Overcoming Anxiety: Reassuring ways to break free from stress and worry and lead a calmer life By Gill Hasson

Overcoming Anxiety- Reassuring ways to break free from stress and worry and lead a calmer life By Gill Hasson

Anxiety is on the rise and even those lucky enough not to have anxiety will tend to worry. This book is great. It is all inclusive, it covers the aspects of anxiety to help you understand your own anxiety and anxiety in general. Part two then allows you to manage your anxiety. It gives you the tools to change the way you think, use mindfulness to help, use solution-based problem solving and boost your confidence. It even gives advice on finding help and support from other people. I found this book fascinating. I liked how it tells you to write down your anxieties and find recurring anxieties and then tackle them head on. I also loved the advice of surrounding yourself with ‘radiators’, people who spread warmth and positivity. Rather than drains who only take away energy and resources. There are brilliant tools and advice that really works.  In my opinion, this book is essential for anyone with anxiety.

 

New book explains how to identify and manage anxiety

 

Anxiety is recognised as one of the most prevalent mental health problems in the UK, with financial issues, welfare of family members, work stress and fear of unemployment some of the most common contributing factors.

 

For those who experience occasional anxiety or have a diagnosable disorder, Overcoming Anxiety is a new book that provides practical strategies and techniques to help manage or overcome worries and concerns.

 

Written by bestselling personal development author Gill Hasson, the book begins by explaining what anxiety is and how it can present itself, including panic attacks, phobias, OCD & IBS. It goes on to explain how readers can manage both the cognitive and physical aspects of anxiety and identify activities they can do to help them switch off from worrying.

 

Overcoming Anxiety highlights the importance of reaching out and connecting with other people, outlining what family and friends can do to help. Hasson stresses the significance of having positive people around,  explaining that “how other people respond to you can make quite a difference to how you feel about yourself- to your confidence, self-esteem and your ability to manage anxious thoughts and feelings.”

 

Throughout the book, there are quotes and examples from people who have experienced anxiety. Plus, exercises, activities, tips, strategies and techniques for readers to try.

 

What is crucial is that you learn and develop a range of techniques and strategies that work for you” writes Hasson“and keep at it.”

 

About the author:

Gill Hasson is the author of the international bestsellers Mindfulness: Be mindful. Live in the moment , How To Deal With Difficult People: Smart Tactics for Overcoming the Problem People in Your Life and Emotional Intelligence: Managing emotions to make a positive impact on your life and career.

 

She is a teacher, trainer and writer. She has 20 years’ experience in the area of personal development. Her expertise is in the areas of confidence and self-esteem, communication skills, assertiveness and resilience.

 

Gill delivers teaching and training for educational organisations, voluntary and business organisations and the public sector.

 

Gill’s particular interest and motivation is in helping people to realize their potential, to live their best life!

 

Overcoming Anxiety: Reassuring Ways to Break Free from Stress and Worry and Lead a Calmer Life

 

 

British Singer-songwriter Lily Lambert Releases Merry Christmas, With Love

lilylambertchristmas

Want to get your jingle on? Then check out part-Irish, part-Welsh British singer-songwriter Lily Lambert whose has released a new cover album, Merry Christmas, With Love. Lambert premiered her cover of the classic Christmas song “Carol Of The Bells” on Stubby’s who noted the track stays “pretty faithful to its roots, but is dressed in rural garlands rather than big city tinsel.”

Mango Bikes Launch: The Ladies Classic

MANGO BIKES LAUNCH- THE LADIES CLASSIC1classic

Frost is all for people getting, and keeping fit, and as a keen cyclist I drool over bikes – I once cycled far too many miles around and about Israel, on and off road, for charity on a mountain bike, and have always longed for a road bike.

 

I was thrilled, therefore, to see that leading British bicycle brand Mango Bikes are introducing their new elegant Ladies Classic style. It is a traditional British bike which couples simplicity with elegance to produce a lean mean – comfortable – cycling machine that ticks all the boxes – and at an unbelievable price.

MANGO BIKES LAUNCH- THE LADIES CLASSIC2

 

Mango Bikes was founded by two university housemates who felt that it didn’t seem right that you could buy a car exactly to spec, or shoes, to your design, but bikes were only available in a few dull, pre-selected colours. 

They remedied the situation, and Mango Bikes was born. Now they’ve taken the next step and are building a full range of bikes for all levels of cyclists, focusing on great quality, great customer service and unbeatable prices. Not forgetting, keeping the whole brand experience as fun as possible. 

This Mango Bike is for those of us who require reliability, comfort and of course style. Focusing on the intermediate lifestyle and urban road bikes market, Mango Bikes are a refreshing alternative to the daunting high street bike shop. 

