Sorted Magazine

Author: Val Fraser

  • Sadiq Khan: “An Easter tradition in the heart of our capital”

    Live performance in London: Since its first performance in 2010, the Wintershall Estate has presented The Passion of Jesus in Trafalgar Square, London, UK on Good Friday. The awe-inspiring full-scale re-enactment of The Passion quickly became a highly anticipated London Easter fixture.

    The story commemorating the day Jesus was arrested, tried and crucified by the Romans, before miraculously rising from the dead on Easter Sunday, is brought to life by a cast of over a hundred, dressed in full costume, along with horses, doves and a donkey.

    Secondary school teacher and trained actor Peter Bergin will play Jesus supported by the Wintershall company which is made up of volunteer actors and stage crew from in and around London and the South East.

    Wintershall producer, Charlotte de Klee said: “We are happy to be bringing the story of Jesus back to the city this year. This play belongs to London and speaks not only to those of the Christian faith, but to all faiths and traditions and those who have none. Over the years the vast audiences the play has attracted stands as testimony to that. As it takes place in the world-famous space at the heart of the capital it demonstrates the tolerance and diversity found in London.”

    Featuring realistic scenes and a moving crucifixion and resurrection, The Passion of Jesus is an unforgettable Easter experience, embracing those of all faiths and none.

    Supported by the Mayor of London, the open-air production, performed in the shadow of the National Gallery, regularly attracts more than 20,000 people to its two performances.

    This year, The Passion will be performed at 12 noon and 3:15pm. Both will be livestreamed via Facebook (www.facebook.com/Wintershallplay) and will subsequently be available to watch on Wintershall’s YouTube channel (www.youtube.com/user/wintershallplayers).

    The Passion play in London is directed by Ashley Herman and Polly King and produced by Charlotte de Klee. The Wintershall Cast are famous for their epic re-enactments of stories from the Scriptures. They also perform the extraordinary Life of Christ at the Wintershall Estate in Surrey every June (18-22 June 2024) and the now-famous Wintershall Nativity Journey each Christmas (11-16 December 2024).

    The Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan said: “The Passion of Jesus welcomes thousands of Londoners of all backgrounds to Trafalgar Square to enjoy a live re-enactment of the story of Jesus’s final days and resurrection. This inspiring performance has become an Easter tradition in the heart of our capital as we build a fairer and better London for all.”

    Find more information here.

    Main Photo Credit: Courtesy of Wintershall Estate

  • Bentley Continental GT Mulliner W12: “A symphony of luxury, performance and craftsmanship”

    The Bentley Continental GT Mulliner is not so much a car as it is a symphony of luxury, performance, and craftsmanship that’s set to leave an indelible impression.

    The exterior design of the Continental GT Mulliner W12 is a testament to Bentley’s commitment to attention to detail, sculpted with precision, resulting in a silhouette that’s both elegant and commanding.

    The Mulliner variant showcases Bentley’s most exquisite features, boasting unique 22-inch wheels that command attention and a distinctive Double Diamond front grille that exudes an air of exclusivity.

    It also has many customisable options that set it apart in the Continental GT range.

    Nestled under the hood, the Mulliner is propelled by a 6.0-litre twin-turbo W12 engine, churning out a staggering 659PS and 900Nm of torque. This powerplant is paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, ensuring a seamless and efficient transfer of propulsion, resulting in a car that’s as thrilling to drive as it is to look at.

    Venture inside the Continental GT Mulliner, and you’re greeted by an interior that’s a masterclass in lavish luxury. The diamond-quilted leather upholstery is visually stunning and incredibly comfortable, making every journey pleasurable.

    The ride comfort is unrivalled, courtesy of the advanced air suspension that effortlessly absorbs road imperfections. However, it’s adjustable by selecting a driving mode to adjust the bias between softness and agility in the bends.

    Furthermore, the boot space measures 358 litres, enough for a few suitcases or a golf bag.

    The Continental GT Mulliner is not just about luxury and performance, or perhaps accommodating the odd set of golf clubs; it’s also equipped with a wide range of safety features to ensure that you and your passengers are always protected.

    For instance, a head-up display provides crucial information without requiring you to take your eyes off the road, while a night vision feature enhances visibility in low-light conditions.

    In conclusion, the Bentley Continental GT Mulliner is an opulent, potent, and meticulously crafted vehicle that stands in a class of its own.

