Heyland & Whittle Green Tea & Grapefruit Candle Review

Posted on August 13, 2015 by Frostie

British bath, body and home fragrance brand Heyland & Whittle have had a website refresh. The new and improved site offers customers a more enhanced navigation and overall shopping experience.To celebrate we reviewed their Green Tea & Grapefruit candle.

First of all, presentation. The candle comes in a beautiful box and slides out. The candle itself is in a glass container. So far so sophisticated. The scent of the candle hits you as you open the box, and it is glorious. It is a fresh smell with just the right amount of citrus.It is an uplifting, feel-good fragrance that will brighten any room. Even the notoriously fussy people at Frost love it.

Established in 2003, award winning Heyland & Whittle create outstanding natural products with style and authenticity in a variety of exquisite fragrances. The quintessentially British brand make all their products by hand and are expertly cut, filled and decorated for the most beautiful and superb products.

Famous for their soaps, Heyland & Whittle are the largest manufacturers of cold-processed soap in England. Using only the very best natural ingredients, essential oils, herbs and spices, they are combined to create their sulphate and paraben-free range.

Favourite summer scents include Cherry Blossom, Citrus & Lavender, Neroli & Rose, Green Tea & Grapefruit, Sandlewood & Oud and Coconut Vanilla & Black pepper.

Heyland & Whittle products are available at JohnLewis.co.uk nationwide, Fortnum & Mason and online: www.heylandandwhittle.co.uk

Candles in Glass £24

Are You Ready for Jurassic World?

Posted on August 10, 2015 by Frostie

Jurassic World is set to take the planet by storm this summer, as the highly anticipated third sequel to the beloved cult classic was released on June 12, 2015.

Originally famous for its then- revolutionary dinosaur DNA plot (gleaned from the Michael Crichton book of the same name) and its state of the art visual effects, the first three Jurassic Park films captured the imagination of a generation of movie goers. It has since become a culture juggernaut, inspiring breakfast cereals, amusement park thrill rides, countless online memes and compelling many a little one to dream of a career in paleontology.

Those adoring fans who were small children when the original two films were released are now in their 20s and 30s, with many now having their own offspring that they cannot wait to introduce to these realistic dinosaur giants. Audiences and film critics alike are excited for the next chapter in the Jurassic World saga, with stars such as Bryce Dallas Howard, Vincent D’Onofrio and Guardians of the Galaxy star Chris Pratt at the helm of this installment of the mega blockbuster.

Featuring a plot that sees the Isla Nublar island amusement park struggling to attract the visitors it so easily enticed to Jurassic Park 22 years earlier, the Indominus Rex is a new hybrid dinosaur introduced to the park – and whose presence quickly goes wrong.

As an ominous voice over in the recent trailer narrates, “She’s a highly intelligent animal. She’ll kill anything that moves.” This foreboding narration is enough to make any audience member shudder with anticipation, and gives a clear clue as to what is about to happen in this film – this dinosaur is hunting for sport, not just for the food.

The director, Colin Trevorrow, had this to say about the somewhat controversial (at least in the blogosphere) decision to use the idea of a genetically modified dinosaur: “There is no shortage of awesome dinosaurs. We could have populated the entire story with new species that haven’t been in any of these movies. But this new creation is what gave me a reason to tell another Jurassic Park story.”

And another Jurassic Park story it shall be, with eager viewers lining up with glee in order to have a peek at the latest in what is one of the world’s most enduring and beloved movie franchises. Many questions are lingering in the minds of the super fans: does Chris Pratt’s character, the so-called “Raptor handler,” have a bond with the seemingly untamable velociraptors, vicious dinosaurs who appear to cooperate with him in an early trailer? Does the Indominus Rex have a backstory, or appear covered in feathers (as many 21^st-century scientists now assert that dinosaurs would have been)? And how will potential sequel subject matter be introduced in this film?

Audiences all over the world are excited to see how this new Jurassic World plot plays out – not to mention excited to see the latest in special effects and digital visual technologies come across on the big screen. For more on the film and to find viewings near you, visit the Cineworld website.

Image credit.

This post was written in partnership with *Cineworld*

Win Tickets To The UK’s Biggest Wedding Show This Autumn

Posted on August 7, 2015 by Frostie

25 – 27 September London Olympia | 2 – 4 October 2015 Birmingham NEC

24 – 25 October Manchester Central

Immerse yourself in inspiration heaven and shop ‘til you drop at the UK’s biggest wedding show this autumn. From exquisite wedding gowns to fabulous flowers, striking stationery to mouth-watering cakes and honeymoon hideaways to show-stopping entertainment, you can try, buy, book and hire everything you need for your big day, under one roof.