MANGO BIKES LAUNCH- THE LADIES CLASSIC3

 

It is comfortable and beautiful and has a padded sprung saddle – the bliss.

The bike arrives with an easy to use seven-speed gear system from the world’s leading component brand, Shimano. 

The Mango Bikes Ladies Classic RRP is £299.99. This style is available in five beautiful colours (cream, green, blue, raspberry and black) with matching pannier and chain guard as standard and an optional wicker basket. 

For more information, or to buy, go to www.mangobikes.co.uk.

 

 

Sukin – Australian natural skincare

Sukin – Australian natural skincare

The Frost team like this skincare product:

formulated in Australia, Sukin is a natural beauty brand offering a range of luxurious yet affordable products crafted using ingredients that are the best nature has to offer.

Sukin focus on perfecting formulas that contain active botanicals and essential oils carefully selected to restore the natural vitality and radiance of the skin.

From foaming cleansers to antioxidant eye serums, moisture rich body creams to hydrating face oils, protein rich haircare to intense firming serums, Sukin has a range to suit your skin head to toe, whatever your age.

Give the gift of glowing skin this Christmas with the ‘Love Your Skin’ set from Sukin. Beautifully presented in an attractive gift box and featuring a 3 step face kit of hero products from the range, this is the perfect present for any natural skincare lover this Christmas.

RRP £19.99

Foaming Facial Cleanser (125ml)

A non-drying formula utilising the coveted calming extract of German chamomile, this cleanser enlists the help of soothing aloe vera, witch hazel and green tea to provide a deep, refreshing cleanse whilst purifying and balancing the skin.

Hydrating Mist Toner (125ml)

This multitasking product isn’t just an excellent addition to your daily skincare regime. Infused with rose & chamomile, and dispensed as a fine mist, this hydrating toner is the perfect handbag accessory for refreshing skin in air-conditioned environments and on hot days and long flights. Use to set make-up as well as under & over lotions, creams, gels and oils to soothe and cool.

Facial Moisturiser (125ml)

A daily use, deeply penetrating and rapidly absorbed moisturiser that naturally hydrates, softens and soothes skin, combining a winning infusion of aloe vera, horsetail, burdock and nettle to soothe, as well as skin healing rosehip oil, wheat germ, jojoba & avocado oil.

Sukin is available from Holland & Barrett, Alphega Pharmacies, Whole Foods, Planet Organic, Ocado, www.cressuk.comwww.feelunique.com and Independent Stockists nationwide.

 

 

Five fab last-minute Christmas food buys

Having been to a heap of Christmas food shows and taste tested a fair amount of what’s on offer, I have come up with my top five Christmas food buys. They’re the tastes that won’t let you down and, with Christmas looming large now, there’s still time to pick them up…

best Christmas foods

Cornish garlic yarg Available at Waitrose, this subtle semi-hard speciality is covered in garlic leaves and is fabulous with a slice of traditional Christmas cake. £1.92 per 100g, Waitrose

Chocolate Fudge Can’t take any more Christmas chocolate? You might find room for this creamy, chocolatety treat. Enjoy a square a night and don’t tell anyone you’re hiding the box under your bed. £5.95 for 227g, Highgrove (available at Fortnum & Mason stores)

Smoked salmon cuts Perfect for topping canapes, slipping alongside scrambled eggs and adding to pasta, these salmon cuts are cheap and so, so delcious. £2 per 100g, Morrisons

Coconut Snowballs – Oh, these are fun. coconut truffle in white chocolate dipped in dessicated coconut. Guaranteed to keep your festive spirits up if there are no real snowballs in sight. £5.50 for 100g, Hotel Chocolat

Fortnum and Mason Petits Four mince piesFortnum & Mason Christmas Petits Fours Mince Pie Medley – And finally, I don’t let a Christmas go by without a box of these sumptuous mini mince pies – so much smaller than even the miniest mince pies, they are packed with sumptuous fillings and the pastries are melt-in-the-mouth soft. Only bring them out for your favourite guests. £18.95 for a box of 32, Fortnum & Mason

Merry Christmas everyone – here’s wishing you lots of fabulous festive eating and fun!

 

 

Hair : From Desk to Disco

katehudson viviscal hairAndrew Jose  : Award winning celebrity hairdresser and brand ambassador for SALON SCIENCE® haircare says . . .