    Fast Facts – Bentley Continental GT Mulliner W12:

    • Max speed: 208 mph
    • 0-62 mph: 3.5 secs
    • Fuel economy: 20.6 mpg
    • Engine layout: 6.0 Litre twin-turbo W12
    • Max. power (PS): 659
    • CO2: 308 g/km
    • Price: £270,700

    All Photo Credits: Courtesy of Bentley

  • Men’s hair: New trends and styling tips

    Digital Editor’s Note: I’m pleased to welcome Jim Shaw as our Guest Writer. Jim is Director of Toni&Guy Billericay and a multi-award winning men’s hairdresser. Jim has vast experience of working with men’s hair and has very kindly offered to unpack his top tips for resetting your hair and shares his style predictions.

    Jim writes: The start of a New Year is a great time to change your hair look, get a haircut and ‘reset’ your hair for the new year ahead. It’s also a time where we should be taking our haircare routine more seriously and using products that will help replenish our hair.

    During the festive season we tend to over style our hair with products and heated styling tools, alongside wearing hats more often that can cause pressure and friction on our scalp and hair, leading to damage. The winter weather can also have harsh effects on our hair, where going from the outdoors to indoors with central heating can lead to our hair lacking moisture, resulting in it becoming dry and lifeless.

    The start of a New Year is when we always see the rise of short, low maintenance men’s hairstyles, including the buzz cut and the crew cut, which allow men to get rid of any hair damage and split ends, reset their hair and start the year with a new cut that requires no styling and allows for healthy hair regrowth. The crew cut is a great choice for those looking for a low maintenance yet trendy hair look, and I love the clean lines that can be created with this style.

    If you don’t want to go too short with your hair, the classic taper is a perfect choice. This will allow you to reset the sides and back of your hair, having these areas cut super short, and take some length of the top of your hair to create a seamless blend. This style also grows out well and continues to look great as the hair on top gets longer. Simple trims at the salon/barbershop will keep this cut looking fresh and stylish.

    When it comes to treatments and haircare products for looking after your hair in the New Year and injecting as much nourishment back into your hair as possible, a scalp scrub is a great product that will help to get rid of any product build up and dandruff that may have accumulated on your scalp. A hair mask is also fantastic for helping to add hydration into your hair and scalp, alongside a nourishing shampoo and conditioner. Natural oils like coconut oil are also beneficial to add extra hydration into your hair and scalp and this can be applied as a hair mask before you wash your hair, or you can apply a small amount daily for moisture and shine.

    Additional tips for getting your hair back in its best condition are to avoid over washing your hair and stripping it of its natural oils, to be careful when drying your hair (always be gentle to avoid causing friction on your hair), avoid heated styling wherever possible to avoid hair damage and to lower the temperature when you shower, this can sap the moisture out of your hair and lead it to looking dull more quickly.

    Here are my predictions for the trends in men’s haircut’s which will emerge throughout 2024:

    Crew Cut

    The crew cut has recently become a very highly requested look in the salon. This cut is slightly longer than a buzz cut and is a timeless cut that I think will be here to stay for some time. This style looks particularly strong on those with angled features but is a great style for all face shapes, as it can be tailored to suit the individual. Another great thing about this look is that no styling is needed, just more regular trips to the hairdresser/barber to keep the cut looking fresh. It’s a great look if you want to show off your best facial features and look incredibly stylish too.

    Pompadours and quiffs

    These are classic styles that come back on trend time and time again. The pompadour being a style that slicks the hair back off the face and the quiff being a style where height is created towards the front of the face. However, for 2024 we will see both of these hairstyles having a contemporary update, being worn a lot softer, with height/volume in the looks being more subtle and not as dramatic. Instead of looking very ’styled’ and polished, these looks will look more undone and effortless. Matte pomades are great for helping achieve these looks, adding shape and texture to your hair with a more natural finish.

    Side partings

    With old money being a huge trend for 2024, we will also see side partings continuing to be on trend this year. If you do not want to opt for a dramatic hair change, you can simply experiment by styling your hair into a side parting. This is a great way to give your hair a more sophisticated appearance but also added volume and it looks great when paired with a pompadour to achieve a suave look.

    Rock n’ roll inspired hair

    90’s hair trends have been a dominant trend over the last year, we will see this continue into 2024 with mullets and rock n’roll inspired hair becoming more on trend for men. Mullet-like styles will be worn a lot shorter and we will also see pixie inspired cuts being on trend too with lots of texture and choppiness through the haircut. Both styles look great when paired with more effortless styling with mousses and salt sprays used to add further definition and edge to the looks.

    Main Photo Credit: Josh Miller via Unsplash

  • Travel: How to learn a new language

    One of the most effective ways to learn a new language is to travel to your desired country and fully immerse yourself in the language of locals. 

