GALWAYnow May 2019 Issue - Digital Edition

DON’T MISS... OUT & ABOUT: WERE YOU CAUGHT ON CAMERA? WOW WEDDINGS: WHO’S TIED THE KNOT? GALWAYnow MAY 2019 DOULAS

* MOOD FOOD

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THE REAL TRUTH ABOUT BEAUTY SLEEP...

MENOPAUSE

FOOD

GOOD FOOD FOR AHowGOOD MOOD! eating right helps you feel right

MEET THE DOULAS Helping hands when you need them most FA S H I O N

the west’s lifestyle magazine

TROPICAL CHIC Bag a piece of paradise!

MAY 2019 € 3.95

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H E A LT H

ROCKY ROAD TOMENOPAUSE What to change before the change

GALWAY GIRL NAMED IN FORBES 30 UNDER 30 LIST TESTING TIMES Stress-saving tips for exam season

“Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.”

LAURAGH QUINN, EDITOR M AY 2 0 1 9

€7.99

V by Very double breasted textured blush blazer, Littlewoods

€52

Ti Sento Mother of Pearl ear charms, Fallers

€119

Esparto crossbody bag, Zara

€49.95

Alex and Ani Handwritten Heart bangles, Fallers

€68

Paisley print trousers, River Island €60

An unlikely source of true inspiration, Ferris Bueller taught us this valuable lesson in the 1986 classic film, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off. Life is busy and as we get older, we start to feel how fast it’s really going. We can be so busy looking at what everyone else has that we can’t really see what we are lucky enough to have. So why is it so hard to appreciate what we have? Why is it so difficult to be satisfied with everything in our lives in the here and now?

We always seem to be chasing the next big thing.

Every day millions of internet users ask Google some of life’s most difficult questions, big and small. But do we ever sit back and ask ourselves any questions? Sometimes appreciation can seem like such a half-hearted emotion.

The funny thing is that, for the most part at least, everything in our lives was once just a wish. We wanted that car we drive today so badly just a few years ago. The house we live in was once just a dream. The people or situations in our lives were once just possibilities. So why is it that, today, we can’t appreciate all of those things? How come we’re not satisfied with the status quo? We look past the miracle and beauty of life and all the little things we have, and instead focus our mind’s eye on the things we don’t have.

We al know that hindsight is a wonderful thing. We live and love at such a terrific pace, is it any wonder that we miss the significance at the time? The truth is that life is a beautiful gift. It’s here today, and can easily be gone tomorrow. Don’t take that for granted. After all, when you stop and look around, the world truly is an amazing place to be.

Yellow and purple tie dye headband, New Look

Lostsprings fringe detail slider sandals, Dune

€115

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CONTENTS GALWAYnow is published by

goldenegg PRODUCTIONS LTD

Unit 2, 1st Floor, Galway Technology Park, Parkmore, Galway, Ireland Tel 091 384350

galwaynow.com Managing Director Patricia McCrossan patricia@goldenegg.ie Director Patrick McCrossan patrick@goldenegg.ie accounts@goldenegg.ie

Editorial Editor Lauragh Quinn editor@goldenegg.ie Contributors Kirsten Curran, Sinead Watkins, Siobhán McHugh, Sorcha Molloy, Anne Byrne and Claire Calvey

Art Art Director Helen Gunning images@goldenegg.ie Graphic Design Jennifer King and Niamh Treanor design@goldenegg.ie Advertising Design George Fitzgerald Photographers Sean McCormack, Martina Regan and Sean Lydon

Advertising Deirdre Tarpey sales@goldenegg.ie

Features 6 The Name Game Galway girl named on Forbes 30U30 list 8 A Day in the Life Catherine Fulvio chats about her Galway takeover 20 Meet the Doulas The west coast ladies are here to help 24 Testing Times Practical help and advice for exam season

46 Transition Time What to change before the change

17 Fly Away with Me Kirsten Curran hits the bright lights of Glasgow

50 Let It Go Brendan Kelly on the power of meditation

18 Dress to Impress Break the rules and mix it up

52 Vitamin Sea Bask in the beauty of sunny Costa Blanca

Regulars

57 Into the Wild Turn up the heat with our tropical trends

23 Mini Me Parenting woes and wonders from Siobhán McHugh

59 When Nature Calls How to let the outside in

27 Sea You Soon Explore the delights of Salthill village

Fashion

30 Mood Food Eat better to feel better

10 Tropical Vibes Summer style under the palm trees

35 Come Dine with Me Our picks of the best summer dining spots 42 Sweet Dreams The real truth about beauty sleep

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Marketing & Events Bláthnait Ní Mhurchú social@goldenegg.ie Trish O’Sullivan digital@goldenegg.ie

54 Culture Shock Claire Calvey adjusts back to life in the west 56 Inside Out Anne Byrne on what’s in bloom this season 62 Tying the Knot Weddings in the west 65 Out and About Were you caught on camera?

72 Gig Guide What’s on in Galway this month

COVER Photographer: Ian McDevitt Model: Alina Boyko Stylist: Marine Tripard Hair/Makeup: Deane Shannon iclothing.com Golden Egg Productions Ltd will not be responsible for, nor will it return, unsolicited manuscripts. Transparencies or prints submitted for publication are sent at the owner’s risk and, while every care is taken, Golden Egg Productions Ltd cannot accept any liability for loss or damage. The views expressed in the magazine are those of the authors and not necessarily those of Golden Egg Productions Ltd. The entire contents of the magazine are the copyright of Golden Egg Productions Ltd and may not be reproduced in any form without the prior written consent of the publishers.

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WHAT’S ON

notebook , whats new in Galway

WIN! A LUXURIOUS STAY IN THE HEART OF TEMPLE BAR

Part of the Irish-owned and managed MHL Hotel Collection, a collection of unique and individual hotels in key city and resort locations throughout Ireland, The Morgan Hotel boasts an enviable location in the heart of Dublin’s Temple Bar. With 168 stylish, contemporary and spacious guest bedrooms, the hotel underwent an extensive €15m redesign last year. We are giving one lucky reader the chance to win an overnight stay for two with breakfast and dinner in 10 Fleet Street Restaurant. All you have to do is send your contact details to us at competitions@goldenegg.ie and tell us about your favourite place to visit in Dublin.

Entries close on 28 May.

SHADES OF SUMMER

PRETTY NEAT...

The sun is finally coming out so it’s time to start thinking of all the hot summer tones and trends out there. Caramel and seamless satin blondes are high on the colour palate, as well as effortless waves and natural texture. Taking care of your hair and adding some UV protection into your daily routine is always a good idea. Moisturising styling products such as Perfect Me from The Wella Professionals EIMI range will do just that. Available at Sarah Mason Professional, Forster Court, Galway, 091 565916

A limited edition 15 year old Single Cask Pot Still Irish Whiskey, bottled in collaboration with Midleton Distillery, is exclusively available in Garavan’s Bar. Proud winners of Overall Irish Whiskey Bar of the Year 2017 and Best Whiskey Bar in Connacht for the last five consecutive years, a trip to Garavan’s Bar is a must for the whiskey lovers out there. A treat for any time of the year, try one of their world famous Irish coffees, meticulously prepared using Power’s Irish whiskey and served in one of their own branded glasses. 46 William Street, Galway

REVOLUTIONARY TREATMENT NOW AVAILABLE AT GP CARE Commonly referred to as PRP, Platelet Rich Plasma treatments work by supplying injured areas with natural proteins, cytokines, stem cells and other bioactive growth factors. Many famous athletes, including Tiger Woods and tennis star Rafael Nadal, have received PRP for various problems, such as sprained knees and chronic tendon injuries. Human blood is made up of plasma which not only carries red blood cells but also white (immune) cells, platelets, nutrients and growth and repair factors (cytokines) and hormones. The PRP can then be injected into the body where it can act to repair damaged tissue.

