Innholdsfortegnelse for May 2015 i Woman & Home

This issue we’re focusing on small changes = big difference. I promise you, there’s nothing that = harder work or more stress. In fact, in our life edit SOS, Less stress more living (p51), nutritionist Patrick Holford tells us how doing a “brain dump” and locating your little piece of calm will help you switch off stress and change your thinking entirely. I’ve started already… Are you at a crossroads in your life? We sent four readers to discover whether an expert coach could help them make change happen. Their dilemmas are ones many women will relate to and the results are fascinating (p44). Plus six women, from CEOs to PAs, tell us how they’ve got a better work/life balance (p156). Going to a wedding is one of the happiest…

Alice and I met through work but we’ve only worked together a couple of times. We’ve just written a treatment for a screenplay together, about the first female football team. It might never happen, but I like the idea of trying something that’s brave and doing something completely different. We complement each other really well. Alice is constantly dragging my head from the clouds and making sure I’m still putting the bins out. She’s also very good at making sure I take time off. We got married in January. It was just a question of signing a document and backdating it to our 2006 civil partnership. My parents and Alice’s mother were really chuffed. Mum sent us balloons, which is very unlike her to waste money on something like that.…

PRETTY IN PINK Luxe up y our look wit h a sumptuous suede jacket…

Like more confidence? “I realised I needed to make time for me, as well as everyone else” Ann Marie Alton, 52, is married with two children aged 15 and 19. She’s a deputy head teacher and lives in Nottingham. She saw Elizabeth Juffs ( elizabethjuffs.co.uk ), a confidence coach at the end of 2011. Having been a single mum for seven years, I got remarried in 2011, the year after my father died quite suddenly of lung cancer. I was so happy to have met my husband, but losing my father was incredibly hard. My parents had married at 20 and my mother, who is 81, was absolutely devastated, so I spent a lot of time supporting her. Things at work were tough too. I was Acting Deputy…

MY INSPIRATIONAL QUOTE There is a wonderful quote I’ve found from Sammy Davis, Jr that I think is very true Dame Helen is currently receiving standing ovations as Queen Elizabeth II in the Broadway transfer of The Audience – Peter Morgan’s play about the weekly meetings between the Queen and her prime ministers. She is also the leading lady in a powerful new film, Woman in Gold. Based on a true story, Helen plays Maria Altmann, a Jewish refugee who, at the age of 82, fought the Austrian Government to reclaim Gustav Klimt’s portrait of her aunt, Adele Bloch-Bauer, which was stolen from the family by the Nazis. David Cameron is the only prime minister who has been brave enough to come…

Mark Shepherd, manager for general insurance at the Association of British Insurers, advises… • Keep a record of your emergency claim contact details and policy number. Send an email to yourself with the details. • Regularly update your sums insured. Underestimating replacement value of possessions is a common mistake. • If you let all or part of your home to lodgers, or leave it unoccupied for a month of longer, tell your insurers otherwise your cover may be compromised. • Read the terms and conditions carefully. Legitimate reasons to deny a claim can be in the small print.…

1 START WITH THE BASICS  For all-over smoothing, you can’t beat a Spanx simplicity open-bust slip (£89, selfridges.com). To create more of a waist, try Maidenform’s slimwaisters singlet (£36, johnlewis.com). 2 FIND THE RIGHT PAIR OF HEELS  If you can handle a heel, then do one – you will instantly look taller and slimmer. If not, there are some nice mid heels around, or go for a wedge. LK Bennett and Kurt Geiger have a great selection. 3 INVEST IN A PAIR OF “IT” JEANS  The right pair will make you look relevant and modern, and you can dress up or down. I love Donna Ida (donnaida.com) and Trilogy (trilogystores.co.uk). 4 ADD ONE NEW PIECE  A bold necklace – try Zara – or a scarf in this season’s mega brights…

One of the biggest trends in 2015 is “the curve” – from cheeks to lashes to breasts and butts! “Women today are educated and on a more even playing field with men, thus empowering women to be more confident in our skin and in ourselves,” says Lana Glazman, vice president at Consumer Insight and Innovation at Estée Lauder. CONSIDER A TREATMENT Reshaping is major business. “Liposuction and fat transfer account for over 50% of all our treatments,” says consultant plastic surgeon Bryan Mayou of London’s Cadogan Clinic. “After all, when you ‘take it out’ it seems a waste not to ‘put it back’ in areas where, with age, you might need it more.” HOW IT WORKS Fat transfer suits the over-40s best, “as it’s naturally you,” says Bryan. “There is…

Where to begin? We asked House of Fraser’s director of beauty Ruth Newman to share her top picks, and online customers reveal their must-haves too. With hundreds of brands to choose from, House of Fraser’s beauty halls are the perfect place to get you summer ready. If you’re short on time, you can use the Buy & Collect service – simply order online by 10pm and collect in store from noon the next day. SELF TAN Clarins Radiance-Plus Golden Glow Booster , £26 for 30ml. “A few drops mixed with my daily moisturiser and my skin felt and looked radiant, bronzed and hydrated. I love that you can easily control how golden you go,” says Ruth Newman. Crème De La Mer The Face and Body Gradual Tan ,…

LONG STORY Perfect for a black-tie event, this gown has delicate beading across the arms, which disguises any problem areas. Gown, £330, 10-20, Adrianna Papell. Heels, £250, LK Bennett. Clutch, £25, Oasis. Gold necklace (worn as bracelet), £950, Dinny Hall KELLY HILL, 35, lives in Nottingham. She runs The Tonic Communications, a PR agency, and has to dress up for launch parties. IT’S A WRAP! If you have an event outside, then look no further than a glamorous coat, and cinch in at the waist with a detailed belt. Only wear a headpiece if it adds to your outfit, as they can be overpowering. Coat, £295, 4-16, By Malene Birger at Fenwick. Dress, £135, 6-20, BIBA at House of Fraser. Belt, £69; heels, £139, both Reiss. Fascinator, £292, Bundle MacLaren.…

