WW26 2023

WOMANSWAY.IE 51 Picture This Do you have photos you’d like to share? Send them to [email protected] GET IN TOUCH Find out what Woman’s Way readers have been up to recently… And brightest family photo goes to... From: Maggie Smith, Co Westmeath Photo of Sparky our dog who passed away some years ago, playing his favourite tunes. From: Imelda Hanratty, Dublin 24 Love having an excuse to decorate (and eat) gingerbread men. From: Mairead Connolly Black carrots and garden herbs get the party started. From: Una Mason, Co Meath Attempting to make a wreath from bits of branches. From: Mary Harte

TIMEOUT 52 WOMANSWAY.IE 1 EMICATE A To spring up B Cut into small strips C Throw or give out 2 FLOCCUS A Goods lost by shipwreck B Bacteria that grows on beer C A tuft of woolly hair The word may sound familiar, but do you know what it means? C. 2 A, 1 ANSWERS: WORD WISE ENTER TO WIN QUINN HAIR & BEAUTY HOW TO ENTER Please send a picture of your completed crossword grid to [email protected] No postal entries please. The closing date for entries is January 1, 2024 This Woman's Way competition is open to anyone resident in NI and the Republic of Ireland, aged 18 and over, except employees and their families of Harmonia Publishing, its printers and anyone else connected with the competition. No purchase is necessary. We will only accept one competition entry per reader. Prizes are awarded by drawing entries after the closing date. Winners will be notifi ed by email. The editor’s decision is fi nal. One lucky reader will receive a Luxury Christmas hamper from Quinn Hair & Beauty with a complete set of products from Silcare and Timeless Truth Mask to pamper you from head to toe over the festive season. Visit quinnhairbeauty.com ENTER TO WIN WORTH €75 I was born Margaret Llewellyn Baker in Norwich in 1943 and had a career on stage and screen spanning over 60 years. I was best known for my role as Gladys Pugh in the BBC television comedy Hi-de-Hi! I was married twice and had two children and was widowed in September 2021. I had a fall and had surgery in December 2022, but died the following day in hospital, just as I was about to appear in the pantomime Aladdin in Torquay. Born in Belfast in 1966 but raised in Dublin, I started my career as a newspaper journalist and agony aunt. I published my fi rst book, Woman To Woman, in 1997, and have since had a career as a bestselling author. I had twin boys with my husband, former head of Sony Music John Sheehan, but our marriage ended in 2021. I appeared on Dancing With the Stars in 2022, and have been an ambassador for UNICEF Ireland since 2005. . CELEB PIXELS Cathy Kelly. 2 Ruth Madoc. 1 ANSWERS: PRIZE CROSSWORD 26 ACROSS: 1. INVOICE (4) 8. UNAVOIDABLE (10) 9. LIMIT (8) 10. CORRODE (4) 12. CHANGING (6) 14. INDEED (6) 15. PERCOLATE (6) 17. SPRAIN (6) 18. THIN (4) 19. SOAK (8) 21. DISCLOSURE (10) 22. MERRIMENT (4) DOWN: 2. PEREMPTORY (10) 3. RAISE (4) 4. FOLLOWING (6) 5. ACRID (6) 6. POSTURE (8) 7. SKILFUL (4) 11. CONCERN (10) 13. DELIBERATE (8) 16. SCOUNDREL (6) 17. INSIDE (6) 18. ENTICE (4) 20. CIRCLE (4). QUICK CROSSWORD SOLUTION ISSUE 25 ACROSS: 7 ORMER; 8 DEVIATE; 9 POTABLE; 10 CROWN; 12 VEGETATION; 15 SHORT-LIVED; 18 DEBAR; 19 SHRIVEL; 21 MUNDANE; 22 LIKEN. DOWN: 1 COMPRESSED; 2 SMITH; 3 CRIB; 4 ADHERE; 5 EVACUATE; 6 LACONIC; 11 REMEMBER WHEN? NONCHALANT; 13 EXTERNAL; 14 COMBINE; 16 ISSUED; 17 EVOKE; 20 RELY. 1 • Marlon Brando starred in A Streetcar Named Desire. • King Abdullah of Jordan was assassinated. • Sting was born. 2 • Gary Cooper died. • John Leyton had a UK No.1 with Johnny Remember Me. • Diana, Princess of Wales, was born. 1961. 2 1951, 1 ANSWERS: The following events all occurred in a year in living memory. Can you guess the year? pamper you from head to toe over the festive season. Visit quinnhairbeauty.com

TIME OUT WOMANSWAY.IE 53 THE BIG QUIZ 1>> Where was the late Shane McGowan born? A London B Dublin C Cork D Kent 2>> Where in Germany would you fi nd the Semperoper building? A Dresden B Cologne C Berlin D Bonn 3>> Which chocolate bar is the best-selling in the world? A Golden Crisp B Double Decker C Snickers D Mars 4>> What is someone who only eats plant foods and dairy products called? A Ovo-vegetarian B Vegan C Pescetarian D Lacto-vegetarian 5>> What is the closest planet to Earth? A Venus B Uranus C Mars D Mercury 13>> What is the name of Spotify’s end-of-year list of favourite songs and artists? A Bangers B Wrapped C Finale D Unleashed 14>> 2FM presenter Doireann Garrihy recently announced her engagement to which comedian? A Carl Mullan B Danny O’Brien C Mark Mehigan D Des Bishop 6>> In which country would you fi nd Wee Waa Airport? A USA B Jamaica C New Zealand D Australia 7>> What is the meaning of the word morose? A Gloomy B Unlucky C Boring D Generous 8>> What is the name of the sauce that accompanies prawn cocktail? A Bechamel B Marie Rose C Hollandaise D Soy 9>> Which of these women wasn’t on the original A Woman’s Heart album? A Eleanor McEvoy B Frances Black C Mary Coughlan D Sharon Shannon 10>> Brian Dowling is the new co-host of The Six O’Clock Show. Who is his husband? A James Kavanagh B Arthur Gourounlian C Don O’Neill D Rob Kenny 11>> What landmark building was burned by the Irish Republican Army on 25 May 1921? A The Four Courts B Leinster House C Custom House D The GPO 12>> How many teaspoons are in a tablespoon? A Two B Three C Four D Five 1 D, 2 A, 3 C, 4 D, 5 A, 6 D, 7 A, 8 B, 9 C, 10 B, 11 C, 12 B, 13 B, 14 C. ANSWERS: 1 2 10 5 8 13 14 12

54 WOMANSWAY.IE Whether you’re looking for comfort food or new Italian dishes, these blockbuster cookbooks will provide plenty of inspiration. NEW DISCOVERIES

RECIPES WOMANSWAY.IE 55 By Prudence Wade, PA Continued overleaf >> T his is the best time of year to discover new recipes. As the days get shorter and colder, a glossy new cookbook – and all the food-related inspiration that comes with it – can be just the thing you need. And there are plenty of new releases to sink your teeth into – whether you want to transport yourself to a sunnier country or settle down with some comfort food. Some of the biggest names in food – including chef and former Saturday Kitchen presenter James Martin, BBC stalwarts the Hairy Bikers, and cult restaurateur Russell Norman – have new cookbooks out – and this is what you can expect from each of them… James Martin’s Spanish Adventure by James Martin If you were captivated by James Martin’s 20-part ITV series taking a culinary tour around Spain – from the Michelin-starred restaurants of San Sebastián to the local markets of Santiago de Compostela – you’ll want to pick up the accompanying cookbook. One of Martin’s favourite areas in the country is Toledo, “A special ancient city right in the middle of Spain”, he notes. “It’s famous for great produce including game, saffron, honey, olive oil, garlic and the list goes on.” Yorkshire-born Martin says he fi rst fell in love with Spanish food when he came to London as a young chef, and wanted to dedicate this book to the cuisine because he “wanted people to know about the people, the fantastic variety of landscapes, and the spectacular produce available”, he says. “They have the best markets in Europe and the range of ingredients is fabulous – the seafood, the meat, the vegetables and the fruit.” In the cookbook, Martin highlights that Spanish cuisine is far more than just paella and sangria. There are plenty of recipes for traditional dishes – including tapas bites, croquetas, empanadas, Seville pork with patatas bravas and burnt Basque cheesecake – as well as classic Spanish ingredients (such as chorizo, olives and plenty of seafood). While Spain is predominantly known for meat and fi sh, Martin also shows some of the beautiful ways the country uses vegetables too – such as a dish for deep-fried aubergines drizzled with honey and served with a tomato sauce, and salt-baked celeriac with new potatoes and salsa. The Hairy Bikers’ Ultimate Comfort Food by Si King and Dave Myers It’s hard to believe Dave Myers and Si King – otherwise known as the Hairy Bikers – have been on our screens for nearly two decades, with their fi rst BBC show airing in 2004. They’ve written plenty of cookbooks over the years – dedicated to everything from Mediterranean food to curries – and their latest is all about comfort food. In the introduction, the duo think back to what comfort food meant to them growing up – for Myers, it’s a classic chip butty, and King picks out his mother’s curries and casseroles. British classics like these permeate the book – including beef and barley stew, sausage rolls and lemon drizzle cake – but there’s a defi nite international fl avour, with dishes inspired by Myers and King’s travels all over the world. Think soba noodles with miso mushrooms, Szechuan lamb bao buns, chipotle prawn tacos and more. While comfort food might make you think of heavy, rich dishes you want to curl up in the winter with – and those recipes are represented – there’s also a wider picture of ‘comfort’ and what it means throughout the year. Lighter recipes such as the teriyaki chicken salad and Spanish-style roasted vegetables with halloumi will bring just as much joy in the summertime. Brufi o by Russell Norman Russell Norman’s debut cookbook, Polpo, won the Inaugural Waterstones Book of the Year back in 2012, and anything the London restaurateur has done since has always been hotly anticipated. For his latest cookbook, Norman has turned his sights on Florence. Named after one of his London restaurants, ‘brutto’ is the Italian word for ugly, and references the Italian expression, ‘brutto ma buono’ – ugly but good. Tuscan cuisine is known for meat, offal, game and beans, Norman explains in the introduction – and these are all represented in the cookbook, albeit with a few more veggie options than you might see in a traditional Florentine kitchen. You’ll learn a lot about food in Florence from Brutto – such as the city’s passion for wine bars, where antipasti such as coccoli (fried dough balls served with prosciutto and soft cheese) and deep-fried courgette fl owers are served. Some of the recipes are Italian classics you’ll know about – such as tagliatelle with ragù and asparagus risotto – and others are more unusual, deeper dives into Italian cuisine – think Florentine-style fried chicken or an oven-baked spinach dish cooked with eggs, cream, Parmesan and a dash of nutmeg. Tuscan food is largely known as peasant food – meaning it’s relatively cheap and easy to make, while still being packed full of fl avour. JAMES MARTIN’S VALENCIA BEANS AND RED PRAWNS RECIPE Serves 2 A simple seafood dish inspired by the chef’s travels around Spain. “Located on the east coast, the 2,000-year-old city of Valencia boasts wide sandy beaches, striking architecture, a buzzing food scene and culture,” says James Martin. “It has its own language (a dialect of Catalan) and unique cuisine, with a focus on rice, seafood and meat. This dish showcases red prawns on a bed of white beans and vegetables.” Ingredients: 75ml olive oil, plus extra for drizzling 2 garlic cloves, chopped 1 onion, diced 1⁄4 leek, diced 1⁄2 carrot, peeled and diced 1⁄4 green pepper, cored, deseeded and diced 3 bay leaves 2 whole smoked chilli peppers (or a pinch of chilli fl akes) 300g cooked butter beans Splash of white wine Small bunch of fl at-leaf parsley, chopped 8 red prawns, split lengthways Sea salt Method: 1 If you want to use a BBQ, heat a BBQ until hot and the coals are white. 2 Heat a medium paella pan and, when hot, add the oil, then add the garlic, all the vegetables, the bay leaves and the smoked peppers. Cook for two