PRP may also be used to improve healing after tendon and ligament injuries, trigger point injections and pain management in osteoarthritis, as well aesthetic medicine and dermatology for hair loss treatment, facial rejuvenation and the treatment of scars and acne marks. gpcare.ie

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WHAT’S ON

IF IT’S GOOD ENOUGH FOR DANIEL O’DONNELL...

Cherrymore Kitchens in Oranmore are putting the finishing touches to their impressive showroom renovations. They have completely refitted their luxury wardrobe department with all the latest colour trends, finishes and accessories. They have also added to the already extensive kitchen displays and now have a beautiful new solid wood painted kitchen in white and invisible green. All projects are made to order and manufactured directly at Cherrymore. 091 792209, cherrymore.ie

GET INSPIRED Inspire Fitness, Galway’s boutique fitness club for busy women, recently attended the Nutramino Health & Fitness Awards at Dublin’s Mansion House. Hosted by Alan Quinlan, the awards were attended by a spectrum of nominees from the big chains to solo personal trainers doing it on their own. Inspire proudly took several awards back to the west, winning bronze for Best Boutique Health & Fitness Club, silver for the Distinguished Customer Service Award, and overall winner of the coveted People’s Choice Best Gym in Connacht/Ulster. Inspire Fitness specialise in helping busy women feel great in their clothes, regain their fitness and get their confidence back. Call 091 768806 or visit inspirefitness.ie for details on membership.

BEST IN THE BUSINESS With over 300 guests representing hospitality professionals from across the island, the annual Irish Hotel Awards was a celebration of outstanding excellence in the industry. Congratulations to the team at The Galmont Hotel & Spa who were crowned Business and Conference Hotel of the Year 2019. Laoise O’Connor took the honour of Spa Therapist of the Year and Sabina Grabowska was named Housekeeper of the Year for The Galmont Hotel & Spa. Well done to all in The Galmont and keep up the good work!

NEW BEGINNINGS Galway’s award-winning Tigh Nora Gin Bar is the first bar in Ireland to launch its own gin. Nora’s Irish Dry Gin will be served exclusively in the popular city centre bar, located in Galway’s Latin Quarter. Inspired by the bar’s namesake Nora Barnacle, the beloved wife and inspiration of James Joyce, Nora’s Gin is a classic floral lead London Dry Gin – the perfect choice for new and seasoned gin drinkers. On the palate, it’s a delicate, aromatic and perfumed gin, distilled in pot stills with a range of botanicals including juniper, peach, rose petal, and bitter orange peel. For further details connect with Tigh Nora Galway on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. Use the #hashtag TighNorasGin to follow online updates.

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FEATURE

The Name Game

Seven Irish people, including NUI Galway student, Edel Browne, have been included in Forbes' prestigious ‘30 under 30’ list of leading young innovators, entrepreneurs and leaders for 2019.

T

he list features 30 honourees across 10 categories from around Europe, all of whom are under 30 years old, who are helping to shape and improve society. Among those featured alongside Edel on this year’s list include actor, Daniel Radcliffe; musician, George Ezra and Irish rugby player, Peter O’Mahony.

The Forbes ‘30 under 30’ Europe list is the ultimate recognition to young people who are leaving their mark on society. Making the list is no easy feat, thousands of applicants are judged by an expert panel of judges who ensure that each member is a leader in his or her respective industry.

At just 21 years of age, Edel is the youngest honouree in this year’s highly coveted Science and Healthcare category. Edel was recognised for her work on a project called Free Feet Medical, a device to treat gait freezing, a common symptom of Parkinson's disease, which began as a project for the BT Young Scientist Exhibition when she was just 15 years old. Edel has spent the last six years turning that invention into a product and a budding social enterprise that is now partnered with the Parkinson's Association of Ireland.

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Edel has also participated in the Washington Ireland Program, and has been heavily involved in student entrepreneurship at NUI Galway, where she has acted as a Student Entrepreneur in Residence at LaunchPad, NUI Galway’s campus-based entrepreneurship program for the past three years.

During her time with LaunchPad, Edel has been supported to develop her Free Feet business which addresses clinical challenge of treating Parkinson’s disease and to also encourage other budding campus entrepreneurs.

Congratulating Edel on her remarkable achievement, NUI Galway President, Professor Ciarán Ó hÓgartaigh said: “Edel’s selection on this impressive list of ‘30 Under 30’ is a wonderful endorsement of her talent and acumen. Here at her alma mater, we are proud of her achievements and we look forward to her continued success. She stands as an example to all students of how to make a difference ‘in’ the world and ‘for’ the world. Her ingenuity, intellectual curiosity and entrepreneurial skill combine to address the global challenge of Parkinson’s disease. And as an entrepreneur she has inspired and mentored many student innovators here at NUI Galway and far beyond.”

“

The Forbes 30 under 30 Europe list is the ultimate recognition to young people who are leaving their mark on society.

Under 30 honourees are judged on leadership and disruption; entrepreneurial mind-set and results; and the likelihood of changing their field over the next half century. “Four years on from its launch, the ‘30 Under 30’ Europe list continues to be not only the defining measure of success for the region’s next generation of leaders, but also a source of empowerment for all honorees,” said Alex Wood, Europe Editor at Forbes. “We’ve searched throughout Europe to identify 300 of the most revolutionary entrepreneurs, innovators and disruptors in 10 diverse sectors, who are changing the game throughout the region and across the globe.”

Having recently graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology, Edel is currently an EY Scholar studying for a Masters of Science in Technology Innovation and Entrepreneurship Development at NUI Galway. “It is a huge honour to be included in the Forbes 30U30 this year. Since I started in NUI Galway in 2016, I have been hugely supported in every aspect of my journey both academically and through the LaunchPad with Free Feet Medical. I am thrilled to represent the university and my city on the list.”

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FEATURE

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PEOPLE

A Day in the Life Catherine Fulvio Recently nominated for a Daytime Emmy Award for Outstanding Culinary Host, Catherine Fulvio runs Ballyknocken House and Cookery School in County Wicklow. Catherine is married to Sicilian, Claudio and has two children, Charlotte and Rowan.

I grew up on a working farm with one of Ireland’s first country house B&Bs where my mother cooked three meals a day.

With me as her main helper, I suppose I was destined to go on and work with food!

Every day I wake up is different, and I really love that. The first thing I have to do is pack the kids off to school after a healthy breakfast. I make an effort to have a

“

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healthy green smoothie with them each morning before a brisk walk through Carrick Woods and Carrick Mountain, just out the back of Ballyknocken House.

Then it could be into the cookery school for a class. We do a lot of corporate cookery classes and at this time of the year we also have our Transition Year and Leaving Cert students coming in to learn a life skill and practice their Leaving Cert Home Economics assignments, so it is often back to back in the cookery

Catherine with host Kitchen Takeover in Galway’s award-winning Brasserie on the Corner on Thursday 30 May. For tickets call 091 530 333.

school. I absolutely love teaching cookery and sharing my tips and recipes, but at the same time it’s great fun travelling around Ireland doing talks, cookery demonstrations or doing a restaurant takeover like I will be doing here in Galway in Brasserie on the Corner. As the saying goes, variety is the spice of life.

I have found that taking just 10 minutes for meditation, either in the morning or the evening, has been really good for me. It helps me to relax and it really helps with the stress because there is so much involved with running the business, dealing with teenagers and travelling so much – it can all take its toll.

At the weekend I like to take a longer walk or hike in the Wicklow Mountains. I also love to potter in the herb garden or tidy up the vegetable patch – gardening is so therapeutic and even 15 minutes a day can make all the difference in the garden and feel the benefit in the mind.

Most of my socialising over the past couple of years has been done on the sideline of a rugby pitch but I do like the occasional catch up with old college friends.

I also really enjoy going to the theatre with my daughter so we try and do that from time to time.

We recently went to Gatsby at the Gate and it was just phenomenal.

I try to get home most evenings to eat with the family as that’s the time when I really find out what’s going on in my children’s lives. We tend to enjoy a lot of pasta – it’s so quick and easy – and recently we have been trying out Mexican food with burritos being a current favourite with endless filling ideas that allow for lots of fresh vegetables and herbs which makes dinner time great fun!”