    With 2024 in full swing, people are undoubtedly beginning to prep their travel plans for the year ahead. Whether it’s a city break or a six month backpacking trip, you may want to use your upcoming getaway as a chance to naturally pick up the language you are currently learning or intend to learn. With this in mind, the language experts at Preply have revealed seven fun and creative ways in which travellers can pick up another language while on their explorations:

    1: Take part in icebreaker games with locals 

    Once you’ve arrived at your destination, the next step is to pluck up the courage and strike up conversations with locals. To make getting to know each other less of a task, why not suggest engaging in some icebreaker activities? If you’re sharing a room with others in a hostel, this would be ideal. There are plenty of language learning games and activities out there that can help you pick up another language, and also make friends at the same time. For example, games such as charades and bingo require players to answer in the language they are learning, and this will enable them to build their vocabulary. 

    2: Go on an outdoor adventure 

    The problem with tourist hotspots is that you are bound to run into people who speak your mother tongue, and this can hinder your language-learning experience. On the other hand, exploring the outskirts of a city and going on more of an outdoor adventure will give you a chance to integrate with locals and learn from them. When it comes to exploring an area as well, don’t be afraid to get lost, as this will give you a chance to practise asking for directions in the language you’re learning. 

    3: Learn the local songs 

    If your city has a thriving nightlife, then get those dancing shoes on and shake those hips to the music played in bars and clubs. When coming across a song that you like, it might be a good idea to Shazam the track and get to know the lyrics to enable you to pick up some more words. 

    4: Eat the local delicacies 

    Who knew you could also use your love for food to aid your language development? Exploring local cuisine is a vital part of immersing yourself in the culture your country has to offer. Trying native dishes not only allows you to enjoy new delicacies, but also offers you a chance to practise your language skills with restaurant staff and vendors.

    5: Join clubs and classes

    Similarly, if you have various day-to-day hobbies, use these as opportunities to develop your language skills by joining available classes. From cooking to dance, being part of such classes will allow you to become more disciplined to the language you’re learning as you’ll be following directions. 

    6: Watch, read and listen in another language 

    Checking if your favourite TV series or podcast is available in the language you’re learning, or if your beloved books have been translated into it, would be another effective way of picking up a language. Doing this makes the whole learning process seem less of a chore, as you are still educating yourself while keeping up with the Kardashians. 

    7: Journal

    To stay motivated on your language-learning journey, take the time to reflect on your progress and the interactions you’ve engaged in by keeping a journal. Keeping a journal will also allow you to reflect on the progress you’ve made and enable you to celebrate your individual successes.

    Photo Credit: Eva Darron via Unsplash

    Source: https://preply.com/

  • Health: “The fight to end leprosy has never looked more hopeful.”

    In 2024 The Leprosy Mission marks its 150th anniversary. The baton to end the world’s oldest disease is now with a generation running the race with more tools and knowledge than ever before.

    The earliest evidence of leprosy dates to 4,000 years ago. We also read in the Gospels of how Jesus cured people with this disease during his time on earth. Leprosy should no longer exist in the 21st Century as there has been an effective antibiotic cure since 1982. Yet this disease continues to blight millions of lives today. The lives of some of the poorest and most marginalised people on the planet.

    Supporters and Leprosy Mission teams around the globe are calling on governments, philanthropic organisations, churches and individuals to join the race to end leprosy.

    Chief Executive Peter Waddup explained that for the majority of The Leprosy Mission’s existence there was no cure for leprosy. Peter said: “All those who went before us could do, was offer love and practical care for those who had been cast out by their families and communities. There was, and still is, so much fear when a person develops visible signs of leprosy. Yet today, as well as an effective cure, we have a diagnostic test and undertake contact tracing. By doing so we can detect and cure leprosy in family members before they develop disabilities. There are also scientific advances in the pipeline that will hugely accelerate the race to stop the transmission of leprosy. We have better ways to heal ulcers and world-class reconstructive surgeons to help transform the lives of people disabled by leprosy. Crucially, there is a new generation of people affected by leprosy who are empowered to fight for their rights.

    “Arm in arm with communities affected by leprosy, we want the 150th anniversary to be a launchpad to a world where no one is diagnosed with leprosy again. No one should live with a preventable disability caused by leprosy in this day and age. And no one should face discrimination just because they have this disease.

    “The fight to end leprosy has never looked more hopeful and this is thanks to the incredible compassion and generosity of supporters. We believe that, with the right backing from governments, we can end leprosy. It is a disease that has haunted this world for too long and we are better equipped now than ever before to end leprosy.”