56 WOMANSWAY.IE to three minutes, then stir in the beans, 50mls of water and the wine and cook for three to four minutes. Season with salt and finish with the parsley. 3 Meanwhile, pop the prawns onto the BBQ, drizzle with oil and season with salt, then cook for two to three minutes until charred, turning once or twice. Alternatively, grill on high for three to four minutes. 4 To serve, remove the smoked peppers (if using) from the beans and then pile the prawns on top of the beans and drizzle with extra olive oil if desired. THE HAIRY BIKERS’ CHOCOLATE ECLAIR RECIPE Makes about 8-12 A classic pastry recipe you’ll want to master. “Possibly everyone’s top teatime pleasure, eclairs are a bit of work, but are so worth it,” say Dave Myers and Si King. “Just picture yourself biting into that beautiful choux pastry filled with cream and spread with chocolate.” Ingredients: For the choux pastry: 115g plain flour 100g butter 2tsp caster sugar 1tsp vanilla extract Pinch of salt 3 eggs, well beaten 1tbsp icing sugar For the filling: 300ml double cream 1tbsp icing sugar ½tsp vanilla extract For the chocolate glaze: 100g dark chocolate (or 50g dark chocolate and 50g milk chocolate) 50g whipping cream 50g butter 25g golden syrup Method: 1 Preheat the oven to 180°C/Fan 160°C/Gas 4 and line two baking trays with baking parchment. Sift the flour on to another piece of baking parchment. 2 Put the butter, sugar, and vanilla extract in a pan with 225mls of water and a generous pinch of salt. Heat gently until the butter has melted and the sugar has dissolved, then turn up the heat until the mixture is boiling. Remove the pan from the heat. 3 Pull up the sides of the baking parchment and slide the flour into the butter and sugar mixture. Stir the flour into the wet ingredients to form a thick paste which should come away from the sides of the pan in one solid mass. Put the pan back over a gentle heat and continue stirring with a wooden spoon for two or three minutes, until the mixture is slightly steaming and leaves a floury residue on the base of the pan. 4 Leave to cool for a couple of minutes, then beat for a couple of minutes more. You can then transfer the dough to a stand mixer or use electric beaters if you prefer. You will see steam escape from the dough at this point. Keep beating until the steam has subsided. 5 Gradually work in the eggs, just a couple of tablespoons at a time, until you have a thick glossy dough – it needs to be quite stiff and firm enough for you to draw your finger through it without the sides falling back in. The dough initially breaks up a lot, but eventually it will come together again. 6 Fit a large star or plain round nozzle into a piping bag and scoop the dough into the bag. If you don’t have a nozzle, simply snip off the end of the bag off – the hole should be about 2.5cm wide. 7 Pipe tiny amounts of the dough under the corners of the baking parchment on the trays to keep the parchment in place. For large eclairs, pipe eight lines of dough, as evenly as possible, on to the baking trays, making each one about 15cm long. To make sure they don’t spread to an oval shape, pipe them slightly wider at each end. To make slightly smaller eclairs, pipe 12 lines of about 10cm long. Wet your fingers and smooth out the ends of the eclairs if peaks have formed. If you haven’t used a star nozzle, run a fork along the length of each one. 8 Dust the eclairs with the icing sugar – this will help them darken and crisp up in the oven. Bake for 25 minutes by which time they should have formed a crust. Use a skewer to poke holes in each end of the eclairs so steam can escape from their centres, then continue to bake for another eight to 10 minutes. Turn the oven off and leave the door ajar. Leave the eclairs in the oven for about half an hour – this will help make sure they are crisp all the way through. 9 To make the filling, whip the cream until it is stiff, then fold in the icing sugar and vanilla extract. Chill for half an hour. 10 For the glaze, put the chocolate, cream, butter and golden syrup into a bowl over a saucepan of simmering water. Melt together gently to make a fairly thin ganache. 11 To fill the eclairs, cut three holes in the base of each one. Fill a piping bag with the cream and pipe it into the holes. Squeeze the eclairs lightly – they should feel nicely full. Dip each filled eclair in the chocolate glaze – this gives a much better coverage than trying to spread it – then leave them in the fridge to set. These are best eaten on the same day they are made as the pastry will eventually soften, but they will keep for up to 48 hours. RUSSELL NORMAN’S SPINACH AND RICOTTA DUMPLINGS RECIPE Serves 4

RECIPES WOMANSWAY.IE 57 A simple yet delicious Florentine dish. “Gnudi translates as ‘naked’, as these little dumplings are the most nude and simple form of homemade pasta you can make,” says Russell Norman. “The combination of spinach and ricotta is a very traditional marriage and appears in much of the pasta of the region, in ravioli and crespelle for example. It’s a very satisfying process, and easy enough for children to help with in the kitchen if you want to encourage an early interest in Italian cooking for little chefs.” Ingredients: 500g baby spinach leaves, washed 50g ‘00’ fl our 250g ricotta 1 large free-range egg, beaten 150g grated Parmesan Flaky sea salt Black pepper ½tsp freshly grated nutmeg 250g semolina 100g butter A large handful of sage leaves Method: 1 Steam the spinach for three minutes over a large pan of boiling water. Thoroughly drain and squeeze to remove the excess water, then chop the leaves fi nely. Set aside. 2 Mix the fl our with the ricotta in a large bowl until it resembles lumpy breadcrumbs. Stir in the egg and two-thirds of the Parmesan. Add a pinch of salt, a twist of black pepper, the nutmeg and then add the spinach. Combine thoroughly with a wooden spoon or with your hands. 3 Put half the semolina into a bowl and shake the rest on to a baking sheet or a tray. Take small lumps of the fl our, egg and spinach mixture and form them into small balls by rolling them between your palms, to the size of large olives. Turn each ball through the bowl of semolina, then place on the tray you’ve prepared with the rest of the semolina. When fi nished, you should have 24–30 little balls. 4 Fill a very large pan with water and bring to a rolling boil. Place the gnudi in the boiling water as quickly as possible, bringing it back to the boil on the highest heat, and continue to simmer for about three minutes. 5 Meanwhile, in a small saucepan over a medium heat, melt the butter and add the sage leaves. When it bubbles, reduce to a very low heat. This should take no more than two minutes, while the gnudi are cooking. 6 The gnudi will fl oat to the surface when they are ready. Turn off the heat, remove them with a slotted spoon and drain the excess water on kitchen paper. Place on four warmed plates, pour the butter and sage over the top, then evenly distribute the remaining Parmesan. Add a fl ourish of black pepper. WW

58 WOMANSWAY.IE BOOSTING FOODS Celebrity nutritionist Gabriela Peacock, who counts Joan Collins and Jodie Kidd among her clients, reveals the hero foods your body needs. Immune- “Kombucha is just a nice alternative when you get a bit bored of drinking water. Most of them are really, really low in sugar.” 2 Green tea “This would be one of my hero drinks, especially over this period of the year because tea is nice and warming. Green tea contains catechins which are polyphenols,” explains Peacock. “Polyphenols are phytochemicals – plant chemicals that have numerous health benefi ts. One of the main benefi ts is immunomodulating properties which stimulate our immune system and decrease the chronic infl ammation. supports the healthy microbiome – and the healthy microbiome will in turn support our immunity.” They also contain protein. “Protein is really important for any kind of repair within the body, so when you have a cold, when you scratch your arm, when you need more hormones to be produced.” How to add it: Peacock recommends using live yoghurt as a base for homemade ice cream with a dash of agave syrup. “Sauerkraut goes really nicely with any kind of rich foods, which is what we tend to eat around this time, quite heavy and oily meals, sauerkraut cuts through it,” she says. Nutritionist to the stars Gabriela Peacock has revealed the immuneboosting foods to get into your diet this winter, if you want to starve off dreaded colds and bugs. 1 Fermented food “Digestion support is incredibly important for immunity – 70 to 80 per cent of our immunity actually lies within a digestive system,” says Peacock, whose celebrity clients include Joan Collins and Jodie Kidd. She recommends eating live yoghurts, kefi r, kombucha, sauerkraut, kimchi and tofu. “They directly increase the benefi cial bacteria in your intestine, which

FOOD WOMANSWAY.IE 59 By Lauren Taylor, PA Basically, when you’re looking at the immunity, you want to decrease the infl ammation.” How to add it: “A really good tip is to put lemon in green tea – you increase the absorption of the catechins, plus it gets rid of the bitter taste. Don’t make the tea too hot because the heat will kill the vitamin C.” Matcha tea – powdered green tea – is another great way to get the nutrients but is higher in caffeine. “I would recommend thinking about it as a caffeine supplement [to coffee],” she says. 3 Pigmented fruits “We are looking for the dark pigments, as they will contain the polyphenols that will directly stimulate the immunity. So think about black blackberries, red raspberries, red peppers, green kale, orange or yellow pumpkins. If you see these saturated colours, they are really benefi cial. “Eat the rainbow – beige food is not good for us. The pigment is the polyphenol.” How to add it: “I would recommend doing smoothies because you are keeping the fi bre inside [as opposed to juicing]. If you’re doing smoothies I always recommend adding some greens that are lying in your fridge. You will not taste it at all but you increase your colours, you increase your fi bre,” Peacock says. “I don’t dislike juicing but I would never have juice on an empty stomach. You should have it with foods or have it after foods. Think of it as more of a vitamin boost, as opposed to food.” You can buy supplements of red and green superfood powder too, which she recommends adding to smoothies, live yoghurt or soup. 4 Omega-3-packed fi sh, nuts and seeds “Essential fatty acids are incredibly important – the reason they’re called essential is because your body cannot produce them by itself, you Gabriela Peacock’s latest book, 2 Weeks to a Younger You is published by Kyle Books, priced €28. Available now. need to obtain them by diet,” says Peacock. “Omega-9 and omega-6 we tend to be OK with [obtaining] but most people struggle with omega-3 because we just don’t eat enough of it. This would be oily fi sh; salmon, mackerel, sardines, a bit of tuna, also a vegetarian source; nuts and seeds. “We need at least three to four portions of oily fi sh per week in order to cover your basic baseline.” Seeds, in particular, are really high in omega-3, says Peacock. “Pumpkin seeds, sunfl ower seeds, fl ax seeds, hemp seeds, also a nice variety of nuts is important. “Omega-3 is directly anti-infl ammatory. They’re also important for our skin, our hair, our hormonal balance, for the way our cells communicate with each other. But the prevention of chronic infl ammation is one of the main benefi ts.” How to add it: “You know what’s really good and really cheap – mackerel and sardines in a can. They’re kind of unattractive but I absolutely love them. You can get mackerel in a spicy tomato sauce [in a tin] – absolutely delicious.” She suggests tinned sardines on toast, keeping bowls of seeds on your kitchen counter to add to everything (especially soups and porridge) and carrying nuts in your handbag. “Food source would be preferential but you can get supplements of omega-3 – 99 per cent of my clients need supplementation.” 5 Garlic Garlic contains sulphur (as do onions, leeks and eggs). “Sulphur is incredibly important because it stimulates the liver detoxifi cation processes and that, in turn, will have a really positive effect on immunity,” Peacock says. How to add it: “I would add it into everything really – include it as much as possible. With garlic, you only release the sulphur-containing compounds when you crush it, so it does need to be crushed down and not cooked for too long. Add garlic very last minute. The cooking process helps for the absorption, but if you overcook it, if you deep-fry garlic, it will defi nitely reduce its properties.” 6 Cruciferous vegetables Cruciferous vegetables – including broccoli, caulifl ower, cabbage, Brussel sprouts and kale – are really important for immunity, Peacock says, and it’s “probably the best liversupporting group of vegetables”. They contain liver-friendly sulphur, polyphenols and are high in fi bre – which is “fantastic for digestion” (immunity and digestion are very much linked). How to add it: Include different kinds in your Sunday roasts, she suggests. “If you don’t like the taste or texture of cabbage or kale, I suggest cutting them into small pieces – you get the same benefi ts and you don’t notice the texture.” 7 Citrus Vitamin C is very important this time of year. “It’s a direct antioxidant to fi ght free radicals, which is essentially what makes us sick. If you increase antioxidants in your diet, you’re increasing the protection, you’re giving your immune system protection,” Peacock says.”Grapefruit is high in vitamin C.” How to add it: “If you want to increase your hydration add a teeny bit of grapefruit juice to a lot of other water,” she suggests, “I use it for the kids’ water bottles. It’s important for it to be fresh [citrus] so you can get as much vitamin C as possible.” WW Sardines on toast Sauerkraut

