Innholdsfortegnelse for February 2025 i Woman&Home Feel Good You

Constantly complaining of pain without any obvious cause? Revisiting your GP and not getting the answers you want? Difficult life experiences might be to blame. That’s right, while we often think of pain as only having a physical cause, studies* show that health problems, such as migraines or digestive issues, might actually turn out to be the result of unprocessed difficult life experiences, which have become ‘trapped’ in the body. Essentially, it’s the result of never dealing with trauma when it happened, and your body is now bearing the brunt. We’ve asked our experts for the lowdown on trauma, how you can release it at home and when to seek professional help. 30% of British adults have experienced at least one traumatic event in their lifetime** The trouble with trauma Trauma is…

Wish you could simply magic up good fortune? Some actually believe that you can, just by imagining it. It might sound too ‘woo woo’, but this theory has been believed in by some for thousands of years. ‘Manifesting means bringing something into the realm of conscious awareness,’ claims author Carolyn Boyes*. ‘If you can imagine yourself with something and trust that the universe can give it to you, it will come.’ How to do it 1 Close your eyes and just imagine yourself with the thing you want. 2 Make pretend that whatever you’re wishing for is happening right now. 3 Open your eyes and ‘say thank you to the universe’. 4 If there are practical steps that will get you closer to your dream, you’d be wise to take…

70% of Brits say they’re ‘fine’ on autopilot without thinking about how they’re really feeling*. With the constant demands of daily life, it can be easy to forget to take proper care of yourself or not realise something is wrong until a friend or family member asks if you’re OK. But, usually, there are telltale signs that your wellbeing is starting to waver. Whether you’re overeating, forgetting important dates or feeling sensitive to small changes, it might be time to look inward and take action so you can feel like your old self again. Here, our experts reveal the warning signs that your mental health might need attention and the simple lifestyle tips to regain control and improve your state of mind. Lack of interest in hobbies Losing the passion for…

Discover this amazing deal for a luxurious skincare collection worth £112, available now for just £29.99! This exclusive set is curated to elevate your skincare routine and nourish your skin with high-performance products from top brands. Enhance radiance and protect your skin with Green People CV Age Defy+ Collagen Boost Vitamin C Serum (worth £17 for 10ml), formulated to fight environmental stressors. Indulge in the Rodial Dragon’s Blood Hyaluronic Face Mask (worth £18) for intense hydration and a smooth, plumped complexion. Enjoy the Cultured Biomecare Fortitude Face Mist (worth £30), a spray that revitalises and strengthens the skin’s natural barrier. Finally, the Decree Light Cleanse (worth £47) offers a gentle yet powerful cleanse, perfect for removing impurities without stripping your skin. ENJOY THE ULTIMATE SELF-CARE EXPERIENCE HOW TO REDEEM 1…

COLD SNAP The harsh weather and moisture-zapping central heating can wreak havoc on your complexion. Pair that with the winter blues, and it can feel like a gloomy time of year for your face – and your mind. Now’s the time to treat yourself to some pampering, to lift your complexion and your mood. ‘During the winter, the skin goes through several changes, which can lead to sensitivity,’ says consultant dermatologist Dr Derrick Phillips. ‘Cold temperatures and low air humidity cause dryness. This is worsened by hot baths and showers, which strip away essential oils from the outer layer of the skin.’ How can you combat this moisture-sapping season? ‘The key is to ensure skin is adequately hydrated,’ says Dr Derrick. ‘Look out for products containing humectants and emollients like…

MINDFULNESS OFF THE MAT Yoga encourages mindful eating, which can help to aid weight loss, according to researchers at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center in Seattle. It might not be the first activity that springs to mind when you think about burning calories, but it turns out that yoga is an effective exercise for shedding those unwanted pounds and keeping you fit and healthy. In fact, it can be just as beneficial as more gruelling workouts – so, if you prefer going slow, you’re in luck. As long as you’re using more calories than you’re eating, you will lose weight. Plus, low-intensity exercise, such as yoga, puts less impact on your body, reducing the likelihood of injury and muscle soreness. This means that you can practise it more frequently than…