Comfortable corsetry with in-built bra cups will give you perfect contouring and a smooth silhouette. Slimming Body, £125, xs-xl, Spanx Firm support and silicone edges to prevent slipping make this your go-to bra. Ultimate Strapless Bra, £36, 32A-38DD, Wonderbra at figleaves.com Pretty lace detailing make these more wearable while still slimming inches off your figure. High-Waisted Thigh Shaping Control Shorts, £30, 8-18, Boux Avenue The perfect shaping brief for tummy and waist. Top Model High Waist Brief, £55, 8-18, Simone Pérèle Choose undies that enhance your assets…

The reasons we crave different foods at different times fall into two main camps. When you’re desperate for sugar and an energy boost, chances are your last meal was light on protein and slow-release carbs, and your body’s simply asking for a quick fix. Then again, our cravings are often emotion-based, so when you’re under stress, your brain is telling you to comfort yourself and we often turn to food because it’s associated with making us feel happier and safe. Whether the reason is physical or emotional, there are moves you can make to combat the problem – and when you do need to snack, we’ve got that covered with savvy, healthy swaps to help you stay away from the bad guys. ONLY 11 O’CLOCK and soooo long till lunch!…

The heart-breaking depiction of Dr Alice Howland – a fictional professor diagnosed with Alzheimer’s – in Still Alice has won plaudits for its accuracy, as well as a Best Actress Oscar for Julianne Moore. Her character, Alice, is 50 when symptoms begin, and there are more than 40,000 Britons aged under 65 with dementia. Women are slightly more at risk, says geriatrician Dr Trisha Macnair of the Royal Surrey County Hospital NHS Trust, although that could be because we live longer, and the risk increases the older we get, especially over 80. What is certain is that all of us fear this horrible disease. So what’s the difference between the usual forgetfulness that comes with age and the first signs of possible Alzheimer’s? Could it be…

Beware of too-good-to-be-true claims from private clinics. If possible, use a recommended eye hospital and surgeon, rather than a high street chain. This procedure isn’t available on the NHS unless you have cataracts, in which case, vision correction with replacement lenses can be done at the same time. Costs vary from between £3,000 to £5,000. It can be performed on patients who’ve had laser surgery in the past, but not on people with high levels of astigmatism, or macular degeneration. Replacement lens surgery isn’t for perfectionists or those who rely on really excellent close-up vision, such as pilots, architects or engineers.…

Say hello to our new blogger Food lover Victoria Young is on a restrictive diet for health reasons but still manages to create delicious food. She shares her secrets to eating well at womanandhome.com/recipes Happy 4th wedding anniversary Relive their special day in pictures at womanandhome.com/royalwedding What to wear to the races Stunning fr ocks to head-tur ning accessories … check out womanandhome.com/races Popular on Pinterest Get ready for warmer weather with these cult beauty buys at pinterest.com/womanandhome XenTan Face Tanner – a gorgeous glow without the fake tan smell L’Occitane Foot Cream – smooth away dead skin cells Chanel Le Vernis in Tapage – the perfect shade for toes In the w&h Reading Room You’ve been airing your views on Wake…

Free travel insurance NATIONWIDE While you do have to be a customer, the FlexAccount has no fee so these perks are effectively free with rewards including 100 different discounts on shopping, travel, holidays and restaurants – all tailored to the way you spend. The best benefit is free Europe travel insurance for those aged up to 75. But make sure you qualify by switching direct debits and standing orders to your FlexAccount or paying in at least £750 a month for three consecutive months and by holding a Visa debit card. Free tech, skills and help BARCLAYS Free WiFi in branches and free digital skills training. Drop into a Tea and Teach event or sign your kids up for the Code Playground, where they learn Scratch programming, a free online…

1 Talk to other people in your company who have done it before. If they managed to bend the rules, how did it happen? 2 Think seriously about the cost of what you are doing – not for you, but for the organisation. Think about the potential downsides before your boss does, and have a response. 3 Offer something that sounds more like a deal than an ultimatum. Point out that they will get something out of this. Don’t sound entitled. 4 Timing is crucial. If you present this to your boss at the wrong time, for instance just before the accounts have to be completed, then your negotiations are less likely to have a positive outcome. 5 Have a Plan B. If you’ve presented your case well, and still…

Prawn and courgette linguine Cut down on the carbs and up your veg intake by using courgette ribbons to replace some of the pasta. Easy • Ready in 25 minutes • Serves 4 100g dried linguine 1tbsp light olive oil 350g shelled king prawns 3 garlic cloves, crushed ¾tsp fennel seeds, crushed ½tsp dried chilli flakes 3 large courgettes, cut into thin ribbons using a julienne vegetable peeler (see box, below) zest and juice of ½ lemon a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil fresh basil, to serve 1 Cook the linguine according to the pack instructions, drain and set aside. 2 Heat the oil in a heavy-based frying pan over a medium heat, add the prawns, garlic, fennel seeds and chilli flakes, and cook for 3-4 minutes. Add a little…

Despite the plain exterior of the brick-built house in Hampton, Middlesex, Iryna and Mykola Kachmar knew they could create a light-filled home for them and their children, Mark, seven, and Sophia, four. “British houses from the 60s-80s are usually well constructed with good- sized rooms,” explains Iryna. Living in a three-bed 80s terraced house in nearby Teddington, Iryna and Mykola wanted something bigger. After losing out on one house locally, they decided to sell up and move into rented accommodation. Spotting their current home on the market and going in as cash buyers meant that the deal was relatively simple. “When it comes to houses, we make a good team,” says Iryna. “Mykola is interested in the structural side and I’m interested in interior design and colour.” Taking on eco…

DON’T MISS! RHS FLOWER SHOW Cardiff 17-19 April RHS FLOWER SHOW Tatton Park 22-26 July For tickets go to rhs.org.uk Find even more gorgeous garden ideas you can try at pinterest.com/womanandhome…

1 Work methodically through your wardrobe, taking everything out and laying it on your bed. 2 Make the decision quickly and put the item on a designated pile. 3 Anything tatty, moth-eaten, misshapen, faded or worn should be binned, and the rest can be bagged up for charity. 4 Hold up each item and ask: “Do I love this? Have I worn it in the last couple of years? Does it make me look and feel great every time I put it on?” 5 If the answer is yes, it’s going back in the wardrobe! 6 If you find yourself bleating “I used to love it so much” or “it cost a fortune” or “it was a present from someone special” or “it’ll fit if I lose a bit of…

