I’m not really one for a cringe worthy comedy. Slapstick isn’t my thing and just makes me feel awkward. Most comedies leave me unamused and are immediately unforgettable.
Which is why Game Night certainly wins a prize for being the most surprising film I’ve seen in a while – it’s funny.
And when I say funny, I mean really, laugh-out-loud, struggle-to-catch your breath funny.
It’s a great story. Married couple Annie and Max – played by Rachel McAdams and Jason Bateman – regularly host game night for their friends. Max’s annoyingly over-achieving brother Brooks comes to town and throws the murder-mystery party to end all parties – particularly when it turns out his own kidnapping is real. The couples must race against time to find and free Brooks.
Now, I know what you’re thinking. This is a predictable plot and you’ve probably figured out the twist already – you haven’t. This is a slick and surprisingly believable offering from the duo that wrote Horrible Bosses. This time they’re directing as well as writing. Don’t worry, it’s better than Horrible Bosses, so much better. There are no ridiculous tricks and stunts here. We see three very ordinary couples find themselves in a quagmire of gangsters and drug dealers and panic accordingly.
There are some seriously slick scenes in this movie. Watch out for the keep-away game at the Eyes Wide Fight Club house. Also see Max and Annie dealing with the removal of a bullet, a scene that makes them utterly believable as a married couple.
I want to tell you more about this film. I want to tell you about the creepy next door neighbour and the Faberge egg. I want to tell you about Annie’s Pulp fiction moment or the squeaky hamburger or even the world’s weirdest game of charades but I can’t without ruining the whole thing, and even then I wouldn’t do them the justice that the film does. Go for the giggles in this one.
FASHION | COVETING THE KIDSWEAR AT M&S
It’s rare that fashion flips on its head and mummies are genuinely coveting kids’ clothes, but looking at the latest swimwear collection from M&S for girls, I am wishing I was 30 years younger right now. (And on a beach with lots of ice cream and sunshine it’s fair to say).
Read on for my fave picks from this brights-done-right collection from one of the nation’s favourite stores. They look super cool for girls and I am pretty sure, having spoken to a few mummies this weekend, that the size 6 and 8 adults among them are definitely going to be trying to squeeze into the age 16 sizes.
Just click on the pics to buy - plus, remember there’s no VAT on kids’ clothes, so it’s a double whammy, win-win situation if you can fit into them!
Last Spring I worked on a fashion show for MaxMara, which had a tropicana theme with lots of palm leaves across printed fabrics throughout the collection. The theme was evident across a few international fashion houses and made it to some high street stores, notably Zara, for grown ups, by about September. But it hasn’t gone away, and our recent weather makes dreamy tropical prints all the more attractive (along with aforementioned beach). I can just imagine these two swimsuit options with tanned limbs and tan sandals and an oversized hat plus shades. What’s not to love?!
And if I didn’t know that the M&S garment production lead time took longer than a few months, I’d be easily duped to think that their collection of rainbow swimwear came straight off Christopher Bailey’s AW18 final collection for Burberry. The stripes are bold, bright, sassy and strong and will make a statement on any beach or by any pool - and I cant help imagining myself in that stripe raincoat at a summer festival.
Striped Swimsuit £7 - £9
Rainbow Striped Swimsuit £9 - £11
One last style which would look super cute on a kid, but just as nice on a grown-up, is this Audrey Hepburn inspired sailor bow swimsuit. A classic style with handy pelmet peplum frills to avert attention from the hips, which little girls rarely have like we do of course, so we absolutely demand this style is replicated for us mummies!
FOOD: CATHY'S CRAZY COLCANNON
My daughter used to love all kinds of pureed vegetables as a baby and toddler, and then when she went to school she discovered white bread, sugary sweets and seemed to develop a dislike for all the healthy vegetables she’d once adored. In an effort to get her back on track with vegetable fibre in her diet, I began to add pureed courgette to pasta sauce or mix peas and carrots in with curries, but a popular choice at my house with her and her wee chums when they visit, is Cathy’s Crazy Colcannon - my own take on the popular Irish dish.
Ingredients
- 1 x chunky leek
- 1 x cup of petits pois peas (they’re sweeter than garden peas)
- Two handfuls of spinach
- Mashed potato - you can boil about 4-6 potatoes and mash them with butter, but when I’m in a rush I often buy pre-made mash from the supermarket.
- Butter - loads!
Directions:
Chop the leek in small slices and put into a hot pan with butter. Fry and stir until soft and golden (and they sometimes taste better as they start to caramelise and brown a little). If you need to ‘hide’ the vegetables from the kids, then, once cooked, pop the leeks into a blender (I use my Nutri Bullet) and whizz for just 20 secs. Pour into a large serving bowl along with the mashed potato.
In the same pan, add another knob of butter and, once melted, add the spinach and then pop a plate or lid over the top to let the steam from the spinach help cook the leaves. Cooking spinach like this only takes about a minute, so keep an eye on the pan, making sure to stir a few times. Once soft, pop into the potato mix, (or if you’re ‘hiding’ the spinach, then put the cooked leaves into the Nutri Bullet or blender and whizz these up for about 10 seconds too, then pour into the potato and leek mix).
In the same pan again (I’m all about saving on the washing up) add a third knob of butter and then put the peas in here until they’re warm and brightly green. They can go in from frozen, but it really is best to defrost them (just add hot water to the cup once you’ve measured them out and then strain before heating in the pan). And, no surprises here - pop these into the potato bowl or serving dish too, then mash the whole lot up with a fork; adding more butter to taste, or even a wee drop of cream/milk if you have some in the fridge. We love butter in my house, but like everything, it’s best to consume in moderation.
To save a bit of time, you can put everything into a larger wok all together, but leeks take longer to cook than the spinach and peas, so give the leeks a few minutes on their own and then pop the peas and spinach in towards the end.
The original and traditional Colcannon recipe is said to be potato, cabbage and scallion (spring onion), but this recipe is totally versatile and you can add whatever vegetables you have in the fridge as long as the flavour isn’t too strong for vegetable detectives - pureed courgette works well; and spring onions instead of leeks are great too. When I make this for grown ups, I often keep the skins on the potatoes and do a crushed potato mash with the greens throughout. This retains the most nutritious part pf the potato of course.
I love to eat this on its own, as I don’t eat too much meat, but it’s great with pork and leek sausages or Valentina and her friends seem to love it with chicken Kiev or fish fingers. Whichever way you enjoy it, rest assured you are definitely getting 2 or 3 of your five a day in all at once. Enjoy!
FOOD: PEANUT BUTTER PROTEIN BALLS
Peanut butter protein balls (Makes 12 balls)
Ingredients
· 6 Tbsp natural peanut butter
· 1 cup That Protein peanut butter protein powder (That Protein is a local product, although any vegetable protein powder will do)
· 3-4 Tbsp unsweetened almond milk
· 60 grams dark chocolate, or about two thirds of a regular sized chocolate bar (85% or higher cacao is ideal)
Directions
Melt the peanut butter in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. (This is an optional step; it just makes the peanut butter easier to work with). Add the protein powder, then slowly stir in the almond milk until the mixture is sticky, but not liquidy at all.