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FASHION

Janette dress, €59.95

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FASHION

Tropic like its’ Hot At last we can see a refreshing kaleidoscope of colour and prints on the horizon.

Prints speak volumes this summer at iclothing.com with tropical inspired motifs stealing the show – think pineapples, palm trees and papayas. When it comes to wearing big prints, there are no rules. Mix and match or wear with bold block colours.

Add a flash of future to the tribal influence and bring added interest with a modern colour injection of grass green, electric blue and rich red.

Photographer – Ian McDevitt Model – Alina Boyko Stylist – Marine Tripard Production – Carolyn Walsh Hair and Make Up – Deane Shannon iclothing.com

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FASHION

Saskia dress €59.95 Sierra necklace €14.99 Damle earrings €9.99

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FASHION

Donatella top, €94.95 Palma pants €49.99

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FASHION

Palma blazer €59.99 Palma trousers €49.99 Elena heels €29.95

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FASHION Liah dress €94.95 Jonna bag €17.50

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FASHION

FlyAway with me

R

ecently I headed home to Paisley to recharge the accent (ahem), catch up with friends and get the latest on all the shtyle shenanigans in nearby Glasgow. Until 2013, the city’s slogan was ‘Glasgow: Scotland with Style’ and to be fair, style is something that Glaswegians have in abundance.

Even on the short Dublin to Glasgow flight, (a teeny tiny, turbulence-amplifying 72-seater), the full style spectrum is on display. From the comfy-clothed hill walkers and the weary returning business travellers, to the styled to the max trendies going straight to the city centre as soon as the plane lands. I am one of those heading straight out to play. I’m wearing my new ontrend denim boilersuit and my Premoli ‘brand-new-but-look-old’ runners. Feeling good!

I’m meeting my girlfriend for a catch up, drinks, chat and some people-watching in the best of atmospheres. By 1pm we are duly ensconced in a cool bar in the

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middle of Glasgow’s famous Style Mile – imagine Galway’s Shop Street and Quay Street majorly supersized. Glaswegians love to dress up and fully embrace their own brand of quirk. In this rainy but vibrant city, anything goes!

I did learn one new thing about Glasgow on this trip. Clearly, the A 40-something wannabe journalist cost of your drink correlates and fashionista, Kirsten directly to the nearest type of Curran is somewhere clothes shop. One of my, clearly on the scale between Victoria Beckham savvy, friends was generous (ahem) and Bridget enough to buy the first round of Jones (closer to reality).

Working in the corpo- cocktails as we sat in our first bar rate business world, in Buchanan Street, next to COS but forever thinking, and Karen Millen. As we walked to living and observing the next bar in the Merchant City all things fashion and style – the good, the area to meet more friends, I was bad and the ugly! clearly oblivious to the obvious ‘warning signs’ – blinded by the bling you might say. We left All Saints and Zara behind us and strolled past Cruise (all designer!) and Mulberry – ‘Who can afford these outfits?’, I thought as I drooled over the amazing windows. The sun was even shining here! (OK maybe that’s a bit of an exaggeration but I swear it was brighter). Into the swanky bar we

go, and I do the mandatory visit to the loo, which is no mean feat when wearing a boilersuit I can tell you! Ever the big spender, I nonchalantly hand my savvy friend a £20 note and ask her to order for both us. Upon my return, my friend, wine in hand and stifling a laugh, passes me my glass and... a solitary £1 coin in change! What?

Not a big one for playing to stereotypes but this time there were strict instructions to make that one the last. Needless to say, post-exorbitant Malbec, we moved back to our comfort zone somewhere between French Connection and All Bar One. By 7pm, we decided to head to Glasgow Central for the train back to Paisley. Clearly the timing was perfect as it was crossover time. Like a rare solar eclipse, we managed to catch one last bit of style-watching as the high fashion Glaswegian night owls made their way to the train with shopping bags in one hand, fish and chips in the other. Glasgow’s current slogan is bang on: People DO make Glasgow!

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FASHION River Island

Miss Selfridge

€69

THE DRESS This Rixo number is undoubtedly a showstopper. The statement print, clashing colours and ruffled hemline will be sure to turn heads. Plus the open back detail keeps it fresh whilst the high neckline and long sleeves make it demure enough for church weddings or christenings.

Office

€76

Miss Selfridge

€46

Cult Gaia

€335

Dune

€176

THE SUIT A power suit is a great alternative when it comes to occasion wear, especially in a bold, block colour. Striking and fashion forward, yet extremely practical, a suit is comfortable to wear all day and night, plus it’s great to rework for more casual outings. Simply add a t-shirt and trainers for a cool daytime look.

Dune

€111

Rixo

€380

Slip into Style

THE ALL-IN-ONE Who What Wear UK

Dorothy Perkins

€23

Dorothy Perkins

If dresses aren’t your thing, but you don’t want to be fussing finding co-ordinating separates, the humble jumpsuit is a winner. Opt for a 70’s silhouette with a nipped in waist and wide legs in a fun print. Consider your cost per wear and pair with sandals for your summer holidays afterwards.

Mango

Lucky in Style

€28

€49.99

M&Co

THE SEPARATES H&M

€12.99

Mango

€49.99

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The last two seasons have seen the satin midi skirt become a solid wardrobe staple. The sleek shape is great to dress up with a slinky cami, cinched in with a detailed belt and a pair of strappy sandals. Drape a blazer over your shoulders to escape any drops in temperature!

€9.95

Mango

€59.99

New Look

€32.99

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FASHION

Dorothy Perkins

A chronicle of personal style and fashion inspiration, Sinead Watkins is the voice behind Girl With The Bob. Born and bred in Brisbane, but currently based in Galway, Sinead is a fashion mad, drama enthusiast whose bob hairdo is infamous around town. girlwiththebob.com

RISE TO THE OCCASION Forget adopting a wallflower status for your summer occasions and events this year.

W

hether you have a wedding, family occasion, birthday party or are counting on a few big nights out, make colours and prints your friend for summer. Forget trying to obey the rules when it comes to occasion wear and have fun playing dress-up! And no longer does dressing up only mean wearing dresses. Try your hand at styling up skirt and top combos, suits and jumpsuits as well. Here are four bold looks worth taking for a spin for your next dressy occasion: M AY 2 0 1 9

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PARENTING

Doulas MEET THE

With all eyes on the impending arrival of the next royal baby, the Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle, and her husband Prince Harry, have reportedly decided to hire a doula as part of their birthing plan.

But what exactly is a doula?

T

he word doula comes from the Greek word ‘doule’ but has since taken on the meaning of a female companion, whose primary role is to offer support to mothers during pregnancy and labour.

We meet with Emma O’Murray, a member of the West Coast Doulas, to find out what exactly the role of a doula entails.

“When my now husband and I got engaged, I remember the overwhelming sense of excitement, happiness and gratitude. ‘I have found my soulmate and we get to spend the rest of our lives together – now for the wedding.’

Like any bride-to-be, I was bub-

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bling with anticipation over my todo’s, my to-buys and my to-asks, it was an incredibly exciting time.

But I also remember the stress, the sense of responsibility and the pressures that come with planning a wedding. The financial worry, the budgets, the lists, there was so much to do.

But the planning came and went, the magical day arrived (and boy it was magical), and we were on cloud nine. Our hard work had paid off and we had the best day of our lives – up until that point in time of course.

Like everything in life there were a few hiccups. “You can’t win a marathon without putting a few band aids on your nipples,” Kevin

westcoastdoulas.ie

Spacey, Horrible Bosses 2011 (a very reliable and education-based source I swear). Truth be told, we had no such painful sounding hiccups at our wedding, but this quote is gold, and yep, quite relatable for the childbirth/breastfeeding aspect of this incredibly informative doula article.

I promise I do have a point, I’m not just reminiscing for the sake of it.