Take a seat at the spectacular Catwalk Show, where the latest bridal trends are brought to life by the nation’s finest designers, boutiques and retailers including Alfred Angelo, Allure Bridals, Ian Stuart, Jenny Packham, Maggie Sottero, Eliza Jane Howell, Enzoani, Berketex Bride, Debenhams and many more.

With beautiful bridesmaid dresses, elegant mother of the bride attire and suave groomswear, as well as bridal beauty and hair trends from bareMinerals and Fudge Professional, the Catwalk Show provides style inspiration for the entire bridal party.

Browse an unrivalled selection of wedding dresses under one roof in the Bridal Boutique and Designer Area.

The Bridal Boutique brings together the nation’s leading bridal boutiques and retailers, while the Designer Area showcases couture creations and offers bespoke opportunities from the finest designers including Katya Katya Shehurina, Qiana Bridal, Ivory & Co, Hazaar of London, Zaeem Jamal and many more. From short and sweet tea-length dresses and vintage designs to glamourous ballgowns fit for a princess, there is something to suit every style, shape and budget.

Head to the Wedding Theatre* to discover all you need to know about big day beauty, hair and style.

The National Wedding Show’s glam squad will share their Top 10 Tips for achieving your perfect wedding day look, with demonstrations, tips and tricks for brides, bridesmaids and mothers of the bride and groom. During each session, one lucky bride will be selected for a makeover live on stage and presented to the audience in a breath-taking ‘big reveal’.

Discover breathtaking blooms in the Designer Flower Market, where you can find fabulous floral displays in a plethora of colours together with expert advice from a host of top florists. Whether you’re dreaming of a traditional fairytale wedding or planning your very own winter wonderland, there are stylish solutions for all themes and colour schemes.

If you need help transforming your venue in to a spectacular backdrop for your big day, seek inspiration from The National Wedding Show’s host of wedding planners and stylists. Discover everything from dazzling lighting to stylish tableware and signage to create your perfect setting. And if you’re ready to register for a gift list or book the honeymoon of your dreams, your high-street favourites will be on hand to help, including John Lewis, Debenhams, Sandals, Thomas Cook, House of Fraser, Sandals and Turquoise Holidays.

Round off an exciting day of shopping in the Afternoon Tea Room, where you can treat your bridal party to tea and cake, or head to the Champagne Bar – with a glass of bubbly in hand, you can kick back, relax and raise a toast to your future happiness!

Get ahead of the crowds and enjoy the show in style with VIP tickets. The exclusive package includes fast track entrance to the show, reserved seating at the Catwalk Show, a complimentary glass of Freixenet, a mini make-under from bareMinerals, the latest issues of You & Your Wedding and Perfect Wedding magazines and a goody box full of beauty products to pamper yourself in the build up to your big day.

Frost Magazine has teamed up with The National Wedding Show to offer 5 lucky readers and their ‘plus one’ the chance to attend the year’s most prestigious wedding event, absolutely free! Tickets are valid any day and are limited to one pair per winner. So what are you waiting for? To be in with the chance of winning this fantastic prize, follow @Frostmag on Twitter or Instagram, or like us on Facebook. Alternatively, sign up to our newsletter. Or subscribe to Frost Magazine TV on YouTube here: http://t.co/9etf8j0kkz.Then comment below saying what you did. Competition finishes at the end August.

Don’t worry, if you are not a lucky winner, you can still book in advance and save up to £5 off the door price**. To book, visit www.nationalweddingshow.co.uk or call the ticket hotline on 0844 874 0486.

*London and Birmingham only

**Advance ticket prices revert to the on the door price of £20 (London and Birmingham) and £18 (Manchester) at midnight the day before opening

For more information visit The National Wedding Show website www.nationalweddingshow.co.uk

Facebook – www.facebook.com/nationalweddingshow

Twitter – @nationalwedding / #TNWS | Instagram – thenationalweddingshow

Terms and Conditions –

• Only available on standard advance adult tickets

• Offer valid on any one day

• Offer valid on tickets purchased via telephone or internet

• Offer subject to availability

• Offer only valid on Autumn 2015 National Wedding Shows at Olympia, the NEC and Manchester

Central

• Ocean Media reserves the right to withdraw this offer at any time.