Not much is certain in life – apart from the menopause. It marks a transition into a new stage, but this hormonal shift can trigger physical and mental changes due to oestrogen declining to 1% of what it was. More than 75% of women experience symptoms, including hot flushes, insomnia, vaginal dryness, anxiety and brain fog. These usually last for roughly four years, but sometimes for up to a decade. ‘Often, women suffer for a long time and can’t cope,’ says GP Dr Radhika Vohra, trustee of The Menopause Charity. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) offers a lifeline, but what happens when – or if – you stop taking it? Get the low-down from our experts. Busting myths When taking HRT, your GP will have established that it’s suitable for you.…

68% of UK adults have set their thermostats lower than they want, owing to rising costs***. Winter is in full swing, which means it’s likely you’ve been reaching for your thermostat over recent weeks. Worried about energy bills? You’re not alone. With prices continuing to soar, it can often feel like a daily battle between being warm and awaiting a head-spinning hit on your bank account. Luckily, there are plenty of healthy – and cost-effective – steps you can take to stay warm. From circulation-boosting foods to blood-pumping exercise, here’s what will help you to fight the cold. 1 Sip spices Swap your usual cuppa for a hot, spicy brew. ‘Warming spices can help support you this winter,’ says nutritionist Jessica Sepel. ‘Make a heated nut milk drink with cinnamon, or…

Set against Corfu’s lush landscapes and the sparkling Ionian Sea, the Ikos Odisia hotel offers breathtaking views at every turn. Although it has over 300 rooms and suites, the hotel oozes intimacy. From the staff who greet you on arrival with a welcoming smile and the promise of something cool, to the landscaped gardens, palm-fringed pools and cosy soft furnishings, there’s a relaxed and easy atmosphere all round. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a tranquil retreat, it’s the ultimate luxury experience. TICKLE YOUR TASTE BUDS Dining here is an experience in itself, with a focus on high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. Take your pick from menus designed by Michelin-starred chefs at seven à la carte restaurants, or head to Flavors for easy buffet breakfasts, lunch…

Ever had a deep sleep thanks to the relaxing sound of the sea, or experienced the buzz of a wild skinny-dip? If the answer is yes, you’ll know just how powerful the water can be. The ancient Greeks once soaked in mineral-rich thermal springs to help them feel better. And, it seems that they were on to something, as 73% of outdoor swimmers today say a cold-water dip is essential or very important to their mental health*. What’s more, you don’t have to dive in to feel the soothing benefits of the water – great news in the chilly weather. In fact, researchers found that spending just 20 minutes in or around blue space, four times a week, has a positive effect on mood, vitality and mental health**. So what…

At this time of year we’re all keen to wipe the slate clean and start afresh, but if you have previously attempted to lose weight, cut back on booze or give up smoking, and never stuck with it, we hear you. That’s why we’ve called on our experts to help you get to the bottom of what’s really holding you back. Follow their top tips to ace your 2025 goals. Make micro-changes Researched the latest diet to try, pledged to quit drinking and got yourself a new gym membership? It may be more than you can handle. ‘Doing too much, too soon, wears out your willpower muscle and sets us up for failure,’ explains behaviour change expert Dr Heather McKee (drheathermckee.co.uk). ‘Habits are a complex mesh of behaviours – and you…

OPT FOR SOUP? ‘Pick a broth, likely to contain less fat,’ says nutritional therapist Alexa Mullane. ‘Chicken soups may benefit from being rich in collagen if the bones have been used in the cooking.’ 25% of Brits say Chinese food is their favourite takeaway, according to a YouGov survey. Save more than 1,148 cals at your local Chinese. takeaway! Tired of cooking and love to order in? Fair enough – except that we all know that takeaways tend to be higher in fat and salt than the meals we normally make for dinner. Not ideal if you’re trying to eat a balanced diet or if you’re hoping to lose weight. ‘In general, takeaways should be an enjoyable treat, eaten occasionally,’ says nutritional therapist Hannah Braye, ‘but you can make one much…