My point is this: We get engaged and bam! There is a major life event on our horizon.

What do we do?

We get organised. We communicate our desires, we research, we plan, we ask questions, and most importantly, we figure out our preferences, our likes and dislikes.

Fast forward two years, we discover our little family is about to grow. We’re pregnant!

Just like with our engagement (but on a whole new level of incredible), we have another life event on the horizon.

What do we do? The answer seems simple, right? Get organised. Communicate our desires, research, plan and ask questions.

We can make things as simple or as complicated as we like with our choices. But with anything, the more we know about the options in front of us, the better equipped we are to make a selection that will work best for us.

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PARENTING EXAMPLE: Client 1 discovers she is pregnant, calls her nearest maternity hospital and requests an appointment for Wednesday afternoon (she has some free time from work). Receptionist checks her calendar, Dr. A is free then – it’s a match. Client 1 accepts and proceeds to meet Dr. A on a somewhat regular basis for scans/ check-up appointments. Dr. A will deliver the client’s baby. The client’s local doula reaches out to see if she can be of any help/support. Client 1 is unfamiliar with the doula concept and politely declines help on the spot.

Client 2: Discovers she is pregnant and begins her research into what type of birth she wants.

Once she has a better understanding, she researches the doctors in the maternity hospital that she has chosen. Dr J. seems to be a good fit for her personal needs.

She proceeds to call the hospital and schedules an appointment with Dr. J at their earliest convenience. Upon meeting and discussing her needs with Dr. J, she feels happy with her decision to proceed, confident in her doctor and empowered by her choice. The client’s local doula reaches out to see if she can be of any help/support. Client is unfamiliar with the doula concept but wishes to learn more, after speaking with the doula and learning about the role and benefits, she makes her informed decision.

Time and time again we hear stories from real women sharing their real birth experiences.

Their regret – showing up to their party as a guest, with nothing more to do than PUUUSSSSSHHHHH! To me, this is the ‘Don’t Tell the Bride’ equivalent to getting married, having done nothing more than say “I do.” A nightmare.

Women are incredible and all unique. On any given day, today for example, 300,000 women will be giving birth. Each of these women are their own person, with different desires and needs for birthing their baby.

How, therefore, can there be one plan to suit all?

When I say one plan, I’m referring to the age old image of women, screaming down the labour ward, in their hospital gown, legs up in stirrups, bright lights, machines, with a gaggle of doctors, nurses, pedestrians – I dunno, whoever all those people are (here’s hoping one of them is M AY 2 0 1 9

“

We can make things as simple or as complicated as we like with our choices.

a doula in the making thinking there’s bound to be a better way!), yelling PUUUSSSHHHHH! Anyway, if you think of birth and you think of the above, let me introduce you to our sisterhood – the West Coast Doulas.

There is a better way.

We are Aine, Ann, Bairbre, Mairead, Michelle, Tara and myself; Emma. We are women, we are doulas. Our role is to support women, prenatally, as they birth and postnatally, but also support their partner and family.

Of course, the medical side of childbirth is very much real, and very much left in the hands of our capable doctors, midwives and nurses. But for us, we believe, and we know, that there is so much more to childbirth. It is the miracle of the female body.

If you remember one thing, please hold dear in your thoughts: “My body knew how to grow this baby, my body knows

how to birth this baby.”

As you birth your baby, you birth yourself, and your partner into parents. Having a doula present, to hold space, to massage, to hug, to laugh, to cry – we support in any way we can. We want to bring baby into the world and into the arms of a happy mother and partner (skin to skin of course). A mother and partner who just had the best experience of their lives. A mother and partner who understand the importance of a good birth. And finally, a mother and partner who decided that they were going to have just that – a good birth.

I’m not going to sit here and sell you on why you need a doula, who we are, what we do, the pros, the cons, the statistics. The point of this article is not to sell ourselves but to introduce the possibility of a different path. You always have choices, sometimes it’s just a matter of looking for them.”

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PARENTING

Green poncho, Mothercare Ireland

€37

SIOBHÁN McHUGH’S

MINI ME

‘You can expect lows of minus seven with highs of 30 degrees, sunshine in places, heavy rain at times, intermittent snowfall, icy patches, scattered showers, and a light easterly warm breeze turning to gale force winds.’

Styleuphoria.com

That pretty much sums up a day in an Irish summer weather forecast report for most of the years that I can recall. That is apart from last year, just imagine if we have a repeat of last year’s beautiful summer! It was amazing to wake up to the sun shining in the window and enjoying so many outdoor activities with the kids.

You could actually make definite plans, not like the usual unreliable lets-see-whatthe-weather-is-like-in-the-morning plan. On this optimistic note, although we are not going abroad until later in the year, I am going to invest early in our summer holiday clothes in the hope that we get use out of them in Ireland too.

Blue wrap dress, Carraig Donn

€54.95

HATS ON! I love when SPF swimsuits come with matching hats – not only for the style stakes, but for practicality too. I choose hats that fall over the ears and neck as they are such easy places to accidentally streak with sun cream. I find the swimwear material in hats a better option compared to the heavier material as it means the children can keep the hat on in the water and it will also dry faster when left in the sun afterwards.

Thus, they can still wear their hats later that day when we are out for a walk.

BABY BLUES Nothing says summer like soft summer pastels, and I’m all about baby blue this month!

Since I had my second section I find that I can get bloated in the tummy area at times, so sometimes I like to have the option of a wrapstyle dress in the wardrobe as it acts as a good camouflage, rather than having to squeeze into support underwear! I spotted this soft baby blue dress in Carraig Donn. I like that it gives you a nice high waistline and then drops with the pleats for a little extra M AY 2 0 1 9

Leigh Tucker Willow for Dunnes Stores

tummy coverage.

Sticking with my current love for baby blue, I also spotted this fab playsuit. I just love these light playsuits over a bikini on holidays or for around the house on hot days. And look at this adorable little blue outfit for Sián, sure I can’t leave that behind!

€15

Blue applique beach playsuit, River Island Baker by Ted Baker blue deep sea sunsafe suit, Debenhams

€35

€38

MAKING LIFE EASIER...

One of the most difficult tasks of the day during the holidays is trying to get a child out of a wet swimsuit at the side of a pool and pleading with them to stay still while you attempt to dry them! For that reason, I use poncho towels. At least if you even get part of them dry before they run off, they will still have a towel on them!

Baker by Ted Baker blue deep sea sunsafe hat, Debenhams

€20

V By Very tutu sw girls leopard €15 imsuit, Littlewoporidnst

Pink strawberry sunsafe sunsafe suit, Mothercare

Peppa Pig girls hooded poncho, Littlewoods

€16

€19.99

#NOJUDGEMENT! I’m sorry in advance, please don’t judge me but I just can’t stop myself from ordering this little leopard print swimsuit for Sián! Even if it’s just for the photo opportunity!

Pink strawberry sunsafe Keppi hat, Mothercare

€8.99

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PARENTING

As the clocks go forward, the sun starts to shine and temperatures start to rise, so too do stress levels, fatigue and pressure for exam students.

Testing Times

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PARENTING

W

puter for a little while.

Breaks are vital, it’s impossible to concentrate for hours on end and it will prove inefficient overall. Try to get out and get some fresh air, go for a walk, hit the gym or participate in some sort of outdoor activity. Evidence has emerged in recent years indicating that physical activity increases our brain’s capacity.

Another overlooked element of good study practice is maintaining friendships as it creates a healthy and balanced lifestyle.

Students should be encouraged to step away from the books and spend time with their friends on a regular basis.

ith exams on the horizon, we all know how stressful it can be for the young people sitting them.

Parents also experience a high level of stress when their son or daughter is getting ready for exams. Sean Armstrong, iRevise education expert, an experienced teacher and former inter-county footballer, shares his tips for both students and parents on navigating exam year, and how to support each other at this difficult time.

