New Superfruit with a Surprise Inside – Launching exclusively at M&S and Ocado (for a limited time)

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New Superfruit Launches – BOOMBITES™ Red Berry Grapes – Great For Taste And Health

We absolutely loved these Boombites at Frost HQ. Delicious and juicy, you feel like you ar being healthy while eating something that tastes amazing.

There’s a new addition to the fruit bowl and it’s anything but ordinary. These one-of-a-kind Red Berry Grapes – known as BOOMBITES™ – are a new superfruit that taste like the very best table grapes but once you bite into them, you’ll discover a deep, juicy red pulp, similar to that of a berry or a cherry. 

These Red Berry Grapes are not only juicy, tasty and utterly moreish, but the unique red pulp on the inside means they are packed with antioxidants known as anthocyanins[1] — the powerhouse polyphenols that account for the superfood status of Goji berries, blueberries and cranberries. In fact, the new Red Berry Grapes have comparable antioxidant levels to blueberries, well known for their superfruit status.[2]

Red Berry Grapes are set to be an incredibly versatile new superfruit. Just like table grapes, they are perfect as a tasty, healthy snack. The high antioxidant content means that they will also be great for pre, or post workout or just the perfect way to start your morning. And the beautiful red pulp on the inside means they are a great showpiece to serve as a premium after dinner treat at your next gathering.

Red Berry Grapes — BOOMBITES™ — are a completely natural cross between some of the world’s best table grapes which traditionally all have white flesh on the inside with old grape varieties that have red flesh fruit and were traditionally only used for wine production. It took thousands of different combinations of small and soft, red-fleshed wine grapes with large, sweet, and crunchy seedless table grapes to come up with the new Red Berry Grapes. The end result? A new category that has the beautiful, sweet taste of grapes, the premium feel of a high-end food and beverage category, and the health credentials of a superfruit like blueberries. 
 

Superfruit benefits

Anthocyanins are polyphenols, a naturally occurring plant compound. They are associated with health-enhancing mechanisms including improvements in cholesterol levels, vascular function[3] and the gut microbiome.[4] Public Health Nutritionist Dr Emma Derbyshire, a member of a new research and education information group called the Red Berry Grape Advisory Board, had this to say: “Dark fruits have soared in popularity over recent years as people become familiar with their high antioxidant content. The vibrant colour of the Red Berry Grapes is down to high concentrations of anthocyanins, a powerful antioxidant that’s been linked to a wide range of health and wellness benefits.”

BOOMBITES™ Red Berry Grapes also include resveratrol,[5] another naturally occurring polyphenol, which is found in various plants, most notably in the skin of grapes, blueberries, raspberries, and peanuts. It’s a stilbenoid, a type of natural phenol, and is produced by plants as a defence mechanism against pathogens or injury. Resveratrol is known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties[6] and has been associated with the “French paradox”. This is the observation that despite a diet rich in saturated fats France has lower rates of heart disease than many comparable countries.[7] And resveratrol is thought to account for various health and wellness benefits.[8] Testing by researchers at the University of Murcia,[9] found that BOOMBITES™ Red Berry Grapes had three times more resveratrol than blueberries when tested[10] and comparable levels of antioxidants.[11]

Sweet spot

Emerging new research confirms that the new Red Berry Grapes not only deliver much higher levels of antioxidant polyphenols than traditional grape varieties, but also their natural sugars are absorbed more slowly.[12] And it’s the impact on blood sugar levels that has generated even more excitement around their superfruit credentials. 

Research from the technology center AINIA in Valencia, Spain, suggests that despite having similar amounts of fructose, the new Red Berry Grape varieties showed significantly lower glucose uptakes than standard varieties. This is thanks to the Red Berry Grape being rich in polyphenols, as well as having fibre, and together this unique food matrix[13],[14] seem to have a role in slowing glucose absorption compared to other fruits. 

Dietitian, Nichola Ludlam-Raine and member of the Red Berry Grape Advisory Board notes: “In simple terms, this means that while new Red Berry Grapes are sweet to the taste, the combination of phenols they contain alters the way these sugars are transported and absorbed in the gut.

“This has major implications for weight control, insulin response and dietary advice around fruit consumption, because we know that many consumers restrict intakes of these fruits rich in antioxidants because of concerns about the amount of sugar in fruit.”