60 WOMANSWAY.IE To enter, please answer the following question: WHERE CAN YOU SHOP THE FULL CND COLLECTION? HOW TO ENTER Email your answer by January 1 to: womansway@harmonia. ie including your name, address and telephone number and labelling your mail ‘The CND Nails Competition’ This Woman's Way competition is open to anyone resident in NI and the Republic of Ireland, aged 18 and over, except employees and their families of Harmonia Publishing, its printers and anyone else connected with the competition. No purchase is necessary. We will only accept one competition entry per reader. Prizes are awarded by drawing entries after the closing date. Winners will be notifi ed by email. The editor’s decision is fi nal. Five lucky readers will win a CND hamper worth €100 each, including the new Winter 2023 Vinylux collection Magical Botany and the CND Christmas Sets. This cherished festive season presents us with an opportunity to refl ect on the year behind us and look optimistically to the next. Surrounded by technology and immersed in virtual realms, individuals are drawn to the power of nature like never before and CND's new collection perfectly encapsulates this renewed appreciation. You can shop the full CND collection on millies.ie COMPETITION WIN A NAIL CARE HAMPER FROM CND

WOMANSWAY.IE 61 FOOD By Yolanthe Fawehinmi, PA Experts share their tips for making more conscious food choices. Anew study has found that graphic health warnings similar to those seen on cigarette packets could help the environment and reduce meat consumption. Researchers at Durham University suggested that reminders highlighting the impact meat farming has on global warming would help consumers make healthier food choices and reduce their carbon footprint. Warnings about future pandemics, health risks and climate change were tested, and they discouraged people from having a meat-based meal. Senior author on the paper, Dr Milica Vasiljevic from Durham University’s department of psychology, says: “We already know that eating a lot of meat, especially red and processed meat, is bad for your health and that it contributes to deaths from pollution and climate change. “Adding warning labels to meat products could be one way to reduce these risks to health and the environment.” If you’d like to become a more sustainable meat eater, experts explain the best way to start… Cufi ing down “If your focus is on sustainability and the environment, less meat is generally always better than sustainable meat,” explains Ed Steele, co-founder of Hoxton Farms. You can take steps towards eating more plant-based meals – perhaps by doing meatfree Mondays, or only eating meat when you’re out. “Two to three times a week is fi ne, so you can invest in quality meats,” says Mike Reid, TV personality and chef at Rare Restaurants, Gaucho and M. Eating consciously Reid stresses how important it is for people to be more responsible in the way they consume meat. “The best way is to know where your meat comes from,” he says. “That’s the biggest impact a consumer can make. I’m an advocate for regenerative farming and beef. Knowing it has been reared in an ethical and sustainable way is important. “It’s not the consumers’ fault that the majority can only purchase their meat from supermarkets, which provides a more costeffective offering to customers. “So there’s no judgement on the consumer. But the cheaper something is – across the entire food chain – the more corners have been cut. It’s never usually good for you.” If you’re buying meat from the supermarket, Reid advises taking a closer look: “When there is no specifi c label you probably don’t want to know where it comes from.” He recommends buying from a butcher shop, and says: “It could sometimes be cheaper. Or you can also buy great meat online, too. It’s not easy to eat consciously, so it is about planning, just like anything in life.” Choosing wisely “When choosing animal proteins, eat more chicken, eggs and pork, which are generally more environmentally friendly than dairy, beef, and lamb,” Steele says – or better yet, swap out “with other protein sources, like peas and legumes”. Reid says he’s a proponent for eating less popular meats, like goat, as well as alternative cuts. “We need to look beyond beef and the prime cuts such as rump, fi llet, sirloin and rib eye. We also have the skirt and shin, great for slow braising,” he says. Reid grew up in a Caribbean home where he learnt to “respect the whole animal”. He says: “We had our own chickens and we ate every bit of it. I think we’ve lost that bit in society.” WW graphic health Durham University steps towards eating more plant-based meals – perhaps by doing meatsupermarkets, which provides a more costeffective offering to Choosing wisely “When choosing animal proteins, eat more chicken, eggs and pork, friendly than dairy, beef, and Ed Steele Mike Reid SUSTAINABLE MEAT EATING

62 WOMANSWAY.IE Not Just for Christmas If you have to keep replacing poinsettia, here’s how to keep it going, according to a houseplant wiz.

INDOOR GARDENING WOMANSWAY.IE 63 By Imy Brighty-Potts, PA Every Christmas you may hold out hope for your favourite festive pot plant, and yet by Easter it is long gone. Poinsettias, a South American plant, have formed part of festive celebrations in Europe for hundreds of years, yet somehow, many of us just can’t keep them going for as long as we’d like. According to Claire Bishop, senior houseplant buyer at Dobbies: “When it comes to festive plants, there aren’t any more renowned for embodying the spirit of Christmas than the beautiful poinsettia.” She adds: “This beloved houseplant is a staple during the festive period. However, it can be tricky to care for, meaning that a lot of poinsettias don’t make it very far into the New Year.” If you give them the conditions and TLC they need, you will be able to keep the festive spirit going in fl oral form until the next year. So how can we help them thrive? Choose a bright spot Bishop says: “Poinsettias like a lot of light so you should place them in a bright spot where they’ll get at least six hours of indirect sunlight per day. However, you should avoid direct sunlight as this could scorch the plant’s leaves. Being a tropical plant, poinsettias also like warmth so you should keep them away from windows and other draughty spots as this could cause the plant’s bracts to drop.” So, despite the fact it may be darker out, pop your plant by a window and move it if it gets a bit too hot. Don’t overwater When it comes to watering your poinsettias, Bishop says: “You should only water when the soil is noticeably dry to the touch. This will vary with the temperature of your home, so your plant could require watering every few days, or once a week depending on its surroundings. “Poinsettias won’t thank you for waterlogged soil, so make sure they are planted in a pot with good drainage. They also like a humid environment so a poinsettia’s leaves will benefi t from regular misting, which should prevent them from drying out when you have your heating on in winter.” Much like their natural habitat of hot and humid in the Americas, you need to recreate that as best you can. Feed your poinsefi ia To make your poinsettia last long after the festive period is but a distant memory, Bishop says you should feed it. She notes: “Your poinsettia will benefi t from monthly feedings to keep it thriving long into the New Year. Consider using a liquid plant food to fertilise your poinsettia throughout the spring and summer months to allow it to bloom again next Christmas.” Being in a pot may mean they aren’t getting all the nutrients they need so be sure to supplement that. Don’t let it get overgrown “If you are feeding your poinsettia and it is growing, in spring cut back your plant’s stems by a third, to around six inches, and remove the plant’s foliage to allow room for new growth,” she says. “In late summer, after months of growing, you will need to prune your poinsettia again to control its size ahead of the cooler months.” Repofi ing Your plant may need a bit more room to grow in. Bishop says: “In spring, if you notice your poinsettia is growing, you should repot it into a larger container to accommodate its growing size. “Make sure you use fresh potting mix with good drainage and choose a pot that’s big enough for the plant’s roots to grow.” WW “Consider using a liquid plant food to fertilise your poinsettia throughout the spring and summer months” Claire Bishop

64 WOMANSWAY.IE Holly and ivy have their place – but so do many others. How long the berries last depends on the weather and the birds, he adds, but they should hold until well after Christmas. If you bring cuttings indoors, leave it until the last minute and once in place, don’t move them until you are ready to take down the decorations. Like most shrubs, they won’t take kindly to constant central heating. If the berried cuttings are added to wreaths on front doors, they will last longer being outdoors. Favourite variety: The female green holly, Ilex aquifolium ‘Alaska’, ideal for shrubs and hedges. Silver variegated holly, Ilex ‘Argentea 1 Holly The most popular evergreen at this time of year, famed for its bright red berries and prickly leaves, holly can be found in gardens all over the country. Choose a female variety as that bears the berries (it should say on the label), because holly is dioecious, having male and female re-productive organs in separate individuals. You don’t have to buy a male and a female plant to create berries though, as chances are that wherever you plant your holly, there will be a male plant somewhere nearby and bees will transfer pollen between plants, fertilising them when they fl ower in spring. “We only grow female varieties in the nursery. I think the occasional male planting in the wild hedgerow on our boundary is enough, because there are hundreds of hollies with berries on in the nursery,” says Hankinson. Frosted winter berries should have pride of place both in the garden and home during the winter season. But which ones will last longest and provide most interest? “The importance of berried shrubs increases the more we get into winter,” says Morris Hankinson, director and founder of Hopes Grove Nurseries. “At this time of year our gardens can look a bit sorry for themselves, so now is when winter-berrying shrubs start coming into their own.” Hankinson has selected fi ve easy-togrow shrubs that are suitable for growing in your borders or in pots and will brighten up your garden too… FROSTED BERRIES Holly Pyracantha berries

GARDENING WOMANSWAY.IE 65 By Hannah Stephenson, PA Marginata’ has silver edges and red berries, while blue holly is named for for its glossy blue-green leaves and bright red berries and is extremely hardy. 2 Pyracantha “They are coming into their own, grow quickly and are hardy, and you can chop some decent-sized pieces to add to decorations. Alternatively, they will grow well in pots for a few years. Restriction of the roots drives a pyracantha to make berries,” says Hankinson. The berries – which can be red, orange or yellow – can be taken by birds but are not their favourites, he points out. “Normally, either you’ve got to have a very protracted cold snap or it’s going to be later in the winter, say February, when the birds move on to them, when all the yummy stuff like the hawthorn (berries) have gone.” If you need to trim them, prune them when the last berries have gone, which generally happens at the cusp of winter and spring. If you trim them too late, you will cut the fl owers off and you won’t get the berries. Favourite variety: “My favourite is ‘Soleil D’Or’, the yellow one, because it is so prolifi c. ‘Mohave’ is a really sturdy strong one with slightly bigger orange berries.” 3 Cotoneaster These evergreen shrubs can be used in hedging, or as wall shrubs and are ideally placed in full sun, although they will tolerate partial shade. Smaller varieties are lowgrowing and provide valuable ground cover, which will help suppress weeds. All cotoneasters produce small pink-white fl owers in summer, followed by a profusion of berries, mainly red. They can also be yellow. Favourite variety: Cotoneaster lacteus – the milk cotoneaster. “It’s the one with the most handsome foliage and a bigger leaf than others. It bears white fl owers in the spring but has these bunches of pillar box red berries, which are at their best over the festive season. It’s one of the bigger cotoneasters so you can chop bits off it without ruining it.” 4 Callicarpa This deciduous shrub has luminous violet beads, which hang on the branches. “It creeps up on you because in the summer it looks like a fairly ordinary green shrub, then you get the fi rst frost and the leaves fall off to reveal the berries which smother the stems.” Most will last fairly well into winter, Hankinson says, and are very easy to grow. They are not dioecious, so you only need one to produce berries. They produce long shoots, and you could use them as bare branches covered in berries in a fl oral decoration. They prefer sun or partial shade in reasonable soil that isn’t waterlogged in winter, or in a container with good quality potting compost. Favourite variety: ‘Profusion’ produces huge clusters of berries in mid autumn, which can be added to vases of other stems and foliage. 5 Snowberry This is a shrub which really stands out in winter, producing pink-tinged summer fl owers followed by clusters of large white berries during the colder months. “We sell them as hedging plants, but you can grow them as a shrub in a garden or as a container plant,” says Hankinson. Mingle the bare branches in with some other foliage in your festive display, he suggests. Or give them centre stage in a pot outside a front door, perhaps with an evergreen behind them. Favourite variety: “‘Mother of pearl’ is absolutely stunning. It’s pretty nondescript in the summer, but when the leaves drop off it has berries on them which are a luminous, almost candy pink colour, the size of a blueberry.” There are many new dwarf ones available if you’re short of space, he adds. WW “All cotoneasters produce small pink-white flowers in summer, followed by a profusion of berries” Callicarpa Cotoneaster Snowberry