    Peter explained that the lives of the founders of The Leprosy Mission, Wellesley and Alice Bailey, show that it takes a partnership to change the world. He said: “Wellesley and Alice were an ordinary couple raised during the potato famine in Ireland. Yet their lives were extraordinary when they followed a calling to help people suffering with a mysterious disease in India. Of course there was no cure for leprosy then and they did whatever they could to help these ostracised people living in terrible poverty. They were devastated when they had no option but to return to Ireland because of Alice’s failing health. But it was this change in circumstances that birthed The Leprosy Mission! On their return to Dublin the couple were asked to give talks about their time in India. A family friend volunteered to raise money so that they could help more people. From humble origins the charity has since cured and transformed the lives of millions of people.

    “This story demonstrates that whether it is a surgeon restoring movement to limbs disabled by leprosy, or an elderly couple giving a couple of pounds when they can – together we are an incredible force for good.

    “We praise our sovereign God for sustaining this mission through wars, pandemics and economic crises through the compassion of our amazing supporters. Wellesley Bailey famously said The Leprosy Mission was ‘born and cradled in prayer.’ One hundred and fifty years later, prayer remains at the very heart of everything we do. Each morning Leprosy Mission teams come together around the globe to thank God for blessing the work of our hands as we seek to end leprosy.

    “Looking back at The Leprosy Mission’s history, we stand on the shoulders of giants. There are some incredible Leprosy Mission stalwarts. These include our wonderful late patron Diana Princess of Wales. Princess Diana made huge strides in destroying the stigma surrounding leprosy. She very publicly held the hands of leprosy patients, photographs of which were splashed across front pages globally. Yet it is the amazing stories of dedication and self-sacrifice among our supporters that touch me the most. I wish I could take each one to Asia and Africa, showing them the difference they are making to people every day.”

    The Leprosy Mission Timeline

    1869: A young Irishman, Wellesley Bailey, set sail for India to pursue his career. While there, he saw for the first time the devastating effects of leprosy and was inspired to take action. Wellesley’s fiancé Alice later joined him, and they married in Bombay Cathedral.

    1874: The Baileys returned to Ireland due to Alice’s health problems. Together they began to tell people about the needs of people with leprosy. They started The Mission to Lepers, which we now call The Leprosy Mission. With the help of their friend Charlotte Pim, they set a target to raise £30 in a year. In the first year alone, they raised £600.

    1880-90s: The Mission gave grants to other missions, so they could care for people with leprosy. It also opened its first hospital, Purulia Hospital in West Bengal, India. What started out as 29 outcasts sheltering under trees, today has grown into a hospital serving 70,000 people a year. Wellesley visited Burma to open the first Mission home outside India. At this stage, most of the income came from Ireland, Scotland, and England. Wellesley toured the USA and Canada to raise support there too.

    1900-10s: Interest in the work grew and the Baileys travelled to China, Australia, New Zealand, the Philippines, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, and Singapore, visiting projects, raising awareness about leprosy and asking for support. By the time Wellesley retired in 1917, the Mission had 87 programmes in 12 countries with supporting offices in eight countries. The annual income had risen to £40,000.

    1920-30s: The Mission started early experiments with a treatment using chaulmoogra oil. While injections were painful and only a few were cured, this was progress. Once only able to offer refuge, The Leprosy Mission began to develop into a medical mission.

    1940-50s: Mission doctors began experimenting with a new drug, dapsone. Although patients had to take the antibiotic for their entire life to manage their leprosy, this was revolutionary. Dr Paul Brand, a British orthopaedic surgeon, moves to India to teach at a hospital there. He encounters people affected by leprosy. Dr Brand became the first surgeon in the world to use reconstructive surgery on the hands and feet of people affected by leprosy. This is a technique used extensively today.

    1960-70s: In 1965 The Mission to Lepers changed its name to The Leprosy Mission, to avoid the negative connotations of the word ‘leper’. By 1974, The Leprosy Mission’s centenary year, TLM had 30 of its own hospitals and leprosy centres, most of them in India. It also supported 90 different Christian societies and missions working in more than 30 countries.

    1980s: In 1981, the World Health Organization recommended a new antibiotic treatment for leprosy; Multidrug therapy (MDT). This was the first effective cure and people were cured in as little as six months. The Leprosy Mission rolled out MDT programmes globally. From the late 1980s, under the theme ‘care after cure’, The Leprosy Mission rapidly increased its work to include social, economic and physical rehabilitation.

    1990s: MDT was rolled out around the world. A target was set by the World Health Organization to eliminate leprosy as a public health problem by the year 2000. This was measured by a target of governments recording less than one in 10,000 people being treated for leprosy.