MOTIVATION It's very important to remind yourself constantly what you are working towards and it’s always a good idea to try and focus on internal motivation. Students who do well in exams have, usually, made a connection between the importance of school and where they want to go in life. Encourage your child to do well for his or her own sake, rather than for money, or to please you. Vision boards are a great idea, you can make these using images related to a certain CAO course or a college you would really like to attend. They can then hang this in their place of study, this will keep feeding your sub conscience and act as a reminder as to why you are studying.

STRESS Think of your brain as you would any other muscle in your body. If you want it to work at its full capacity, you need to give it plenty of fuel and time to rest. Encourage your child to join family meals, even if they’re busy revising – it's important to have a change of scene, and get away from the books or comM AY 2 0 1 9

iRevise is an online exam support service, with expert notes, sample answers and over 1,000 video tutorials geared at all secondary level students from first year to sixth year. Access the site and helpful free content can be found at irevise.com

PLANNING A good plan is key to good study and very important when it comes to reducing stress. Try and study in 40 minute blocks with 15 minute breaks, with each block having a short term goal. This requires discipline though as it’s very easy to stay studying longer and then break for longer. Remember, less is more if it’s done more efficiently.

Study smart not hard.

In each subject it’s very important to identify your weaknesses.

Your mock results will act as a good indicator as they will show you the areas you don’t like and will offer the greatest area of improvement. Try and get your least liked areas studied first as it won’t be productive in the long run to leave them on the long finger.

HABITS Creating good habits is just as easy as creating bad habits. Habits are formed by carrying out a similar action on a constant basis. We

all know that once a habit is created it’s very hard to break. Try and get into the routine of getting up early and getting the majority of your study done before lunch.

Leaving it until later in the day will only cause anxiety as it will play on your mind up until you start studying and by then the task can often seem to be a mammoth one. Try and stick to the same time every day and it will soon become routine to study at this time.

Far too many students believe that to be prepared for their exams they are required to plough through mountains of books, piece by piece. Using the same form of materials such as the iRevise study support is also great by simplifying the amount of material that students actually need to consume.

It is estimated that you are only asked between 20-30% of the subject itself in any exam.

Studying earlier in the day will prove more beneficial as your brain and body will be fully rested and clear. Ensure that you have an adequate study area that is clutter-free where you won’t be disturbed. It is all too easy for teenagers to spend time on games consoles, listening to music, social networking or watching TV. While it’s important to have some down time, it’s more important to develop good study habits.

Finally, the best advice for anyone in exam year is try not to worry! We’ve all been there, we all survived – your son or daughter will too – so just be there for them, and make sure they know you will be proud, once they do their best!

GALWAYnow | 25

PROMOTION

LOCAL

LIVING

SALTHILL

Fill your lungs with the freshest air that Ireland has to offer and enjoy the stunning seaside resort of Salthill.

S

ituated on the northern inner shore of Galway Bay, the Aran Islands are visible to the right with Galway city to the left. 200 years ago, the Salthill area was mainly agricultural land around a small village occupied mostly by fishermen. Over the years Salthill has grown from that small fishing village into a thriving and bustling modern resort. The seafront neighbourhood that we see today has outgrown its resort origins to become a desirable and popular suburb. Offering the best of both worlds, it has all the modern comforts of a seaside village with close proximity to the city centre.

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Salthill’s famous promenade was developed on land reclaimed from the sea. The promenade overlooking Galway Bay covers approximately 3km of coastline and is extremely popular for walking, jogging and rollerblading.

On a clear day you can see the rugged hills of County Clare and the breathtaking mountains of Connemara from the promenade.

With an array of bars, restaurants, cafes and casinos, there is something for everyone to choose from. Salthill has a wide range of comfortable accommodation options including hotels, guesthouses, self-catering holiday apartments, campsites and B&B's.

GALWAYnow | 27

PROMOTION

LANA Enjoy the unique flavours of delicious and authentic fresh food which is created by a passionate team of chefs from Thailand, Indonesia, China and Malaysia. Taking inspiration from how people dine in their home countries, the team at Lana pride themselves on producing high quality and locally sourced food which is free from preservatives and MSG. All of their meat produce is traceable and is 100% Irish in origin.

Pricing is competitive with starters just €5 and all mains just €10. There is also a selection of Asian beers, wines by the glass or bottle, along with vegetarian and coeliac-friendly options and a full children's menu.

224 Upper Salthill, 091 522933, lanathai.ie

SALTHILL HOTEL Offering panoramic views of the spectacular Salthill promenade and Galway Bay, Salthill Hotel is a modern and luxurious haven with stylish accommodation and modern amenities, all just a stone’s throw from the beach. Boasting 161 spacious deluxe bedrooms and suites with expansive views of the Atlantic Ocean, the hotel is also a well known and highly reputable wedding venue with stunning views, quality food and professional staff – the perfect place to celebrate your special day. Serving dinner every evening from 6-9pm and Sunday lunch from 12-4pm, The Prom Restaurant is a firm favourite with locals and visitors alike. The impressive Blackrock Bar also offers idyllic sea views ensuring you can relax and dine in style with live music on Friday and Saturday evenings.

The Promenade, Salthill, 091 522711, salthillhotel.com

STAUNTONS ALLCARE PHARMACY Open 365 days a year until 10pm, Stauntons Allcare Pharmacy offer a wide range of health services including blood pressure checks, vaccinations, health checks and prescription delivery. The hair salon at Stauntons Pharmacy is delighted to announce the arrival of Leona Walsh and Louise Fahy to the team. Regarded as two top class styists, the girls bring a wealth of experience to the Aveda salon.

The ground floor salon is very accessible and convenient for elderly customers with fast service and superior blowdries guaranteed.

The balcony faces out on sunny Salthill so you can relax, have a coffee and watch the world go by while your colour develops at the same time!

148 Lower Salthill Road, Galway, 091 520000

O'CONNOR DRY CLEANERS Specialist cleaners in wedding dresses, evening wear and menswear, O'Connor Dry Cleaners also offer a full laundry service. Delivering a professional service and value for money every time, O'Connor Dry Cleaners offer same day dry cleaning, ironing, laundering, alterations and repairs, as well as a suede and leather cleaning service and a full pressing service. O’Connor Dry Cleaners open from 8am until 7pm Monday to Friday and until 6pm on Saturdays with ample free parking outside.

Joyces Shopping Centre, Knocknacarra, 091 589 262, info@oconnordrycleaners.ie

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PROMOTION

IN FOCUS

In the Line of Duty A native of Portumna, Co. Galway, Anne Rabbitte was first introduced to politics in 2014 when she was elected as a member of Galway County Council, before going on to become a TD in the Galway-East constituency in 2016.

Sean Lydon

A

nne is a busy mother to three equally busy children – Fiachra (17), Caoimhe (16), and Aoibhinn (14) – and her stepson Paudie (30). With the sudden passing of her husband Paddy in 2011, and three young children under the age of nine, Anne had to learn how to juggle the demands of home, work and extracurricular activities very quickly. She also had the added pressure of providing for the family which was no mean feat.

As well as tackling the daily issues of being a single parent, Anne took a career break from the financial sector to run a childcare facility and spend more time with her young family. Her experience and working knowledge resulted in her appointment to the Fianna Fáil front bench as spokesperson for Children and Youth Affairs in 2016. This deep understanding of the issues and challenges faced by parents across the country has continued to inform her approach to politics. During her time in the Dáil, she has focused her energies on a range of issues such as affordable childcare, child safety and protection, children in care, mental health, cyber security, gambling addiction and parental bereavement leave.

Before entering the world of politics, Anne worked in the banking sector in Galway for over 25 years. She offered support and advice to a range of clients from

“

It’s so important that we support and help each other.

individuals, young families and those planning for retirement, to start-ups and established businesses. Her depth of knowledge and expertise in the area of finance and investment has been cultivated over many years. It is a valuable skill that she intends to put to good use, should she be elected as an MEP for the Midlands North-West constituency in the European Elections on the 24th of May. “If I get elected, I intend to target and maximise EU investment, to enhance and support the potential of the Hidden

Heartlands and the Wild Atlantic Way, and strengthen the western economic corridor in the process,” explained Anne.