Now you really do have a place for everything!. Set of three storage tins, £17.99, mollieandfred.co.uk Hang belts, handbags or jewellery on these nifty hooks. £9.95 each, nkuku.com Keep all your make-up mess free with this simple vanity accessory – cosmetics storage, £27, etsy.com Perfect for all seasons… 15-loop swing scarf holder, £12.36, theholdingcompany.co.uk Sort out your dresser drawers with this neat organiser. £1.50 for a pack of three, ikea.com Great for kitchen cupboards or bathroom tubs – step-up storage stool, £60, aplaceforeverything.co.uk Hang by the door to stop clutter coming inside! Overhead storage unit, £69.95, melodymaison.co.uk One place for paperwork that needs dealing with – wooden To Do box, £13, tch.net…

5 books to pick up now CONTEMPORARY NOVEL The Wolf Border by Sarah Hall (Faber) Rachel Caine has a plan to reintroduce the grey wolf to Cumbria. She also must face her estranged family and unexpected pregnancy. I was swept along by the stunning prose and compelling story. HISTORICAL FICTION Jakob’s Colours by Lindsay Hawdon (Hodder) The heart-rending story of a boy on the run in 1944, the time of the Gypsy Holocaust, interweaves with those of his Roma father and English mother. An extraordinary, evocative novel about love and survival. FAMILY INTRIGUE That Girl from Nowhere by Dorothy Koomson (Century) A chance meeting leads adopted Clem Smittson to her birth family. But meeting them brings not closure, but trouble. I’m a big fan…

We’re delighted to team up with bestselling author Suzannah to bring you this exclusive reader event, at which she will speak about both her latest paperback, The May Bride, which tells the story of the young Jane Seymour growing up at Wolf Hall, and her new hardback, The Lady of Misrule , the tale of Lady Jane Grey’s imprisonment in the Tower of London, after ruling England for only nine days. Suzannah’s historical fiction brings the past to life – just like stepping through the doorway of a National Trust house. The events will take place at four stunning National Trust Tudor properties: Baddesley Clinton in Warwickshire, Newark Park in Gloucestershire, Trerice near Newquay, Cornwall and Ightham Mote in Kent. Guests will be…

• THE COVETED FLIGHT UPGRADE HAS NEVER BEEN HARDER TO OBTAIN Just turning up to the airport dressed smartly with a winning smile will no longer cut it. However, there are still ways you can maximise your chances. If you’re among the first few to check in, you have a higher chance of being chosen. Likewise, closer to the end of check-in, airlines might be faced with overbooking. Solo travellers will also stand more chance as it’s easier for staff to transfer one passenger up a class than a whole group. • YOU CAN ALSO USE AN AFFINITY CREDIT CARD (cards that work in partnership with different organisations such as airlines or supermarkets), as these offer bonus miles and the chance to earn points for every pound charged to your…

For decades, booking a holiday or a hotel meant going via big holiday firms. But in the past few years, savvy homeowners have found a way to make extra cash from their properties; by offering holidaymakers a more informal way to stay abroad. Now you can choose from dozens of sites offering a range of houses, apartments, penthouses and lots more. Check out: airbnb.co.uk , coolstays.com , homeaway.co.uk , holidaylettings.co.uk , housetrip.com , roomorama.co.uk , wimdu.co.uk  and uguest.com THE WILD WEST Get a taste of pioneer culture at the luxurious Mustang Monument Wild Horse Eco-Resort, set in the Nevadan desert. THE COST A five-night full-board stay is from £2,995pp based…

Star sign of the month TAURUS 21 APRIL – 21 MAY  May is the month to declutter, decompress and demarcate the boundaries. Do all three, and you’ll be setting yourself up for happiness and success. And then there’s departure: a trip to remember for some, the end of an era for others. For your weekly update call 09058-170542. TAURUS: THE MONTHS AHEAD Do not put your plans on hold. Seize that moment, whether for love, a lifestyle change or a home move. You know what they say about the early bird... To hear a detailed breakdown of the next few months, phone Penny on 09058-170091. GEMINI 22 MAY – 22 JUNE If in doubt, do nothing. There are reasons for delays and explanations for someone’s strange behaviour. On or near…

BRIGHT AND BREEZY Guaranteed to cheer up your sitting room! Cushion, £10, tesco.com FRESH START Try a floral scent for spring. Guerlain Aqua Allegoria Teazzurra, £45, houseoffraser.co.uk ; Dolce & Gabbana Dolce Floral Drops, £56, boots.com ; Osmanthus Blossom Cologne, £86, jomalone.co.uk SIMPLE STYLE Adding a scarf is an instant fix when you’re in a bit of a style rut. Silk scarf, £92, Hunt Slonem for Echo Design ON THE WINDOW SILL Keep herbs close at hand in this stylish set. Enamel pots on tray, £25, thewhitecompany.co.uk HAPPY FEET A cute pair of kitten heels will brighten any up outfit. From left, £65, Dune; £60, Clarks; £170, LK Bennett FULL BLOOM Pretty up your lingerie drawer. Secrets Coral…

• Quiet night in or a night on the town? I do like a night out with friends. But Alice and I quite happily sit in front of the telly too. I’ll watch anything with Olivia Colman, Sarah Lancashire or Julie Walters in it. • Favourite view in Britain? I love a coastal view so Northumberland, walking towards Bamburgh Castle or slightly further down towards Dunstanburgh, that’s a great, great view. Dramatic coastline, big sky, ruined castle, waves crashing in, that’s what you need. • What are you not good at? Masses of things. Golf, tennis. I can’t ice-skate or roller-skate. I can’t throw! So really, I don’t know how I ended up as a sports presenter. • When did you last cry? Watching Russell Crowe’s film, The Water Diviner…