Shape the dough into around 12 x 1-2 inch balls and place them on wax paper to keep them from sticking. Cover and put in the fridge for 30 minutes (or stick in the freezer for 15 minutes).
When the dough is chilled, remove from the refrigerator and melt the chocolate using a bain-Marie. This is usually my daughter’s duty as she loves to lick any leftover chocolate. And that’s totally allowed. Dip the peanut butter balls into the chocolate, covering them completely.
Return the chocolate-covered peanut butter balls to the wax paper, stick in the fridge, and let cool. They don’t have to be perfectly shaped, but that’s the joy of them!
Eat and enjoy!
These are delicious with hot chocolate or on their own and are great for kids and parents alike. If, like me, bread (or gluten) makes your tummy bloat, then they make a wonderful and relatively healthy alternative to a big scone or a sticky bun. They’re vegetarian (and can be vegan if you choose vegan chocolate) and are full of good fats which are good for brain power. Plus, this recipe is not fixed - you can add in chopped or blended dates, goji berries or other fruits, nuts or seeds if you want to get more fruit fibre into your diet (or your kids’ diets).
https://thatprotein.com
FASHION | OSCARS 2018 BEST DRESSED: THE TOP GOWNS OF THE NIGHT
Last night saw the stars of the silver screen out en masse for the Academy Awards 2018 in Los Angeles. Millions watched around the world as The Shape of Water was the biggest winner of the night. We were obsessed with some of the sartorial choices and spent ages choosing our faves, so without further ado, here are our pick of the best!
Margot Robbie stunningly channelled Grecian glamour in this custom Chanel piece. The dress had gorgeous beaded straps and a crisscross skirt and Margot completed her look with a clear Chanel clutch and Chanel Fine Jewellery.
Alison Williams went old Hollywood glam, stepping out in a gorgeous nude Armani Prive couture gown with a long train. Styled by Cristina Ehrlich, the actress wore her hair in a wavy, deep side-parted 'do for her first-ever Oscars.
Lupita Nyong'o stole the show at the 2018 Oscars wearing a fierce gold Versace dress that was custom made for her. The designer number featured a slit up one leg and chain-ink details across the bodice. Lupita topped off her regal outfit with a Versace clutch, Alexandre Birman heels, and Niwaka fine jewllery.
Saoirse Ronan graced the red carpet in this pretty pink dress by Calvin Klein. The dress featured a strapless silhouette and gorgeous bow detailing. The talented actress completed her look with court shoes by Christian Louboutin in the same pale pink hue.
Jane Fonda dazzled at the 2018 Oscars in a white gown by designer Olivier Rousteing with beautiful pearl detail. The Coming Home legend and two times Acedemy Award winner showed of her amazing physique in a figure-hugging dress with elegant sleeves and dramtic shoulder pads.
She has dazzled at over a dozen Oscar ceremonies in the past and this year was no exception as Nicole Kidman stunned in one of the most memorable gowns of the night. The strapless form-fitting navy Armani Privé gown featured a dramatic sweetheart neckline and a thigh-high slit.
Emily Blunt's 2018 Oscars look was so good it deserved a golden statuette of its own! The actress wore a fabulous Schiaparelli confection that was sweeter than a spoonful of sugar. As she prepares to remake the beloved Mary Poppins film, the Victorian neckline perfectly channelled the prim and proper icon. The dress featured some delicate applique around the torso and bow-like sleeves and was presented in a soft blue-tinged grey tulled. The actress completed her look with delicate crystal blue chandelier earrings.
Picking up the gong for Best Support Actress, Allison Janney stunned at the 2018 Oscars in a gorgeous red Reem Acra dress.
The show-stopping gown featured a plunging v-neckline complete with flowing, floor-length sleeves and had a dramatic train. Allison completed her look with a matching Roger Vivier clutch and Jimmy Choo heels, although perhaps the most attention-grabbing part of her ensemble was her sparkly jewellery which cost over $4 million dollars! Wowzer
What did you think of the looks on the red carpet? Who was your favourite? We can't believe #awardsseason is over!
AND THE OSCAR FOR THE BEST DRESS GOES TO...
As Holywood (and millions at home) prepare for the biggest awards night of the year, I decided to take a look back at some of the most memorable dresses to ever grace The Oscars' famous redcarpet. From Gwyneth Paltrow in that Ralph Lauren to Lupita Nyong’o in Prada here are my faves...
First up, in the 1999 awards Gwyneth Paltrow chose this beautiful soft pink taffeta gown by Ralph Lauren. Paltrow picked up the award for Best Actress for her role in ‘Shakespeare in Love’ and accessorised her look with stunning Harry Winston jewels. The look divided commentators but it was so perfect for her WASP-y shape and personality at the time. And here at The F Words it will always be a classic.
1999 - Gwyneth Paltrow in Ralph Lauren
The 1954 Academy Awards saw Audrey Hepburn shine in this stunning gown by Hubert de Givenchy - who went on to dress the talented actress for seven of her later films. The dress featured a gorgeous floral pattern finished with a skinny belt. Hepburn won ‘Best Actress’ for her role in ‘Roman Holiday’.
1954 - Audrey Hepburn in Givenchy
Beautiful Spanish actress Penelope Cruz wowed in her dazzling, blush feathered Versace gown in 2007. She looked absolutely flawless in this dress which oozed opulence and immediately earned a place as one of the most iconic dresses to ever grace the Oscars' red carpet.
Emma Stone slayed in this dramatic Giambattista Valli gown back in 2012. The strawberry red/fuchsia colour against her skin and hair colour was bold, add to that a statement bow, a perfect updo and a Louis Vuitton clutch and, voila! There is nothing we don’t love about Emma’s look!
Also making a statement was Halle Berry in her dress for the 2002 Academy Awards, where she took away the gong for Best Actress, and wrote history by being the first black woman to do so. I loved this Ellie Saab dress at the time, but not so much now - however I thought I would include it here anyway, because it was so of its time. With hindsight, the dress was super daring and wowed onloookers; plus she deserved all the attention that night in this show-stopping gown with its satin train, sheer top and some modesty-covering embroidery.
Cate Blanchett looked every inch the Holywood Queen as she stepped onto the 2014 Academy Awards' red carpet. She paired the beautifully embellished gown by Armani Prive with subtle makeup and tousled waves; creating some super styling waves of her own.
Rachel Weisz looked simply beautiful wearing Vera Wang at the 2007 Oscars. The year before she had won a Best Supporting Actress Award for her role in The Constant Gardener and this time she returned to the red carpet to present an award.
Her champagne coloured dress was beautifully embellished with diamante detailing on the bust and a short train embellished with plaited satin and tulle. She completed her look with a loosely-waved updo and berry-stained lip. With its figure-hugging cut and draped bodice the new mum looked every inch the glamorous Holywood star.
Back to red again - and the year 2013 when Jennifer Anniston wore the colour of love as she stepped onto the red carpet with then beau Justin Theroux. The strapless Valentino creation was simple yet glamorous with its romantic red hue and full bodied skirt.