Research facts: Population studies show that a diet rich in polyphenols can potentially help to reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular disease by 46% and this is driven by multiple mechanisms including reduced oxidative stress and inflammation and improvements in blood cholesterol, clotting and endothelial function, the term used to describe the integrity and elasticity of blood vessels.[15],[16]

An observational study in 3,420 older adults at high risk of cardiovascular disease — which also put them in the danger zone for diabetes — showed a 28% reduction in new-onset diabetes among those with the highest intakes of polyphenols.[17] Other research studies have shown that polyphenols moderate insulin resistance via several mechanisms and also work synergistically with diabetes medicines to increase their efficacy.[18]

Dr Emma Derbyshire in summary adds: “The Red Berry Grape breaks the rules. Not only is it packed with potential health benefits, but it’s unique in its appearance and offers a juicy, hydrating, rewarding taste. You’ll have to bite it to believe it!”

TASTE THE REDVOLUTION

The new BOOMBITES™ Red Berry Grapes – are on sale in Marks and Spencer nationwide for a punnet for a limited period time.www.boombites.com

USound is an audiobook recording service that is designed to help publishers and authors through every step of the audiobook creation process. Founder James Faktor tells us more.

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‘As Founder of USound I am delighted to be able to tell Frost Magazine more about us. We provide a range of affordable, skilled narrators who have access to their own recording space and can deliver a finished audiobook that meets industry standards. We also champion new and exciting talent from the likes of LAMDA and other acting sources and connect them to the publishing industry. (Check out our EXCELLENT rating with ALLi’s self-publishing services.)‘

The Frost Magazine team, and editor Margaret Graham, were fascinated to hear about such a venture. Margaret is the author of over 20 novels, with a few creative writing books thrown in on top, and vividly remembers her first novel being turned into an audio version. It was tape in those days, and as she traveled, or indeed, she and Dick traveled in the car, she’d pop it into the tape player and listen while the actor brought it to life. It was a revelation. Dick preferred it too, as the alternative was singalong music and as he so frequently said, Margaret seldom if ever hit the correct notes let alone in the correct order.

Tapes are a forgotten concept, first overtaken by CDs but now… ‘USound develops digital audio files that are ready for uploading to audiobook platforms like Audible.’ James continued. ‘So, once the files are completed, they can be downloadable by the author who, incidentally, can choose anyone from our lists of experienced veterans of the industry – to whizz students who are fresh on the scene (and everyone in between).’

The author, James also told us, can also work directly with one of USounds narrators who are more than ready to collaborate and create something special, and with USounds two pre-negotiated rates per word count, this sounds doable, and actually, superb value. But hang on James, how can these authors reach all the people who might want to read their work?

‘We will be happy to advise on how to get the audiobook to the public, and can also provide an uploading service to major platforms. Clearly Dick can relax, and listen to Margaret’s latest work, safe in the knowledge that there will be no singing on this trip!’

Margaret decided to move along quickly to show you just one of the successful award winning authors who have used USound,

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Audible-The-Chessmen-Thief/dp/

Find out more about the fantastic collaborative and helpful USound here

Milly Adams Author talks to Dr Kathleen Thompson – award winning author and reviewer about the wonderful The Waterways Girls to be launched by DP DIGITAL PUBLISHERS on 9th October (available for pre-order now).

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I loved this series, Milly, and I’m thrilled to see it coming out in e-book. So convenient for travelling, though you can’t turn down the corners of the page! You can though, adjust the size of the font, But enough… tell us more about the brilliant and intriguing series, The Waterway Girls.

You are kind, Kathleen. The germ of the idea came on a train to London. I was earwigging two ladies of a certain age discussing friends who had crewed Inland Waterway narrowboats for the war effort. Heavens, I even had to turn the page corner of my book down, and listen…

They were remembering how their two friends had blisters on their hands the size of moons, could barely move in the 7ft wide cabin where they slept, ate and cooked. They remembered them running along the towpaths, opening and closing locks, hauling on ropes, loading and unloading. In winter it was absolutely freezing and in summer, the sun would beat off the roof of the narrowboats while they steered, blinding them. Then there was the bucket… At which they burst out laughing.

Of course, Kathleen, being the nosiest person alive I had to ask more. ‘Ah the bucket,’ one said. ‘There’s no room for a bathroom just the one cabin. So a bucket was positioned behind the engine and cabin, which is why the pubs along the way were life saving – as well as their social aspect of course.’