66 WOMANSWAY.IE COMPETITION To enter, please answer the following question: WHAT IS THE NAME OF THE CONSULTANT WHO CO-FOUNDED THE HOC? HOW TO ENTER Email your answer by January 1 to: womansway@ harmonia.ie including your name, address and telephone number and labelling your mail ‘The Hoc Competition’ This Woman's Way competition is open to anyone resident in NI and the Republic of Ireland, aged 18 and over, except employees and their families of Harmonia Publishing, its printers and anyone else connected with the competition. No purchase is necessary. We will only accept one competition entry per reader. Prizes are awarded by drawing entries after the closing date. Winners will be notifi ed by email. The editor’s decision is fi nal. One lucky reader will win a €500 voucher for treatment at The Hoc. The Hoc’s highly effective treatments targeting skin, body, hormone, vaginal and sexual wellness promote optimal female health at any life stage. Medical technologies on offer include BTL Emsella, Emsculpt NEO and the EmFemme 360. The Hoc was founded by consultant Dr Hugh O’ Connor, an award-winning gynaecologist and obstetrician with over 30 years experience, along with his wife, Fiona Healy. Dr. Hugh specialises in perimenopause, menopause, HRT, intimate health, prolapse and pelvic fl oor health. The Hoc’s approach combines medical expertise with the latest medical technologies, providing carefully tailored packages to women of all ages, at every stage of their wellness journey. To book a consultation with The Hoc, call 01 564 2899 or email: hello@ thehoc.ie Win A €500 VOUCHER FOR THE HOC

GARDENING WOMANSWAY.IE 67 By Hannah Stephenson, PA When we’re all tucking into our festive dinner, spare a thought for the birds. Winter is a time when food is more scarce for our feathered friends, so serve them up Christmas leftovers to give them the extra calories to stay warm. Helen Moffat of the RSPB recommends offering birds the following festive fare to give them a winter feast… Potatoes: Roast, baked or mashed spuds will provide a festive feast for lots of garden birds. Unsalted bacon rind: If you have some rind leftover, chop it up so it’s good for birds of all sizes – but make sure it’s unsalted. Pastry: Either uncooked or cooked, and especially if it’s been made with real fat. Christmas cake: Birds love dried fruit such as raisins, sultanas and currants. Song thrushes, blackbirds and robins will fl ock to Christmas cake, but be careful if you have pets, as it can be harmful to cats and dogs. Cheese and fruit: If you have some mild cheese left over from a cheeseboard, grate it and put it out. It will be a big hit – especially with robins and dunnocks, who really appreciate the extra calories as nighttime temperatures drop. Any leftover or bruised apples or pears can be chopped up and put out to be enjoyed by tits and starlings, or even some of our visiting migratory birds such as redwings. LEFTOVERS NOT TO BE GIVEN TO BIRDS Anything with salt: Birds can’t metabolise salt, it’s toxic to them – so don’t put out any salty foods or food covered in gravy. Cooking fat: People often mistakenly think all fat is good for birds, but this type defi nitely isn’t. Leftover fat from your roast can smear on to birds’ feathers and ruin their waterproofi ng and insulating qualities. Better to save it for a stock. Avoid anything cooked and covered in oi. Cooked porridge oats: Uncooked, they’re fi ne, but once cooked they’re glutinous and sticky and prone to gumming up beaks. Milk: Birds can’t digest milk – it can make them seriously ill. Festive Bird Feed HOW TO SERVE UP Either pop food onto bird tables directly, or places you frequently see your local birds, such as fence posts. Avoid the ground, as it can attract rodents. Alternatively, you could use the leftovers to make homemade fat balls. Always use pure hard fats such as suet or lard – never oil. WW Nuts, Christmas cake and roast potatoes could all go in the mix, experts say.

68 WOMANSWAY.IE

WOMANSWAY.IE 69 CROCHET Shayla Colorblock Crochet Scarf MATERIALS REQUIRED • 4 x 100g Yarn Vibes Worsted Weight Yarn (Scarf pictured left in Vale, shades (A) Sea Foam, (B) Yewberry, (C) Silver Birch and (D) Aran) • 1 x 1/9 (5.5mm) Crochet Hook SIZE 90" x 8.5" (228cm x 22cm) after blocking and before tassels added GAUGE/TENSION 15 sts x 9 rows = 4" [10cm] worked in pattern ABBREVIATIONS T-ch = Turning chain Ch = Chain Sc = Single crochet Dc = Double crochet Rep = Repeat PATTERN NOTES - COLOUR SEQUENCE Yarn A: 15 rows Yarn B: 24 rows Yarn C: 24 rows Yarn D: 14 rows Yarn A: 24 rows Yarn B: 14 rows Yarn C: 24 rows Yarn A: 6 rows Yarn B: 12 rows Yarn D: 24 rows Yarn Vibes is a 100 per cent organic and sustainably- produced Irish wool, supportive of local producers and rural communities in Ireland. Its vibrant colours are inspired by the beauty of the Irish landscape. stitch), 1 sc in fi rst 2 sts, * ch2, skip 2 sts, l sc in next 2 sts; rep from * across, turn. Row 3: Ch3 (counts as 1 dc here and throughout), 1 dc in next st, * ch2, skip 2 ch, l dc in next 2 sts; rep from * across, turn. Row 4: Ch1, 1 sc in fi rst 2 sts, * ch2, skip 2 ch, 1 sc in next 2 sts; rep from * across, working last sc in top of t-ch, turn. Row 5: Ch3, 1 dc in next st, * ch2, skip 2 ch, 1 dc in next 2 sts; rep from * across, turn. Rows 4 & 5 form pattern and are repeated. Work in pattern for a total of 181 rows following colour sequence in pattern notes. Row 182: (fi nal row) Ch 1, 1 sc in each st across. Fasten off yarn. FINISHING Weave in all loose ends. Soak your wrap in a mild wool wash and squeeze gently by rolling in a towel. Lay project out to fi nished size and pull gently into shape. Pin in place and leave to dry. TASSEL INSTRUCTIONS Make 4 tassels as follows, 2 tassels in Yarn C and 2 tassels in Yarn D. Using a book approx. 4-6" in width, cut an 18" length of yarn and lay across top of book - this will be used to tie top of tassel. Wrap yarn around book about 24 times (depending on thickness required). Using the 18" tie, knot top of tassel tightly. Cut tassel at opposite end. Wrap another length of yarn around tassel 1.5" from top approx. 8 times and knot ends together. Trim if needed and using the tie lengths of yarn, sew securely to 4 corners of shawl. WW scarf Yewberry This easy crochet scarf is a perfect project for fi reside evenings. INSTRUCTIONS Using Yarn A and 1/9 (5.5mm) hook, chain 31. Row 1: 1 sc in 2nd ch from hook, and 1sc in each eh across, turn - 30 sc Row 2: Ch 1 (does not count as a

70 WOMANSWAY.IE COMPETITION To enter, please answer the following question: WHERE IS 30 SECONDS MADE? HOW TO ENTER Email your answer by January 1 to: [email protected] including your name, address and telephone number and labelling your mail ‘The 30 Seconds Competition’ This Woman's Way competition is open to anyone resident in NI and the Republic of Ireland, aged 18 and over, except employees and their families of Harmonia Publishing, its printers and anyone else connected with the competition. No purchase is necessary. We will only accept one competition entry per reader. Prizes are awarded by drawing entries after the closing date. Winners will be notifi ed by email. The editor’s decision is fi nal. 10 lucky readers will win a 30 Seconds board game bundle, including an adult and a junior game. 30 Seconds is the quick-thinking, fasttalking description game that is perfect for any group or family, big or small. The game is straightforward; players must describe and give hints to their teammates so that they can correctly guess as many of the names on the card as they can without using any 'sounds like' or rhyming tactics. All this, of course, has to be done in 30 seconds! Made here in Ireland, 30 Seconds is inspired by Irish and global popular culture. The names and topics that appear on the cards are those most people will be familiar with, including well-known personalities from fi lm, music, sport, as well as places, movies, shops, brands and more. Junior 30 Seconds is perfect for children and their families or classmates and uses literacy learning skills in a subtle way. For more information, visit 30seconds.ie WIN A BOARD GAME BUNDLE

HOROSCOPES WOMANSWAY.IE 71 Find out what your horoscope has in store for you in the weeks ahead with Patrick Arundell. ARIES 21 March – 20 April This looks to be a zesty festive week when you’ll want to give gifts that have that personal touch and are a little different. Plus, you may have a few pleasant surprises coming, with unexpected guests and calls. If your plans go astray, don’t let it bother you. Adopt a chilled approach as it’s all part of the fun. As the Sun eases into Capricorn, it’s time to set your intentions for 2024. TAURUS 21 April – 21 May Bold ideas can be a feature of this week, with fresh ideas and opportunities encouraging you to let go of the past and embrace bigger and better things. With festive events on the go, your mind may be very busy with preparations and arrangements. Sort out those lingering issues early so you’ll have a clear run and an easier time as the holidays approach. You deserve it, Taurus. GEMINI 22 May – 21 June Venus’ face-off with Uranus could result in tensions. If you’ve resisted connecting with someone close, making that call is important. The outcome can be a huge relief. The days ahead have a therapeutic quality that might resolve lingering issues. Conversations may be intense, but if you steer carefully you’ll be able to laugh at what recently seemed so serious. CANCER 22 June – 23 July Cut out anything that you don’t need to do, as the less you have on your plate the better. Unexpected situations could disrupt your plans, yet might result in a shift that changes things for the better. You may get bogged down at work or with holiday plans and try to be too perfect. Relax and it will all come together. Even if there are a few hiccups, it’s all part of the fun. LEO 24 July – 23 August Feel as though you’re in the middle of a drama? Themes of power and control, as well as brilliant insights and the potential for a revolution, are showing. There’s a lot going on at a very busy time of the year, so it might help to simplify things or take a philosophical approach. Despite this, there is potential for positive strides and a great opportunity to kick back and enjoy yourself. VIRGO 24 August – 23 September The Sun’s move into Capricorn increases the emphasis on fun and leisure. And yet you might still feel a tad hassled. With Venus opposing trendsetter Uranus, you’ll be ready to break with tradition and try something different this holiday week. It’s also possible someone will show up out of the blue or cancel unexpectedly. You’ll need to be fl exible and take it all in your stride. LIBRA 24 September – 23 October With so much happening, be prepared for a hectic time that brings out the best in you. Communication can be key to resolving any issue. And the right words spoken at the right time could soothe and reassure. And yet if you need to speak out, you will. The Sun’s entrance into Capricorn puts the emphasis on family events, and you’ll be the one that makes them special. SCORPIO 24 October – 22 November You may try and reason your way out of any dilemmas, but in the end it all comes down to trusting your instincts. Whatever complications you face, there is light at the end of the tunnel. This week brings the chance of a reset that gets 2024 off to a positive start. You’ll realise that certain things can’t go on as they are. The decision to embrace new options will boost morale. SAGITTARIUS 23 November – 21 December Have lastminute gifts to buy? Don’t obsess over getting this right, as a potent tie suggests you’ll never get anywhere. Choose the simplest options or make some yourself and go from there. Plus, an ongoing issue could move towards resolution as a sparky tie can fi nd you overcoming resistance and making a move. The weekend may bring you and another closer than expected. CAPRICORN 22 December – 20 January The Sun’s move into your sign means you’ll be in your element over this hectic week and keen to make your mark. Half the fun at these times is letting others chip in, so giving people space to do so will bring everyone together. The willingness to be bold and try something different could mean a creative or romantic opportunity comes to life, and you’ll be excited by its potential. AQUARIUS 21 January – 19 February A positive shift may be in the air as something you’ve hoped for looks likely to happen. There might be one hurdle to overcome, and to do so you’ll need to push through self-imposed barriers. Go for it, Aquarius, as a golden prize awaits. The weekend brings a chance to decompress and get your bearings. And Mercury’s move back in Sagittarius can coincide with a blast from the past. PISCES 20 February – 20 March The Sun’s move into your social sector lights up this zone just in time for the holidays. It’s also an opportunity to kick back and enjoy the party scene, if you want to. Still, an awkward link suggests someone could be diffi cult if you don’t invite them along or spend time with them. Sort this issue out sooner rather than later so you can enjoy yourself and revel in the week ahead. WW