The world fell in love with relatively new actress Jennifer Lawrence back in 2013 (lucky for some!) when she tripped and fell in this stunning Dior gown; (shame some are falling out of love with her of late, for showing off a bit of leg, but hey - that's a whole other blog). The intricate design and daring silhouette looked incredible on her beautiful, youthful and athletic frame, so it was no surprise that her Oscar gown knocked her right to the top of all the best dressed lists - and lists of actresses that designers wanted to dress. She stuck with Dior for 2014 though (when she fell AGAIN!)...
I have saved my (so far) all-time favourite Oscars look for the 2014 awards and Lupita Nyong’o's powder blue PRADA dress, which totally stole the show at her first time nomination for her role in Twelve Years a Slave. The gown, with its stunning floaty fabric, soft tone and plunging neckline will go down in red carpet history. And PS - her green dress at the Cannes Film Festival is one of my favourites on that red carpet too. Girl got style!
WONDERBOLD HAS SOME WONDERFUL WALLPAPERS - IN STOCK NOW!
With the fashion world going crazy for monochrome right now, this striking Pied De Poule Wallpaper by WonderBold will certainly make a powerful statement in your home. Pied De Poule translates as 'Houndstooth', a classic fabric design that is well known and loved in the fashion & design world - plus, this design is available in three pattern sizes, Small, Medium & Large; so the only question which remains is, how bold will you go?
Designed by Emanuele Pangrazi and made in England to the highest standards, this smooth, matt, non-woven wallpaper makes the perfect backdrop for a contemporary room design. Plus, the paste the wall, (not the paper) method makes for a very easy application - no pasting table necessary. Pangrazi’s second paper design for WonderBold which I adore (and which also falls within the monochrome category) is the Black Optical Stripes wallpaper. It really is just perfect for anyone seeking to make a statement on their walls, and the bold chevron design simulates an optical illusion effect on an urban concrete background.
Moving away from monochrome but bringing texture and depth to your interior is the stunning Twist design which simulates a 3D stone effect. And finally the fabulous Scratch Wallpaper - M by WonderBold - will certainly make a powerful statement in your home or office … The unusual cracked paint effect is perfect for bringing an industrial edge to any interior scheme. This cool Magenta version is bang on trend, but it is also available in another 4 fab colours - Cyan, Black, Yellow & Green. Check it out at www.limelace.co.uk
And finally the fabulous Scratch Wallpaper - M by WonderBold - will certainly make a powerful statement in your home or office … The unusual cracked paint effect is perfect for bringing an industrial edge to any interior scheme. This cool Magenta version is bang on trend, but it is also available in another 4 fab colours - Cyan, Black, Yellow & Green.
Check it out at www.limelace.co.uk
FASHION: H&M's STUDIO COLLECTION DEBUTS AT PARIS FASHION WEEK
Are you like me and love designer clothes but cant afford the high-end price? Well, get ready to be #obsessed with the H&M’s latest Studio Collection!
The high street brand debuted its latest designer collection at Paris Fashion Week this week at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs. The show was inspired by the urban grace and traditional minimalism of Japan.
Fashion icons Alexa Chung, Daisy Lowe and Joan Smalls were in attendance, dressed in head-to-toe H&M for the hotly anticipated occasion. Work wear tailoring, free-flowing fabrics and statement knits added to the sense of balance between minimalistic design, colours and movement.
Speaking about the latest collection, Pernilla Wohlfahrt, H&M’s Design Director said: ‘It was exciting to see our strong statement of print and colour with clean lines inspired by Japanese design. We can’t wait to see how our customers around the world will be styling their favourite pieces.’
Both the womenswear and menswear that appeared on the catwalk will be available in stores around the world from 1 March. That’s next week - eek!
FASHION | FEBRUARY FAVES
Anyone who knows me knows that I am a fan of late night browsing - and some of the fab finds from this month include these beauties. Take a look - tell me what you think!
1. Forever 21 Ruffle Jacket
While remaining Forever 21 may be something left to our daydreams, the youthful brand definitely knows how to keep feminine fashion super sophisticated. There’s no doubt in my mind that denim days have only just begun now that this denim jacket has entered the game.
Take this otherwise “cutesy” item up a notch with leather trousers and stiletto boots. The leather will toughen up the look while the shoes remind everyone who’s boss.
Ruffle Trim Denim Jacket, £55, Forever21. Available at https://rstyle.me/~akx66
2. Chloé Rylee Cutout Leather Boots
Never can a girl go wrong with anything Chloé.
Former creative director, Claire Waight Keller broke many a fashion heart upon her departure from the brand last year. Thankfully, her replacement, Natacha Ramsay-Levi’s killer collections since have definitely softened the blow. These cutout leather boots played a starring role in the French designer’s debut SS18 collection for the brand.
The thing about this brand is that it just makes sense. As Ramsay-Levi explains, “You don’t need to be a fashion person to get it.” It only takes one look at these boots to recognise that they’re the standout shoe of the season. Tell me you can’t already imagine the rails of outfits to be styled alongside these boots? Take the look straight from the runway with blouses and mini skirts or experiment by pairing them with floral maxi dresses. The contrast between feminine florals and tougher leather boots brings serious style points your way.
Oh and that cutout feature you see at the sides and ankles? Incredible with bare legs (if you dare).
Rylee Cutout Leather Boots, £995, Chloe at Net-a-Porter. Available at https://rstyle.me/~akx7a
3. Bauble Earrings
Warning: May provoke unnecessary Dad/boyfriend/most males uninterested in fashion jokes.
You know the drill. You also know you’ll always beat them in a best dressed competition. So let them laugh, you’re the real winner here. Plus they’re not actually baubles…
The key to this modern day ear candy trend is avoiding pieces reminiscent of “Do your ears hang low?” chants of childhoods gone by. Instead opt for more gravity friendly, glam pieces. These Bauble Bar earrings tick all of the boxes. Black is always in style and the chic film noir vibes both of these earrings are giving off make them the perfect entry into a trend some may be nervous about trying.
For a simple day time look, try a plain white t-shirt, straight leg jeans complete with a red lip and slick low ponytail to really show off the earrings. As for the evening, you best believe it’s time to slip on that LBD and those killer heels. These earrings were made for the dance floor.
Floretta Sequin Hoop Earrings, $38 dollars; Maraca drop earrings, $34 both Bauble Bar. Available at https://rstyle.me/~akx7e and https://rstyle.me/~akx7A
4. Pink Jumper
Q: How many trends can one jumper tick off?
A: Pink. Check.
Stripes. Check.
Ruffles. Check.
Sporty elements. Check.
Instagrammable. Check.
Enough to make me want to purchase. Check.
While spring is (thankfully) inching its way closer and closer, buying knitwear doesn’t seem the most logical sartorial move right now but between the unpredictable nature of UK weather and the increasing mention of magenta as the AW18 trend reports roll in, how could you possibly resist this investment buy?
Embrace the clashes of red and pink incorporated in this knit, pair with red wide leg trousers and pointed white boots to give this jumper the moment to shine that it truly deserves.
