“I would wet myself in fear”: Mum reveals terrifying abusive childhood and vows to ‘end shouting’

Shouting is still controversial, but recent studies show the impact of shouting at children can be ‘just as harmful as hitting them’
abusive, childhood, shouting, www.LETSTOPSHOUTING.com, , anxiety, end shouting, shouting

After becoming a parent, qualified therapist Yasmin Shaheen-Jaffar decided it was finally time to break the “historical pattern” of abuse she had suffered as a child, rendering her “anxiety-ridden” in adulthood.

“Shouting can trigger violence. I was shouted at a lot as a child and it often turned into physical abuse. This made me grow up into quite a nervous adult, and also avoidant of conflict which has brought a whole host of issues I’ve had to overcome”.

Children suffering from verbal and physical abuse often develop a low self-esteem and self-image, and a negative worldview. But the consequences aren’t all psychological.

“This is really embarrassing to admit, but when I was shouted at as a child I would be so frightened that I would wet myself. This just caused me even more shame and made me feel like I couldn’t tell anyone. The fear paralysed me”.

When Yasmin became a parent herself, she felt it was important to stop shouting and instead foster a “healthy communicative relationship” with her child so that the pattern would never be repeated again. This decision was reinforced further when she suffered a personal loss.

“Someone very close to me committed suicide a few years ago. It made me realise within all that shouting that so often happens in everyday life – the real issues get buried. I think quite often the shouting ends up being a distraction”.

After committing herself to ending shouting and encouraging “healthy ways to have difficult conversations”, Yasmin launched World Let’s Stop Shouting Day in an effort to share her experience with parents on the effects shouting can have on their children.

“Children model their behaviour on the people around them. It’s not always easy, but if you don’t want your child to turn to shouting as a way of communicating, and everything that comes with it, you need to change your own behaviour first. It can feel impossible at times, but with some work it can be done”.

ABOUT WORLD LET’S STOP SHOUTING DAY

The World Let’s Stop Shouting awareness day’s focus is to open the conversation about the impact of aggressive and angry communication on our relationships and physical and mental health. Shouting, as a form of verbal abuse, can often be a trigger for more violent crimes and there should be greater encouragement for healthy debate.

More info here: www.LETSTOPSHOUTING.com

Perfect For Christmas Go Nuts For Cambrook Foods

If you’re after a last minute stocking filler, or you need something for the person who has everything, then Cambrook‘s gift sets are sure to be a hit.

With two gift sets available, these are perfect for foodie-lovers and nut-lovers alike, in addition to being ideal stocking fillers, gifts for grandparents or as part of a Christmas hamper!

The two jar set includes the Hickory Smoke Seasoned Almonds & Cashews with a real hickory hit, together with a jar of Baked Truffle Nuts with almonds, cashews, macadamias and pecans, all baked and seasoned with a distinctive aromatic black truffle and sea salt.

cambrook nuts, nuts, christmas,
The set of 3 gift box includes Cocktail Mix No.2 – a jar of expertly baked & salted traditional mix of nuts, (served at some of London’s best-known cocktail bars!) and Cocktail Mix No.6, which brings together a unique and fantastic mix of flavours, combining salted cashews and macadamias, chilli battered peanuts, smoke seasoned almonds and caramelised sesame peanuts – a guaranteed taste sensation! The final jar is the Baked Cashews & Peanuts with Chilli & Lime, giving your Christmas a zest and spice to savour.

Baked in small batches for big flavours, these gift sets will excite even the most discerning of taste buds and provide the perfect unwrapping for a foodie-lover this Christmas.

The 3 Jar Gift Set is available via the Cambrook Foods website or in Wholefoods, Chatsworth House, Yumbles, NOTHS, All Things Brighton Beautiful, Borough Box, RRP £18.50.
The 2 Jar Gift Set is available via the Cambrook Foods website, Lakeland, Chatsworth House, Yumbles, NOTHS, All Things Brighton Beautiful, Borough Box, RRP £14.00.

Christmas Gift Guide 2021: Top Picks

The Polar Express Gift Set is the perfect gift. Brand new for 2021, it  includes a mini-hardback version of Chris Van Allsburg’s enduring Christmas classic (made into a move in 2004 starring Tom Hanks), plus a writing set for children to send their letter to Santa, write thank you notes after Christmas or even write their own future Christmas classic – PLUS – a gorgeous tree decoration based on the sleigh bell from the book – and if you didn’t know already, only those who truly believe in the magic of Christmas will hear the bell ring!