ADVICE WOMANSWAY.IE 73 Columnist and trained counsellor Fiona Caine answers another set of reader dilemmas. Dear Fiona If you have a problem you need help with, email Fiona by writing to [email protected] for advice. All letters are treated in complete confidence and, to protect this privacy, Fiona is unable to pass on your messages to other readers. Fiona regrets that she cannot enter into personal correspondence. HOW DO I LET HIM KNOW I WANT TO BE MORE THAN FRIENDS? When my husband died last year, it was a huge relief. I don’t mean that nastily – he had been in pain for a long time, and I am glad he isn’t having to cope with that any more. And for my part, it wasn’t easy watching him fade away. People were very sympathetic, but I never really knew what to say to them, because ours had been a far from ideal marriage. We hadn’t been on good terms for years and lived virtually separate lives, with separate friends and interests. One of my friends was particularly supportive in my husband’s last years, and I have grown very close to him. We meet up a couple of times each week and have a coffee, a meal or see a film. He’s funny, generous with his time, and sees the best in people around him, all the things my husband wasn’t. He’s only three years older than me – I am 62 – and I wish I could get him to see that I want more than just friendship. When our time together is over, there’s always a slightly awkward moment or two when neither one of us seems to quite know what to do. Usually, we just say goodbye and go our separate ways, but occasionally he gives me a quick hug and a peck on the cheek. What I really want him to do is kiss me properly and take me home. I think I am giving all the right signals, but somehow they are not getting through. Is it possible I am misreading what’s happening here and that all he wants is to be my friend? If that’s the case, I don’t want to mess that up either by coming on too strong. S. H. FIONA SAYS: HE MAY BE WAITING FOR A CLEAR SIGN It’s not easy, sometimes, to see where platonic friendship ends and romance begins. For this reason, it sometimes needs a more obvious nudge. It’s possible that he only wants friendship, though as you’re meeting up several times a week, I think there’s a good possibility that he wants more. So, the next question becomes, what’s holding him back? There could be many reasons for this. Perhaps he thinks you are still grieving and doesn’t want to upset you by making a move. Perhaps he’s still unsure of your feelings about him and doesn’t want to get rejected. Or he might be afraid of spoiling the good friendship he already has with you. Whatever the reason, I suspect you won’t know for sure unless you give that nudge I mentioned earlier. The next time he leans in for peck, you could try turning your mouth towards him so that he kisses you there rather than on the cheek. Alternatively, when he gives you a hug, you could stay in it for a while longer than would be normal for a friend hug and see how he reacts. If these physical signals don’t work, you may have to resort to just telling him the truth; you’re attracted to him and would like a relationship. And if you do tell him how you feel, you can’t put that genie back in the bottle once it’s out. There is a risk that this is not what he wants, and that it will then make your friendship a little awkward. However, if there’s a real chance of a loving relationship here, that may be a risk worth taking. WHY WON’T MY PARTNER FINISH THE DIY? When we moved into our new flat earlier this year, my partner was keen to get all the needed DIY done himself. True to his word, he spent the next eight months doing a lot of repair work and decorating. Now, all that’s left is a lot of little jobs, but he seems to have lost all interest. We are so close and it’s frustrating to not have it finished. I have been on at him for weeks now to finish things off, but he just gets cross now and says I am nagging. I don’t enjoy making him angry, but what else can I do to get these jobs done? J. A. FIONA SAYS: MAYBE HE FEELS HE’S DONE HIS SHARE? Well, you could consider doing them yourself. From the sounds of things, your partner put in eight months of hard slog to do the bulk of the work, and perhaps he’s just had enough. Not finishing these last few things might be his, perhaps not very subtle, way of saying ‘now it’s your turn’. If the jobs are indeed simple, you should find all the advice you need on how to do them online or by chatting with someone at your local DIY store. Once you make a start, there’s every chance he might feel inclined to help anyway. Either way, there’s no need for this to be the cause of any further aggravation in your relationship. WW

74 WOMANSWAY.IE Family Life JINGLE BELLS AND BOMBSHELLS but research from Rutgers in the US found that when it comes to LGBTQ issues and grandchildren, grandparents are incredibly accepting and supportive. It found that even when grandparents previously held negative attitudes towards the LGBTQ community, they were still strongly supportive of a grandchild. In A festive family reunion can make for dramatic revelations, writes Una Rice. But what happens if not everyone’s receptive? 13-year-old announces over the turkey sandwiches, “Oh wait, I’m pansexual,” and your elderly grandfather grimaces in utter confusion? Grandparent Love We often blame older people for being more rigid in their attitudes to sexuality T here’s no doubt that younger people are far more open about their sexuality and that’s something we can all applaud. But not every family member might be quite as receptive and accepting as we’d like. What do you do when a

RELATIONSHIPS WOMANSWAY.IE 75 their sexuality with their family. It means they sense they’ll be listened to and that they trust the adults around them. If they’re talking, that means it’s a big deal to them. For their part, some family members may not be aware of LGBTQ issues and, if they are, may believe there is too much focus on sexuality. For others, the LGBTQ area can feel overwhelming, perhaps threatening. There may be topics they’re not comfortable with or eager to discuss. They may even belittle or reject outright some declarations. There may be varying degrees of bias and the language they use may not be appropriate or sensitive. Negative reactions can cause confusion, hurt and trauma for a young teen. When this is someone you know and love, you want to do everything to protect them. So, what do you do when a family member raises an eyebrow after a young teen declares they want to be known as ‘they’ rather than ‘he’ or ‘she’ because they are gender fl uid or non-binary? Do you have to battle until you’re weary to protect everyone’s feelings? If you are in the middle trying to keep the peace, some emotional armour can help. Reward Bravery It’s important to acknowledge that it’s courageous for a teenager to open up about feelings. It says something about the support they expect to get. If there’s someone at home who shuts them down, you could try appealing to their compassion by reminding the person that “Grandparents were unwilling to sever important connections with precious some cases, the support far grandchildren” surpassed that of parents. Once grandparents showed acceptance, it smoothed things over for other family members to follow suit. It showed that grandparents were unwilling to sever important connections with precious grandchildren. Confl icting Views Still, if a young teenager makes a declaration of sexuality, it can create issues with other members of the family. But let’s start with the fact that the young person feels safe enough to talk about it took bravery for the teen to speak out, and that feelings can’t just be dismissed because they don’t align with someone else’s views. Be a Port in the Storm It’s not your job to try and ensure every family member will accept LGBTQ topics. Being calm and creating a safe zone for a young person may be enough for now. This is sometimes not an easy area for families. Sadly, family estrangements have occurred. Situation Analysis Each situation is unique. A young teen might simply be exploring these subjects because it’s something their friends are talking about. Or there may be more complex situations, where rejection could have repercussions. The important thing is not to waver in your support for a teen. Be there, even if other family members aren’t. Generation Game It may be genuinely diffi cult for a grandparent to accept the reality of who their grandchild is. Perhaps they’re grieving the grandchild they thought they had. They may feel ashamed or too overwhelmed to take on information or education. You can help by reminding them that their grandchild is still the same lovely, caring person, and that grandparental support makes all the difference to mental health. Maybe they don’t realise their grandchild is counting on them. Perhaps point out that LGBTQ youth often experience social stigma, bias and bullying, more than their straight counterparts. Boundaries While you can be the port in the storm, the rational one, the listener, you also need to set boundaries, especially if you fi nd yourself managing a situation that’s stressful, toxic, or upsetting the family dynamic. Remind your teenager it’s okay for them to be themselves. Gently correct insensitive or offensive language others may use. Continue to involve everyone at family events and invite your teenager’s friends. Keeping sight of the positives is important but being there for a teenager is vital. WW

76 WOMANSWAY.IE

WELLBEING WOMANSWAY.IE 77 By Yolanthe Fawehinmi, PA I f you’re fi lled with terror at the prospect of being without your phone, you’re not alone. A new poll has found that 42 per cent of adults surveyed identify with ‘nomophobia’ – the fear of being stuck without mobile phone connectivity. According to psychologist Dr Linda Papadopoulos, nomophobia is fi rstly about “dependency”, and secondly about “slight catastrophising”. She says: “The key to having a healthier relationship with your phone is implementing values, boundaries and being self-aware when it comes to how we use our phones.” Of the 2,000 people surveyed by Sky Mobile, 23 per cent said they would rather hold a tarantula, 14 per cent said they would prefer to go swimming with sharks, and 15 per cent said sleeping in a haunted house would be better than being without 5G for an entire week. According to the research, on average, people use their phone for 14 hours per week. Here’s what you need to know about phone addiction – and how it might be impacting our wellbeing… HOW CAN WE SPOT THE SIGNS OF NOMOPHOBIA OR PHONE ADDICTION? According to Papadopoulos, it’s quite simple. “If you’re engaging and constantly checking to see where your phone is or if you’ve missed a call, [and are] worried, anxious about the possibility of missing out” – whether this is a social event or something work-related – you could have nomophobia, Papadopoulos suggests. “We’re at our most peaceful when we feel like we have control over something.” She encourages you to think about the fi rst thing you look for when you wake up or walk out the door – if it’s your phone, it could be a sign of nomophobia. “There’s also this thing where we think our phone is vibrating, and it’s not. That’s another sign too.” HAS SOCIAL MEDIA MADE IT WORSE? It’s important to understand what our phones are to us. “They’re no longer just phones, right? They are these digital prostheses, which we use to do everything from learn to work to connect,” says Papadopoulos. “In the case of things like social media, we know that a big part of our desire to be on those apps is around that sense of not just belonging – which obviously they were originally intended for – but also that sense of missing out. “So I think anything that you do, which relates to who you are, your expectations around your work, your personal life, are all going to feed into this.” HOW MIGHT IT BE IMPACTING OUR WELLBEING? “It all depends on what we are doing with our phones. If I’m sitting down doomDIGITAL OVERLOAD Psychologist Dr Linda Papadopoulos highlights how phone addiction could be harming your wellbeing. scrolling, of course it will affect how I’m feeling. That’s not great,” she suggests. “You want to own your technology instead of your technology owning you. Don’t catastrophise your mobile phones, because there are other things you can do to remain connected and it can lead to technology separation anxiety – the disproportionate sense of fear of being without your technology. “When you are talking about any sort of addiction, if it gets in the way of your day-to-day life, you start having disproportionate reactions, struggle to engage with people in real life, your sleeping pattern is non-existent or not eating your dinner, those are the sorts of things you should look out for when it comes to nomophobia. “For example, if a 12-year-old girl is posting a bunch of things on social media and sitting at her phone waiting for likes, that would be a sign of her phone affecting her mental health.” But there are also positives to mobile phones, Papadopoulos adds. “I live really far away from my family. Sometimes I even cook with my mum, even though she lives in Cyprus,” she says. HOW CAN WE START TO ADDRESS IT IF WE THINK WE HAVE A PROBLEM? “Do basic things like keeping your phone in the same place to avoid using brain power constantly looking for where it is,” Papadopoulos advises. “And don’t vilify or deify your mobile phone. It’s neither the best thing in your life or the worst. This will help you start to get a sense of control over those anxious thoughts.” If you’re concerned that your behaviour might be addictive, see your GP for help. WW