Cropped striped jumper, £305, Maggie Marilyyn at Net-a-Porter. Available at - https://rstyle.me/~akx7h
5. The Chair
What’s one thing all fashionable females need in their dressing room?
Incredible lighting for one. And for another, an adorable chair.
To the outside world it may seem totally impractical but to the style squad in the know, this chair is a must. Add a blush cushion (heavy on the fluffy texture) and you’re ready to go. Now someone pass me a camera while I upload it to Instagram #interiorgoals
The Emily & Meritt Bow Chair, $269 available at https://rstyle.me/~akx7w
FOLIO ¦ GOING WILDE FOR ORIGINAL THEATRE
In this week's theatre review, guest blogger Emer Dooris (from Emer D blog - www.emerdblog.com) takes us back in time to Victorian London and deepest Hertfordshire in this brilliant adaptation of one of Oscar Wilde's most popular plays, 'The Importance of Being Earnest, A Trivial Comedy for Serious People' (to give it its full name!)... Emer and I both enjoyed this show early this week at Belfast's Grand Opera House, one of my favourite theatres in the world, because it was the first one I ever visited - I can still remember the awe I felt at the rows and rows of seats to the sky. And like the theatre, this play is one of my favourites too, because I am a huge wordsmith and a massive fan of Wilde's clever puns and salacious satire, he has always featured on my ultimate dinner party guest list. Imagine the banter!
But now, over to Emer:
The Original Theatre Company's production of The Importance of Being Earnest is witty, charming and hilarious. As one of my favourite Oscar Wilde productions, I waited with bated breath to see what direction this production would take, and I was not disappointed.
My last viewing of this play was with an all male cast which added to the hilarious absurdity of the piece, but this time I was transported back to the original Victorian era and no gender swaps (neither direction being a bad thing, but I’m always interested to see how far the director is willing to change/challenge the characters and the actors.) From curtain up, the audience was transported to a luscious, decadent set complete with wood panelling, chandeliers and hanging baskets. Add in a fantastic cast and the most amazingly outrageous costumes - which seemed to add caricature to the characters, (I was especially enamoured with the bustle on the back of Lady Bracknell’s dress which made this larger than life character a much more formidable force to be reckoned with) and you have a visual feast before the actors even mutter a word.
The genius of Wilde’s script with its perfect one liners and punch lines kept the audience giggling throughout the three act production. I'm not sure if it was opening night production/acoustic problems, or a voice projection issue, but the actors seemed at first a little meek and quiet on stage (audience members nearby remarked they were hard to hear), however, they soon relaxed into their roles by the first half of Act I and the pace and delivery of the lines came up to speed. Special mention should go out to the humorous facial reactions by Susan Penhaligon who played the down beaten, accident prone but love struck Miss Prism. Lady Bracknell, played with aplomb by ational treasure Gwen Taylor, was also fab. Jack Worthing was a voice doppleganger for Colin Firth and Algernon Moncrieff looked just as I would imagine him. I totally loved his dapper and dandy wardrobe.
All in all, a thoroughly enjoyable production with a well-versed and talented cast, I would highly recommend checking this one before the end of its very short run this Saturday 24th February.
Limited tickets available at www.goh.co.uk
FITNESS | HOW TO REDUCE ANXIETY & STRESS IN 7 STEPS
In this week's blog Kim from Seventh Heaven shares her top tips for reducing anxiety and stress...
Small methods, life changing results, implemented to a daily routine
In this blog I am going to focus on Anxiety & Stress, a global epidemic actively touching so many humans on our planet! Both Anxiety & Stress are the origins of illness and dis-ease in the body, when not living in harmony. Our bodies are super smart and have a way of speaking through illness in order to make us pay attention and become aware of what is going on from within.
Many of those reading this are, I imagine, living on the green isle of Ireland, either North or South. Our island contains major levels of stress from the ground up. It's an island of inactive volcanic rock mixed with a history of famine, invasion and war, all of which is trauma. My belief is that all of this has a detrimental and genetic effect to our energetic frequencies, not to mention the pressures of today's society, technology and this increasing illusion that we need to "keep up” and “perform".
Firstly, we need to understand how to identify anxiety & stress and does it apply to each of us?
MY PERSONAL EXPERIENCE
Up until last year, I spent most of my life living with anxiety, never truly identifying patterns of behaviour as anxiety & stress because it was all I'd ever known from the age of four years old, my conditioning was to "get up and get on with it".
Growing up, fear and trauma locked in at a very young age. Experiencing a somewhat turbulent childhood meant constantly living in "fight or flight" mode with my adrenal and cortisol levels on constant high alert in order to deal and cope with signs and moments of danger.
My teens were spent in living with an invisible illness that no doctor believed was real until getting diagnosed at the age of 22 with Endometriosis. Endometriosis literally took over my twenties more than my teens; 11 operations, several false menopauses and copious levels of HRT to shut down my reproductive system and give it rest. So, you guessed it - more anxiety, more stress, and an increasing resilience to keep going and battle through it. In 2008, the Endometriosis cleared completely simply because I started changing my attitude towards it all. I switched from medication to no meditation, did some energy healing then started yoga plus refused any further surgery. Life got significantly brighter & better, my thirties have been a total breath of fresh air.
All of the above meant that I was super sensitive; in the past I was afraid of flying, deep water, dogs, driving, being in large crowds, too much noise, and mostly just being afraid to be myself, as anxiety has a big impact on self-esteem. PTSD was rife and the anxiety created a heightened sensitivity to everything around me. Total adrenal overload.
Last year the "Get Up and Get on With It" came back to bite me, yet this time things came to a head. Life challenges were coming at 100 mph via all directions, so anxiety and stress raised their ugly heads again - this time it literally "floored me". A scary stage in my life, yet with many positive, transformative outcomes and the most enlightening life lessons, I decided to take six months out from teaching and work on myself full time for a change.
Today I can gladly say that I no longer experience anxiety or stress on a daily basis - or in fact, I barely experience it at all. A massive statement for me to acknowledge, let alone share out to the masses.
Now, I'm not saying my life did a miraculous u turn in one year where anxiety cured itself over that period. It has taken years of self work and self healing. Last year was the penultimate phase of my life – when I realised that this "Get Up and Get on With It" was utter BS. My body said ‘enough!’ as she couldn't keep going anymore, so this was my time to heal once and for all.
Over the years my journey towards healing was probably done arse about face; firstly, I underwent relaxation techniques, meditation, healing and yoga and only latterly worked on the origins of anxiety. With hindsight, it would have been easier the other way around, yet my belief is that everything is meant to be and I wouldn't change a single thing.
I’m sharing my experience with you to "keep it real", to not be afraid of opening up and deliver an authentic voice when talking about a topic that I have first hand knowledge of. We need to be comfortable in saying out loud "It’s OK to NOT be OK" and “It's NOT OK to NOT be OK".
Like many of my wellbeing industry colleagues, I am happy to admit that I am far from perfect and by no means super-human. Even with years spent gaining qualifications & skills for teaching myself and helping others to relax, breathe etc, my biggest learning came from the recognition of anxiety in itself and the social patterns behind it, not the tools to I had built up to help cope and ease it.