1 HIT REFRESH on your laptop with the just-launched VeryExclusive.co.uk – expect exclusive collaborations, designer alongside luxury high street and the option of spreading the cost on a monthly basis. 2 EMBRACE LEATHER FOR SUMMER with easy-wear separates from Banana Republic. This khaki leather shirt feels so luxe. £225, xs-xl, bananarepublic.co.uk 3 TREAT EVERY DAY LIKE A HOLIDAY with Laura Bailey’s collection for LK Bennett – shoes and clutches inspired by the Amalfi Coast. From £195, lkbennett.com 4 UPDATE YOUR JEWELLERY WARDROBE with our favourite online jewellery brand of the moment, Boticca. Pieces start from £12 to £1,850, boticca.com 5 UPGRADE YOUR IPAD and embrace spring with Marc Jacobs’s candy striped covers. £70, MBMJ at harveynichols.com 6 REWORK THE SILK SCARF back into your wardrobe with style cues from Gucci…

A few years ago, I had the great pleasure of meeting the Queen. When it’s your turn to be introduced, someone gives her a potted history of your life so she knows who she’s meeting. “Runs a football club, sits on three boards, works closely with two charities, writes columns, is on The Apprentice and has two children,” was mine. “My goodness,” said the Queen. “How do you fit it all in?” I replied that, like her, I was a working mother and, in my experience, when you want something done, you ask a busy woman. She smiled knowingly. The most valuable thing we have to manage is our time, and the busier you are, the more you have to juggle and balance. When I sold my business…

Change your thinking, change your stress level The stress reaction follows a standard sequence. First, the trigger or “activating event”. Next, your “beliefs” about it, which send signals to the body to create the “consequence”, also known as the “fight-or-flight response” – that surge of hormones, adrenaline and cortisol, which raises heart rate and blood pressure, and releases glucose. • Thinking of the three steps as an acronym, ABC, can help remember the sequence. Now unpick the subconscious beliefs that are causing your stressed feeling. Think back over recent stressy moments and identify your trigger. A massive row between your two teenage kids this morning? Ignored by a shop assistant while you stood around feeling stupid? How did you feel? Perhaps upset and somehow responsible during the family…

OUR CHILDREN SHARED THE MAGIC Nina Tarnowski, 40, a senior wallpaper stylist at Graham & Brown, married Paul, 46, a wallpaper artist, at The Wellbeing Farm in Edgworth, Lancashire, in October 2014. HOW WE MET Paul came to my work as a consultant, then ended up staying on. He was fun, he made me laugh and both coming from similar creative backgrounds, we connected. We were just friends for about a year, but one day our eyes met and things developed from there. They say opposites attract and he understands I’m a bit crazy at times and being so calm and laid-back, he balances me out. Having worked together, I knew him very well, so early on I realised he was the one. We casually discussed marriage and knew it…

If you shed weight, most husbands will be delighted. But, be warned, it can sometimes trigger unexpected reactions, especially if he also needs to lose weight and hasn’t. Making negative comments is often a sign of him feeling insecure and worrying that you might leave him. This jealousy can also lead to sabotaging behaviour, such as bringing your favourite junk food or snack treat into the house. The counter is to reaffirm that you’re still the same loving person you were before your weight loss and encourage him to join your fitness regime. Some men can be resistant to other changes too. For example, now the kids are grown up, you’re buzzing with ideas, want to travel, volunteer, maybe even start a business. Meanwhile, your husband’s dreaming of more time…

We first met when we were both in our late thirties and teaching at a secondary school. John, as he was then, was married with two children. He was very intelligent with an attractive personality, and we got on well as colleagues and sometimes went to the pub together. I was 38 and had recently separated from my husband of 18 years because of his difficult moods. When John split up with his wife two years later we got together and, eight months on, we got married. A family of our own wasn’t a consideration as John already had two children and I’d never had a strong maternal instinct. In many ways, working with children fulfilled me. The first eight years of our marriage were blissfully happy. Then one day…

Our skin goes through a lot each day, whether it’s being exposed to weather and pollution or simply our lifestyle choices, so it’s important that we give it the best possible care. To help you better understand your skin and its needs, come along to our special ELEMIS event at John Lewis on Thursday 30 April. During the evening, from 6-9pm, there will be: • A FREE skin consultation • FREE mini treatments • Product demonstrations • Refreshments • FREE goodie bag To book your place, contact the ELEMIS counter below at your preferred John Lewis store. Tickets cost £10 each, which is fully redeemable against any purchase made on the evening. Plus, buy two ELEMIS products (one has to be from the anti-ageing skincare range) and you’ll receive a…

HOW TO STYLE IT? • First, start with your foundations. A strappy dress needs a strapless bra. • Longer length? Then you need the highest heels you can walk in. Don’t let your hem trail all over the floor. • When your dress steals the show, keep accessories to a minimum. Discreet jewellery is a must. Make it modern by mixing prints and jewels Get noticed with fashion-forward florals Rev up any 24/7 dress with pretty accessories Try new textures. Everyone loves lace For our pick of the best maxi dresses, go to womanandhome.com/maxidresses Go ultra glam with a floor-sweeping maxi…

PARTY-PROOF YOUR BASE * Prime with Estée Lauder Matte Perfecting Primer, £23, to get hours of extra mileage out of the already-resilient YSL Fusion Foundation, £31.50. * If you tend to get a bit flushed, blend L’Oréal Nude Magique Anti-Redness CC Cream, £9.99, wherever needed, and pop Clinique Redness Solutions Instant Relief Mineral Pressed Powder, £25.50, in your clutch for touch-ups. * If, like most people, shine is a problem for you at parties, resist the urge to keep loading on powder all over. Instead, gently dab with DHC Oil Blotting Paper, £4, to absorb excess oil without cakiness. “A sultry shimmer will define eyes” TRY A FOOLPROOF SMOKY EYE * Prime lids with Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion, £16. “Make your eyes the first thing you do,” says make-up…