    2000s: The global target was actually achieved, but unfortunately created a false sense of success. When the numbers fell below the one in 10,000 rate, governments redirected the money to treating other diseases. The number of new leprosy cases diagnosed began to drop following the Millennium, reducing to around 250,000 cases a year in 2008. They have plateaued at around this level ever since.

    2020s: There is evidence[i] to suggest that in 2020 there were four million people living with untreated leprosy. This means for every person cured of leprosy today, there are 19 ‘hidden’ cases that need to be found and treated. Age-old prejudice, lack of knowledge and insufficient healthcare means leprosy continues to blight communities in the developing world. Our fight is to end the transmission of leprosy in our generation.

    Main Photo Credit: Chief Executive Peter Waddup chats to leprosy patient Lawal in Nigeria about the difference a prosthetic leg has made to his life. Photo © Jeffrey Chukwu.

  • Age concerns

    Earlier this year I had one of those significant birthdays – one that ends in a zero. My hair is becoming greyer and my skin is getting more wrinkled, but I still tell my patients that age is just a number, and that 60 is the new 40! Although I want to convince them (and myself) that this is the case, we should be aware of changes as we get older. 

    THE CHALLENGES

    Cardiovascular system:  Over time, blood vessels may become stiffer and narrower. This can lead to high blood pressure and increase the risk of problems like coronary heart disease or stroke.

    Muscles, bones and joints: As we age, our bones may become weaker. They often lose density and can even shrink in size. Over time, this makes them more likely to fracture or break. Muscles and ligaments tend to become weaker and less flexible, which means there’s an increased risk of injury or pain.

    Weight: Another unavoidable change is that our metabolism slows down. Our metabolism determines how many calories we burn, so when it slows, fewer calories are used. Our body stores unused calories as fat, so it’s important to adjust calorie intake as we get older. 

    Prostate: As we get older, the risk of experiencing complications with our prostate gland increase. An enlarged prostate can lead to issues with urination, while prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men in the UK.

    Digestion and the bowel: The ageing process also impacts our digestive system. Changes to appetite, exercise routine and medications can all have an impact on our digestive system and bowel health, ranging from constipation and bloating to bowel cancer.

    Mental health: It’s equally important to pay close attention to mental health as we get older. Depression, mood swings, stress and mental fatigue are all common in older men. It’s important not to ignore these feelings and to seek help if you’re struggling.

    Memory loss and dementia: The brain undergoes physical changes as we get older, which can affect cognitive function. The results can range from simple short-term memory loss to dementia, which develops over time and is caused by damage to the brain’s nerve cells.

    It’s a pretty daunting prospect, but if we look after ourselves, most of the health challenges can be delayed, mitigated or prevented by making certain lifestyle choices. As we get older, it becomes increasingly important to manage our wellbeing, develop healthy habits and look after ourselves, including seeing the GP if you are concerned.

    THE TACTICS

    Exercise: Regular exercise is always important. But as we get older, we may need to adjust our routine to avoid injury or focus on the kinds of movement that will benefit us the most. Do something you enjoy and you are more likely keep it going.

    Sleep: When we sleep, our bodies can recharge. Our muscles and cells repair themselves and our minds relax. Aim for around seven to nine hours of sleep per night, ideally going to bed and waking up at the same time each day.

    Healthy habits: Too much alcohol, smoking cigarettes and not eating enough fruit and veg are all ‘bad’ habits and they do more and more damage over time. Whatever your age, one of the best ways to look after your older self is to cut out the bad habits now. And then replace them with healthy habits, like eating well and only drinking in moderation. 

    Hydration: Drinking plenty of water is important for the immune system, energy levels, digestion, maintaining a healthy weight, organ function and healthy skin. Stay hydrated –aim for six to eight glasses of fluids per day. Water is ideal, but low-fat milk, sugar-free drinks, tea and coffee also contribute.

    Keep your mind active: It’s not just our bodies that can weaken as we age. We need to maintain a healthy mind too. Brain training can help improve memory and keep the mind alert. This can include doing puzzles, reading and socialising. Physical activity is also very important for mind health. Ageing can also affect your mood, so make sure you find ways to reduce stress and don’t ignore your emotions.

    Although we can’t stop the sands of time, we can definitely do lots to stay fit and healthy as we get older. 

    Images: Getty

  • The joy and pain of secrets

    The question, “Can you keep a secret?” caresses intrigue like no other utterance. At its heart there is a burning invitation to indulge in wonder, speculation, or conviction – and occasionally all three simultaneously – with the storyline, more often than not, wrapped in an air of delicious mystery.