  • Grown up party hair on the go is the perfect balance of polished, effortless yet timeless hair that is elegant and fun.
  • Do bear in mind that less is more. If you have a statement dress, then keep the hair simple, if you have a simple dress then the hair can become more of a statement!
  • Do take into consideration head shape and the balance of your facial features when choosing a party hair up. A style that is soft and flattering on most face shape is the low chignon or bun.
  • Always tease hair at the crown to give volume and leave soft tendrils around the face
  • Soft waves and a side parting can take your style to the next level – a vintage take on a modern style looks timeless and chic.
  • Always wash hair the day before putting it up to combat hair being too slippery.
  • Teasing (back combing) and dry shampoo is a must have for volume and staying power.
  • Great hair takes time DON’T rush it!  If you are creating the style yourself, practise your look as some techniques can be challenging. Trial your style the day before to get it right on the night.
  • Always carry an emergency fix kit, a couple of bobby pins, a small backcombing brush and a handbag sized hairspray is essential!
  • Whether it’s a simple braid for decoration or a halo dutch braid for on-trend and current looking statement hair, simply adding a plait can give a contemporary twist to a simple classic style.

Speedy tricks for styling hair on the go. 

Hair ups are a great option for when you are short on time but need a high impact style for the day. If the thought of doing a hair up at home without expert help feels daunting, then help is at hand.

Salon Science Brand Ambassador and award winning hairdresser Andrew Jose has created three simple, yet stunning  styles for chic hair at home (without getting your fingers in a twist)

Any trends?

Hair jewellery is a big trend for winter – glam up a pony tail with gold cuff detail around a low slung pony for on trend metallic glamour

Your get-good-hair-quick kit! 

  • Salon Science Swiss Apple Cellumax volumising Foam (£17.00 Boots)
  • Swiss Grape Reglosse Smoothing Serum (£18.00 Boots)
  • A soft bristled brush (Mason and Pearson)
  • Pin tail comb
  • Kirby grips
  • Dry shampoo
  • Velcro rollers
  • Hair spray

The Plait Bun

Easy AND elegant, the plait bun can be sleek and polished or made to be looser and slightly messed up for daytime.

Flip hair upside down, apply Salon Science Swiss Apple Cellumax Volumising Mousse (£17.00) at the root

  • Back comb at the crown to create volume and ensure the style will stay in place.
  • Leave two sections at each side of your parting at the front
  • Back comb the hair in the ponytail, and twist hair around the base of the pony tail creating a bun and pin in to place
  • Create two braids with the sections left out at the front of the hair, secure the ends with thin loom bands,  pull back and pin around the bun

The half up twist

One of this season’s biggest hair trends, the half up style is a sneaky way of making a lazy day hairstyle seem cool – the top half of your hair is up, and the rest is down.

  • Spritz Swiss Grape Salon Science Reprotectant Thermal Crème (£16.00) over damp hair

Using a big barrelled brush – give hair a smooth blow dry. Then using irons or tongs, create a loose lazy wave

  • Add dry shampoo at the root for texture and backcomb at the crown  – the  Lee Stafford Dry Shampoo is great. Adjust height to your own preference and pin top hair piece into place.
  • Using thumbs and palms, pull the top half of your hair back into a half ponytail from about an inch above the ears, leaving most of your lengths free. pull the hair out at the crown a little to create more volume.
  • Make a hole right above the hairband by using your finger, splitting the hair in two and flip the ponytail through. Tighten the pony
  • Pull out strands at the front to mess up the style a little

Variation of this look is the ‘Hun’ or the ‘half bun’

  • Instead of flipping hair through the pony – simply back comb the half pony tail and wrap it around the base of the hairband – and pin into place
  • wear it high and sleek or low and undone –  depending on your mood

Tips on using dry shampoo if you haven’t time to wash it

  • A great tip for dry shampoo application is to section hair off with clips, spray a line of dry shampoo and repeat throughout oily areas. Wait for a couple of minutes then brush through with soft bristled brush to evenly distribute the oil absorbing powder. For best results do this in the evening before you go to bed and then again in the morning  to counteract oil build up overnight

STOCKISTS

Salon Science available exclusively at Boots Nationwide and Boots.com
www.salonscience.com

Andrew Jose Hair Salon
http://www.andrewjose.com/
1 Charlotte street, London W1

 

 

Botallack O’Clock by Eddie Elks

Old Red Lion Theatre, Tuesday 12th January – Saturday 6th February 2016

Botallack O’Clock by Eddie Elks1

Something to cheer you up as January 2016 gets into its stride.

Botallack O’Clock is a funny, moving and thought-provoking journey into the creative mind of Roger Hilton CBE, one of the most unique voices in post-war British art. The show depicts a suspended hour of the night where Hilton’s past and present combine with his vivid imagination and tenacious personality, giving a humorous and intriguing insight into the mind of a true artist.