• Transaction fees apply

• Ticket price includes a free show guide

VENUE & DATES
25 – 27 September London Olympia | 2 – 4 October 2015 Birmingham NEC | 24 – 25 October Manchester Central

If you are getting married then get your hands on a copy of The Wedding Survival Guide: How To Plan Your Big Day Without Losing Your Sanity. It has great advice on planning your perfect wedding and is written by our editor, Catherine Balavage. It is also available in Ebook format and is a great guide for wedding planning.

Sun Protection – Should We or Shouldn’t We? By Dr Patricia Thompson

Posted on August 4, 2015 by Frostie

Each summer, work-weary, sun-starved Brits look forward to baking under a hot foreign sun, wearing nothing but a piece of lycra or two, and a thin layer of suncream.

But what are the facts about sunburn and sunscreens?

Sunburn has two components: The initial ‘burn’ is unpleasant enough, but the long term damage is more serious, including skin cancer and (quelle horreur) wrinkles and saggy skin.

Sunburn is caused by UVB ultraviolet light-waves. They also release free-radicles, which damage skin-cell DNA, and hence can cause skin cancer. On the plus side, they trigger late tanning.

UVA waves penetrate deeper. They tan (nice), but age the skin (bad), and also contribute to skin cancer (very bad).

A sun-tan is our skin’s natural sunscreen, but doesn’t prevent damage from prolonged sunbathing, hence the need for commercial sunscreens. These either form a barrier to, or absorb UV.

But which to choose?
Check the ‘Sun Protection Factor’ (SPF). SPF 15 delays burning by 15-fold (eg from 20 minutes to 5 hours) and filters 93% of UVB. SPF 30 delays burning by 30-fold and filters 97% of UVB.

UVA protection uses a star system (1 to 5). This indicates protection relative to UVB, so 5 stars for SPF 15 is less than 5 stars for SPF 50. European labelling will change soon, to a simpler ‘Low’ to ‘Very high’.

You should apply at least 2mg/cm² exposed skin. For those who don’t pack mini-scales and a planimeter with their beach-towels, this means the average adult needs around two table-spoons. Apply at least 20 minutes before sun exposure, and reapply 2 hourly, or after swimming/sweating/towelling yourself, even for water-resistant products. Some swimwear (Spinali Design) contain UV sensors to remind you, via your smartphone, when to reapply.

Some sunscreen ingredients have safety question-marks. Oxybenzone have oestrogen-like effects and retinyl palmitate causes cancer in rats (both, at high doses). Some sunscreens actually increase free-radicle release in the skin.

These safety concerns may not be material in practise, but, regardless, using sunscreens isn’t carte blanche for excessive sun-worship. They don’t give 100% protection, and limiting intense sun exposure, by wearing hats and sun-protective clothing is also necessary. Consider UV-filter sunglasses too, as UV can cause cataracts.

Our skin uses sunlight to make vitamin D, and excessive sunscreen use can interfere. Vitamin D may help prevent cancer. Although it is present in some foods, skin production is still important.

How about sun-tan alternatives? Tanning beds frequently expose users to even more UV than natural sunlight and should be avoided.

Many ‘self-tans’ use chemicals which react with skin protein, turning them dark. They’re probably safe, but can also enhance free-radicle production in skin, so you must use sunscreen after them.

The verdict? Do use sunscreen, and do enjoy the sun, but be sensible and stay safe.

Next time I’ll advise on treating sunburn, and discuss long-term effects of too much sun.

Further Information:

http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Sunburn/Pages/Introduction.aspx

https://www.aad.org/media-resources/stats-and-facts/prevention-and-care/sunscreen-faqs

Note: These articles express personal views. No warranty is made as to the accuracy or completeness of information given and you should always consult a doctor if you need medical advice

Shiraz Rosé Jacob’s Creek Wine Review

Posted on August 3, 2015 by Frostie

I have to point out that I am partial to a Rosé. In fact, it is one of my favourite types of wine. That does not mean that all Rosé is equal however. This Shiraz Rosé from Jacob’s Creek is the official wine of Wimbledon. It is fresh, fruity and well balanced. It goes well with strawberries and cream of course, otherwise it would have no place at Wimbledon. This is a crisp wine with characters of fresh berry fruit. It has a finish of tempered spice and quince. This is a perfect summer rosé you can’t go wrong with. It is dark in colour which usually means the rosé is very sweet but this is not the case here. Great taste and well balanced.