78 WOMANSWAY.IE particularly loved by Goop founder Gwyneth Paltrow) and celebs like Kim Kardashian and Anne Hathaway are said to enjoy lymphatic massages. And it goes back even further than celebrity wellness fads – gua sha massages are an ancient Chinese technique, where a targeted tool sculpts your face and encourages lymphatic drainage. The Body Ballancer is the high-tech version of this and promises a great deal of benefits. FINDING A BALANCE What the Jennifer Aniston-approved lymphatic drainage treatment is really like. increasing favourite among celebrities, including Paris Hilton, Chrissy Teigen and Dame Kelly Holmes. Part of the immune system, the lymphatic system is the thin tubes and lymph nodes that run throughout the body. Lymphatic drainage massage encourages excess fluid out and the movement of lymph fluids around the body. It isn’t a new concept – you can do it at home with a dry body brush (as When Jennifer Aniston reveals any of her wellness secrets, the world listens. In a picture gallery posted on Instagram titled ‘Summertime photo dump’ in September, the Friends star, 54, uploaded a photo in strangelooking inflatable trousers with wires coming out of them. It’s the Body Ballancer – a lymphatic drainage treatment that’s becoming an

WELLBEING WOMANSWAY.IE 79 By Prudence Wade, PA A major benefi t of lymphatic drainage treatment is to help keep your immune system fi ring on all cylinders, said Libi Roos, health and skincare aesthetic practitioner at the PHI Clinic. “If your lymphatic system is pumping and working as it should, then your immunity will be quite high – so it’s directly proportional to a healthy immune system,” she suggested. But high-tech normally means high prices, and that’s certainly the case with the Body Ballancer. Prices for one treatment at a clinic start can set you back over €100, and if you want to follow the celebrity trend of having your own at home, the Body Ballancer Gold is in the thousands. According to Roos, it’s become such a celebrity favourite because they want to get rid of excess fl uid before hitting the red capret. She claimed: “If you’ve got it at home and you use it daily or at least fi ve times a week, you will see a reduction in cellulite – without a shadow of a doubt.” WHAT IS IT LIKE TO TRY? The Body Ballancer comes in two parts – a leg suit and a jacket – I tried the same as Aniston, which is basically a huge pair of infl atable trousers zipped up over your stomach. The suit is plugged into a large machine and gets to work – essentially compressing different areas of your body. It’s a slightly weird feeling, having your “I try the same as Aniston, which is basically a huge pair of inflatable trousers zipped up over your stomach” legs squeezed – I chose the deep tissue mode on the highest setting. It wasn’t for the faint of heart, and at times felt like my eyes were going to pop out, which sounds unpleasant, but it wasn’t – I could really feel my muscles relaxing as it worked. Roos, who used to be a triathlete, said it’s great for recovery if you work out a lot. “It will get all the lactic acid out of your system, help the muscles, relax the muscles,” she said – noting one of her trainers used to “insist on this for recovery”. This I certainly felt – I had lifted weights that morning, and my legs felt immediately lighter afterwards, and next day Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness was signifi cantly reduced. It also taps into the current health craze for all things to do with your gut, as it also gives you a stomach massage. Roos suggested it’s benefi cial for gut health because it is “actively working on your colon”, which is “so important, especially when we get older” – and particularly for women. “If we get pregnant, our gut health gets completely messed up because the baby rests on your colon, and then perimenopause, menopause – the hormones sometimes block your gut.” As for the other benefi ts? One try isn’t really enough to tell if it will help me dodge all the colds and fl u around at the moment. Roos said you should ideally be using it three times a week, which she admitted is “a bit of a stretch” for most people. In the realm of celebrity wellness trends – spanning from the sublime (like meditation or cold therapy) to the ridiculous (looking at you, jade eggs), this is defi nitely on the more enjoyable end of the spectrum, leaving my body feeling like I’d just had a deep tissue massage. If I had the dual luxuries of time and money, I probably would go in for regular lymphatic drainage treatments – just to see if it really is all it’s cracked up to be. But for now, I’m going to eat a few more oranges and hope my immune system pulls through this winter. WW

80 WOMANSWAY.IE Ever felt down or in poor form when the weather is bad? Does the rain make you feel glum? Or maybe it’s the darkness of this time of year that gets to you? When the weather changes, it can have a signifi cant impact on your mood and mental state. “Most people feel brighter in the summer due to the vitamin D and serotonin that sunshine brings. So cold weather, dark nights and a quieter life will make us feel low. That’s perfectly normal and nothing to worry about,” suggested Smriti Joshi, lead psychologist at Wysa. “When this impacts your life, it’s referred to as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).” The HSE estimates about seven per cent of the population experiences SAD. “At the same time, there’s no doubt that the cost-of-living crisis and affording the fuel and food to keep us warm will be increasing anxiety. “This can make you feel tired, cause muscle aches, as well as [making you feel] stressed and sad. Circadian rhythms can get affected as summer ends, due to days getting shorter, and could lead to people experiencing sleep disturbances at night and feeling lethargic in the day.” WHAT IMPACT CAN IT HAVE? According to Dr Jon Van Niekerk, group clinical director at Cygnet Health Care, other symptoms include irritability, low sex drive and a lack of energy. SAD can also make it diffi cult for a person to carry out simple day-to-day tasks, such as getting out of bed in the morning. “We don’t fully understand what causes SAD, but there has been a lot of research exploring how daylight can infl uence our mood, appetite and wakefulness,” said Niekerk. “The main theory is that a lack of sunlight during shorter Health FEELINGS FORECAST Here’s how the change in seasons might have an impact on your mood and mental state. getting out of bed in the morning. “We don’t fully understand what Smriti Joshi

HEALTH WOMANSWAY.IE 81 By Yolanthe Fawehinmi, PA autumn and winter days can affect a part of the brain called the hypothalamus. It’s the hypothalamus that controls the production of serotonin, the production of melatonin, and the body’s internal clock – which in turn infl uences our mood, appetite, and wakefulness. When these functions are thrown off-kilter, it can lead to symptoms of SAD.” WHAT CAN YOU DO TO COMBAT THE CHANGES IN YOUR MOOD? This time of year can be great for resetting, refl ecting and recharging – and there are certain things you can do to boost your mood, even if the weather is grim. Tina Woods, health expert and CEO of Business for Health, suggested adopting a regular exercise routine – along with some “Socialising is effective for mental health and wellbeing, especially in those winter months when serotonin levels are lower” Dr Jon Van Niekerk other lifestyle tweaks. “By incorporating 30 minutes into your daily routine, you can activate your neurotransmitters, in turn, boosting your mood. This doesn’t have to be strenuous gym classes. Build in small changes that can have a big impact, such as jumping off the bus a stop early and walking, or walking up the escalators or stairs when you have the choice,” Woods said. “Socialising is extremely effective for mental health and wellbeing [too], especially in those winter months when serotonin levels are likely to be lower. Try not to isolate yourself and stay cooped in, due to rainy weather. By socialising with peers, keeping in touch with friends and family or even making an effort to commit to a company-wide social event, you can help ward off the effects of bad weather. “Food is [also] closely linked to our mood and sleeping habits. That’s why it’s crucial to maintain a healthy diet to prevent the impact of the weather on your mood. Vitamin D is known as the ‘sunshine vitamin’ as your body can make it by absorbing natural sunshine and through the foods you eat. This includes mushrooms, milk, eggs and fi sh such as salmon and tuna fi sh.” If you want to adopt some positive new habits, Niekerk recommends ‘habit stacking’. He said: “The idea is simple: if you’re trying to incorporate a new habit into your routine, then ‘combine’ it with another habit that you enjoy or fi nd easy.” Otherwise, he added: “There’s light therapy: you can also use a special lamp (called a ‘light box’) to simulate exposure to sunlight. “If it gets really bad, you can try talking therapy. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) or counselling can also be a great help if you’re struggling with your mental health in the winter months.” If you are really struggling, book an appointment with your GP or call the Samaritans helpline on 116 123. WW

82 WOMANSWAY.IE system is for – and looking on the positive side, the more you tickle up your immune system, the healthier it is. In a way, you’re stimulating your immune system to be healthy.” ANTIBIOTICS CAN BE HARMFUL IF YOU DON’T ACTUALLY NEED THEM If symptoms are proving tougher to tolerate, it can be tempting to try antibiotics. But COUGH AND COLD TIPS From home remedies to a GP-approved herbal remedy, this is how doctors suggest dealing with colds. GETTING ILL IS NOT ALWAYS TERRIBLE Nobody enjoys having a cold, of course. But GP and TV medic Dr Hilary Jones says we can’t always “prevent exposure to viruses, especially in winter when people fl ock together for warmth indoors”. And if symptoms are mild, we probably don’t need to worry too much. “Let your own immune system deal with it,” says Jones. “That’s what your immune Already feel like you’ve had your fi ll of sore throats, coughs and stuffy heads this winter? Colds may be common and minor – but they can still leave you feeling rotten, not to mention being a major inconvenience. They aren’t really something you want to be traipsing to the GP surgery with however – but wouldn’t it be helpful to know what your doctor really thinks about managing winter ailments? We asked them… Dr Hilary Jones

HEALTH WOMANSWAY.IE 83 By Abi Jackson, PA while there are certainly times when antibiotics are vital, they only work for bacterial infections, so taking them when you have a viral infection (i.e. a cold) is not only futile, but could cause harm. “Often, both clinicians and patients will be tempted to try antibiotics, even when there is little-to-no chance of them helping – ‘just in case’ and often accompanied with the reasoning of ‘what harm can it do?’,” says Dr Tom Jenkins, GP and developer of Centoreze Pelargonium. “We are now beginning to appreciate that there is potential harm at an individual level,” Jenkins adds. “There are more bacterial cells in the human body than human cells, and most of those bacterial cells are helpful and essential for healthy functioning. Because antibiotics are not selective and do not single out just bad bacteria, taking them upsets our bacterial microbiome, and we are now starting to learn about the subtle and sometimes lasting consequences of this.” Another major concern is bacteria becoming resistant to antibiotics – which the World Health Organisation (WHO) describes as one of the biggest threats to global health today. Tackling this is complex but on an individual level, WHO guidelines suggest people only use antibiotics when suitable. SOOTHING HOME REMEDIES ARE WORTH IT Jones, who is working with Manuka Doctor also points out: “If you do get sick, comforting symptomatic relief is really important, starting with the simple things. I’m an advocate of manuka honey – the genuine manuka honey from New Zealand, which carries a number for the antibacterial activity, the MGO methylglyoxal.” As well as its antibacterial properties, Jones says it’s “soothing for throats” and can provide an “energy boost” – plus his 97-year-old mother is a fan. “Not only does she put it in her porridge, she puts it on her skin for a few lesions that she has – perfectly well-endorsed by the district nurse who comes to visit her as well. “You can also put honey in a grog, in hot water, with a bit of lemon, a bit of cinnamon – that’s something our grandmothers used to use, and to good effect.” DIET AND LIFESTYLE DO PLAY A PART “Diet is always important,” says Jones. “A healthy lifestyle does protect us and helps our immune system. Clearly there are obvious things not to do – smoking and excess alcohol – as well as poor nutrition. “We know vitamin D is important for good immune health, and there are many people who are deficient in vitamin D, who should be taking a supplement as recommended by the WHO, particularly through winter,” Jones adds (when there isn’t enough sunlight in this part of the world for our bodies to make sufficient amounts). “So vitamin D, adequate vitamin C, zinc, and sometimes things like garlic and echinacea can be helpful in making sure your immune system is healthy.” While a balanced diet comes first, Jones believes “it’s always worth considering a multivitamin, which gives you a little bit of everything, particularly if your diet is restricted or selective in any way or if you’ve got extra needs”, he adds. “But healthy eating, plenty of fruit and vegetables, adequate protein, exercising moderately and avoiding pollutants and cigarettes – those are the main things.” CHECK IN WITH YOUR DOCTOR IF YOU’RE CONSTANTLY RUNDOWN Still feel like nothing seems to help? Then it may be time to check in with your doctor. “If you’re concerned that you have any possible underlying medical problem, I would always advise discussing matters with your GP,” says Jenkins. “Sometimes recurrent infections can be a sign of an underlying infection, but sometimes they can be because you are rundown. Your GP is ideally placed here because they have your medical record, are able to look into things in more detail, and can follow up.” WW “We know vitamin D is important for good immune health, and there are many people who are deficient in vitamin D”