Did you know that the average Brit consumes around 1,412 calories in unhealthy snacks every single day?* That’s almost 75% of your recommended daily calorie intake. But if you’re a snacker and can’t face the idea of cutting them out completely, the good news is these healthy snacks not only keep your calorie count in check, but also boast many nutritional benefits. JAFFA CAKES PER JAFFA CAKE: 46 cals, 1g fat, 0.5g saturates, 6.1g sugars, 0g salt These aren’t the obvious healthy snack choice but as biscuits/cakes go, Jaffa Cakes are one of the better options. They’re lower in calories and fat than many others – a simple digestive has 71 cals/3.2g fat! MALT LOAF PER SLICE: 103 cals, 0.8g fat, 0.2g saturates, 7.9g sugars, 0.2g salt Malt loaf is…

LUXE AT-HOME FACIAL Cheat a spa-like treatment at home by using these indulgent products, which add an extra level of luxury to your pampering session. Origins Ginzing Refreshing Scrub Cleanser, £23, M&S, gently buffs away dead cells without being too harsh – it will also leave skin looking radiant in seconds. Use two to three times a week. Q+A Skincare Vitamin A.C.E Warming Gel Mask, £9, Holland & Barrett, is a really hard-working treatment mask that will overhaul dull skin, leaving it soft and glowing. It’s blended with a mix of vitamins and antioxidants to brighten your complexion. Simply massage it into your skin, then leave on for 10 minutes to do its magic. COSSETING CREAMS It’s important to moisturise your body in the winter to stop limbs getting dry…

YOGA SQUAT Stand feet slightly wider than hip-width apart, toes pointing outwards. Squat as deep as you can, bring your elbows to the inside of your knees and bring your palms together. Use your elbows to push your knees apart and hold the pose for 30 to 60 seconds. THREE-LEGGED DOG First, get into a downward dog position (hands shoulder-width apart on the mat, feet hip-distance apart with heels grounding downwards, tailbone in the air). From downward towards the ceiling, foot flexed and hips level. Bend your left knee and let your heel move towards your hip. Hold for 15 to 30 seconds and repeat with the other leg. Return to downward dog before walking your hands to your feet, and slowly curl up to a standing position. TONE YOUR…

There’s never a good time to get a cold sore, and it always feels like they last for a lot longer than they should – especially if you have a big event on the horizon! ‘The only real remedy for cold sores is time,’ says Dr Paul Springs, a prosthodontist at Timeless Dentistry. ‘They should heal within one to two weeks.’ Fear not, our experts reveal their tips for potentially speeding up the process. 1 MOISTURISE YOUR LIPS ‘Keeping the area well-hydrated – with lip balm, for example – can help to make it more comfortable,’ says Dr Springs. ‘Apply the moisturiser with a cotton swab or with your fingertip, because applying directly from the container can lead to contamination. Be sure to wash your hands after applying the balm.’…

When the South West Water contamination scandal hit the headlines back in May 2024, the country was shocked. After all, British tap water is said to be some of the best in the world – according to Discover Water it has a quality rating of 99.96%. So, when it was revealed that a parasite had infiltrated home supplies, people were worried. South West Water said that such incidents are ‘very rare’. But can we really trust what is coming out of the mains? Could a glass of water make us sick without warning? We spoke to the experts to find out more… What’s in it? Tap water is an environmentally friendly and cost-efficient way to quench our thirst. And if your kitchen tap is your regular water hole, you’re usually…

35% of UK adults are open to trying new things to improve their sex lives, found zaucey.com. It’s not just celebrities who are shouting about the benefits of therapy nowadays. Around 28% of Brits have seen a counsellor or psychotherapist, a survey by the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy found. But there’s still a type that many of us find scary or intimidating – sex therapy. And while the thought of talking to a stranger about the most intimate parts of your life may seem terrifying, it could be a huge help. Maybe your confidence levels have plummeted, you’re turned on in a different way than before, or perhaps your sex life has become non-existent? Just like with any other health concern, there are professionals out there ready to listen…