Alc. 11% vol.
8.3 UK Units

Wine of Australia

First Ever Dual Finish at Trick or Treat Run London in Richmond Park

Posted on July 30, 2015 by Frostie

For the first time this Halloween runners will be faced with a decision when they reach the finish line – Trick or Treat? The brand new Trick or Treat Run London arrives in Richmond Park on Sunday 1 November and offers the rare opportunity to run 2k, 5k or 10k on the closed roads of this stunning royal park. Once runners have finished their chosen distance they will be faced with a unique decision, to either go down the Trick finish for a spooky surprise, or to play it safe and head in the opposite direction for a treat.

Richmond Park is famous for its stunning views and wandering deer, close to London but seemingly a different world from the bustling capital, there are few more picturesque and pleasant places in the country to run. Runners of all abilities are encouraged to take part, and the event is nicely timed to encourage running into the winter season. As well as their trick or treat everybody who crosses the line will receive a special medal to commemorate the day, which can be transformed into a badge and attached to clothing or bags.

“We have been putting on events for over 25 years but as far as we know this is the first dual run finish in the world” said Nick Rusling from organisers Human Race Events. “It’s a privilege to have this very special park available and free from traffic for the first ever Trick or Treat Run. I know many will use this as an opportunity to clock up a great 10k time”.

If you would rather stay safe in numbers at this Halloween run you can sign up as a group and run any of the three routes together. Teams of five or more can enter and receive a 20% discount off the usual entry price. Fancy dress is encouraged so runners can get creative with their outfits.

Alongside fitness, fun and fancy dress will also be fundraising. Breast Cancer Care are the official charity partner of the Trick or Treat Run, with all participants encouraged to raise money which will go towards providing vital support services for anyone affected by breast cancer. There is no minimum fundraising target and it’s easy to set up a Just Giving online donation page when registering for the event.

Places in the inaugural Trick or Treat Run London are now available through www.trickortreatrun.co.uk . Sign up now and commit to keep your running going beyond the summer.

Meningitis By Dr Patricia Thompson

Posted on July 27, 2015 by Frostie

A new vaccine, for Meningococcus B, will soon be available for babies. What, another vaccine? Do we really need it?

I would say – absolutely yes.

Meningococcus causes meningitis, and blood infection (septicaemia) – sometimes leading to limb amputation or brain damage. Approximately 1:10 people affected die.

As a paediatrician, I’ve seen healthy children become seriously ill within hours. Most recover, but, inexplicably, some don’t, and I’ve had to tell shocked parents that their child may not make it through the night.

Meningitis is an infection of the meninges – the thin protective layer covering the brain and spinal cord. It can affect any age, but predominantly under fives, and, particularly, under ones. Teenagers/young adults are also susceptible.

In the UK, it’s usually caused by a virus –and recover is generally complete. However bacterial meningitis is far more dangerous – and the Meningococcus bacteria, of which there are several strains, is the main culprit. It normally lives harmlessly in the nose and throat, but sometimes invades the blood, causing the illness.

The UK vaccination programme already protects against some meningitis types – the bacteria – Haemophilus, Pneumococcus, Meningococcus strain C, and the viruses – Measles and Mumps.

A new vaccine against Meningococcus A, C, W and Y will soon be offered to young adults, plus the new B vaccine for infants.

Meningococcal vaccines are between 85 -100% effective initially – much less so in young children. They are usually safe but can cause pain/redness, vomiting, headaches, drowsiness or irritability. Occasionally, allergic reactions, or, rarely, neurological problems may occur. Protection wanes over time, so teenagers are given boosters. However, vaccination reduces the number of people carrying the bacteria, thus reducing infection risk for the whole community.

If you think someone may have meningitis, look out for:

Headache, stiff neck, photophobia (dislike of bright light), vomiting, drowsiness or confusion and fever. The typical rash (called petechial) is red but doesn’t fade when pressed. It isn’t always present, but if you see it, you must seek medical help urgently.

Sometimes, particularly youngsters, are so ill, that the classic signs aren’t obvious. The child may have a temperature, but, equally, may seem cold. They make look blue, cry incessantly (often high-pitched), refuse feeds, have convulsions or become unconscious. In young babies, their fontanelle (‘soft spot’) may bulge and feel tense.

It is important to treat rapidly. Antibiotics will kill the bacteria, but, if severe, intensive care may be necessary.

To give some perspective – approximately 3000 people will get bacterial meningitis/septicaemia in the UK this year. The incidence has decreased due to vaccination.