Anne is also extremely passionate on the subject of women in politics. “I’m often asked about women running for office and it’s great to see an increasing number of women putting themselves forward for election. By simply putting yourself forward, you’re empowering other women and inspiring them to consider a role in politics too. It’s so important that we support and help each other. But we must also remember that while we are a voice for women, we’re a voice for men too, and we need to ensure that we reflect all of our constituents.

I’ve met so many people over the past number of years who’ve been left with nowhere to turn.

These people often end up on the doorstep of a TD’s office as a last resort, and that simply isn’t right. We need less bureaucracy and more transparency in our system to make sure it’s working as well as it should be for everyone. I feel privileged that I’m in a position to offer a voice to those who go unheard. Helping people has always been a driving force for me, and I’m only ever a phone call or an email away if needed.”

Anne is a Fianna Fáil MEP candidate for the Midland North West constituency, and will run for the European Elections on 24th May.

THE HUB, ST. BRENDAN STREET, PORTUMNA, CO. GALWAY, 090 975 9695, INFO@ANNERABBITTE.IE. ANNERABBITTE.IE M AY 2 0 1 9

GALWAYnow | 29

FOOD

Good Food for a Good Mood!

What if you could improve your mental health, boost your mood and reduce the symptoms of depression by altering the way you eat?

Focusing on the link between food, mood and mental health, author and dietitian Paula Mee outlines how a Mediterranean food plan can do just that in her latest book, Mediterranean Mood Food.

R

esearch has shown that a traditional Mediterranean diet has numerous physical health benefits, including reducing the risk of heart disease, stroke, cancer and diabetes. Now, new evidence suggests that this pattern of eating can substantially reduce the risk of depression, with growing research showing that following a Mediterranean based diet is associated with better gut health and subsequently, mental health.

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Mediterranean Mood Food also contains easy to follow advice on how to create and adapt your own MMFP as a sustainable, long-term approach to your mental and physical health.

It is the perfect book for anyone who wants to improve their mental health, boost their mood and live a longer, healthier life while still enjoying delicious food!

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FOOD

BUTTERNUT SQUASH AND PUY LENTIL SALAD WITH MARINATED FETA SERVES 4

This makes a tasty lunch option.

Tofu can be used instead of the marinated feta to make this dairy free. A portion of butternut squash contains about 3g of fibre and even more potassium than a banana. It’s a very good source of antioxidants, vitamin C and beta-carotene, the precursor of vitamin A.

Mediterranean Mood Food; What to eat to help beat depression and live a longer, healthier life, €19.99, is published by Gill Books

1 small or medium butternut squash 2 tsp olive oil, plus extra for greasing 2 tsp tamari or soy sauce 100g Puy lentils 200ml water 1 garlic clove, crushed 1 small bay leaf 1 tsp vegetable bouillon ½ tsp dried thyme 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar 1 heaped tsp Dijon mustard 1 tsp local honey 200g marinated feta cheese (recipe below)

Preheat the oven to 200°C. Lightly oil a baking tray. Cut the unpeeled butternut squash in half and scoop out the seeds.

Place the squash on the baking tray, cut side up. Mix together the regular olive oil and tamari and liberally brush the cut side of the squash. Bake in the oven for 30– 40 minutes, until tender. Set aside to cool. Meanwhile, put the lentils in a sieve and hold under a running tap for a few seconds to rinse off any dust.

Drain and place in a saucepan with the water, garlic, bay leaf, bouillon and thyme. Bring to the boil, then turn down to a simmer and cover the pan. Cook for 20– 25 minutes, until the lentils are just tender. When the squash is cool enough to handle, scoop out the flesh using a large spoon, then chop into small cubes and set aside. If the squash is large, you can keep the leftovers in the fridge and use it in a soup the next day. When the lentils are cooked, drain off any remaining liquid and remove the bay leaf, then transfer to a large bowl.

Make the dressing by whisking the extra virgin olive oil, vinegar, mustard and honey together in a small bowl. Add the butternut squash to the cooked lentils, then pour over the dressing and mix gently. Scatter the feta cheese over the salad and serve.

MARINATED FETA WITH HERBES DE PROVENCE, THYME AND CHILLI SERVES 8

This can be used as part of the butternut squash and Puy lentil salad or as part of a mezze platter.

1 x 200g packet of feta cheese ½ tsp dried herbes de Provence ½ tsp dried thyme ¼ tsp chilli flakes 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil Open the packet of cheese, drain and rinse. Pat the cheese dry with kitchen paper, then cut into small cubes. Put in a bowl and sprinkle over the herbs and chilli flakes.

Pour over the oil and gently mix to coat. Store in a covered bowl or sealed container and use within four days.

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GALWAYnow | 31

FOOD

FRUIT AND FIBRE FLAPJACKS

MAKES UP TO 16 SQUARES The fastest way to use up opened seeds, nuts and dried fruit before the best-before date arrives is to make a large tray of nutty treats.

These keep well in an airtight tin in case you get a snack attack.

Yes, there is added sugar in the condensed milk, but the trick is to cut the flapjacks into small squares. Apart from the condensed milk, all other ingredients have a myriad of gut-friendly soluble and insoluble fibre and antioxidant-rich vitamins and minerals.

What I really like about this one is that it takes seconds to make and you might even coax a younger member of the family to help.

1 x 400g tin of condensed milk 250g oats 150g dried fruit such as dried cranberries 150g unsalted roughly chopped nuts 125g mixed seeds (pumpkin, sunflower) Preheat the oven to 130°C. Oil a 23cm x 33cm x 4cm baking tray.

Warm the condensed milk in a large pan. Meanwhile, mix together all the other ingredients, then add the warmed condensed milk and stir to combine. Spread the mixture into the tray and use a spoon to even the surface. Bake in the oven for 1 hour. Remove from the oven and allow to sit for about 15 minutes, then cut into four across and four down to make 16 chunky bars. Allow the bars to cool completely before removing from the tin so that they stay hard and don’t break as easily.

ROAST SPICED SWEET POTATO AND LAMB SALAD WITH A LEMON AND MIXED SEED DRESSING SERVES 4

Salad dressings don’t have to be tricky to make. Quick homemade dressings are fresher and additive free. Classic Mediterranean ingredients include lemon juice, honey, white wine vinegar and olive oil and are good with strong-flavoured leaf salads, such as rocket or kale or this sweet potato and lamb salad.

400g sweet potatoes, peeled, cut into wedges 4 tbsp olive oil 1 tbsp coriander seeds, coarsely crushed 2 heaped tsp harissa powder 400g lamb loin, trimmed of all fat 1 red onion, thinly sliced 1 large carrot, grated 1 yellow pepper, cut into thin strips 1 celery stick, peeled and thinly sliced 250g cherry tomatoes 1 bag of mixed salad leaves A handful of sultanas For the dressing: 4 tbsp mixed seeds 2 tbsp clear honey 1 tbsp white wine vinegar 1 tbsp lemon juice Salt and freshly ground black pepper 50ml extra virgin olive oil Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the sweet potato wedges in a bowl with 2 tablespoons of the olive oil, the coriander seeds

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FOOD

and harissa. Toss well so that the potatoes are covered with the oil. Place on a baking tray and roast in the oven for about 25 minutes, until tender. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil to a pan set over a medium heat.

When the pan is hot, add the lamb to the pan and brown on all sides. Transfer to a baking sheet, then finish in the oven until it’s cooked to your liking – about 8 minutes for medium and approximately 15 minutes for well done. When cooked, remove from the oven and allow to rest for a few minutes.

Meanwhile, to make the dressing, toast the seeds in a hot dry pan, then roughly crush them in a pestle and mortar. Whisk the honey, vinegar, lemon juice and some salt and pepper together, then slowly whisk in the olive oil.

