Ever had a deep and soothing sleep thanks to the relaxing sound of the sea, or experienced the ultimate buzz from an invigorating, wild skinny-dip? Yes? Then you'll know just how powerful water can be. So it's no wonder the ancient Greeks soaked in mineral-rich thermal springs to help them feel better, and seaside trips were often prescribed by doctors during Victorian times. And it seems they were on to something because now there's a body of science-led evidence to prove that water can indeed heal.
50% of the UK population interacts with blue space at least once a month.
JOIN THE BLUE GYM
The term 'blue space' is used to refer to our oceans, seas, rivers, lakes, ponds, streams and waterfalls - but can include all kinds of water. The idea is that both coastal and natural water environments which have been dubbed the 'blue gym' - can be used specifically to increase physical activity, reduce stress, and play an important role in helping to build stronger communities. The concept was introduced more than a decade ago in the UK as an initiative launched by the Department of Health and Peninsula Medical School in Plymouth. One study has even found that living close to blue spaces, visiting them, or just enjoying a nice waterscape view, is associated with a reduced risk of depression, anxiety and other mental health disorders, and can provide health benefits by encouraging relaxation.
WATER FOR MENTAL WELLNESS
Bu hikaye Woman & Home UK dergisinin July 2022 sayısından alınmıştır.
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Bu hikaye Woman & Home UK dergisinin July 2022 sayısından alınmıştır.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Giriş Yap
15 Ways to Improve Your Memory - Make yours fault-proof with these easy lifestyle tricks
Hunting for your reading glasses only to realise they’re already on your head is frustrating, and we’ve all marched purposefully from one room to another – instantly forgetting why we’re there. Maybe you’re forever losing your keys or get embarrassed when you can’t remember people’s names? Memory lapse is common with age – decline can start from as early as 45 years*, while almost 40%** of people over 65 will notice some form of forgetfulness.
How Healthy is Your Gut? - This month, our fitness expert Annie Deadman on discovering what's really going on inside your body and how to keep it in the peak of condition
The microbiome will be host to both good and harmful bacteria, and the swing in favour of one or the other can influence whether or not you fall victim to conditions such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, coeliac disease and other inflammatory disorders or hormonal issues. These include polycystic ovary syndrome and high cholesterol, as well as what we might consider more common ailments like digestive issues, mood swings, constipation, migraines and general lethargy. The power that a healthy gut can wield over our wellbeing is enormous. And just like no two fingerprints are the same, no two microbiomes are the same.
Cancer Was Just a Job Until it Happened to Me - Author, speaker and health content creator Dr Liz O'Riordan shares her journey from consultant breast surgeon to cancer patient
Working as a consultant breast surgeon, it was my responsibility to tell around 10 women a week that they had cancer. It was an emotionally intense job and could feel like you’re being paid to break women. As a clinician, you have to develop a sense of detachment, otherwise you’ll crumble, but this wasn’t always easy. Sometimes, particularly after seeing young women, I’d cry in the toilets. There’s no counselling and very little training for breaking bad news. It’s just part of the job – until it happens to you.
I Look Forward to Being a Very Elderly, Eccentric Woman' - Comedian and podcaster Katherine Ryan, 41, lives in London with her three children and partner Bobby Kootstra
Comedian and podcaster Katherine Ryan, 41, lives in London with her three children and partner Bobby Kootstra+ Katherine Ryan's tour Battleaxe is coming to venues across the UK from September. Book now at livenation.co.uk
'My Marriage is Definitely Not Over!' - As she approaches her 10th year on television, Nadiya Hussain opens up about racist threats to her life, her untapped dream of becoming a teacher and why rumours of marital demise are rubbish
Nadiya Hussain cover shoots bring sunshine – meteorologically and metaphorically. It’s a scorching June day in north London when we gather to celebrate the publication of her ninth cookbook, Cook Once, Eat Twice. As the title suggests, she’s helping the nation save time and pennies through meal-stretching recipes that savvily spin leftovers.And sweetly, it was the celebrity cook and author’s eldest son Musa’s plans to leave the family home in Milton Keynes to go off to university that inspired it.‘As soon as he started to talk about uni, I thought, “This will be the book that he’ll want to take with him to help him be more mindful of how he cooks, how he eats, how he saves, how to be frugal and how to use up leftovers – how to be smart in the kitchen,”’ explains Nadiya, 39, adding that the previous night her trusty sardine arrabbiata sparked an outpouring of gratitude from her firstborn.
A New Normal - The Princess of Wales is looking to the future, putting family first and ditching her to-do list
The Princess of Wales has always felt the pressure. Marrying into the most famous family in the world has been far from easy, but capable Catherine seemed to take it in her stride.Though the glamorous carapace, whether decked in Alexander McQueen or Zara, has hidden a more anxious young woman who didn't want to put a foot wrong. This past year has arguably been the toughest of Catherine's life - dealing with major abdominal surgery followed by a cancer diagnosis and treatment. But it has also given her the time to reprioritise and reassess what really matters.
'DON'T CALL ME A HERO'
Seeing the plight of innocent children in Gaza, Dr Ana Jeelani knew her medical skills could save lives – here’s what she experienced
Freewheeling in TUSCANY
A cycling holiday through medieval cities and lush scenery is a great way to absorb culture and get off the beaten track
Nostalgic BAKES
Unlock childhood memories with these fun sweet treats
Lighter DINNERS
Big on flavour and easy on the calories