Always looking forwards when it comes to beauty, Dr. Howard Murad is nicknamed the “Father of Internal Skincare”, and is loved by a host of A-listers on both sides of the Atlantic. An international authority on health and ageing, and living proof that a stress-less lifestyle is the only way to look and feel one’s best throughout life, he created the very concept of “beauty from within”. “As we get older, we have less energy, less passion,” he says. “We are stressed, multi-tasking individuals. The idea of looking at the whole person is what I call ‘inclusive health’: a vital way of looking deeper; looking at your complete health.” THE MURAD WAY This “inclusive health” Murad approach really is the way forward in embracing the future of living well and…

1 No more bingo wings Dips are perfect for toning arms – they are super effective and you don’t need any equipment. TRICEP DIPS Sit on the edge of a chair; hands close to your sides, palms facing forward; legs bent in front of you, with knees bent to 90° angles. Lift your bottom off the chair so your arms are supporting you. Slowly lower your body towards the floor until your elbows reach a 90° angle, then push yourself back up. The work should come from the backs of your arms. Start with 15 reps; slowly increase to 20, then 25. UPGRADE Position hands shoulder-width apart but keep legs extended out in front of you. Slide bottom and hips off the bench, bend elbows and lower body towards the…

Screening can pick up bowel cancer or polyps, which can precede bowel cancer, at an early treatable stage. “One in ten polyps develop into cancer if not removed. Most don’t have symptoms, which is why bowel screening is so important in saving lives,” says Paula Madden. • THE FAECAL OCCULT BLOOD (FOBt) or “poo” test kit is sent out every two years to those aged 60 plus in England and Wales (50 in Scotland), but only 54 per cent actually send it back. “With our busy lives, it can be easy to ignore that screening letter, especially if you have no symptoms. Plus, the unpleasantness of doing the stool test and the feeling that an endoscopy would be intrusive can be off-putting,” she adds. It can reduce the risk of…

Wendy Mitchell, 59, retired from her job as an NHS manager in York. She has two daughters, Gemma, 31, and Sarah, 34, and was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease last summer. “I’ve always had a brilliant memory; yet in late 2012, I noticed I was forgetting names or words mid-sentence. I thought it must be related to a mini-stroke I had in 2011. In July, my GP referred me to a neurologist who carried out lots of tests. He warned me I could be looking at dementia or even cancer. The next 12 months were tough. When I watched my favourite quiz shows, the answers seemed to stay in my head – I couldn’t say them out loud. I was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, and prescribed Aricept to slow down the progression.…

THIS MONTH… • RUNNING A MARATHON • MORNING AFTER PILL • HRT • TYPE 2 DIABETES Q I’m decided to fulfil a lifetime ambition and run a marathon. I’m 42, but several friends have said that I’ll damage my knees, and that it’s bad for my health. What’s your view? A It is true that doing a lot of running, for a long time, over many years, can increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis. But training for one marathon shouldn’t do any long-term damage. Plus, there is loads of evidence that moderate exercise is good for you, and can lower your risk of heart disease, stroke and diabetes. It’s also great for beating depression and stress. So go for it – but first invest in good running shoes, and try to train on soft…

1 SNAP FASHION APPLE ANDROID FREE Seen a dress or top you want but don’t know where it’s from? Take a picture on your phone and the recognition technology will match it to the make. It often finds cheaper or better versions of the item but relies on the quality of your photo – so no creases or folds. 2 LAUNDRAPP APPLE ANDROID FREE Have your laundry collected, cleaned and delivered within time slots selected by you. Prices start at £1.60 per shirt, free collection and delivery. Available in London, Bristol, Manchester, Edinburgh, Cardiff and Birmingham seven days a week. 3 COZI APPLE ANDROID FREE Family organiser that keeps track of everyone’s schedules, activities and appointments, creates and shares grocery lists, to-do lists and chores on everyone’s devices and updates…

Free flights AMERICAN EXPRESS Take out a Preferred Rewards Gold card and you’ll get 20,000 free Rewards points when you spend £2,000 in the first three months. Then put all your supermarket, travel and petrol spending (around £10,000 a year) through the card and you’ll have enough for a return flight to Dubai with Virgin and VIP airport lounge access. As this is a charge card, there is no interest. But watch out as after the first year, there’s a huge annual fee, so make sure you cancel the card to avoid paying this. Find out more at americanexpress.com Free fitness assessment, national trust gift card and no monthly Weight Watchers fees VITALITY LIFE Take out life cover or health insurance with Vitality (pruprotect.co.uk) and get a wide range of…

Dear Reader, Having woman&home delivered each month is a luxury you can afford with this brilliant deal. This month, if you take advantage of our latest offer, you’ll receive a welcome gift from skincare specialist Dermalogica, worth over £60*. A subscription makes a perfect gift too. Call us, log on to the web address below or fill in the coupon today. And as well as a discount, you’ll enjoy home delivery every month – so you’ll never miss an issue – and special invitations to subscriber events. Editorial Director PS Visit www.womanandhome.com/may15 to subscribe Dermalogica is the top choice of skincare professionals, make-up artists and celebrities. This limited-edition kit (worth £62.20) contains a concentrated, heavyweight Super Rich Repair cream, which combats chronically dry, dehydrated and prematurely-ageing skin, conditioning while it…

We all like things that are familiar: favourite shoes, restaurants, pieces of music… They are our comfort zone, our default options. There’s nothing wrong with sticking with things you like, but they can blind you to other possibilities. This is true of wine too. Ask any sommelier what people tend to order in restaurants and it’s a pretty short list. Assuming it’s not the house red or white, it will probably be Sancerre, Rioja, Chablis, Pinot Grigio, Chianti, Australian Shiraz or New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc. These are as easy to pronounce as they are to drink. That’s why these styles are successful. I’m not suggesting that you ditch tried-and-trusted standbys, switching wholesale to little-known grapes like Georgian Saperavi or Portuguese Encruzado. But I would like to encourage you to broaden…

“Paint is one of the easiest ways to make a change – on walls or furniture” “Be individual and spruce up your house at the same time. Small changes make all the difference”…