Stir in the seeds. When the sweet potatoes are cooked, place all the other ingredients in a large bowl and dress with a little of the dressing. Place some salad in each bowl and top with the sweet potato. Slice the lamb and place over the dressed salad.

SPICY INDIAN FISH BAKE SERVES 4

The glycaemic index is a measure of how fast a carbohydrate-rich food converts to glucose in your body. It’s useful to know if you eat foods as a standalone snack, such as an orange or a banana – these have a nice low GI. But potatoes are rarely eaten by themselves. They are part of a meal in this recipe, and it is the glycaemic load that we consider.

Enjoy potatoes in moderation and where possible in their jackets as part of a meal to contribute nicely to your potassium, folate, vitamin C and fibre intake. The sweet potato is a great option if you like it, as they’re high in betacarotene, a potent antioxidant.

1 tbsp olive oil 400g sweet potatoes or waxy white potatoes, cut into thick slices or small cubes 1 x 400g tin of chopped tomatoes 100ml vegetable stock 2 garlic cloves, crushed 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger 2 tsp garam masala 1 tsp ground turmeric 1 tsp ground coriander M AY 2 0 1 9

1 tsp cumin seeds ½ tsp hot chilli powder or chilli flakes Salt and freshly ground black pepper 1 x 400g tin of chickpeas, drained and rinsed 4 thick white fish fillets (such as cod, hake, haddock or pollock) A handful of fresh coriander leaves Steamed greens or a side salad, to serve Crusty sourdough bread, to serve Preheat the oven to 180°C. Pour the tablespoon of oil on your hands, then rub the potatoes to coat them all in the oil. Put into a baking dish, then pour over the

tin of chopped tomatoes and vegetable stock. Sprinkle over the garlic, ginger and all the spices and season well, then stir to combine.

Roast in the oven for about 30 minutes. Remove from the oven and stir through the chickpeas.

Season the fish fillets, then place on top of the potato and chickpea mixture and return to the oven to roast for a further 12 minutes.

Sprinkle with fresh coriander leaves and serve with steamed greens or a side salad and some crusty sourdough bread.

GALWAYnow | 33

PROMOTION

‘TIS THE SEA SUN!

The best season of year is finally here. From half day Fridays to idyllic beach days, summer is the perfect time to take things slow, enjoy the great outdoors and feast on the delights of summer dining.

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GALWAYnow | 35

PROMOTION

THE HUNTSMAN INN Located just five minutes from the city centre, The Hunstman Inn has everything you need to enjoy the very best of summer dining.

The award-winning bar and restaurant, overlooking the shores of Lough Atalia, serves an extensive selection of seasonal dishes, using only locally sourced and fresh produce. Sit back and relax with an ice cold craft beer or choose from their extensive gin collection.

With several spacious and comfortable outdoor dining options, they even have a dedicated BBQ area so you can really sizzle in the summer sun. Whether you want traditional beer battered fish and chips or Mediterranean style platters, The Hunstman ensure that all of their menus are fresh, inviting and innovative.

College Road, Galway, 091 562849, huntsmaninn.com

ARMORICA Armorica restaurant, wine bar and guesthouse is located in the heart of Oranmore, just a 10 minute drive from Galway city on the doorstep of the Wild Atlantic Way. Established in 2017 by Natasha Hughes and Nicolas Denis, Armorica’s dining space is intimate and stylish featuring a wine bar, conservatory, as well as an outdoor seating area in a private garden.

Nicolas and his team masterfully combine innovative French techniques with the strong Irish food legacy to create high quality French food with a strong focus on local and organic produce. The menu showcases the best of Irish ingredients with a menu committed to a simple food philosophy – local, fresh and sustainable. Armorica also has an extensive wine list featuring carefully selected wines to perfectly accompany each meal. A family-friendly restaurant which offers a relaxed and welcoming ambiance, it is the perfect place to enjoy a meal at any time of the day, whatever the weather!

Main Street, Oranmore, Co. Galway, 091 388343, armorica.ie

AJLA Bringing good food and the community together, AJLA Restaurant, an exciting addition to the PoppySeed brand, brings a refreshing dining experience to its exquisite home in Clarinbridge. Offering a wide range of menus to tempt all tastes and palates, each and every dish is freshly prepared by the team of experienced chefs under the direction of head chef, Judy Forde. An award-winning chef with extensive industry experience, Judy has led the food story at PoppySeed since it opened in 2007. Serving brunch, lunch and dinner, their classic dishes are the cornerstone of the AJLA food journey and their innovative specials celebrate the best quality produce from local suppliers.

The Bridge Centre, Clarinbridge, 091 485413, ajla.ie

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ARD RÍ HOUSE HOTEL Located at the gateway to the Wild Atlantic Way, the Ard Rí House Hotel has earned a considerable reputation for casual and fine dining experiences. With a warm and inviting ambience, the Kiltevna Room Restaurant is sure to impress. All of their dishes use only the finest ingredients and are locally sourced through their loyal supplier base.

All of their meats are also guaranteed Irish and are 100% quality assured. Catering for a wide range of private functions with specially designed menus to cater for all budgets and dietary requirements, their exquisite menus include imaginative dishes from Head Chef Elton Powell and his experienced culinary team.

Their award-winning carvery in Dick Dowling’s Bar serves delicious lunches from 12.30pm until 3pm Monday to Saturday and from 12.30pm until 7pm on Sundays and bank holidays. Offering a wide range of mouthwatering dishes at an excellent price, their early bird menu, which runs from 5pm until 7pm daily, makes the Ard Rí House Hotel the perfect place to relax and enjoy the taste of summer.

Milltown Road, Tuam, Co. Galway, 093 40100, ardrihousehotel.ie

M AY 2 0 1 9

PROMOTION

TWO’S COMPANY

BY FOCUSING ON HOW YOU CAN HELP SOMEONE ELSE, IT BECOMES EASY TO DEVELOP A POSITIVE MINDSET.

AVRIL FERGUS LOST 5 stone 11 pounds A member of WW for many years, in 2007 Avril embarked on one of the most important journeys she has ever taken on – her road to becoming a Gold Member.

“2019 marks 12 years since I reached my goal weight. 12 years and two babies later, I am still at goal. I still go to weigh in every week. Although I am at goal, it keeps me on track as I need the accountability of getting on the scales every week. I love meeting my WW Coach Marie and catching up with friends who I have met along the way.

I also have the support of my best friend Lorraine who is also a successful WW Gold Member.

Whether I’m having a good or a bad week, Lorraine knows how I feel and vice versa. She is always

there with words of encouragement when I need it. We are like two peas in the WW pod, we understand each other. There have been so many personal rewards for achieving my goal. I turned 40 recently and there was no better feeling than seeing how far I’ve come over the years. I would highly recommend WW to anyone who is thinking of changing their lifestyle. The support and encouragement you will receive is fantastic. All the WW coaches understand their members and their journey. After all, they were in our shoes once. Take small steps, don’t look too far ahead and take it one day at a time.”

LORRAINE COONEY LOST 2 stone 5lbs A member of WW for many years, Lorraine reached her goal weight and became a Gold Member in July 2018.

“I would always lose weight and get within a few pounds of my goal and think to myself that was fine. At that stage I’d probably stop going to my WW workshop and lose focus and then join again in a few months after putting the weight back on.

Something just clicked with me when I rejoined on 2nd January 2018. I knew if I faced the scales straight away it would be a good start to the New Year, and it was!

I found the flexibility of the food choices on the WW programme really good and I have always received great support from Marie, my WW Coach.

Exercise is a very important part of the WW journey, it’s good for you physically as well as mentally.

Sean McCormack

W

hen it comes to choices in our daily lives, we’re constantly influenced by those in our social network.

Weight loss takes patience, time and dedication, but with the support of family and friends, you are more likely to achieve your goals and maintain them over time. After all, seeing your loved ones succeed in achieving their goals can help motivate you to do the same. Having a partner in crime can help you create a bubble of healthy living in a world full of triggers for overeating and being inactive. We catch up with two Galway gal pals who inspired each other to shed the pounds for good.