I feel the epidemic of anxiety & stress has spiralled beyond control, and I’m increasingly seeing it among my students and clients, hence speaking out. We need to talk more, be upfront and raise awareness, not only for ourselves but for our colleagues, loved ones, friends - and most importantly, the children of future generations. First, we must connect to ourselves for healing (if applicable), then reach out to others.
This is my experience, and I am grateful for everything that's occurred in my life to shape the person I am today. Each of us are unique and different, we each react or tolerate to anxiety & stress in different ways.
WHAT ARE THE SIGNS
There are several layers to Anxiety & Stress and the two often occur simultaneously. Below I list some of the emotional, mental and physical identifiers. Some of these symptoms are so subtle as we can become accustomed to living with them for decades. Stress can be silent and quite hard to detect.
Emotional & Mental
- Poor concentration & decision making
- Feeling overwhelmed
- Feeling out of control, or losing control
- Difficulty or inability to "quieten the mind" with racing thoughts
- Constant worry of what others will think
- Constant worry about everything (what if attitude)
- Low self-esteem which factors self-critique, worthlessness, hopelessness
- Isolation and avoiding others
Physcial
- Low energy & increasing fatigue
- Nervousness and shaking
- Chest pain & tightness and rapid heartbeat
- Insomnia
- Tunnel vision
- Headaches (tension)
- Upset stomach, including diarrhoea, constipation, and nausea
- Stiff joints, pains, and tense muscles
- Frequent colds and infections
- Low immune system
- Loss of sexual desire and/or ability
- Continuous ringing in ears (tinnitus)
- Cold or sweaty hands and feet
- Excessive sweating
- Dry mouth
- Clenched jaw, grinding teeth
OK, SO WHAT'S NEXT?
The first step in dealing with anxiety & atress must start with you, recognising the signs and taking action.
None of us are handed a rule book on life (that would be too easy), instead we learn from situations and surroundings so that our little brains during childhood can perceive and react to the world around us. Life is all about patterns which leads into frequency and vibration. Anxiety & Stress are vibrations and it’s up to us to change those frequencies to create a harmonious symphony to life.
Although, imagine if we did have rule book on life? What might it tell us? Here’s what I think it might say:
· Life doesn't have to be hard, keep it simple
- Don't resist change, its inevitable
- Find contentment in what you have right now
- Be the best version of you, for you, not for others
- Congratulate your achievements
- Know that it's ok to fail (look at positively as a life lesson, not failure)
- Surround yourself with those who inspire you, not pull you down - this includes family members!
- Daily self love and compassion
- Know it's ok to say NO
- Sit with your fears and work through the illusions
- Do what makes you truly happy
- Embrace the moment
- Know that things will pass, whatever the situation
- Talk to your inner child, it's always there
- Live in the NOW
- Most importantly....have fun with everything you do!
7 METHODS TO REDUCE ANXIETY & STRESS
BREATHE
Easy to say, right? But when we’re stressed, just breathing is not so easy. Physically our diaphragm tightens, we hunch over and make this muscle and the psoas muscle tighter resulting in the lungs being unable to breathe at full capacity. Our chest and abdomen muscles also tighten, and these play a major role in allowing us deep long slow breaths to calm the body and mind, when relaxed.
We suggest. Take a few moments every day with regular periods to sit with deep breaths, fully aware of the slow and paced inhale and exhale. Ensure your exhales are longer than your inhales. When stressed, we tend to breathe only from the upper chest. A deep relaxing breath should come from the abdomen: belly-ribs then up to chest.
Whether you do this exercise in the shower, or in your car driving to work, maybe even sitting at your desk, (and most importantly with exercise), remember that your breath is there wherever you go too!
NATURE
What can we say! Mother Nature is the biggest healer we have and how blessed we are as she's all around us. Nature gives us everything we need and more.
We suggest. Trees are literally part of our life exilir, they convert carbon dioxide and water into oxygen using the energy from sunlight. We cannot live and breathe without them. They are our main source of energy and life force. Pretty awesome to hang off, sit under and even hug, yes hug! A lot of healing properties and qualities come from trees.
Equally getting our feet onto the grass, natural water or sand. They all have a healing and grounding effect on us, along with taking active walks or climbs in nature can help too.
The Ocean - Sea water is full of ions (healthy negative ones) which our bodies absorb to deliver more oxygen. When by the sea our body’s natural energy gets infused and lifts, making us feel more energised and relaxed. Often, people with sleep disorders and even eczema are recommended to get into the sea or walk along the beach by doctors.
MEDITATION & YOGA
Meditation, the powerful tool to heal from within. This is where all the answers lie. Nothing outside can gives us anymore answers than what we already 'know" from the self.
Neurotransmitters fire signals to our parasympathetic nervous system allowing our body to produce more serotonin and oxycontin - the happy hormone chemicals tell the body it's OK and safe to relax. Long term Meditation reduces anxiety and stress which overall improves our health and wellness.
Yoga is a meditation in itself but with many benefits, we are moving stagnant energy within our bodies, meditating with movement whilst using our breath to increase the flow of blood and oxygen through the body and releasing energy that is of a negative tone.
The practice also increases flexibility, helping bones and joints to release any stiffness, eliminating anxiety and stress; yoga is also an overall mood booster and sleep enhancer, so what’s not to love?!
We suggest. When we take time 10-20 minutes to close our eyes, move inwards to a space of quietness, stillness for some self-realisation - this strengthens and eliminates any doubts or worry. Equally 20 minutes daily of yoga will have a great impact on anxiety and stress too.
UNPLUG
As you read this, you are very likely using a phone, tablet or desktop. With our phones usually glued to our hand or in our pockets, taking time to completely unplug for a certain period of time away from technology can be significantly de-stressing.
We suggest. If desk bound, take 5 minutes to get up and walk around the office periodically, away from computer screens to move the body, clear the mind and just spend some time in active breathing.
Take the phone out of the bedroom at night and give yourself a wind down period before going to bed away from the phone.
Change the "blue screen" to night mode on all devices, blue light gives devices their brightness on our and when reduced will aid against keeping brain to stay alert which can lead to long term insomnia and depression.
SLEEP
Ensure you get enough! Simples.
We suggest. Give yourself a time to wind down at night, no coffee or caffeine, eat lightly before bed (some say at least 4 hours before bed) and ensure your space is a technology free zone - and that includes a TV.
Technology pollutes the air with electronic smog which leaks into our body’s energy system and plays havoc with our frequencies and vibrations, upsetting the body’s natural harmony.
JOURNAL
Journaling is a very cathartic method for releasing and transferring thoughts from the mind. View journaling as moving storage files from one place to another, a mind dump. When we take time to create To Do lists, express thoughts, feelings, dreams onto paper, it instantly stops the cycle of self-perpetuating thoughts. It's also a great way to set goals, once you transfer thought to paper, it becomes an action, before you know it with universal law of attraction, the action becomes your reality!