The time flew and soon I was hearing about the kids on the bridges who threw whatever they could at the narrowboats as they passed beneath and later the V-1 and V-2s bombs causing death and destruction. But by then we were drawing into London, so the conversation had to end. Nooo. How could it.?

So, Milly, how did you move on from this fantastic chance meeting?

I dashed straight to the Canal Museum behind Kings Cross Station, close to the Regents Canal, sat in the tiny cabin and there and then a team of three young women toiling on the waterways, living cheek by jowl in this tiny space was born. Not only that, but how they still found love, laughter and friendship amongst the wonderful community of Inland Waterway women and boaters. I researched over the next weeks, and it almost wrote itself. I just wanted to do them all justice – the Inland Waterway women and boaters – and to pay homage to these extraordinary people. I hope I did.

Yes, you did Milly, and now readers, let me tell you all about The Waterways Girls which I have just enjoyed so much.

19 year old Polly Holmes leaves poor bombed London to join the war effort on Britain’s canals. Once on board narrowboat Marigold she meets Verity, the fellow trainee. She is not welcomed with open arms, but there is no time to even gulp as Bet, the Skipper and trainer, gets down to creating a team, one in which they must meld together, learn all there is to learn and to – trust. Polly rolls up her sleeves and they embark on the gruelling journey from London to Birmingham and soon both girls realise the canal has the power of healing, and that a world of new beginnings is within reach. Wonderfully written and envisaged. Captivating.

Millly, it has been a pleasure to talk to you, and to read all three of the Waterway Girls novels. What I love about all Milly Adams’ and Margaret Graham’s books (the same author under a different pen-name) is that one doesn’t just read, but rather finds oneself living the life of ordinary people from so many extraordinary walks of life, a life often forced upon them by a world war, and one which we could never envisage today without Milly’s research and phenomenal writing skills. Thank you to Milly Adams for keeping these amazing people alive.

Yes, The Waterway Girls is a triumph and is with me still, I didn’t want it to end, but the good news is, that Love on the Water ways and Hope on the Waterways are to be released as e-books in November. Hallelujah.

https://www.canalmuseum.org.uk/ The Waterway Girls: pre-order now for £0.99 rather than £2.99. www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0FRN1JWMF/

Dr K Thompson, award-winning author of From Both Ends of the Stethoscope: Getting through breast cancer – by a doctor who knows

http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01A7DM42Q http://www.amazon.com/dp/B01A7DM42Q
http://faitobooks.co.uk

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.

It’s Time To Elevate Your Sleep. Gorgeous Products We Recommend

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Sleep is important. The difference between having a good day, and walking through it feeling like a zombie. With that in mind, we have put together a list of products that we love and think will elevate your sleep routine, along with a little wind down guide. We hope you like them. Let us know in the comments what you think, of if you have any tips of your own.

Ralph’s Orchard Sleep Kit – a small, thoughtful set that supports better sleep.

We love this sleep kit. The affordable price point only makes it better. It makes a lovely and thoughtful gift. It looks, and smells, gorgeous too.

Ralph’s Orchard is a UK maker of vegan, eco‑friendly home fragrance and self‑care goods. We prioritise recyclable/reusable materials and partner with environmental initiatives across the year.

All the items are UK hand-made, vegan and eco-conscious:

  • Lavender & Chamomile Pillow Spray (30ml, glass): Calming blend designed for linens; dries clear and non-sticky.
  • Organic Lavender Eye Pillow: Soft cotton with natural fill for gentle pressure and scent.
  • Lavender-filled sachet to tuck under your pillow at night.

This pairs naturally with mattress/sheet reviews as the final step in a bedtime routine, with a reader‑friendly price point of £28.

How to Build a Bedtime Wind-Down Routine

Getting quality sleep isn’t just about having the right bed – it’s about setting the stage for rest. Here are some simple, effective tips:

  • Time your caffeine. Avoid coffee, tea, or energy drinks at least 6 hours before bed to give your body time to wind down naturally.
  • Exercise wisely. Daily movement supports better sleep, but leave at least 2 to 3 hours between vigorous exercise and bedtime.
  • Limit blue light. Phones and tablets can disrupt melatonin production. Switch on a blue light filter in the evening or, better yet, put devices away an hour before bed.
  • Create a calm ambiance. Dim the lights, light a candle, or play soft music to signal to your body that the day is ending.
  • Check your environment. Keep your bedroom cool (around 18°C is ideal), choose the right duvet tog for the season, and make sure your mattress and pillows support comfort.
  • Add soothing scents. A pillow spray with lavender and chamomile can promote relaxation and help train your brain to associate the fragrance with sleep.
  • Be consistent. Try to go to bed and wake up at the same times each day – your body loves routine!