“Riviera Travel is woman&home’s preferred provider of quality escorted tours and river cruises. Over the years, more than 2,000 of you have booked with Riviera Travel, enjoying their unrivalled value for money, close attention to detail and excellent tour managers.” Deep South USA 11 days, from £1,899pp (plus Texas: 14 days, from £2,399pp) Selected departures October and November 2015 Return flights from Heathrow and Manchester, and transfers Three- and four-star hotel accommodation Explore the life and times of Elvis, including Graceland Stay in Nashville, visiting the Country Music Hall of Fame, attend a performance at Grand Ole Opry and ride Amtrak’s City of New Orleans train. Stay in New Orleans Tour of Houston’s NASA Johnson Space Centre, visit Davy Crockett’s Alamo, stay in Atlanta and visit the World of Coca-Cola…

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DAME KELLY HOLMES Olympic athlete Anyone Can Do It by Sahar and Bobby Hashemi (Capstone), co-founders of Coffee Republic, is an inspiring book for anyone starting a business. I’ve recently opened my own café, Café 1809, in my hometown of Hildenborough, which is something I’ve wanted to do since I was a teenager. This book was ideal to help me along as I had never started a business like this before. The Town Below the Ground: Edinburgh’s Legendary Underground City by Jan-Andrew Henderson (Mainstream) is a book I’m looking forward to reading about Edinburgh’s past after a recent visit there, when I went on an underground tour of the city and found it fascinating. Black White & Gold by Kelly Holmes (Virgin) – getting my story published and “out there”…

Wendy lives in Derbyshire with her husband, Jon, and children Andrew, 12, and Isabella, ten. As a writer, I’m completely committed to humour. There’s so much to be sad about these days. People need to laugh and it is my duty and pleasure to cheer people up. My new novel Wild and Free is set at a boho-chic summer festival, a sort of “Carry on Glamping”. A festival appealed as it’s glamorous, fashionable and full of comic and dramatic potential. I’ve got various pairs of star-crossed lovers, as well as a helicopter mother keeping tabs on her teenage son, a madly-politically-correct children’s writer and a gang of jewel thieves with their eyes on the VIP yurts. It’s a bit like The Italian Job meets A Midsummer…

• TRY TRAVELLING WITH HAND BAGGAGE ONLY With the spiralling cost of checking in hold baggage, some airlines have started to allow heavier cabin baggage, such as BA, which goes up to 23kg, or easyJet and Iberia, which have no weight restriction. It’s not only cheaper but you’re guaranteed your bag won’t go missing in transit. • CHOOSE A LIGHTWEIGHT CASE OR FABRIC BAG SO IT WEIGHS LESS but ensure it fits the cabin dimensions (check your airline’s policy before you travel, usually around 50x40x20cm). Samsonite’s Firelite Cabin Size Case (around £249, johnlewis.com) is made from durable polypropylene and weighs less than a large bottle of mineral water, while the brand IT’s collection World’s Lightest features cases and bags that weigh less than anything else on the market; its Small…

Stand on top of the Rock of Gibraltar and you’ll feel on top of the world. Europe is at your feet. Africa fills one horizon, while the gates to the Mediterranean and the Atlantic are on either side. Marvel at its beauty and feel its historic legacy as the panoramic view of the city spreads out below you. • THE FABULOUS FESTIVAL SEASON features three key events that will add so much to any trip: The Gibunco Gibraltar International Literary Festival, The International Jazz Festival and the International Music Festival. • A MUST-TRY FOR FOODIES The Calentita Food Festival falls in spring, while the Wine & Beer Festivals form part of the National Week in September. On any evening, lively Casemates Square is filled with restaurants, cafés and bars. It’s…

Marilyn was right when she sang “Diamonds are a girl’s best friend” because if you choose them carefully, taking note of the four Cs – cut, clarity, colour and carat – diamonds will last a lifetime and prove a valuable investment over time, plus who can resist their sparkle! CLICK ONLINE  Find out WHY it’s worth investing in fine jewellery at womanandhome.com/indulgence…

TRUE ROMANCE Swish through spring with your dream dress. A swirly skirt and soft, fluttery sleeves will make you feel more feminine than ever. Recall a little retro with a pair of oversized sunnies in a pale and pretty pastel shade. Give it your own spin by adding a sheeny belt and piling on the pendants. ON THE BLOCK What’s the buzz? Colour blocking. It doesn’t always have to be bold and bright... keep it chic with cool pastels. Straight-leg trousers are leading the way. Look for silky styles that swing not cling. Hang loose in a fine short-sleeved knit... Perfect for those “like I didn’t try” days. Who says you have to tuck in? PRETTY IN PINK Like a little city chic? Then the easiest way to achieve it…

Is your job making you unhappy? Anne Woods, 43, lives in London with her three-year-old son, Michael. She saw career coach Evelyn Cotter at Seven Coaching ( sevencareercoaching.co.uk ). During my thirties, I worked as an operations manager in a bank in Ireland. I was very successful, living in a large house and driving a Mercedes sports car. But when the bank went through difficulties in 2009, I decided to take voluntary redundancy. At that stage I had nagging dissatisfactions with my work, but didn’t really acknowledge them. I wasn’t sure what to do next, but a friend suggested I saw a career coach and recommended Evelyn. At our first session she asked probing questions, including what really mattered to me if I could set aside considerations of…

Smile… to lower your heart rate It may sound crazy but there’s evidence that changing your facial expression really can alter stress levels. Research where two groups were given short but stressful tasks to complete – but one group was asked to smile throughout – found the smilers experienced lower levels of stress and lower heart rates. Good for confounding anyone who may have hoped to unsettle you! Think this… to avoid a meltdown A modern alternative to the count-to-ten rule, this simple mantra from brain-training expert and health psychologist Laurel Mellin is a damage-control tool for the most testing times. If you feel on the verge of a stress meltdown, repeat the following phrases in your mind ten times to calm you and regain control: “do not judge” (that’s…

Lewis Ramsay, director at the Chief Fire Officers Association, advises… • Have a close-down routine before bed: close internal doors, switch off electricals such as TVs and heaters and make sure the cooker is off. • Never leave washing machines and dishwashers on overnight or when leaving the house. Last year, more TVs than irons caught fire due to faults. • Make sure your electrics are safe. Don’t overload sockets and extension leads; check that your plugs have the British Standard safety mark and that electrical leads aren’t frayed or damaged. • More fires start in the kitchen than in any other room. Never leave cooking unattended, and keep your oven, hob and grill clean to prevent a build-up of grease that could ignite. • Be careful where you place…