    Personally, excitement figures highly in my desire to express an assured undertaking that meets the confidentiality clause, even if I usually break this contract by passing it onto at least one other person who I deem to have a superior moral code to mine. The reason is simple. I love to be trusted, but my adherence to seeing the undertaking through doesn’t necessarily match. Since secrets are hard to keep – aren’t they? – I reassure myself that most of the secrets I’m told have either done the rounds already or are no more than gratuitous gossip.

    However, recently I was told a secret of such immense proportions that it both blew my mind and caused an avalanche of cerebral suffering. I became conscious that I had to adopt a clumsy communication style when the concealment boundaries were threatened and, when my linguistic skills failed me, I had to lie in order to protect the continued existence of the secret. This began to trouble me, since the recipients of my falsehoods were those closest to me. Who was benefiting from this cloak-and-dagger escapade, and had I been too quick to accept the stifling responsibility of hosting this burden? Were secrets really that scintillating?

    Although, no doubt, I stand to be corrected sometime in the future, I make the presumption that everyone has secrets. Indeed, according to research undertaken at Columbia University in America, we have – on average – 13 secrets, with five of them remaining in our peak consciousness – the space where we only communicate with ourselves. The rest usually find their way into mainstream circulation, since human beings are pretty useless at keeping secrets. As evidence of this observation, the academic findings suggest that a whopping 78 percent of disclosed secrets are almost immediately shared with another party.

    In my case, the secret bestowed upon me was so utterly seismic that sharing it wasn’t an option. Although this confidentiality had a time limit, it felt akin to holding fire, and the more I tried to keep it hidden within my mind, the more it bellowed out at me, drowning everything else in my already cluttered mind. If I were to say to you, “Don’t think of the colour red”, what would you focus upon? Exactly! And these mindful acrobatics were beginning to make me react like a scalded cat – flinching when the source of the secret was mentioned by others, or any connection, real or imagined, to the subject of the clandestine charade. It was beginning to hurt.

    According to psychiatrist Doctor Grant Hilary Brenner, the pain is real, as internal conflict is not dissimilar to physical discomfort. He asserts that, “Common wisdom tells us that keeping secrets can take a terrible toll, and revealing information can be a step toward recovery. The bigger the secret, the harder to keep it, the greater the potential conflict.” But one remark by the good doctor really hit home for me: “Keeping secrets limits responsiveness by preventing people from acting naturally and sharing freely.” Although the secret I was carrying was profoundly positive, the energy required to keep the lid on this particular Pandora’s box was immense. As the researchers at Columbia concluded, this mental anguish is harmful because of its “taxing effects in social interactions.”

    Concealment and continued caution don’t come easily, and as a connoisseur of good gossip I was finding this whole experience exhausting.

    I guess it was only a matter of time before I was left exposed; my dialogue and non-verbal communication clumsily conspired to give the game away – thankfully to those close to me who, ironically, would have been told of the secret at the ordained time. Like a rabbit caught in the headlights, I blinked, squirmed, and tried to disappear into an imaginary hole of safe haven, where the continued questioning and overt guesses (which happened to be correct) wouldn’t find me.

    Although embarrassed to have succumbed to the interrogation – especially given my policing past – I was nonetheless relieved, and on reflection, pleased that I had held it together for as long as I had. Furthermore, how could I argue with the great George Orwell? He wrote, in the momentous 1984, “If you want to keep a secret, you must also hide it from yourself.”

    When you are next enticed with the words, “Can I tell you a secret?” my learned advice is to simply say no and wait for it to be disclosed by another tortured soul in open forum. Otherwise, be prepared for the initial spark of pleasure to be quickly replaced by a burdensome brainstorm. In the style of Rhett Butler in the epic Gone with the Wind – frankly my dear, it simply isn’t worth it.

  • Health: Top tips to beat the winter blues

    Strategic Sunlight Exposure: No matter how dreary the weather outside may be, make it a point to step outside for 10-15 minutes every day before noon. To maximise the benefits of this exercise, position yourself to face east, as this aligns you with the direction of the morning sun. It’s also important to repeat this practice in the evening, during sunset. This time, you should face west as the sun sets in that direction.

    Exposure to natural light in this way and time frame is essential for supporting your hormonal system. This is because the amount of light that enters your eyes during these times directly influences the production and regulation of hormones in your body, such as serotonin, melatonin and cortisol, which play a critical role in mood and sleep patterns. This effectiveness extends even to areas with cloudy weather, as the light can penetrate through clouds.