84 WOMANSWAY.IE expensive clothes than I did.” Dropping just in time for party season, Ora described the second collection – which features LBDs and sparkly co-ords, alongside sharp tailoring and vinyl trench coats – as “a little bit more elevated, a bit more mature”, and said designing clothing was similar to making music: “It’s like putting out an album for me. It’s always very nerve-wracking and exciting.” At a time when fast fashion labels are coming under increasing scrutiny for their environmental impact, the singer-turned-designer said she was impressed by Primark Cares, the brand’s ethics and sustainability programme. “I think something that A DESIGN FOR LIFE coats – as “a little bit more elevated, a bit more mature”, and said designing clothing was similar to making music: “It’s like putting out an album for me. It’s always very nerve-wracking and exciting.” At a time when fast fashion labels are coming under increasing scrutiny for their environmental impact, the singer-turned-designer said she was impressed by Primark Cares, the brand’s ethics and sustainability programme. “I think something that Rita Ora is collaborating with high-street behemoth Primark. Masked Singer on both sides of the Atlantic, and as a coach on The Voice Australia. Despite working with a variety of luxury fashion brands throughout her career, she chose to partner with a high street retailer in light of the cost-of-living crisis. “When I had this idea of doing something with Primark, I wanted to establish the story, the connection, the fact that I wore them to school,” explained the pop star, who was born in Kosovo but moved to London with her family while she was still a baby. “Going there when I was growing up, and trying on outfi ts and fi nding looks [made me feel] like I was worthy to be in the same room as people that may have had more Rita Ora says working with Primark on an affordable fashion collaboration has made her “grateful” for how far she’s come since her teenage days, shopping in the brand’s Hammersmith store. “Everyone has their struggles, and I think at the time I didn’t know any different,” said the singer-songwriter, 32, who has achieved global success. “I had nothing to compare it to, but now I’m in this position, it’s something that has made me very grateful for what I do today.” Signed by Jay Z’s record label Roc Nation at the age of 18 (they’ve since parted ways), Ora released her debut album in 2012 and has had four number one singles in the UK. She has also featured as a judge on The

IN PERSON WOMANSWAY.IE 85 By Katie Wright, PA Fashion and Beauty Editor Primark don’t scream from the rooftop is that they’ve been doing a lot with sustainability,” said Ora, who explained that recycled materials were used in the production of her range. “All my jeans are Primark Cares, and every basic… That is something that we do very seriously.” Her party season pick from the range? “It’s probably the black hooded dress,” said Ora, who will be travelling to New Zealand for Christmas with her husband, fi lmmaker Taika Waititi, 48, who hails from the Antipodean country: “Me and Taika and the family are going to actually go and have a sunny Christmas.” After becoming friends in 2018, the pair started dating in 2021 when they were both working in Australia, and married the following year in Los Angeles. “It’s just really about spending quality time together,” Ora added of their festive plans. “That tradition is something we take really seriously. We try wherever we are to fl y and be together, because time goes by really fast.” Despite being in the showbiz spotlight for more than a decade, the singer is still surprised by the amount of attention they get when they’re out and about together. For instance, when they attended the Rugby World Cup fi nal in Paris and were pictured on TV: “There was so many people there and way bigger names than me, so it was really, really a surprise when everyone was texting me, being like, ‘Did we just see you at the Rugby World Cup?'” The famous fan loved the experience: “I did catch on to the rules during the game, and Taika gave me a quick lowdown the night before,” she said over the phone from Bulgaria, on her way to visit Waititi on set: “Taika’s shooting something, so I thought I’d come down for the day and say hi.” Having directed her own music videos, the multi-talented star would like to follow in the footsteps of her husband, who won an Academy Award in 2020 for Jojo Rabbit, the fi lm he wrote and directed. “I think it’s really cool. It’s another way to express yourself creatively. I love what he does. I’m such a fan of his and he’s so great at it. So I learn a lot as well just by being [on set]. With husband Taika Waititi at the 2023 Vanity Fair Oscar party “I’ve just taken up running at the gym. I’ve never been like a runner type person. I liked how I felt and I wanted to keep doing it ” He’s really, really inspiring,” she said. Speaking of future plans, as well as music, fi lm and TV projects slated for 2024, the healthconscious star wants to improve her running technique next year. “I’ve just taken up running at the gym. I’ve never been like a runner type person. I liked how I felt and I wanted to keep doing it,” Ora revealed. “In the past two years, I’ve been focusing on my health way more. I think when you travel so much, at some point you have to really start factoring in all the stress it puts on your body and all the boring stuff.” But she’s still leaving a bit of room for festive fun: “Going to sleep, drinking water, behaving… and then having fun on picked nights. That’s like my life now.” WW

86 WOMANSWAY.IE By Abi Jackson, PA When Julia Bradbury got home from hospital after her double mastectomy, she sat down and made a promise to herself – which she’s stuck by ever since. “The first thing I did was sit outside in my garden. It was October, I was very lucky there was a bit of winter sunshine,” recalls the presenter and author, who underwent the surgery, along with reconstruction, weeks after being diagnosed with breast cancer in late 2021. “I sat on my garden bench and lapped up the light and listened to the birds, and I made a promise to myself that I would be outside every single day of my life from that day forward, come rain or shine.” Despite already being known for her love of being active in the outdoors – appearing on the likes of BBC One’s Countryfile, and with a string of TV shows and books on walking under her belt – Bradbury, who has three children (son Zephyr, 12, and twin daughters, Xanthe and Zena, eight) with husband Gerard Cunningham, says cancer made her “re-examine” her “entire lifestyle”. The 53-year-old explains: “It’s one of the most shocking things you can ever hear in your lifetime, when you hear the words, ‘You’ve got cancer’, it just blows your world apart. But I’m happy to say that two-and-ahalf years on the other side of my diagnosis, I am doing very well. “I’ve taken a brand-new approach to my health, which has been to re-examine my entire lifestyle and look at every aspect of my life – from the way I sleep to the way that I spend my downtime, the food I eat, the way I exercise, and how much time I spend outside, which actually wasn’t enough. “Even though I’m that woman on the telly that does all the walking – walking across borders and landscapes – what I realised was, I didn’t have very good habits. Although these are things I was doing regularly and I’m genuinely passionate about, I wasn’t building them into my day,” she adds. “I wasn’t getting my morning light every single morning, I certainly wasn’t going to bed at the right time or prioritising sleep, which now I know is fundamental to our health, it’s one of our pillars.” GETTING NERDY Now, these are non-negotiables woven into day-to-day life. And as well as being a personal journey of discovery, Bradbury delved into the science behind the wellbeing benefits for her latest book, Walk Yourself Happy: Your Path To Health And Healing In Nature. “It was so satisfying to sit down and write, and find the science to back up everything that I instinctively have known for years and years,” adds Bradbury, who lives in London with her family but mostly grew up in the Peak District (she recalls long, countryside walks with her father and pottering around in the garden with her mother, both helping to instil an early love for nature). “These things are a huge priority for me and they’ve genuinely helped me through the last two-and-a-half years. I have a tree outside my bathroom window, a London Plane tree, and it’s my friend – in my book I call trees ‘friends with benefits’ – and I spend a lot of time talking to that tree. It’s been a very, very good listener! I say walking in the outdoors is my therapist, my friend and my gym.” NewFOCUS Julia Bradbury talks about the daily habits she now lives by – and why she feels more grateful than ever.

IN PERSON WOMANSWAY.IE 87 For the second year running, Bradbury has teamed up on the ‘Hats On For Mind’ campaign, along with fellow outdoor enthusiasts Helen Skelton, David Seaman, Sean Fletcher and Gethin Jones – who’ve launched an exclusive limited-edition range of woolly hats and flasks available in selected retailers, with 100 per cent of profits going to the mental health charity, Mind. For the presenter, anything that highlights the positive impact of getting out in green spaces is a win. “There is something about movement, particularly the rhythm of walking, it does help you think. It sounds like a bit of a cliché, but it does clear the head and really helps compute thoughts and feelings and emotions,” she reflects. She is a big advocate for what she calls “nature snacks” too – another hallmark of Bradbury’s daily routine reboot: “Every 30 minutes, or whenever you can, just get up and go outside, even if it’s for a couple of minutes. Take it all in, then come back in.” Most of her daily nature fixes now come from walking in the local park, escaping to their communal garden, and even sticking her head out of the window when she does her morning breathwork. “I do that every morning in the daylight,” she shares. It’s been pretty miserable the last few mornings, but when I popped my head out the window this morning, I was like, yay – there’s a little bit of sunshine! That will go on my gratitude list later, because it just lifted my spirits straight away. “One of the biggest lessons I’ve had through all of this [the last two years] is gratitude,” Bradbury adds. “I now express gratitude on a daily basis and have a gratitude journal – and there is science behind this as well, you can change the way your brain actually thinks. “So, my new phrase is – it’s not about what you don’t have, it’s being grateful for what you do have. Because none of us has a perfect life, none of us has everything we’d like, we can all find things not to be happy with. “But what about the things you do have in your life? And generally, I’d say those are the smaller things. The small things are the big things.” WW “There is something about movement, particularly the rhythm of walking, it does help you think”

88 WOMANSWAY.IE As well as singing absolute bangers, pop princess Kylie Minogue has had fun with fashion over the years. The singer has just begun her Las Vegas residency, which runs until January 27. Minogue, 55, will be the fi rst headliner for new nightclub Voltaire at The Venetian Resort. The Padam Padam hitmaker has promised fans the experience will be “more than just a residency”. Bursting onto the scene as Charlene in Aussie soap Neighbours back in 1986, it wasn’t long before Minogue established herself as a fully-fl edged pop star. In honour of Minogue’s upcoming US residency, we’ve taken a look back at her fashion evolution – from puffy shirts to tiny gold hot pants and sleek red gowns… 1 THE EARLY YEARS Minogue’s career began in the Eighties, and her style really was the epitome of this era. As Charlene, she had a wholesome ‘good-girl’ image, with a style to match. The newbie actor rocked a whole lot of fl uffy hair, puffy shirts, and cheesy grins. While we still see a lot of Minogue’s megawatt smile today, her outfi ts have come a long way. 2 A POP STAR IS BORN By the late Eighties and early Nineties, Minogue’s pop career was well underway, and she started slowly shedding her innocent image – with the help of some edgier clothes. Her style choices became increasingly skin-tight and revealing, tapping into Nineties trends – including spaghetti straps and animal prints. SPINNING SPINNING AROUND A look back at Kylie Minogue’s style evolution. 2 1

By Prudence Wade and Yolanthe Fawehinmi, PA WOMANSWAY.IE 89 IN PERSON 3 THE ROAD TO MEGA STARDOM It was when Minogue became a cardcarrying, world-famous pop star that she really came into her own fashion-wise. ‘Low-key’ wasn’t something she was ever accused of, instead opting for fi gurehugging and skimpy clothing, both on stage and off. As her star continued to rise, Minogue’s colour palette largely revolved around glitzy golds and silvers, which went well with her new nickname, ‘the princess of pop’. Minogue reportedly had her pert behind insured for almost £3 million, and her fashion choices of the time often made sure it was well displayed. A little later came what was, unoffi cially, known as ‘the sheer years’, as Minogue proved herself a particular fan of seethrough clothing. 4 KEEPING IT CLASSY As her career progressed, Minogue began to show us a sophisticated side to her fashion, without losing her sense of personal style. The pop star became a particular fan of dresses that nipped in her waist – a good style tip for more petite women (Minogue is 5ft) who want to wear longer dresses without looking swamped. She’s a fi rm fan of rocking a sleek red gown, and never let go of her love of all things sparkly – often still opting for gold and silver embellishments on her dresses. Since her Aphrodite album came out in 2010, another of her fail-safe looks has been gorgeous Grecian-inspired gowns. 5 SMART AND FUN Minogue’s style shows she’s always up for trying new things – such as this smart tailored look in one of her favourite colours: gold. Tailoring has become a big part of Minogue’s aesthetic – often given a bit of an edge with interesting details such as racy cut-outs or unusual materials. Minogue’s looking better than ever – and you’ve got to respect her style for continuing to be bold and bright. WW 3 5 4