Together, these habits create a ritual that tells your body and mind it’s time to rest.

Sleep Kit Gift Set

We love these stylish and comfortable sleep masks from Dozzz.co.uk

Fantastic sleep masks that look good and feel good. Super stylish too.

Nudea Pyjamas.

NUDEA EXPANDS BEST-SELLING SLEEP RANGE WITH NEW ‘SKY’ COLOUR
The softest sleep silhouettes – now in a fresh, cloud-like hue

We are obsessed with these soft, stylish, and gorgeous pyjamas from Nudea. The colour is beautiful and they feel soft against the skin. Consider your sleepwear elevated.

British B-Corp underwear and sleepwear brand NUDEA introduces SKY – a new colourway across five of its signature sleepwear styles. Inspired by clear blue mornings and calm, coastal skies, this fresh drop brings a serene seasonal update to the brand’s much-loved silhouettes.

Crafted from GOTS Certified Organic Cotton, the SKY capsule offers breathable, naturally soft styles designed for all-day lounging, slow mornings, and wind-down evenings. Each piece is rooted in NUDEA’s mindful approach to essentials: consciously created, effortlessly wearable and made to move with you.

This launch continues NUDEA’s mission to deliver purpose-led comfort through thoughtful design. Minimal, kind-to-skin and made to last – this is loungewear for every moment.

Available at nudea.com

The Tank
A classic scoop-neck silhouette with low-cut side seams for breathable nights and relaxed days.
RRP £30 Available in Sky, Black, Cotton White, Sage Stripe, Rosemary, and French navy Stripe (XS–XXL / UK 4–18)

The Midi Shirt
A relaxed, elevated shirt with a gently oversized fit and dropped shoulders. Finished with clean, modern detailing, it’s a versatile staple that pairs perfectly with shorts or trousers for a put-together lounge look. RRP £47 Available in Sky, Black, Cotton White, Sage Stripe, Rosemary, and French navy Stripe (XS–XXL / UK 4–18)

The Maxi Shirt
An easy summer short with a relaxed classic silhouette made of 100% organic cotton and. featuring mother of pearl buttons. RRP £85 Available in Sky, Black, Cotton White, , Rosemary and French navy Stripe (XS–XXL / UK 4–18)

The Classic Trouser
A refined lounge trouser with a straight leg and gently tailored feel. With a soft waistband, drawcord tie and side pockets, they offer comfort with polish – the ultimate bed-to-anywhere essential. RRP £45 Available in Sky, Black, Cotton White, Sage Stripe, Rosemary, and French navy Stripe(XS–XXL / UK 4–18)

The Classic Boxer
A fresh take on the borrowed-from-him boxer. Flattering lightweight drawstring short style in organic cotton. RRP £35 Available in Sky, Black, Cotton White, Sage Stripe, Rosemary, and French navy Stripe (XS–XXL / UK 4–18)

About NUDEA
Nudea is a thoughtful curation of underwear & sleepwear created from natural and recycled materials. Each piece is purposefully designed with the perfect fit in mind.

Born from a desire to offer the functional, the necessary and the purest form of comfort, we aim to provide the best foundations to support your unique personal style while ensuring that the layers closest to your skin feel the most supportive, comfortable, and flexible.

We are passionate about leaving the world in a better way than we found it. It is this belief that inspires our sustainability practices and pledge to support our community of like-minded women by empowering our customer to make positive changes, no matter how small. For a more sustainable and balanced future. To create an understanding that this change starts with self-care.
www.nudea.com
Follow us: @nudea.underwear

Microplane Container Grater – Clever And Beautiful – by Award Winning Author Dr Kathleen Thompson

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Microplane simply means quality for me, so I always get slightly over-excited when they launch a new product, and their new Container Grater has set my pulse racing a bit too much for my advancing years.