    Grounding is also known as earthing, is a practice that involves physically connecting with the earth’s surface to absorb its natural, subtle electrical charge. The idea behind grounding is that in our modern lives, we are often insulated from direct contact with the earth due to the prevalence of rubber-soled shoes, buildings, and other non-conductive materials. Some recent studies indicate that grounding may reduce inflammation, help manage stress levels, and improve sleep patterns.

    To practise grounding, all you need is to locate a patch of grass, sand, or even mud and let your bare skin make contact with the natural earth. In winter conditions, there are several alternative approaches to choose from to practice grounding. One method involves physical contact with a tree or your dog while standing on natural surfaces like stone, sand, or grass. Another option is to wear grounded shoes, with or without grounding socks. Unlike typical footwear, these shoes incorporate conductive materials such as carbon, silver, and copper in both the outer and inner soles, facilitating ground energy transfer to your feet. Aim to spend at least 20 minutes every day practising this to see the benefits.

    Bedtime Routines: Set a fixed bedtime for every night, and as the clock ticks, put away your phone, turn off the lights, and gently close your eyes. This simple lifestyle adjustment is often underrated, yet it stands as one of the most effective anti-stress habits. Going to bed at the same time every day offers multiple benefits: It aids in regulating our circadian rhythms, ensuring our body’s internal clock is in sync. This, in turn, helps stabilise the production of crucial hormones like melatonin and cortisol. Such regularity not only contributes to improved sleep quality but also plays a vital role in stabilising mood and promoting better mental health.

    Connections: While the natural reaction when experiencing SAD symptoms might be to isolate oneself, it’s essential to try the opposite by nurturing connections with others. Engaging in social activities, whether with friends, family, or support groups, can offer a sense of connection and belonging that acts as a potent antidote to the winter blues. These interactions not only provide emotional support but also serve as a reminder that you are not alone in your battle against SAD.

    Please note that cases of SAD with more severe symptoms should be evaluated and treated by medical professionals. Treatment options may include cognitive-behavioural therapy, antidepressant medication, or a combination of therapies. In such cases, your GP should be your first point of contact for guidance and appropriate care.

    Listen to Sorted Founder, Steve Legg chatting with Sorted columnist Dr Ken about SAD and other health issues here: Men’s Health Matters on Apple Podcasts

    Source: Brainworks Neurotherapy

    Main Photo Credit: Nik Shuliahin via Unsplash

  • Health: Combatting the January blues

    As the winter chill sets in, it’s not just the temperature that’s dropping but also our motivation to stay active. January can bring with it dark nights, money worries, and depressive thoughts for many, but with a fresh year, there’s no better time to get moving.

    A recent study by Better Gyms, the UK’s largest leisure operator, raised concern about a “Fitness Freeze” as exercise rates plummet during the colder months. Coupled with this decline, searches for Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) soar by an average of 113%, highlighting the mental health challenges many Britons face during the winter.

    According to Better’s findings, a noteworthy two in five Brits expressed that engaging in regular exercise plays a pivotal role in helping them feel less stressed. Additionally, 35% of respondents highlighted that physical activity contributes to a reduction in feelings of anxiety and depression. These statistics underscore the intrinsic link between exercise and mental well-being, which is especially important during a time when individuals may be more susceptible to the January blues.

    It’s important to understand that exercise of any kind can be beneficial to your mental-health, and Brits report that just being outside in blue and green spaces can help them feel calm and happy. Even if that’s taking a walk by a canal (37%), or running through a park (24%), incorporating physical activity into your routine can contribute significantly to lifting spirits and combating feelings of anxiety and depression. With 86% of Brits saying they live less than 30 minutes away from a blue or green space, it’s clear that the UK has plenty of access to these, and interestingly, those who lived closest to blue or green spaces suffered the least with anxiety and depression.

    To combat the Fitness Freeze and beat the winter blues, Better have enlisted the expertise of Georgina Sturmer, a counsellor supporting individuals through depression and anxiety. 

    “Physical activity offers benefits to our physical health, but it can also have a positive impact on our mental wellbeing. When we use our bodies, stretch our muscles, and elevate our heartbeat, we are tuning into what our body needs. This helps us gain perspective and connect with the outside world. Exercise can help reduce depression, which is the major feature of Seasonal Affective Disorder. This is partly due to the immediate mood-lifting powers of exercise. And it’s also partly down to the other features that accompany exercise. 

    “For example, exercise might make us spend time outside in nature or connecting with other people, which can help to ground us and reduce loneliness or isolation. When we exercise, this can also have a positive impact on self-esteem, which can help combat negative thinking and self-criticism.”