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CHARITIES WOMANSWAY.IE 91 By Andrea Smith At Woman’s Way, we’re all about the positive power of giving back. Here’s our round up of the best ways to pay it forward this fortnight. LEND A HAND Pick a meaningful gift for your loved ones this Christmas from Concern Worldwide’s catalogue. Concern works in 25 of the world’s poorest countries, and once you choose the gift, it will be given to someone in need there in your loved one’s name. There are gifts to suit all budgets and interests, and your recipient will receive a card in the post or by email featuring a photo of your chosen gift and information about how it makes a difference. Gifts can be purchased at gifts.concern.net Indulge your love for online shopping while supporting good causes by heading to Thriftify. The shopping platform has items from multiple Irish charity shops in one place, which can be purchased from the comfort of your own home. If GIGS THAT GIVE Rock out at a night fi lled with festivities and music in McHugh's, Drogheda, on December 21 at 7pm. You’ll hear fi ve local upcoming acts of different genres and there will be a raffl e to win prizes donated by local businesses. All money raised on the night will be donated to Drogheda Homeless Aid to help the organisation during this winter period. Tickets via Eventbrite; search Gigs That Give ActionAid Gift Support survivors of abuse with a gift to ActionAid, which runs shelters in the most marginalised communities around the world. It provides safe spaces for women and children to stay in the aftermath of violence, giving them access to counselling as well as legal representation to bring about justice. Your support provides essential items, including emergency food, soap and sanitary products, as well as medical attention for physical injuries. Donate to the charity on actionaid.ie Gift of Choice Appeal Help empower people in need to make decisions for themselves through the Saint Vincent De Paul Gift of Choice Appeal. The charity is asking for vouchers so that people can buy their own foods, clothes, toys and gifts for their children. By doing this, it allows them to play Santa for their own children, rather than someone else deciding what their child would like for Christmas or what their family will have for Christmas dinner. Further information on svp.ie you prefer to physically select goods, charity shops nationwide have plenty of new and unused items that will make great Christmas pressies. Shop Irish charities online with thriftify.ie Charity Shop Gifts Concern Gifts

QUICK FIRE 92 WOMANSWAY.IE By Andrea Smith Singer Linda Martin is famous for winning the Eurovision and for being a huge animal-lover and rescuer. She will play Mother Gothel in Rapunzel at Liberty Hall Theatre this Christmas. Who or what makes you laugh? When my pal Orla Kearney is in full flight, she cracks me up. She’s usually full of Chardonnay at that stage. What is one thing you still have from your childhood? I still have my teddy bear somewhere in the house. At this stage, he’s in tatters. What book are you planning to read? The next books from Ian Rankin, John Grisham and Lee Child. I’m also hoping beyond hope that my favourite author, Frederick Forsyth, will write another fantastic tome. What’s the best thing to have happened to you this month? I had a holiday in Florida. Three weeks of nothing to do except eat, drink and sunbathe. No makeup, just shorts and T-shirts. It was heaven. Heels or flats? Oh my god, no contest, it’s heels all the way. I love them and always have. I’ve dozens of pairs, all boxed and labelled. What is something you can’t do? Play cards. I just don’t get it. I’ve no spatial awareness either. They’re probably connected within my tiny brain. Who is your style icon? I love the clothes that Catherine, Princess of Wales, wears. They’re so elegant and sadly beyond my finances, but I can live in hope. Is there anything you wish you were really good at, but aren't? Tennis. I’m fanatical about it but I can’t play. What did you want to be when you were 12? A vet. Quelle surprise. Look where I ended up. I still adore animals and care so much for their welfare. That’s why I built my animal shelter, The Dublin Dog Hub. What do you like to do in your spare time, apart from rescuing animals? I’m a passionate gardener and had the privilege of a long chat with Diarmuid Gavin just the other day. Oh wow, I’m only in the halfpenny place compared to him. What is your favourite flower? I adore lilies. The smell is incredible. If you could choose somewhere else to live, where would it be? Florida. God, I love the place. I’m always cold so the Floridian climate really suits me. Who was your first celebrity crush? Barry Gibb from the Bee Gees. I had his photos all over my bedroom wall. The most famous person in your phone contacts? That’d be my pal Louis Walsh. I reckon he wishes his number could be deleted because whenever I’ve a problem, I ring him. What was your worst subject at school? I hated geography and had no interest in it whatsoever. Who is your favourite solo artist? I’ve always loved Dusty Springfield. In my opinion, nobody has surpassed her. These days I flit between Dolly Parton, Adele and anything in the charts. I also adore Cher and anything she does. You're going out for brunch. What are you having? Anything vegetarian. Most veggie dishes on menus now are delicious, especially tofu, quinoa and sweet potatoes. Yum yum. If tomatoes with olive oil and garlic are on there, I’m getting them. Which trend would you like to see disappear forever? People taking photos and videos at concerts and standing up. I want to enjoy everything on stage - musicians, backing vocalists, dancers. Then some idiot stands up and I can see nothing. What’s the most important advice you’d give a teenager? Be sensible. There’s too much danger out there these days. Finish your studies and, if possible, go to uni. But still enjoy nights out with your buddies. Try to travel and see the world. In other words, do everything. WW The panto Rapunzel runs at Liberty Hall Theatre from December 18 to 31. To book, visit libertypanto.com. winner She’s a

LIFESTYLE WOMANSWAY.IE 93 WE TRIED... tiles. Valerie helped me to plan out the design. MIDWAY THROUGH Having been shown how to use tile-cutters to nibble the small tiles into shape and silicon glue to affi x them to the stone, I began fashioning the butterfl y. Valerie had instructed me to keep the tile low down and aim for the fl oor when I was cutting, but due to a combination of my inexperience and over-enthusiasm, it was probably fortunate that nobody in the room lost an eye. The group chatted as we worked and it was a most pleasant environment, and it was fascinating to see the amazing designs that were being created around me. END RESULT By the end of the two-hour class, my butterfl y design was created and ready to be grouted when it was fully dried, which Valerie kindly did for me as I was only trying out the class. I was very pleased with my little effort, which was a mere trifl e compared with the brilliant work the others were doing. The whole atmosphere was very convivial and encouraging and Valerie is a great teacher. I would highly recommend mosaics classes to anyone who would like to take a few hours out to do something creative, beautiful and very sociable. WW Contact Valerie Dunne on 086 079 6838 or check out Mosaics & Crafts by Valerie on Facebook. WHY? I love making things by hand but never have a chance to take time out to do it. My pal Rosemary has been attending mosaics classes for the past year and has made some fabulous pieces. I decided to tag along to a workshop to see what it was all about. I also liked the idea of getting out of my busy head for a couple of hours. WHERE? Based in Lucan, artist and facilitator Valerie Dunne has a fully-equipped home studio in which she runs daily classes in both mosaic and felt. She takes six people at a time and teaches them how to work with these materials. I joined Rosemary, Mona, Atanea and Diane who were at different stages of their individual projects - all of which were fabulous. STARTING OUT While the others attend weekly and were in the midst of bigger projects on slates and boards, Valerie talked me through the different options for my small project. I couldn’t get over how many different large and small coloured tiles, beads and decorative pieces were available to choose from and the variety of surfaces to work with. In the end, I decided to attempt to make a butterfl y on a fl at stone using pastel-coloured We’re all about self-care at Woman’s Way. In this issue, Andrea Smith tries a mosaics class. Mosaics Class “I decided to attempt to make a butterfly on a flat stone using pastel-coloured tiles

OPINION 94 WOMANSWAY.IE By Grumpy Old Woman WHY is this a thing? COMPETITION VOTING Oh, how I miss the good old days when winners of awards and contests were chosen by people who knew more than average about the particular talent involved in the competition. These days, victors are frequently decided by popular vote and it’s really unfair as the playing fi eld isn’t level. It drives me mad when people with huge social media followings or public platforms sweep the board at awards ceremonies, just because they have mobilised their troops to vote for them. There’s a particular showbiz dancing competition where talent or hard work doesn’t really matter once you’re popular. We have seen some results that were blatantly unfair as the best man (or woman) didn’t win. Older contestants always seem to be eliminated early on, even when they show way more dancing prowess than others. Those who are funny on social media, TV, radio and podcasting frequently do far better than they should in a competition that’s supposed to be about dancing skills. There is nothing worse than your friend or colleague entering some competition that is decided by public vote. They will harangue you to vote for their cute dog or “best picture” and pester you for weeks until the blasted thing is decided. It’s even worse when you are allowed to vote multiple times - your friend will remind you many, many times until you are blue in the face listening to them. It teaches young people a terrible lesson as well, namely that there is little point in striving to be the best in your fi eld if your hard work isn’t the deciding factor. This doesn’t matter so much in, say, sports, where the winner of a race or match is decided fairly and squarely. But when national book awards or hairdressing skills competitions are decided by popular vote, it raises the stakes. These should be decided by panels of experts in the fi eld rather than by people simply voting for someone from their home county. A few years ago, when blogs were all the rage, a popular infl uencer I was following urged people to vote for her best friend’s fairly unknown blog in a competition. The results of the voting were openly visible and her friend was in bottom place. Once the infl uencer harnessed the might of her own following, the friend started gaining swathes of votes and went on to win the competition. I felt it was really unfair on others who had put blood, sweat and tears into their own blogs. The blogger in question faded off into obscurity shortly afterwards, unlike others in the category who were truly passionate about their work but didn’t have an infl uential voice helping them to gain votes. And don’t get me started on awards that can be bought. A friend of mine owns a beauty salon and she has been approached several times by magazines and websites to buy an award in some “competition” they are running. Those who are willing hand over a load of dosh, and the publication announces that they’re a winner. They get a lovely framed certifi cate that can be displayed on the wall of their salon, suggesting to impressionable customers that they have actually earned the accolade. These practices are deeply unfair on those who have genuine talent, but are overlooked in favour of those who have simply paid for an award or rallied the troops to help them forge ahead. WW

WOMANSWAY.IE 95 OUR HEALTHY HABITS ISSUE IN OUR NEXT BUMPER ISSUE Hello 2024. January might not be everyone’s favourite month, but we’re putting our best foot forward as we dive into that fresh new feeling. In the next issue we’re fi nding out how to make healthy habits stick and asking the experts for their top tips on how to make your goals work for you. We look ahead to the best travel destinations for 2024, and to keep you going on these cold dark evenings, you’ll love our packed pages of mouthwatering recipes to try out. You won’t want to miss it. BACK IN THE HABIT We look back on those nifty new healthy habits we took on last January to fi nd out if we stuck to them and what lessons we learned along the way. BEAUTY TOOLS There have never been more beauty tools on the market, so which ones are worth your time and money? We fi nd out and report back. THE POWER OF NO Say goodbye to people pleasing and sacrifi cing your own needs with our guide on how to be more assertive. LEGGINGS Since lockdown, leggings are fi rmly on most women’s go-to wears. We look at the best pairs to feel good in. IMMUNE BOOSTERS If your body is feeling the toll after the festive season, we’ve got all you need to know on how to boost your natural defences. PLUS The latest movie and book reviews, knitting, wellbeing features, celebrity interviews, amazing competitions and so much more… HITTING THE NEWS STANDS ON JANUARY 1