For those who don’t know, Microplane was inspired by a Canadian housewife in the early 90s, who, fed up with her traditional grater, borrowed one of her husband’s wood-working tools. Her discovery that a well-engineered tool could be so much more effective than the kitchen-grade grater she’d struggled with, resulted in the creation of Microplane – the original manufacturer of photo-etched cutting tools. After over fifty years of experience, their durable, photo-etched and razor-sharp stainless-steel blades are simply the best – effortlessly cutting through hard and soft foods, without tearing or shredding.

So let me tell you about the Container Grater. If you’ll pardon the pun, I just can’t contain myself a moment longer.

This grater combined with storage container has been so well-thought through, I’m in awe. The firm plastic container appears compact, yet has a roomy 532ml capacity, plus a non-slip base for safe grating. It’s topped with a sleek wooden lid, which doubles as a mini cheese board, and removing the lid reveals the ultra-sharp stainless-steel bladed grater. This grater is so strong that you can grate not only hard and soft cheeses, but chocolate, coconut, various fruit and veg, garlic and nuts too, and the gratings fall neatly into the container beneath with no mess. A semi-circular gap at the end of the grater allows easy dispensing, for instance sprinkling grated cheese on pasta. You can either replace the nice wooden lid, or if you wish to store for longer in the fridge, remove the grater and replace with the well-fitting airtight plastic storage lid – so clever.

The Microplane Container Grater is dishwasher safe and the wooden lid just needs a quick wipe with a clean cloth. It’s available in two beautiful colours – Anthracite Gray with a Walnut Lid and Cashmere Beige with a Bamboo Lid and can be bought from John Lewis, RRP £39.95. The biggest problem is which colour to choose – they’re both so gorgeous.

By Dr K Thompson, award-winning author of From Both Ends of the Stethoscope: Getting through breast cancer – by a doctor who knows

http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01A7DM42Q http://www.amazon.com/dp/B01A7DM42Q
http://faitobooks.co.uk


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.

dp DIGITAL PUBLISHERS have let Frost Magazine have a peek at their brilliant and most recent selection of pre-order releases at such great prices. Let me lead you through the pick of the bunch.

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Anything for Him by LK Chapman: Reeling from the loss of her parents in a house fire, Felicity is pulled into the dangerous orbit of the volatile Jay and allows herself to be drawn into Jay’s twisted revenge plan against his former best friend. Soon Felicity learns that no matter what she does, it will never be enough for Jay.

As his jealousy and insecurity tip him into escalating violence against her, Felicity questions everything he has told her about his past and his former girlfriend Sammie, and hatches a desperate plan to escape … Honestly,this is so tense – a real page turner Buy now for £0.99 instead of £2.99 www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0FRMTKMYK/

There is a nuclear weapon in the hands of the Vatican City’s deadliest enemy. And time is running out to stop the attack …

Marco Venetti, the only man the Pope trusts, is on the hunt for a traitor. He is willing to do anything to protect the church, and the man at its heart. Even if it means getting blood on his hands … But when Marco finds him, the traitor reveals terrifying new information: the name of a Russian mafioso with a grudge against the Vatican and possession of a nuclear bomb.

If Marco doesn’t work with him, the consequences will be deadly. To prevent it, Marco must enter a deadly game of cat-and-mouse that will take him across the continent, on land and by sea. With time running out, he will stop at nothing to uncover the truth. Because the secrets inside the Vatican may be the deadliest threat of all. And only Marco can restore honour to the church, by any means necessary … It’s beautifully written and I loved every word.

Buy now for £0.99 instead of £2.99 www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0FRG6Z4R3/

The Waterway Girls by Milly Adams

In war-torn London, young Polly Holmes leaves heartbreak behind to join a narrowboat crew on Britain’s canals – where friendship, resilience, and the hope of new beginnings carry her through the darkest days of war.

In October 1943, nineteen-year-old Polly Holmes leaves poor bombed London behind to join the war effort on Britain’s canals. Stepping aboard the Marigold in the pouring rain, there’s lots for Polly to get to grips with. Not least her fellow crew: strong and impetuous Verity, whose bark is worse than her bite, and seasoned skipper Bet. With her sweetheart away fighting in the RAF and her beloved brother killed in action, there’s plenty of heartache to be healed on the waterway. As Polly rolls up her sleeves and gets stuck into life on board the narrowboat – making the gruelling journey from London up to Birmingham – she will soon discover that a world of new beginnings awaits amid the anguish of the war. Emotional, evocative unputdownable – I loved it.