We loved this. It is so cute and clever. It brings the full experience for total Christmas joy. A must-buy.

Available from Waterstones and Amazon.co.uk

Next Up is…

BiGDUG’s LiTTLEDUG Workstation.

toys, gifts, Christmas, presents.

This is a brilliant toy for children. It will keep them entertained for ages. It is well-made and great to help with development.

BiGDUG, the world-famous storage expert, has brought back – by popular demand – the LittleDUG Workstation. Just in time for Christmas, the LittleDUG Workstation is the ideal gift for all budding engineers, DIY gurus, decorators and builders, so they can get stuck in to DIY just like the adults.

 

The workstation comes with a mini tool set, including a spanner, socket spanner, hammer, screwdriver, pliers and a vice. With over 60 pieces included in the bundle, the BiGDUG LittleDUG Workstation will be sure to keep the busiest of hands full this festive season.

Suitable for Children aged from three years, the toy workstation is just £19.99 and is great to develop fine motor skills too.

Available here.

Next up is something for the adults. We LOVE this gin. 

Why not give a truly spirited gift this Christmas, with a beautiful bottle of Single Estate Spirit from Ramsbury?

Single Estate simply means that the complete process from field to bottle takes place on the Ramsbury Estate in Wiltshire. It sows, grows and distils the primary ingredients itself. Operating a true grain to glass approach, everything from the estate is used in the production. Making its offering among the most sustainable spirits sold in the UK.

The award-winning spirits will be a sure-fire winner for Christmas gifting for friends and family that enjoy a premium pour.

gin. christmasRamsbury Single

Estate Gin £33.50, 700ml, 40% ABV

A crisp, full-bodied London Dry Gin combined with quince grown on the estate, classic juniper, citrus, woody angelica and spicy cinnamon.

The result is a London Dry Gin with a modern twist, complex but balanced. Enjoy in Ramsbury’s signature G&T, with a slice of green apple and a slice of lime.

Awards: SIP Platinum Award 2021 and SIP Consumer Choice Award 2021

www.ramsbury.com

For the perfect stocking filler: we love this apron with pockets from CookSmart. It is adorable and well-made. 

Why Laser Hair Removal Should Be Done During The Festive Season?

Festive seasons mean getting into a lot of happiness and enjoyment. You will be having quality time with your family and friends. A lot of pictures would be clicked while enjoying. You want to be a picture-perfect person during the festive season too. But you are worried about how to get time to share or wax to get rid of unwanted hair when you are already running busy. 

Are you thinking about the best option to remove unwanted hair? It is laser treatment. Let’s understand why you should have it this festive season? Here are the reasons below: – 

To Say Goodbye To Irritation:- The fact cannot be ignored that nothing is annoying than having the bumps or irritation which occur because of shaving done in a rush to be available at the festive season’s party. You probably have already been running quite busy and that is why you do not get enough time to follow the needed guidelines for shaving. 

Going with the laser hair removal treatment means you will be having the much-needed smoothness irrespective of the area of the body. You would not have to worry about the irritation which can happen because of shaving or waxing. 

Spend Your Special Time Enjoying Festivals:- We wait for festival season holidays all year long. Now, it is here. But you might not be able to enjoy the fullest if your body is not hair-free. Moreover, festive seasons mean you would be having a lot of business. You might have to accomplish a variety of tasks during the holiday. You might have to do a lot of present shopping, decoration, gift wrapping and so on. 

You might not get enough ideal time to get your underarms or legs to be properly shaved. In this context, laser hair removal treatment is an ideal option to have. Talking about the average time, this treatment probably needs 30 minutes. And the best thing is you will be having excellent results. It means you just need one treatment while having the holiday season. 

Do Not Waste Your Hard Earned Money On Razors:- Your money is precious and you should not waste it on things that do not give you expected returns. Have you ever thought about how much money you might have spent on shaving or waxing every year? Whether it is your shaving cream, razors, or waxing, you need to understand that you would not be having long-lasting results spending on these tools. 

Going with laser hair means you will behave to spend a particular amount of money only and you will be enjoying long-lasting results. It could be said that you would be saving a lot of money in the long run. Moreover, during festive seasons, you may get excellent discounts as well. Therefore, you should treat yourself in the best way.

Conclusion – 

Find the best doctor near you to do this treatment and enjoy festivals to the fullest. Your life depends on the good decisions you take.

Collaborative post.