GLENAPP CASTLE, AYRSHIRE What’s not to love about staying in a fairy tale castle? Glenapp is set in the beautiful Ayrshire countryside and offers 110 acres of magnificent gardens and woodlands to stroll around. It’s also located beside Galloway Forest Park, designated as the first ‘Dark Sky Park’ in the UK. You can book an evening’s stargazing, where a local astronomer guides you through some of the constellations visible from the castle’s Victorian walled garden, while enjoying a boozy hot chocolate under a cosy blanket. You might even spot the Northern Lights, which can be visible from here. During the day, wrap up and explore nearby coastal paths, try your hand at clay pigeon shooting, or enjoy a boat trip to Ailsa Craig to see native wildlife. The castle offers…

STEP OUT The OOmy Stride, £129.95, oofos.co.uk Stay comfortable and injury-free with these breathable walking trainers, designed to absorb impact with every heel strike. SOOTHE SOLES  Westlab Magnesium Flakes, £7.50 for 1kg, Holland & Barrett Transdermal magnesium salts help relieve aching feet. Add a cup full of these flakes to a warm foot bath, and enjoy a soak. RESTORE HEELS Fixology Cracked Heel Balm, £9.99, Boots Combat rough, dry skin with this ultra-moisturising cream that contains AHA, urea and shea butter to keep painful cracked heels super-smooth while preventing further damage.…

It’s been hailed as ‘emotional first aid’ – a way to combat stress, anxiety and fear simply by tapping on the body’s many acupressure points with two fingers. ‘Tapping – also known as EFT (emotional freedom technique) – is highly effective in helping people ditch emotional baggage and let go of self-limiting beliefs,’ explains EFT practitioner Suzy Glaskie, founder of Peppermint Wellness. In fact, tapping can reduce levels of stress hormone cortisol by a huge 43%*. Here’s how to put two fingers up to emotional distress. How it works ‘EFT is a psychological acupressure that focuses on the meridian points to restore balance to our emotional state,’ says Suzy. It’s thought that it can send signals to the part of the brain that controls stress**. YOUR AT-HOME ANXIETY CURE 1 TUNE IN…

It probably comes as no surprise that our number-one fear about getting older is the effect on us physically. That worry is backed up by a University College London study, which found that more than a third of adults have two or more chronic health problems in middle age. But, encouragingly, there is also heaps of research that shows it’s never too late to adopt healthier habits. There may be specific concerns about health in midlife – your hormones can go haywire, and everything from your energy levels, joint health and mental clarity can be affected – but this is your time to reassess your health and take control. The good news is, your body is still very much able to remain supple and pain-free; your diet can be adapted…

Carrying a few more pounds than you’d like in midlife doesn’t have to be your destiny. Yes, it’s true that women entering perimenopause have been found to gain over a pound a year, but there are many ways you can prevent this. Adopting a healthy diet and lifestyle to support your body is key. Our ageless diet takes nutritional science and weight loss know-how, plus it includes all the superfoods your body needs for optimum vitality, energy and that extra-special feel-good factor. Follow the plan and you could lose at least 1lb a week. After just one month of living healthily, you’ll have your mojo well and truly back. THE FOODS YOU NEED FOR… BRAIN POWER ✢ Pears – American research suggests that boron, a mineral found in pears, may…

Diet can have a significant impact on almost every aspect of our health, and sleep is no exception. The right foods can promote a more satisfying snooze, improving our ability to drift off and the overall quality of our sleep. But eating the wrong things, or at the wrong time, can leave us feeling restless. Here’s everything you need to know. Fill up on TRYPTOPHAN Some foods have natural sedative or stimulant properties that can be allies or enemies in our quest for better sleep. Our sleep-wake cycle is regulated by the hormone melatonin, which prepares our bodies for rest. To produce melatonin, our brain needs tryptophan, an amino acid that is found in most sources of protein, but it can be difficult for tryptophan in the blood to reach…