And just think, there really were volunteer Inland Waterway girls who rolled up their sleeves, managed locks, endured the hardships, the dangers, and let’s not forget the fun found in the world of these fabulous Waterway Girls. What a homage to love, friendship and the boating community. Absolutely heartwarming.

Buy now for £0.99 rather than £2.99. www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0FRN1JWMF/

The breathtaking conclusion to the Guardians of the Crown series introduces a heroine with nothing left to lose and a hero with everything to gain … England, 1659: Following the death of Cromwell,(such a fascinating period) a new king is poised to ascend the throne of England. One by one, those once loyal to the crown begin to return … Agnes Fletcher’s lover is dead, and when his two orphaned children are torn from her care by their scheming guardian, she finds herself alone and devastated by the loss. Unwilling to give up, Agnes desperately seeks anyone willing to accompany her on a perilous journey to save the children and return them to her care.

After enduring imprisonment, exile and torture, the fugitive Daniel Lovell has returned to England, determined to find his brother and kill the man who murdered his father. But the King has one last mission for him and there is the small matter of a desperate woman who needs his help. When they are finally given the opportunity to seize everything they ever hoped for, will they find the peace they crave, or will their fledgling love be the final casualty of war? A fascinating series, unputdownable and absorbing.

Buy now for £1.99 instead of £2.99. www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0FRGDGWPR/

Känna: Revolutionary children’s sensory-friendly clothing brand launches in the UK

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I have a brand-new obsession: these gorgeous, stylish and comfortable clothes for children. If you have a child with sensory processing difficulties then these clothes will have them looking fabulous with no complaints.

Not only are these clothes soft and beautiful, but they are super-affordable. I always say that my biggest compliment to a brand is if I would spend my own money on it. I will definitely buy these high-quality, yet affordable clothes. With the great styles mixed with the neurodiverse-friendly comfort, we love Känna.

A Devon-based mother has turned her family’s personal struggles into a groundbreaking solution for children with sensory processing difficulties. Today marks the official launch of Känna, a new online clothing brand offering stylish, sensory-friendly garments designed to bring comfort and confidence to neurodivergent children.

The inspiration behind Känna came from founder Katie Lodge’s own experience with her daughter Evelyn, who struggled to find clothing she could tolerate due to sensory sensitivities. “Evelyn had one outfit she could wear comfortably, and it was on repeat every single day,” Katie recalls. “Seams, labels, waistbands – everything felt unbearable to her. It wasn’t just about clothing; it was about her quality of life.”

Determined to create a solution, Katie assembled a team of expert designers and manufacturers to develop a range of clothing that is as kind to the senses as it is stylish. The result is Känna, a collection of thoughtfully designed garments that prioritise comfort without compromising on aesthetics.


What makes Känna different?

Every detail of Känna’s clothing has been meticulously crafted to address the unique needs of children with sensory sensitivities:

·       Minimal, ultra-soft seams for durability without irritation

·       Tagless, screen-printed care labels to eliminate itchy contact

·       Soft, breathable organic cotton blends, brushed inside for extra smoothness

·       Stretchy, non-restrictive waistbands for ultimate comfort

The inaugural collection, available for children aged 5 to 14, includes short- and long-sleeve tees, A-line skirts, and dresses in a variety of styles and colours. Prices range from £28 to £35, offering a mid-range, high-quality alternative to high-street clothing.


Comfort for all kids – with sustainability built-in

While Känna was born out of a need to support neurodivergent children, its mission extends to all kids. “Let’s normalise comfort and self-care for our children,” Katie says. “Everyone feels better when they’re comfortable, and Känna is here to make that possible for every child.”

Känna is also deeply committed to ethical and sustainable practices. All garments are made from OEKO-TEX or GOTS certified fabrics, responsibly sourced from European mills, and built to last.


A family’s journey, a community’s solution

Katie’s journey to create Känna has been one of love, determination and risk. “This brand was born out of necessity, even desperation,” she shares. “But it’s been created with so much love, and we couldn’t be prouder of what we’ve achieved.”

The Lodge family’s story is one of resilience and innovation, and Känna is set to become a brand that empowers children to feel good in what they wear.