6 Eyewear Styles That Are Back in Style

Classic fashion items always make a comeback. Their resurgence is because some pieces are just timeless, classy, fun, and something you can use time and again. The lens styles that have come and gone over the years are perfect for self-expression.

Glasses are a very practical accessory; they protect your eyes from the sun and correct your eyesight. But, they can also do more than just that; they can be the finishing piece to your outfit or project your personality. The evolution of eyewear has left you with a plethora of choices regarding what can work for you. Some glass styles are decades old, but there is a reason they have lasted so long.

1. Aviator 

Aviator glasses were initially made for pilots after goggles became unnecessary in the 1930s. But their commanding look soon had applications beyond the military. Most people look good in aviators, but they can be ideal for those with oval, square, and heart-shaped faces. They are a bold accessory that can fit any gender to give you a cool, rebellious, and classic look.

Aviators have a teardrop shape that narrows towards the cheeks. The lenses are also curvy and wide, which gives the user better protection from UV rays; they provide the most significant area coverage from sunlight. You can wear them in formal or informal attire, and you can pair them with your watch.

2. Wayfarer 

Wayfarer glasses typically come in a horizontal rectangular shape. They were initially sunglasses for men, but women have found value in them too. They generally fit anyone but can be best for those with oblong, oval, and round face shapes. 

When they came onto the market in the 1950s, Wayfarers were originally black but can come in a range of colors, which can match just about any skin tone. They are normally associated with fame, glitz, and glamour. Over the years, they have evolved to have subtle curves, giving them a smart and fashionable look. It’s why they have become a popular nerd accessory. 

3. Round Browline

Browline (sometimes called brown line) glasses are a popular style this year. The frame has a thicker and bolder upper part than the lower part. Naturally, they bring attention to the wearer’s browline and eyebrows. They were invented in the 1940s and were in vogue in the 50s and 60. Round browline glasses have styled some prominent brows, including Malcolm X and President Lyndon B. Johnson.

The heavy brow bar is ideal for professional women who want to project seriousness. The thick frame also makes them resistant to shock, so breaking them is a low risk. Wearers with a round or oval face and prominent forehead have the best features for browline glasses because the broadened brow can make your face a slightly wider and more square look. 

You can look bold and simple in them, and it’s a style that lets people know that you have a well-rounded personality. They have also regained popularity as part of a hipster look.

4. Rimless

Rimless glasses are a minimalist’s dream; they are a sleek, simple eyewear design that works with just about any outfit. The frame either attaches to the bridge or the temple to give you an experience that is light and doesn’t press hard on your face. 

They also work for those who don’t want to make a big statement regarding their eyewear. That is because rimless glasses have the advantage of taking attention away from your glasses. Rimless glasses are for you if you focus on your other accessories like earrings or necklace.

5. Cat Eye 

Cat-eye glasses draw the elegance and sensuality of felines to exude femininity. The frames have the allure of making a woman seem sexy, intelligent, and mysterious. Icons such as Audrey Hepburn and Marylin Monroe have adorned them over the years.

A pair of Prada cat-eye glasses can be a staple for any fashion-conscious lady, especially when they have a colorful wardrobe. You can wear them as part of a summer ensemble, a quirky look, or a vintage outfit; the choice is yours.

Cat-eye glasses work best for those with diamond-shaped faces. The narrow forehead and chin of a diamond face work well with cat-eye glasses, and the glasses also draw your face upwards, making you look younger.

Eye-Catching Styles

Eyes are the windows to the soul. So you can choose the view people to get the proper eyewear. Choose frames that will suit your face shape, skin tone, personality, and fashion. Remember, there is nothing wrong with having more than one pair, so you can be versatile.

 

Collaborative Post with our brand partner.

