON-ALCHOLIC MOUTHWASH
Swish a non-alcoholic mouthwash round your mouth for 30 seconds and gargle for a further 30 seconds to get rid of bacteria at the back of the throat
Some days, our busy schedules take over our need to look after our wellbeing. Indeed, it’s all to easy to forget to take time out for ourselves and prepare for the day/week ahead. As such, simple things like drinking water or going out for a 10 minute walk can go amiss. Businesswoman Hannah Potter, one of the industries most experienced and in-demand business transformation specialists, knows that taking a few minutes out of your day to look after yourself really does make a difference. So we asked her to share 5 IDEAL well-being tips for all you business woman out there.
THE APP ‘HEADSPACE’
The app ‘Headspace’ has some fab exercises on it, with some that only take a minute of your time, such as taking deep breaths – this is good to do before/after work, and first thing in the morning and last thing at night. Andrew Johnson’s ‘Deep Sleep’ app is a fantastic ritual to send you into a deep and peaceful sleep no matter what the day has thrown at you. Use this every night for at least 3 weeks for optimal results.
ADD SOME SUPERFOODS TO YOUR DIET
If you are feeling tired and fatigued, you need to ensure you are giving your body everything it needs to fire on all cylinders – what you put in you get out! That’s why I love creating home-made superfood smoothies; a quick and easy way to get amazing nutrition into your system in a matter of minutes. Cut green veg (such as broccoli, courgettes, kale and celery) into pieces and put them into ready-made portions in a freezer container. Then cut fruit such as pineapple, banana, strawberries and blueberries. Freeze each portion of fruit and veg into the same container or cup ready to tip into your blender.
Add some superfood powders for huge added benefits such as Chlorella, Spirulina, Acai, Cacao, NewGen Superfood Plus and your favourite non-dairy milk such as coconut or almond, blitz and there you have your superfood saviour! If you drink these twice a day, you won’t want to be without them! If you’re short on time, you can get yours home delivered from Batch Organics. (www.batch-organics.com)
EXERCISE
Sometimes, the reason we feel tired is a lack of exercise. I suggest 15-20 minutes of HIIT at home – you don’t need any gym equipment for this and you can make time for this in the comfort of your own home. You’ll feel energised and glad you put the effort in afterwards!
EYE BRIGHTENING CORRECTOR
One of my beauty tips – the Becca under-eye brightening corrector! This claims to be 8 hours of sleep in a jar and it really does live up to this! Apply first underneath your usual under eye concealer and be prepared to be wow-ed by the results. (