    “It can be hard to stay motivated when the weather gets cold and dark.  If you’re goal-oriented, then it might help you to have your ‘eyes on the prize’. Try to build exercise into your social life; in the winter, consider suggesting to your friends that you head out for a walk, or a class at the gym, or participate in a challenge event together.”

    The full research findings and winter workout tips can be found here: https://www.better.org.uk/lp/fitness-freeze

    Main Photo Credit: Jenny Hill via Unsplash

  • The Story of Luke Littler Is Only Just Beginning

    In a captivating final display, Luke Littler’s fairy tale run in the World Darts Championship came to an end in a thrilling contest against Luke Humphries. The 16-year-old sensation, who had captured the hearts of the nation with his remarkable journey, faced a formidable opponent in Humphries, the new world champion.

    From the start of the interview, it was evident that Littler’s primary goal was to win at least one game and return after Christmas. However, his incredible journey exceeded all expectations, reaching the final and making it a truly unforgettable experience for the young player.

    A Fairy tale World Championship Display

    Reflecting on the tournament, Littler expressed his gratitude, stating, “It’s been unbelievable. Like I’ve said, I just wanted to win one game, come back after Christmas, and that was it. That’s the only goals I set. So, this is just a massive, massive bonus.”

    Despite the defeat, Littler remained proud of his achievements, emphasising that losing on such a grand stage didn’t make him angry at himself. He acknowledged the incredible support from the public, describing it as “crazy” and expressing appreciation for all the encouragement.

    A Missed Opportunity

    The pivotal moment in the final came when Littler had one dart double for a 5-2 lead. Reflecting on it, he admitted, “My mind went blank, and I stopped my rhythm, and I didn’t take it.” It was a turning point that shifted the momentum in favour of Humphries.

    In response to a question about future confidence, Littler mentioned winning about six televised PDC games and set his sights on winning more in the upcoming years. He acknowledged the valuable experience gained in the tournament and the belief it instilled in him for future competitions.

    A New Global Superstar

    The interview delved into the impact Littler had on growing the sport, with him expressing hope that he had inspired young people to take up darts. He encouraged them to try the sport, emphasising its appeal once they get into it. Littler’s impact on the global audience has been nothing short of extraordinary, transcending the boundaries of traditional darting enthusiasts. The 16-year-old prodigy has not only captured the attention of ardent darts followers but has also managed to draw in spectators from diverse backgrounds who may have never tuned in to watch the sport before.

    On the other side of the spectrum, Luke Humphries, the world champion, praised Littler’s contribution to the sport, stating, “He’s grown it bigger than anybody could ever have imagined.” Humphries highlighted Littler’s fantastic attitude and family support, foreseeing a massive future for the young talent.

    ‘Relentless’ Luke Littler

    Humphries, in a gracious acknowledgement of Luke Littler’s relentless performance in the final, praised the young prodigy’s unwavering determination and skill. Recognising the formidable challenge presented by Littler, Humphries commented on the difficulty he faced in contending with such a skilled opponent, especially in the intensity of a world championship final. Impressed by Littler’s tenacity, Humphries went so far as to suggest that “relentless” could be a fitting nickname for the young player, a testament to his unyielding and persistent style of play.

    The Premier League Beckons for the Nuke

    As the darting world looks to the future, the possibility of Luke Littler joining the Premier League garners considerable attention. Fans and experts are keenly anticipating his inclusion, fuelled by his stellar performance in the World Championship. Despite the looming pressures associated with this prestigious league, Littler maintains a grounded perspective, expressing his commitment to staying true to himself and carrying forward the impressive form he showcased in recent weeks.

    In addressing this pivotal decision, Humphries imparts valuable advice, underscoring the significance of Littler making his own choice amid the challenges of a demanding schedule. Humphries acknowledges the substantial commitment that the Premier League entails but also points out the potential for Littler to relish World Series events, displaying confidence in the young player’s adeptness at navigating the opportunities ahead.

    With the darting community eagerly awaiting the announcement of the Premier League line-up, Littler’s potential inclusion injects an exhilarating new element into the already fierce competition among the sport’s elite. Humphries concludes, “It’s up to him and his family to decide. If he decides not to go into the Premier League, he’s got loads of World Series. The PDC would love to put him in. The only advise I would give Luke [Littler] would be to follow his heart, as I don’t think the Premier League would be too overwhelming for him.”

    The Future of Darts

    In conclusion, the World Championship final between the two Lukes left an indelible mark on the darts world. Luke Littler’s journey may have come to an end for now, but his impact on the sport and the promise of a bright future makes him a player to watch in the years to come. The rivalry between the Lukes is expected to continue, promising more exciting moments for darts enthusiasts worldwide.

    Source: https://www.sportsboom.com/