Frost Loves Geomag Mechanics Loops and Turns 130 Piece Construction Set

Geomag Mechanics Loops and Turns 130 Piece Construction Set £34.99 from The Entertainer. Mechanics Gravity Magnetic Track harnesses the invisible forces of magnetism and gravity through original and surprising means. The spheres inside the circuit are set in motion by an innovative magnetic cannon that uses the force of attraction of the accelerating magnet. Gravity is the innovative evolution of the Geomag Mechanics line. Developed with expert players in mind, the new construction system is based on an innovative "gravity motor": this uses the weight of the Geomag spheres to kickstart the mechanisms and movements of the Geomag Mechanics structures. The motion is provided by the invisible forces of Gravity and Magnetism, without using electricity or batteries. The play experience is based on these fundamental principles of physics. Mechanics Gravity is a STEM product that can truly stimulate curiosity and inspire to learn more about science.Geomag Mechanics Loops and Turns 130 Piece Construction Set £34.99 from The Entertainer. Mechanics Gravity Magnetic Track harnesses the invisible forces of magnetism and gravity through original and surprising means. The spheres inside the circuit are set in motion by an innovative magnetic cannon that uses the force of attraction of the accelerating magnet. Gravity is the innovative evolution of the Geomag Mechanics line. Developed with expert players in mind, the new construction system is based on an innovative “gravity motor”: this uses the weight of the Geomag spheres to kickstart the mechanisms and movements of the Geomag Mechanics structures. The motion is provided by the invisible forces of Gravity and Magnetism, without using electricity or batteries. The play experience is based on these fundamental principles of physics. Mechanics Gravity is a STEM product that can truly stimulate curiosity and inspire to learn more about science.

Gift ideas for when you are stuck on what to buy

If you are like me, you always try and buy people interesting and thoughtful gifts as opposed to cold generic presents that they could get off anyone. If you have some kind of artistic talent then you probably like to make them something but if not then you might struggle to get good gifts every birthday and Christmas. You like the recipient to know that you have put some thought into their present, that you took time to consider what they would like and what would put a smile on their face. Here are a few suggestions for gifts tailored just for them.

  1.   For anyone – photos – you can print a huge family portrait, an image of their pet and or travelling photos or photos of friends. Anyone would appreciate that you have picked out a special picture just for them but it is still relatively easy to frame a photo print or get a canvas print from a site like hellocanvas so you do not even need to leave your house. There are a huge variety of options available so you tailor it to their own personal style and find something that will fit in with their other home décor items.
  2.   For the creative one – make your own lip balm kit – a lip balm kit is one suggestion but it could be anything, candle making or jewellery making. If they already like to make things then a beginners kit could be a great way to get them started on a new hobby. Or maybe you just think they would be good at it, perhaps they like a new challenge. The added bonus with this gift is that they might well gift their first creation to you!
  3.   For the foodie – personalised kitchenware – you can get anything personalised or engraved these days and that applies to kitchenware. Get them a set of wooden spoons or a chopping board with their name carved on it. If they are partial to a drink then get them a wine carafe or personalised beer glass. There is always the classic novelty apron that your resident barbeque lover would enjoy. There is no end to possibilities!
  4.   For pet lovers – custom dog lead holder or custom cat bowl – most pet owners absolutely dote on their furry companions and would likely love a gift that both of them can appreciate. Get a personalise dog leash hook with their puppy’s name on it or a personalised cat bowl for their feline friend. I can guarantee these kinds of presents will bring a smile to the face of any pet owner and they will probably appreciate that you remember their pet’s name!
  5.   For the frequent traveller – a scratch map – this is perfect because it lets them show off all the places they have been to and show visitors just how well-travelled they are without it being too obvious. And it is something they can keep on using, scratching off every new place they go to throughout the years.

 

Frost Loves Sea Change Wines

We love Sea Change wine. They are environmentally-friendly and have an organic range. We tried their Prosecco and it is to-die-for. Get your hands on some now. 
Sea Change are passionate about two things: protecting our oceans from plastic pollution and great tasting wine. Every bottle of Sea Change helps fund ocean conservation projects across the globe and our minimal packaging reduces waste and environmental impact.

They have an organic range available, the perfect accompaniment for your cosy fireside evenings or candle-lit dinner dates. Available in a lesser-known red varietal, Bobal (RRP £13.99), and a classic white Chardonnay (RRP, £13.99), the production process of these wines means only naturally occurring sulfites are present. So, every sip is gentler on the head and stomach than regular wine – excellent for a more relaxed evening.

As with all Sea Change Wines, both have minimal packaging, with the unnecessary plastic wrap covering removed from the neck of the bottle, and labels.


For Christmas, Sea Change’s Christmas Day Pack (£35 RRP) has got you sorted. The pack includes a bottle of their fruity, soft Prosecco, zesty Sauvignon Blanc and rich Malbec wines. Whatever your guests choose to drink, Sea Change is suited to everyone’s taste!
 
Amongst the excitement, Sea Change are committed to giving back this Christmas. With each bottle sold, a donation will be made to marine conservation charities fighting plastic pollution – ideal for those who want to do their bit for the environment.
 
The Sea Change wine collection is available to buy online at www.seachangewine.com. Free delivery is available for orders over £100.