Knowing the signs could save a life. Always have a low index of suspicion – an unnecessary visit to A&E is far better than delayed treatment. I myself rushed my young son there, late one night. Embarrassingly, he made a miraculous recovery a soon as the doctor (my colleague) examined him – I did eventually live it down at work.

Further Information:

http://www.meningitis.org

http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/Meningitis/Pages/Introduction.aspx

Note: These articles express personal views. No warranty is made as to the accuracy or completeness of information given and you should always consult a doctor if you need medical advice

Five Simple Steps To Beat Baby Blues Naturally

Posted on July 27, 2015 by Frostie

It comes from nowhere and catches you off guard. Those feelings of being vulnerable, emotional, sad, tearful and sensitive may make it difficult to believe that it is supposed to be the happiest time of every woman’s life.

Don’t worry, you are not alone! Postnatal anxiety, also known as ‘baby blues’, affects 85% of women and may occur on the day of the birth, the day after or not at all. Despite those overwhelming feelings, remember it is a normal reaction after having a baby.

‘Crying and confusion are experienced by most women and are partly due to the hormone changes experienced during the labour and can also be connected to when the milk comes through. But for some 15% of women, this despair and tearfulness continues and develops into post-natal depression’, explains Dr Marilyn Glenville, the UK’s leading nutritionist and an author of The Nutritional Health Handbook For Women.

Before you start worrying, follow these five simple steps to beat baby blues naturally and start enjoying motherhood!

Take a break

Make sure you find time to rest. Permanent sleep deprivation is the biggest cause of anxiety and low mood. Instead of catching up on all those chores that have piled up, try to coordinate your rest periods with your baby.

‘You may need to ask for help with the housework and other chores so that you can have time to rest, sleep, eat properly and also spend time getting to know your baby. It is a good idea to get out the house on your own; it can feel quite overwhelming to suddenly have someone depending on you twenty-four hours a day. Giving birth may bring up unresolved emotional issues from the past that needs to be dealt with. Counselling may be very helpful if this has happened’, Dr Glenville suggests.

Keep your sugar levels at bay

It is important that you make sure that you are eating little and often. Keeping your blood sugar in balance is crucial for helping you through this time as it directly affects mood and energy. ‘Aim to eat complex and unrefined carbohydrates as part of your main meals – this means choosing brown instead of white (wholewheat bread, brown rice and wholemeal flour). Don’t forget about breakfast, porridge and oatmeal is a good choice. Do reduce and preferably avoid stimulants including tea, coffee, chocolate, smoking and canned drinks with caffeine’, explains Dr Glenville.

Too much copper is no good news

Mineral imbalances or deficiencies can also contribute to ‘baby blues’. One of the most important nutrients during this difficult time is zinc.

Zinc and copper are antagonists, which means that high levels of copper reduce zinc and vitamin B6. Once you are pregnant, copper levels in the blood tend to rise dramatically and remain high for up to a month after giving birth as it stimulates the uterus.* This can cause what feels like depression: extreme fears, anxiety, sleep problems, paranoia and even hallucinations. ‘High levels of copper that decrease zinc can be dangerous, especially for a new mum, as she may be already low in this mineral after giving birth. Zinc deficiency can cause stretch marks, white spots on fingernails, decreased wound healing, loss of appetite and low mood. Make sure you are taking good multivitamins and minerals, the ones you took during pregnancy are fine but add some extra zinc’ (recommended daily intake is 50mg of zinc a day), advises Dr Glenville. Try Nature’s Plus Zinc (www.nutricentre.com, £8.59).

Fatty acids

During pregnancy, women are constantly being deprived of fatty acids because of the physical demands of growing fetus. ‘Omega 3 fatty acids are proved to increase levels of serotonin so they are essential in fighting depression and anxiety. Try to include salmon, avocado and nuts in your daily diet. If you don’t like fish, choose a good quality omega-3 supplement such as Omega 3 by Quest Vitamins (www.revital.co.uk, £6.19).’ recommends Shona Wilkinson, Head Nutritionist at www.nutricentre.com.

Balance your hormones

‘Try to take milk thistle every day to support the liver and gall bladder. This powerful herb can help the liver to deal with toxins and process excess hormones from the body. In addition, it is an excellent promoter of milk production, so will help with breast-feeding as well’, says Shona.

*http://metabolichealing.com/zinc-copper-imbalances-immense-biochemical-implications/

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