Do you tend to wash and go when it comes to caring for your hair? If so, it’s time to upgrade and seek out products designed for your most pressing hair concerns. Luckily, there’s a myriad of new heroes stealing the most powerful ingredients skincare has to offer to treat your scalp and strands. And while we’re not suggesting that you should use all these products for a complicated, multi-step regime, investing in the right formulas for your hair problem could be just what you need for healthier, shiny locks. RETINOL FOR BETTER GROWTH The scalp ages like the skin on your face, so it makes sense to treat it with the same ingredients. Monpure Follicle Boost Hair Density Serum, £83, monpure.com, promotes thicker hair growth, thanks to a combination of…

If you want to get fit and healthy this year, it’s important to do an exercise you enjoy – otherwise you won’t stay motivated. ‘Your workout shouldn’t be a chore,’ says fitness expert Joanna Dase. ‘It should be something you look forward to. Then you’re more likely to stick to it and reap the rewards.’ Simply answer the questions in our quiz below to discover what workout is right for you, then read on for advice on how to get started. The quiz 1 How sociable are you on a scale of one (not very) to 10 (very sociable)? A 1-3 B 4-5 C 6-7 D 8-10 2 What best describes your exercise goal? A I want to tone up and feel more flexible and calm. B I want to be fitter…

For many of us, New Year’s resolutions might include trying to get back into our favourite jeans or just generally aiming to eat healthier, but for the estimated 12 million* people in the UK with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), embarking on a weight-loss journey is often met with trepidation. That’s because many sufferers live in fear of eating something that can trigger symptoms, which may include stomach cramps, bloating, diarrhoea and constipation. These can come and go and may last for days, weeks or even months. But what causes these symptoms and which foods should you avoid? Our experts can help… Living in fear Being aware of all the surprising triggers of IBS – and that’s not just food – is key to reducing stress for sufferers. ‘If you’ve got…

When was the last time you checked your medicine cupboard? If you give it the once-over, you might be horrified by what you find. Most of us tend to hoard out-of-date pills, ancient, sticky bottles of cough medicine and dressings we don’t know how to use. Sound familiar? If it’s time to update and restock, start by buying storage containers and group different first-aid items together. Here, Dr Deborah Lee, from Doctor Fox Online Pharmacy*, shares the essentials to keep you and your family well. Dressings Keep this box at the front of the cupboard as it gets regular use to dress cuts, scrapes and minor wounds. ‘The most important thing about plasters is to have the right one for the task, so that means having a huge selection,’ says…

Are you someone who loves to dish out advice, or do you prefer it when someone else tells you what to do? Most of us fall into the first group – but how many of us are good at it? ‘There’s an art to getting it right, because people already have beliefs that, consciously or unconsciously, have become part of their identity,’ says coach and therapist Dr Lisa Turner from cetfreedom.com. ‘When you give advice that challenges someone’s deep-held beliefs, it can feel threatening. Their impulse may be to resist what you’re trying to tell them, however wise or helpful you think you are being. ‘The best and most effective advice is delivered subtly – for example, by posing gentle questions that prompt the receiver to find their own way…

Midlife can be a time of opportunities as we rethink careers, consider new directions or plan for retirement. Enrolling on educational courses is a great way to update skills, prepare for a new career or just to re-energise your experience. It’s also a brilliant way to lift your confidence. Whether you want to earn a qualification, take a few classes or simply explore a new avenue, there’s plenty of opportunities available for mature students. And getting started is a lot less scary than it looks. 70% of people experience imposter syndrome at some point. You’re never too old ‘There are no age limits on learning,’ says Dr Liz Marr, former pro-vice chancellor (students) at The Open University. Students come from all backgrounds, and study for a variety of reasons, says Dr…