BE STILL, DO NOTHING
How many of us can read this and say, I do this? Be Honest. Being still is probably one of the most difficult tasks for humans. Some time spent doing absolutely nothing but relaxing - with no phone, chores, TV and kids – can be difficult. Being still is quite the task, but if we could manage this for a for a least one hour in our day, it's actually refreshingly appetising. It’s a fantastic method for letting the mind rest as well as the body.
We suggest. Some restorative yoga is a great. Viparita Karani/Legs up the Wall pose is a super one to try. Prop some pillows under the buttocks, add some wheat bags onto the belly, place a blanket across the upper body and an eye mask over the face then give yourself 30 minutes with your legs up the wall. This simple pose has amazing benefits to help depression, calm the mind and ease anxiety and fatigue.
FACE | FACING FACTS WITH SENSEE
When the Sensee Facial Contour Definer arrived in the office there was definitely a tittle tattle and a whisper among the team to ascertain whether I’d ordered a sexy toy from Mya or Agent Provocateur, when in fact my pretty package contained a beautiful and ergonomic rose-gold-coloured, hand-held facial massager. (Gosh that was a mouthful!)
Arriving in a beautiful white box, first impressions were excellent, and I was also pleasantly surprised to find that it has a lovely weight to it – this is definitely a quality product.
Although I am lucky to have been blessed with good genes, there is no escaping the fact that as we get older our skin starts to lose its elasticity, so, from luxurious creams and regular facials to drinking copious amounts of water – my best beauty secret – I work hard to maintain some sort of firmness and protection for my skin. Promising to instantly relieve tension, boost blood circulation, stimulate collagen production annnd activate lymphatic drainage to detoxify skin – the Sensee derma roller was hot on my wish list…
Ok - I know what you’re thinking, the shape is certainly interesting and I can’t deny that it looks a little phallic; you may even get some awkward stares if you open this one in the office like I did, but, the truth is, it looks that way because of the job it needs to do - and it has to be said that it is actually a great design that really works - it fits nicely in the hand while the two massage rollers are positioned at the perfect angle to fit any face shape.
So how does it work?
Following the instructions, I held the handle and swept the roller along the edge of my jawline in an upwards motion for 5 minutes on each side. It was really easy to use, moving seamlessly up my jawline. As advised, I added this into my daily skincare routine, using it after moisturising each morning and evening and it wasn’t long before it became second nature.
The roller balls have grooves across them which help give a really nice massage effect for an extra bonus. The whole experience left me feeling very relaxed and reduced any previous puffiness much to my delight. I read that the roller is also adaptable so you can use it all over your body, from your arms to your neck. It also doesn’t require batteries which I LOVE, you literally pick it up and do the work yourself. As the roller ball rotates it brings nutrients and oxygen to the collagen and elastin-producing cells in our face, resulting in younger, healthier looking skin.
So far I have only used it on my face and I have definitely noticed changes. My skin feels firmer and definitely stays hydrated for longer, I read online that like the massage techniques of a facialist, derma rollers help the skin absorb moisturiser and gives skin that lovely natural glow so maybe that is why. Incorporating this into my normal skincare routine has been easy and I am definitely going to use it on other areas of my skin in the future to see how it fares there…
Final verdict - this is a gorgeous product that is high quality and will last for years and I would definitely recommend investing in one (although maybe best not to leave it on your bedside table to avoid any awkward explanations)…
FASHION | VALENTINE'S DAY IS COMING: 5 OUTFIT IDEAS FOR YOUR NEXT DATE
Our guest contributor Amy Goldsmith talks us through her top picks for #ValentinesDay in this week’s fashion story…
Whether you and your darling have been together for a while or it’s a relationship that’s just starting to bud, Valentine’s Day is a great opportunity to indulge in some romance. What will you be doing this year? Are you and your partner going out to a simple dinner? Will there be roses, chocolate, and grand romantic gestures?
However you decide to celebrate your love, one thing’s for sure –there’s a sweet date waiting for you in the future and you’ve got to be ready for it! Sexy, cute, elegant, you’ve got options to take this date anywhere you want, and we’re here with some cool suggestions to help you put together the perfect outfit.
SULTRY SEDUCTRESS
The way to a man’s heart? Velvet. It’s lush, smooth, and it will engage his senses as his hand brushes over your waist – it simply gives a tactile dimension to your outfit that’ll make him want to sit closer. A soft velvet dress paired with six-inch heels and a cheeky little smirk that promises a hot night ahead will make his mind spin. We recommend the Zara Printed Velvet Crossover Dress because it’ll show off your sexy legs and hug your figure just right; pair it with some burgundy heels and maybe a long coat over it so you can experience that moment of hearing him gasp as you unbutton the coat and slide it off your shoulders...
CUTE AS A BUTTON...
Demure, sweet, with just a dash of naughty, another great outfit idea is pastel-colored or white lace, preferably something that makes you look delicate, feminine, and still absolutely sexy. This Newlook sheer lilac frill trim top is a gorgeous choice, especially if you pair it with a nude undershirt and slim jeans or trousers. Wear ballet flats and let your hair fall down your shoulders in loose curls and you’ve got a nice, romantic look on your hands that’s so innocently sexy.
SASS AND SOPHISTICATION
Feminine, mysterious, and luxuriously sophisticated, maybe you want a look that will have the guy sweating as he tries to impress you. Enjoy his open-mouthed stare as he sees you in a tight little pencil skirt and something like this Rockmans Elbow Sleeve Ruffle Blouse and black pumps. Pin your hair in a sleek chignon, paint your lips with some wet, nude lip gloss, and give him a smile girl – you’re an elegant goddess and you need to own it! Confidence is an essential part of this look, so enjoy your own beauty!
DANGEROUSLY SEXY
Maybe you’re an edgy gal who likes to make the head turn wherever she goes, who breaks social conventions and likes to get a little dangerous with her fashion. In that case, leather pants are your friend, baby! Slim leather pants, this satin wrap top, and the magical ingredient – over the knee boots! Throw on a leather jacket, wear bright red lipstick, and rock this bold look! If you want to dial it down a notch you can pick high-waisted skinny jeans instead of leather pants, and maybe switch the shoewear to high-heeled ankle boots
SATIN AND LACE
Let’s not forget the most important part – lingerie. Red is almost traditional for Valentine’s Day, but hey, it works. Nothing makes a gal feel sexier than red lingerie, but if you prefer, you can also go for the more mysterious-looking black or charmingly sexy white or pink. However, we’d like to encourage you to take it a step further and wear a corset (we know you always wanted one), because there’s nothing like a little burlesque moment to bring some fantasy and sexy romance to the date (or rather, what comes after it). Imagine yourself in a burgundy corset and black stockings with garters, then imagine your man as he sees you in it. Hot, hot, hot!
Excited about your date? Well there’s nothing like a little shopping session to keep you going until Valentine’s Day is here, so get creative and put together an outfit that will knock his socks off and make you feel sexy and stunning!
FACE | A SLICE OF URBAN VEDA
I for one am so glad January is over, with its plethora of skin-damaging elements like excessive heating and frosty air, (and sometimes the lack of fresh air from staying inside so much). The combination has a terribly negative effect on my complexion and although February (so far) hasn’t seen much better weather, the budding daffodils are bringing me positive thoughts of spring.