People talk about stylists a lot now but when I started at fashion college, even I didn’t know what a stylist was – or that they even existed. Essentially, my job entails speaking to a client about the looks they want to achieve and hunting for lots of outfits in their size. I generally don’t take anyone shopping – instead, I take rails of clothes to the client’s home. Then we put the kettle on, and plough through them. My aim is to make women look amazing. Looking fashionable isn’t a priority, it’s about achieving a look with a cool edge that feels like the best version of you. My clients will immediately tell me which parts of their body they hate. It’s usually arms or knees. I am always…

Love prepares you for marriage the way needlepoint prepares you for round-the-world solo yachting. Nobody ever said marriage was going to be easy. But one thing’s for sure. Honesty is NOT the best policy. Psychologists encourage couples to tell each other everything… who did they train under, Dr. Seuss? I’m not encouraging you to lie – it’s more a case of selective honesty. 1 SHOES… as in cost of. One of the biggest differences between the sexes is that men only need one pair of shoes for the year, and maybe only four for their entire life. They don’t understand it’s genetically impossible for a woman to walk past a shoe sale and not buy something irrational and strappy that gladdens the heart. If new shoes aren’t spirited upstairs immediately,…

Bought by the Steiner family in 1990, Elemis was a small-time luxury plant-based skincare company. “I was working in Harvey Nichols as a therapist when I was approached to create a ‘money no object’ therapeutic range,” says Noella Gabriel, CEO and product and treatment development director at Elemis. “We had 12 essential oils with highly concentrated aromatics. I’d say there was no real brand concept as such, but it was through a love of touch and a constant curiosity as to how the body worked that led us to shape and become a lifestyle brand that was able to deliver a top-to-toe treatment experience.” Now it’s available in over 1,600 spas and salons the world over, and 173 retail stores. It’s the No1 bestselling brand on QVC and is winner…

1 SCARF OFF! I’m loving the focus on neck creams right now! My fave is Prevage Anti-Aging Neck and Décolleté Firm & Repair Cream, £85, especially on top of a serum. 2 NEW IN MY HAIR KIT Love hairspray, hate the smell? John Frieda Luxurious Volume Touchable Flexible Hold Hairspray, £4.70, puts an end to that telltale aroma, and leaves hair so touchable too. 3 TOES OUT! MY fingertips may be nude for the foreseeable future, but my tootsies are rocking the hot new Chanel Nail Colour in 717 Coquelicot, £18, out at the end of the month. 4 OH BABY! Just love this darling collection of My Little Chloés, from £30 each for a 20ml bottle – I adore each one equally. 5 COLOUR CRAZY Play with sandy peach,…

1 Perfect waves BaByliss Diamond Waves, £30 There are many ways tonging can go wrong – weird bends, frazzled strands – but this is practically foolproof. The curvy barrel guides hair into a perfect relaxed wave and the diamond-infused ceramic coating boosts shine. “Decide what parting you’d like before you start. A side parting means a more glamorous curl, falling on to the face. A middle parting will create a more casual look.” Paul Percival, Percy & Reed 2 A bespoke blow-dry Smart Ego, £129 The first-ever touchscreen hairdryer sounds very 2015, if a tad gimmicky. But 15 customisable settings for heat, speed and ion-releasing condition make this a winner. Your combination will be stored in the device’s memory, and you can pick between three nozzles and a…

JUMP TO IT The jumpsuit isn’t going anywhere – embrace the wide-leg palazzo trouser shape, with a belt to accentuate your waist. Wear with on-trend 70s block heels. DRESS UP, DRESS DOWN Following from the success of the dropped waist and peplum hem, the flip hem dress shows off your curves in all the right places. This is a perfect balance of colour and sophisticated silhouette. COAT FOR ALL SEASONS Lightweight with draping, the waterfall trench coat is a great finishing layer for any outfit. Both practical and stylish, the soft fabric gives just enough coverage for British springtime. COOLEST CULOTTES Culottes are the trouser shape of the season. Tried and tested, the key to pulling off this trend is to go for a looser and…

LABELS WE LOVE (FOR ALL OCCASIONS) BY MALENE BIRGER Bit of a magpie? Then this label’s for you with its embellished details. GERARD DAREL With a wide selection of styles in block colours plus prints, what’s not to love? GOAT Think 1960s Mia Farrow, modish cuts in feminine colours in crepe and lace. NEEDLE & THREAD One for the vintage lovers… silk, chiffon, sequins and beading. PAULE KA Colour phobic? This collection is all modern monochrome with a spoonful of texture. TARA JARMON If you’re a fan of ice cream colours and Mad Men’s Betty Draper, you’ll love the ladylike silhouettes. THE FOLD Double-duty, do office-to-party with a change up of accessories.…

DID YOU KNOW? Made-to-measure designs are the perfect choice for that special occasion. Be it mother of the bride or celebrating a special birthday, bespoke designer Allison Rodger will provide you with that perfect silhouette and one-of-a-kind outfit. Indulge yourself this season and take a trip to see Allison at her studio in Chelsea for a truly special experience. Visit allisonrodger.co.uk TOP HAT Jane Taylor is THE name to know in millinery, with clientele including the Duchess of Cambridge. Her ready-to-wear and bridal collections are exquisite, or go for the made-to-dye option, so your hat perfectly matches your outfit. Hat, POA, janetaylormillinery.com FAST FIX As if we didn’t love ASOS enough for all their affordable fashion, they have now released a gorgeous collection of stylish bridesmaid…

We’ve teamed up with doctor-developed skincare brand Murad to bring you a gorgeous free gift. It’s packed with high-performance ingredients designed to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and restore a more youthful appearance. World-renowned dermatologist Dr. Howard Murad founded Murad skincare with the belief that only healthy skin can be truly beautiful. Their products deliver the noticeable skin improvements that make them a leading force in results-focused skincare. FREE for you – Murad’s smoothing and hydrating favourites This fabulous trio of skin saviours comes free when you spend £35 or more and includes: a full-size AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser (200ml), a twice-weekly exfoliator that employs a trio of exfoliating agents to polish away dullness and impurities, revealing a smoother, younger-looking complexion; a real hero product in Rapid Collagen…