Learn more

For more details about Känna’s story and its sensory-friendly clothing, visit the blog at https://kanna.co.uk/blogs/latest-news-1/sensory-clothing

About Känna

Känna (inspired by the Swedish/Icelandic/Japanese word for “feeling,” “explore,” and “waves”) is a UK-based start-up creating premium children’s clothing that combines sensory-aware design with ethical sustainability. Känna’s mission is to empower all children to feel good in what they wear.

How to Support a Child Living with Anxiety

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Childhood anxiety affects millions of families across Britain. One moment everything seems fine. The next, a child refuses to leave the house or bursts into tears over seemingly small things. For parents and carers, knowing how to help can feel overwhelming. 

Spotting the Signs

Anxiety wears many masks in childhood. A seven-year-old might complain of tummy aches every school morning. Teenagers sometimes become snappy and withdrawn. Younger children often struggle to explain their feelings at all. 

Some warning signs are obvious. Others sneak up gradually:

  • Difficulty concentrating at school
  • Nightmares or trouble falling asleep
  • Avoiding friends or favourite activities
  • Explosive anger over minor issues
  • Constantly asking “what if?” questions

Physical symptoms matter too. Headaches, nausea and exhaustion often accompany anxiety. Yet doctors find nothing medically wrong. This frustrates everyone involved.

Opening Up Conversations

Getting anxious children to talk requires patience. Direct questions rarely work. “What’s wrong?” often meets silence or “nothing.”

Better approaches exist. Sharing activities creates natural openings for chat. Baking together, walking the dog, or building Lego removes pressure. Children often open up when their hands stay busy.

Timing matters enormously. Anxious children need space to process feelings. Pushing for immediate answers backfires. Sometimes waiting until bedtime or the weekend helps. Each child has their own rhythm.

Validation beats advice initially. “That must feel scary” acknowledges feelings without judgement. Children need to know their emotions make sense before tackling solutions.

Practical Anxiety-Busting Tools

Body-Based Techniques

Anxiety lives in the body as much as the mind. Teaching children to notice physical sensations helps. Tight shoulders? Time for shoulder rolls. Racing heart? Let’s try slow breathing.

The 7-11 breathing technique calms most children. Breathe in for 7 counts, out for 11. It’s harder than it sounds! This difficulty actually helps by focusing attention away from worries.

Progressive muscle relaxation works brilliantly at bedtime. Tense each muscle group for five seconds, then release. Start with toes, work upwards. Many children fall asleep before reaching their heads.

Creating Routine and Predictability

Anxious minds crave structure. Regular mealtimes, consistent bedtimes and predictable schedules reduce uncertainty. This doesn’t mean rigid timetables. Flexibility within framework works best.

Visual schedules help younger children. Knowing what comes next eases transitions. Even teenagers benefit from shared family calendars showing upcoming events.

The Power of Play

Play therapy isn’t just for professionals. Drawing, crafts and imaginative games let children express fears safely. A child who can’t discuss school anxiety might draw angry pictures or act out scenarios with toys.

Older children often prefer journals. Writing worries down gets them out of spinning minds. Some children enjoy creating worry monsters – drawing their anxiety as silly creatures removes some power.

When Outside Help Makes Sense

Professional support becomes necessary when anxiety disrupts daily life significantly. Missing school regularly, losing friendships, or family relationships suffering all signal intervention time.

GPs provide starting points for help. School pastoral teams often have training in anxiety support. Waiting lists for CAMHS can stretch long, but early referral means getting in the queue sooner.

Different children need different support levels. Those in care situations, including foster placements, often face complex anxiety from past experiences. Organisations like orangegrovefostercare.co.uk offer specialised guidance for supporting these vulnerable young people.

Private therapy remains an option for families who can afford it. Many therapists offer sliding scales based on income.

Conclusion

Supporting anxious children challenges even the most patient adults. Progress rarely follows straight lines. Good weeks follow difficult ones. Setbacks happen just when everything seemed sorted.

Remember that small improvements count. A child who couldn’t enter shops last month but managed five minutes today has achieved something huge. Celebrating these victories, however tiny, builds momentum for bigger challenges ahead.

Above all, anxious children need to know they’re not broken. With time, understanding and the right tools, they can learn to manage their worries. The journey might be long, but hope always exists.

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