February comes from the Latin Februum, which means to renew or to be reborn, and this month I am having a skin detox to help restore my skin’s complexion. I’m aiming to try products which are as natural as possible and I’m kick starting the process with the help of Urban Veda.
The Urban Veda range follows the Ayurvedic Indian philosophy of health and wellbeing by harnessing the holistic and therapeutic power of plants – this means there are no nasties hidden in their formulae - they don’t contain parabens, SLS (Sodium Lauryl Sulphate), or GM (genetically modified) ingredients (phew!), so it’s an instant thumbs up from me.
The natural and organic ingredients together with multi-vitamins maintain the skin’s natural balance, preventing breakouts and other conditions resulting from excessive damage from the environment – so far, so good!
I have been using the facial wash and body cream from the Urban Veda Radiance range which is designed to give tired skin a natural glow – and who doesn’t want radiant skin?
The ingredients speak for themselves in this luxurious mix of gloopy goodness; anti-inflammatory turmeric reduces redness and puffiness, a mix of botanicals including coriander to help brighten skin, whilst anti-oxidant rich marigold ensures skin is cleansed and hydrated.
The first point to note is that the range smells amazing, which is always a bonus - when you smell good you feel good, right? I have been using the facial wash for a month now and the gentle formula glides easily onto my skin and removes all traces of makeup (even my stubborn smokey eye make up – annnd it does this without excessive rubbing – which of course is a cause for celebration alone!). In short, it leaves my skin feeling luxuriously smooth. The facial wash also contains Patchouli which helps heal dry or inflamed skin (it is also said to be good at reducing scarring if a breakout has left its unwanted marks on your skin) leaving skin fresh and hydrated. I’m a soap and water kinda gal, so this wins all the Brownie Points for me.
Next up is the Radiance Body Lotion, which is packed with healing botanical extracts, including sweet almond oil (which I adore) to moisturise and nourish. The lotion is thick and gorgeously creamy, but absorbed quickly into my skin – without leaving it feeling too oily or sticky. It also smells divine, cocooning my body in its gorgeous floral & herb scent and left my skin feeling super-soft all day - and all month while I trialled it.
My verdict? Bathroom must-haves! I will definitely be trying out other products in the Radiance range as well as trying some of their other ranges, (they also have a purifying, reviving and soothing range as well).
FURNISH | FRIDA FEVER
I’ve just been to see Pixar’s Coco with my daughter Valentina this weekend and I totally fell in love with the Mexican culture all over again, especially the vivid use of colour; so when I saw this new Frida Calo-inspired Boho party collection from Talking Tables, I got to planning myself a Cinco de Mayo party in my head. Or I may just call Boojum and start a #tacotuesday tradition with my closest amigos because I don’t think I can actually wait that long!
Taking inspiration from the country’s rich culture and history, Boho invokes the exuberant spirit of Mexico and pays homage to artist Frida Kahlo’s brazen spirit and iconic style, with trompe l’oeil embroidery, folk-style geometrics, naïve florals and lavishly costumed llamas – as well as Frida
herself - emblazoned across paper plates, cups and napkins. Referencing the country’s textiles tradition, pom pom lights, food picks, tassel chandeliers and bunting come in an Aztec-inspired palette of bold, punchy brights. Last but not least, a super cute piñata. Perhaps Mexico’s greatest party starter – alongside tequila – it doesn’t get much cooler than Talking Tables’ papier maché llama.
So sling on a sombrero, grab the guac, mix those margaritas and we’re ready to roll. ¡Viva la fiesta!
FITNESS | NUTRAMILK
The growing global shift from dairy to plant-based milks is showing no sign of abating, and until recently there were two options, neither offering a perfect solution.
The first, shop-bought nut milk, is usually packaged in non-recyclable containers and has additives that some purists find less than ideal. Plus, the actual nut content can be quite low.
The second solution, i.e. DIY nut milk, has been a "thing" for years. But producing beautiful quality plant-based milks is a labour of love, involving soaking, blending and straining, all of which is time-consuming and a tad messy.
Well, take a bow Nutramilk, a fab nut milk maker which is causing quite a stir. This fab new counter-top machine produces up to 2 litres of pure, fresh nut milk in just 12 minutes. Also produces beautiful creamy butters and dips (as well as perfect fillings for my daily does of protein balls too!)
The Nutramilk was developed in collaboration with the Industrial Design department of Metropolitan State University of Denver over three years. The result is a truly game-changing machine that alt-milk and nut butter devotees are welcoming with open arms.
I have literally just ordered mine and cant wait to get started! Will it be as big as the nutribullet? Who knows? But I want to be among the first to find out.
https://nutramilk.co.uk/
FILM | ALL THE MONEY IN THE WORLD
Having lived in Italy for two years I am immediately drawn to films shot there; and this one, by director Ridley Scott, was no exception. Add to that the intrigue of the story – based on fact – about a globally profiled Mafiosi kidnapping of a member of the richest family in the world, and this is a recipe for movie fairy dust in my eyes.
Scott re-tells the true story of the kidnapping of John Paul Getty III in 1973. Getty was the grandson of oil magnate J Paul Getty, the richest man in the world. He was also the man who stalled for five months before paying the ransom.
This story made headlines in 1973, but it made them again in 2017 even before the film was released because the actor who originally played J Paul Getty was Kevin Spacey, and accusations of his decades-long sexual misconduct surfaced not long after principal photography had wrapped. In light of the accusations, director Ridley Scott re-shot Kevin Spacey’s role, replacing him with Christopher Plummer. This is a pretty big deal in the film industry as the entire cast and crew had to be recalled.
After all the drama, the film has finally made it to the big screen with just 2-3 days’ delay and it’s had some mixed reviews. Some say that Plummer’s version of Getty isn’t as effective as Spacey’s would have been. That far from refusing to pay the ransom, his character seems like he could have been persuaded to give it up quite easily. I disagree, I thought Christopher Plummer was amazing in his role and that it snapped into place easily with the rest of the film. His Oscar nomination is well deserved and I can’t imagine what Kevin Spacey would have brought to that role that Plummer didn’t deliver – and more.
And he’s not the only one. There are some seriously good actors in this film. I particularly enjoyed the bold and fulsome performances of Mark Wahlberg and Charlie Plummer (no relation to Christopher), who played John Paul Getty III and Michelle Williams as his mother, Gail Harris. I actually don’t understand why Michelle didn’t get nominated for an Oscar as she carried most of the film. After her son is kidnapped she is the one working to sway Getty to pay the ransom as her son’s captors become more and more vicious, eventually cutting off his ear in a scene so gruesome (but probably nowhere near the reality 45 years ago) I wretched repeatedly in the cinema.
Mega-director Ridley Scott is evident everywhere in this movie. He has really captured the colour and confidence of this beautiful country but also its ugly side with the Mafiosi.
This is a tense thriller running against a clock mixed with a cautionary tale about the perils and penalties of vast wealth and some very dark humour. It’s stylishly done – as you would expect from Ridley Scott. You definitely won’t fall asleep during this one.