Want a healthy and effective way to lose weight and feel good? Almased® offers a scientifically proven solution that boosts energy and preserves muscle mass. Its unique formula is clinically tested to support healthy nutrition and sustainable weight loss. Ensuring that the product is as natural as possible, Almased® blends only fermented soya, yogurt and honey, for a formula so safe that even people with diabetes can use it. Furthermore, Almased’s® added vitamins such as Biotin, Phosphorus, and B12 positively contribute to normal energy release and immune system function. Almased® nourishes the body and promotes healthy, longterm weight management and overall good health. Use Almased® as a meal replacement any time of the day by following our 14-day plan or longer term programme until you have reached your desired goal.…

Lu is married with two adult children, works as a part-time administrator and lives in Hampshire. Like most people, I started to notice my vision deteriorating when I was about 40. I couldn’t read menus in dark restaurants, so I got reading glasses. A decade later, I struggled to see when driving, and people’s faces were fuzzy. I couldn’t get on with varifocals, and by the age of 56, carried round bags of glasses. Last year, on a friend’s recommendation, I saw eye surgeon Mr David Anderson at my local Nuffield Health. He took me through the options. I discounted laser surgery because it wasn’t great for age-related deterioration, and I wasn’t interested in varifocal contact lenses. Replacing the lenses in my eye with plastic lenses sounded a better option.…

1 MAKE AN ENTRANCE Update your front door with the fab new paints at littlegreene.com. Door in Mister David Intelligent Gloss, £29 a litre 2 SPRING DRESSING Guaranteed to make you wake up with a smile! Meadow Floral double bed set, £14.99, argos.co.uk 3 INSTANT BLOOMS This box comes ready planted with hydrangeas and violas, £135, thebalconygardener.com 4 FLOOR SHOW A new carpet instantly lifts a room. Choose a pale colour and get a lighter look for summer. Pampas Nordic Stripe Denmark, £21.99 per sq m, kersaintcobb.co.uk 5 A NEW FEEL I love the chunky texture of this throw – and the blend of colours. Heartland throw in Oceana, £79.50, alisonathome.com 6 COLOUR SPLASH There’s nothing like new towels to freshen up a bathroom. These have a thick, absorbent pile…

It’s a tricky business designing a front garden, and practical issues often come first... does it have to incorporate a driveway to a garage? Do you have to bear in mind how to hide away refuse and recycling bins? Whatever the size and limitations of your space, it’s possible to create an attractive garden with beautiful planting that draws the eye from gate to front door. Take your pick from these stylish ideas to create a fabulous “shop window to your home”.…

Can an expert sort my wardrobe? Louise Atkinson, 50, asked professional organiser Romaine Lowery to help her with a problem many of us share… a bulging wardrobe that needs a makeover. Some items in my wardrobe are worn to death, others never worn, some bought when I lost weight, a whole lot more for larger me, then there are high-fashion adventures, outmoded favourites and, I’m afraid, the bobbly, the moth-attacked and the frankly weird. It’s a shameful embarrassment. Clutter queen Romaine Lowery gets to work straight away. While I sit on my bed in mute silence, she pulls an armful off the rails and holds up each item, one by one. “BE ABSOLUTELY HONEST and tell me whether you really do love this and think it makes you look and…

START WITH JUST FIVE MINUTES… The problem with clearing is that it can seem daunting when your whole home feels full of clutter. You need to break down the task into manageable moments, and starting with five minutes one day, five minutes the next and so on, means that it isn’t such an onerous job. Before you know it, you’ll have a whole room clear. Another trick is to take one bin bag for rubbish and fill it – as quickly as you can! Just sweep quickly from room to room, drawer to drawer and remove the obvious items you no longer use or need. You’ll feel amazingly virtuous afterwards. This can be a good kick-starter for a clear-out. OR FIVE THINGS… Look for five things that don’t really have…

LIVING WELL Keep it simple… be fulfilled… enjoy the moment 50 BEST KEPT INSTANT STYLE SECRETS Your summer wardrobe made simple THE ULTIMATE NO-FUSS FOOD COLLECTION The season’s best ingredients and amazing flavours GET THE CHELSEA LOOK IN YOUR GARDEN Plants, paving, pots and more! W&H BONUS YOUR WEEKEND WELLBEING PLAN Indulgent boosts for body and mind Feel relaxed, revived, renewed! NEVER MISS AN ISSUE! Get woman&home delivered to your door each month. See page 160 or visit magazinesdirect.com…

Patrick Gale is the bestselling author of 19 novels, including Notes From an Exhibition, A Perfectly Good Man and his latest, A Place Called Winter (Tinder). He lives in Cornwall and is a keen cellist, gardener, cook and whippet walker. A Place Called Winter has its basis in my own family. My maternal grandmother had told me about her rather odd, sad childhood, raised by a succession of nannies amid a crowd of aunts and uncles after her mother’s death. I had heard stories from my big brothers about a figure they called “Cowboy Grandpa” who “lived in a log cabin”, and was responsible for an incredible pair of bearskin gauntlets that were a highlight of our dressing-up box. When…

BEACH AND SHOPPING Get some retail therapy in Los Angeles before heading to the peace and quiet of Santa Barbara. If you’ve seen Pretty Woman, you’ll be familiar with LA’s most famous shopping street, Rodeo Drive (rodeodrive-bh.com). It offers two miles of designer fashion boutiques – from Burberry to Bulgari. Stop in for a reviving glass of wine at the Beverly Wilshire’s Blvd Lounge (the hotel made famous by the film even offers a Pretty Woman package). If you’re looking for high street labels, try the Beverly Center Shopping Mall (beverlycenter.com) in West Hollywood or Westside Pavilion (westsidepavilion.com), in West LA. After you’ve shopped till you drop, head up the coast to pretty Santa Barbara, a 90-minute drive away. It has some lovely beaches – try Butterfly or East beach…