Botallack O’Clock by Eddie Elks2

In 1965, after representing Britain at the Venice Biennale, Hilton moved to the Cornish coastal village of Botallack, where his working routine began to break down, mainly as a result of his increasing addiction to alcohol (which he had long used to creative effect). For the final two years of his life, Hilton took permanently to his bed, where he continued to work, leaning over the side of his bed to paint on sheets of paper laid on the floor. Hilton would work through the night with only his thoughts, his imaginings and a temperamental radio for company.

Botallack O’Clock by Eddie Elks3

Writer Eddie Elks said, Roger’s thoughts and ideas, much like his paintings, are as relevant and arresting now as they were then.  In a letter to his mother, whilst serving in WWII, Roger wondered whether one day his life would be made into a story. I hope he would have approved.  Elks previously wrote a play about artist Sir Terry Frost and it was during research for this production that he first heard the name Roger Hilton and decided to bring his story to the stage as well.

Botallack O’Clock: Old Red Lion Theatre, 418 St John Street, London EC1V 4NJ, www.oldredliontheatre.co.uk.

Tuesday 12th January – Saturday 6th February 2016 Tuesday to Saturday, 7.30pm
Saturday matinees, 2.30pm
Sunday matinees, 3pm

70 minutes
@thirdmantheatre @ORLTheatre, #botallackoclock

Tickets are available priced £15 (£12 concessions) Previews and matinees priced £10
Available from Old Red Lion Theatre Box Office and www.oldredliontheatre.co.uk or 0844 412 4307

 

 

Last Minute Christmas Gift Guide for Mums: Chambord & Licor 43

chambordchambordandlicor43Panicking about what to get mum for Christmas? These two make great stocking fillers or proper presents for mum: Licor 43 (the premium, Spanish liqueur) and Chambord (the premium French Black Raspberry liqueur). The Chambord 20cl bottle is available in a beautiful gold box, and is the perfect stocking filler. It retails at all major supermarkets throughout the UK for just £7.50. Licor 43 70cl (700ml) bottle is available from ASDA stores and asda.com nationwide as well as through www.drinksupermarket.com with an RRP of £17.50-£17.99.

 

Cocktail recipe ideas below. 

Licor 43 winter serves for 2015

 

Mulled Wine 43

  • 50 ml Licor 43
  • 125 ml shiraz
  • 15 ml lemon juice
  • 1x sugar cube
  • 4 dashes of angostura bitters
  • 4 dashes of orange bitters
  • 1x cinnamon stick

Soak sugar cube in both bitters, place soaked cube, lemon juice and wine into a pan and place on the hob until hot. Add Licor 43 and pour into a balon glass. Garnish with a cinnamon stick.

 

Spiced Cider

  • 50ml Licor 43
  • 125ml cider (apple or pear)
  • 15ml lemon juice
  • 2x barspoons of honey
  • 4 dashes of angostura bitters
  • 4x dashes of orange bitters

Place all the ingredients, except the Licor 43 into a pan and heat on the hob until warm. Add the Licor 43 and pour into a balon glass.

 

Spanish 43 Coffee 

• 25ml Licor 43
• Black coffee
• Whipped cream
• Cocoa powder

Warm the Licor 43 and pour into the coffee. Top carefully with the whipped cream and garnish with cocoa powder.

 

 

Chambord Royale

You take the fizz, you top with Chambord, and puff! Now watch the bubbles storm.

Ingredients 

  • Chambord Black Raspberry Liqueur
  • Champagne, prosecco or cava

Method
Pour your favourite fizz into a flute glass and top with Chambord. Garnish with a raspberry.

 

French Martini

Christmas calls for a classic cocktail. Take pineapple juice and shake, shake, shake it with Chambord and vodka and voila! You have the French Martini.

Ingredients 

  • 15ml Chambord Black Raspberry Liqueur
  • 50ml vodka
  • 60ml pineapple Juice

Method
Vigorously shake Chambord with vodka, pineapple juice and plenty of ice.

 

Chambord Very Berry

Brrr. When the snow is cold but the fire is burning, warm your hands with a Chambord Very Berry.

Ingredients 

  • 25ml Chambord Black Raspberry Liqueur
  • 125ml red wine
  • 25ml fresh lemon juice
  • Spoonful of sugar
  • 3 raspberries
  • Slice of lemon studded with cloves

Method

Crush raspberries in a wine glass with sugar, then add Chambord, wine, and lemon juice. Top with hot water and garnish with a slice of lemon.

For more inspiration visit www.facebook.com/ChambordUK

The Christmas tree looks best when there are presents beneath it. Wish your friends and family Joyeux Noel with a 20cl bottle of Chambord packaged in a beautiful gold box. Available from all major supermarkets (asda.com, tesco.com, sainsburys.co.uk) throughout the UK. RRP: £7.50. Bon!