FILM | THE DARKEST HOUR
Set in the early days of the Second World War, The Darkest Hour sees a newly-elected Winston Churchill take charge of a (so far) ill-managed war as the Nazis steadily take over western Europe. Britain’s newest prime minister must decide whether to negotiate a peace treaty or continue to fight one of the most formidable armies the world has ever seen.
You’ve probably noticed this film doing the rounds, if not for Gary Oldman alone. At the time of writing he has either won or been nominated for just about every award going for his star turn as the legendary Winston Churchill. The list includes the Oscars, Golden Globes and Baftas, among many others. The female casting was also superb, with Lily James (Cinderella) playing a blinder as Churchill’s secretary and Kristen Scott-Thomas giving a stellar performance as Clemmie, Churchill’s wife.
Churchill was a formidable statesman in so many ways, but this film is keen to show his true self with all of his failings. He smoked and drank to excess, but was also arrogant, gruff and disagreeable, characteristics which lost him both friends and allies in politics. It must be said that this is a war film without a huge amount of war in it. And it’s certainly fascinating to see an uncertain Churchill, trying to hold steadfast in the face of what would become the biggest conflict the planet has ever seen - before or since. But the movie also shows that his biggest conflict wasn’t necessarily with Hilter or Mussolini, but with Chamberlain and Lord Halifax who were scheming for a ‘Peace’ Treaty with Germany and all at once trying to undermine Churchill’s parliamentary and cabinet position. Hindsight proved that at least where Hitler was concerned, Churchill knew the cut of his jib.
I saw The Darkest Hour at around the same time as I was watching another great actor - John Lithgow - portray the great man on the Netflix series The Crown. (Which is unmissable, by the way). Lithgow’s Churchill again scored him a clutch of awards and nominations. And while both men gave brilliant performances for such a complex character, Lithgow, for me, had the edge. His performance was softer and showed a more vulnerable side - but then again he was mostly playing the victorious post-war Churchill, who no longer had to stand toe to toe with Adolf Hitler. The only real soft side of Churchill in The Darkest Hour is the scene (which I don’t think is factual) in which he takes to the Tube and touches base with some ‘real life’ folk, if only to justify his own beliefs about going to war. One also feels some sympathy for him in his ‘Black Dog’ moments of depression, however does it make me a bad person if I say he probably shouldn’t have been drinking through those. But who am I to judge, eh?
The film is quite dark – both in name and in content, but also in the cinematography too, and the only way I can describe it is that it feels like the whole thing was filmed with the Instagram Stories ‘New York’ filter. And for someone who enjoys positive and bright art in general, this made me pay attention – art is supposed to stimulate and provoke, right?
Churchill was not a pleasant person up close and that certainly comes across in the film, but like the British public at the time, we are won over by his genius idea of sending civilian boats to Dunkirk to rescue 300,000 British soldiers fleeing the Nazis. This cemented his celebrity and to this day it holds that one of his biggest victories was actually in retreat. I couldn’t help wondering after I had seen the movie, how much more would he have achieved if he hadn’t smoked or drank his way through most of his days?
The Darkest Hour separates the myth from the man in Winston Churchill. Gary Oldman deserves every one of his nominations and I would happily bet he’ll walk away with an Oscar. How could he not, having given us a glimpse at a real titan of the 20th century?
FACE | L'OCCITAINE AND RIFLE PAPER
When Provence, land of enchantment, meets the vibrant feminine flair of an inspiring stationery and lifestyle brand.
This week last year I was milling around Provence searching for truffles among the oak trees of rural farms, so it is fitting that, this week this year, I write about a company whose very scent - when I walk into its stores - reminds me of that part of the world. L’Occitaine was founded in 1976 and has retained a simple and natural ethos in everything it does since.
Likewise, Rifle Paper Co, enjoys a similar approach. “I started Rifle Paper Co. with the hope of bringing beauty to the everyday,” says Rifle Paper Co. co-founder and Creative Director Anna Bond, “I’m thrilled to partner with L’OCCITANE, a brand that shares the same sense of small pleasures, as we create a custom collection inspired by the gardens of Provence.”
Look out for the limited edition RIFLE PAPER Co. collection at L’OCCITAINE, which captures scents, lights and textures of South of France to adorn the iconic Shea range with exclusive designs. Leaves, nuts and Shea blossoms blend blissfully in this colourful collaboration, if the cream inside weren’t so bloomin’ fabulous I’d almost suggest you keep the container as a memento or collector’s item.
Speaking of the hand cream, L’OCCITAINE’s Classic hand cream has been called a “beauty must” and “lifesaving” by people around the world. Enriched with 20% organic Shea Butter, (which is 100% natural origin, certified organic and comes straight from the nuts of the Karite tree in Burkina Faso), the super-creamy balm penetrates quickly and helps to protect, nourish and moisturise hands. Its yummy formula blends honey, almond extract and coconut oil with the Shea Butter to leave hands soft and smooth but never greasy.
Available in store since 18 January
FACE | WARM UP WITH YONKA!
I’m shattered! Anyone else?
The month of January seemed to arrive in a gusty, impatient blast, just like Storm Eleanor which brought in the New Year for many. And now, after a very busy few weeks which included launching the twenty-fifth season of Belfast FASHIONWEEK (I still remember the first one like yesterday!) I am finally catching my breath and taking a moment for some much-needed time out.
Most nights when Valentina goes to bed, you won’t find me on the sofa binge watching Netflix series, but instead, sitting with my laptop catching up on my mountain of emails and working until the early hours of the morning just to stay on top of things. But at New Year I resolved to take a relaxing bath once a week to settle myself before a good night’s sleep
Thus far, the gorgeously luxurious YON-KA Paris has been helping me find my inner feng-shui…
In keeping with my New Year’s resolution I have been using the Phyto-Bain Bath Oil, a highly aromatic bath treatment with plant extracts and essential oils known for their multiple therapeutic virtues. I added 1 tablespoon to my bath which was more than enough and was quickly enveloped in a relaxed bubble of tranquil bliss! Perfect for relieving tired legs and restoring full vitality, this would be great after a long, busy day or equally as good when you simply need a little down time.
If you really want to take your experience to the next level invest in the YON-KA Limited Edition Aromatic Candle which allows you to bring the spa home with three delicious scents – Cedar, Quintessence and Orange Blossom, you can also take one travelling with you to make a home away from home.
Synonymous with luxury, YON-KA is the go to brand in many top salons and, once you try the products, it is easy to see why it is one of my faves. The family-owned brand was established in 1954 and combines nature, science and wellness to create products that are simply irresistible. I have previously used (and reviewed their lotions and the hero-product which is the Micellar Cleansing Water. It removes all traces of makeup effortlessly without the need for any pressure scrubbing! (Perfect if you’re like me and don’t always have the time to spend on your skincare routine.) The anti-aging formula also has a lovely fresh scent and leaves skin super-soft and totally refreshed. If you suffer from oily skin, they also have Crème PG, a mattifying moisturiser which purifies the skin whilst eliminating shine – it also smells divine and makes a great base for your makeup!
But lemme get back to this bath… I can almost feel my inner chakras balancing out…
Nightie night!