Lorraine Cooney and Avril Fergus

I run at least five times a week and I also do a circuit class twice a week which I really enjoy.

Having the support and encouragement from my best friend Avril was invaluable. We are best friends, living over the road from each other and working together every day, so it’s fair to say we know each other quite well! Avril is a true WW inspiration and is proof that the programme really works. We encourage each other during the bad weeks and keep each other focused and motivated along the way. We also make time to enjoy ourselves too which is very important – life is for living!”

FIND A WORKSHOP NEAR YOU AT WW.IE OR CALL 01 870 3900 M AY 2 0 1 9

GALWAYnow | 39

PROMOTION

“

Your eyes need protection even on cloudy days because the sun’s damaging UV rays can penetrate cloud cover.

What is the Sun Doing to Your Eyes?

We know that we need to protect our skin from the harmful rays of the sun, so why do we neglect to protect our eyes? Ultraviolet radiation can cause serious damage to our eyes. To protect your eyes from harmful solar radiation, you should wear sunglasses that block 100% UV whenever you are outdoors in daylight. Your eyes need protection even on cloudy days because the sun’s damaging UV rays can penetrate cloud cover.

S

Elaine O'Sullivan F.A.O.I. Prof. Cert.

Medical Retina.

Optometrist

superior protection and performance while playing their respective sport.

Offering an extensive range of sports sunglasses, most notably Oakley, Maui Jim, Adidas, Bollé and Vuarnet, Optique think about technology and how it can optimise your sports performance. Polarised lenses (also in prescription) totally eliminate glare and enhance contrast and depth of vision. Transitions Signature lenses are designed to quickly adapt from clear indoors to fully dark in the brightest sun, offering a distinct advantage over clear lenses. They continuously adapt to changing light so they’re always exactly the shade you need them to be.

Acuvue’s Oasys with Transitions contact lenses will be available in Optique later this month. They quickly and seamlessly adapt to balance the amount of indoor and outdoor light entering the eye, including filtering blue light

and blocking harmful UV rays.

For those looking for glamour and beauty, large retro classics, aviators and vintage tortoiseshell frames pave the way on the fashion catwalks. Optique stock a huge selection of designer eyewear and sunglasses such as Prada, Dior, Gucci, Paul Smith, Persol, Cutler and Gross, Woow, Oliver Peoples and Oakley.

Experts in the art of skilfully and stylishly dressing your face, Optique Opticians will help you choose eyewear which is right for your look, your prescription and your lifestyle.

Oliver Peoples

tudies have suggested that prolonged exposure to UV rays can cause macular degeneration of the retina (AMD), cataract of the intraocular lens, corneal damage, internal and external ocular cancers.

Children’s eyes in particular are extremely sensitive and without protection, are much more susceptible to long term damage. Children should wear 100% UV filtering sunglasses, preferably polarised, which eliminate glare as well as offering high protection to their eyes and surrounding skin.

Your optometrist can advise which type of sunglasses are best to protect your eyes in general, for sports or occupational needs.

Whether it is for driving, golf, sailing, biking or running, there are a multitude of different lens types that provide 100% UVA/UVB protection. Sport enthusiasts and athletes deserve

OPTIQUE OPTICIANS, LEVEL ONE, 18 BRIARHILL SHOPPING CENTRE, BALLYBRIT, GALWAY, 091 386669, OPTIQUE.IE M AY 2 0 1 9

GALWAYnow | 41

HEALTH

The REAL Truth About Beauty Sleep Beauty sleep is a jovial term for lots of us who claim we need it when we need to escape a dinner party or are feeling particularly tired that day. But many of us don’t actually realise that obtaining consistent, high-quality sleep can have physical and mental benefits too.

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leep too little, on the other hand, and we can be left with the appearance that we’re unwell and not taking care of ourselves. If you’re concerned about the amount of sleep you are getting, then you can use the mirror as a general guide on whether you need to start going to bed earlier.

SO WHAT EXACTLY IS BEAUTY SLEEP? Beauty sleep is defined as having ‘sufficient rest to keep you looking young and beautiful.’

With this in mind, taking yourself to bed for a minimum of seven hours sleep a night is a great start. This will allow your body to get the full benefit of a sound and restorative slumber, which will, of course, help to maintain your appearance and assist in creating a radiant and full of life appearance.

It’s not just a saying either, it really can aid your appearance.

Sarah Cummings from Sleep Advisor talks us through some of the main physical benefits that beauty sleep can provide: • Once you are in a state of rest, your body begins to produce growth hormones that help your body, such as repairing collagen-producing cells. Collagen is required to fill out your skin and stave off unwanted wrinkles from emerging.

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We spend a third of our lives asleep, therefore, having the right bed is essential.

sleepadvisor.org

• Growth hormones guarantee that your skin is producing sufficient levels of collagen, in order to keep your skin tight and elastic, while also helping in the repair of acne and scarring across your body.

• The benefits of collagen also go as far as to improve the quality of your hair and nails, keeping them strong and shiny. Lastly, collagen keeps your skin tone even, which means veins are prevented from becoming more prevalent and causing visible discoloration.

• During sleep, your body produces melatonin. The more sleep you get, the more melatonin you produce. This chemical is an effective antioxidant that fights off dark spots, fine lines, and potential skin cancers. It achieves this by protecting the skin against the harmful effects of UV exposure.

• Melatonin also helps repair cells and keeps skin flush and radiant.

Because of its properties, melatonin can also be effectively applied to the skin topically for skin-level health benefits.

• Your body is much more likely to over produce the hormone ghrelin. Ghrelin acts to increase your appetite, while the hormone leptin, which stops it, is underproduced. So, when you don’t get enough sleep, you’re left feeling hungrier, and your body doesn’t achieve that full feeling once you have eaten.

If this happens regularly, overeating can occur, and weight control becomes an issue.

• High quality sleep, which includes the quantity, is great for improving blood flow to the top layer of your skin, and in particular your face. This can assist in reduced puffiness under your eyes. This is because poor blood flow leads to pooling under the eyes, which causes dark under eye circles – you may have seen this when you are dehydrated too.

Drinking plenty of water and enjoying a sound slumber combine to smooth and lighten your under eye circles, helping to give you a bright eyed, awake appearance.

HOW CAN YOU ACHIEVE BEAUTY SLEEP? • Some people will persist with a mattress that isn’t up to the requirements needed to bank consistent and sound slumber.

We spend a third of our lives asleep, therefore having the right bed is essential. The good news is there is a wealth of choice available.

• Memory foam and latex mattresses are at the forefront of comfort when it comes to mattresses. They help you to evenly distribute pressure and prevent one side of the face becoming aged faster than the other.

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HEALTH

• If you find yourself waking up with rashes or blemishes, you may be allergic to your mattress. There are lots of options for people who are you allergic to latex beds, and these may offer some antimicrobial benefits to sleepers of all kinds.

• Silk bedding is different from other bedding in that it doesn’t cause those unwelcome facial lines that can appear when you wake up after sleeping on pillow cases made of other materials.

• Squishing and pulling your face around a non-silk covered pillow could contribute to more permanent lines and wrinkles!

• Taking the time to wash your face can actually help your beauty sleep regime.

• Consider a shower before bed, as the warming of your body can help induce sleep, studies suggest.

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GALWAYnow | 43

BEAUTY

beautybox

WE’RE ALWAYS ON THE HUNT FOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF GAMECHANGING BEAUTY AND SKINCARE PRODUCTS. YOU KNOW THE ONESTHE HOLY GRAIL PRODUCTS AND TREATMENTS THAT HELP US GET READY AND OUT THE DOOR IN HALF THE TIME.

IT’S ALL ABOUT YOU

MAKE UP YOUR MIND

A new generation anti-ageing cream, Clarins Laboratories have combined the most effective instant radiance boosters with the best replenishing key ingredients to regenerate the skin and boost the glow. Its bold pink shade reminds us that we can feel young, vibrant and radiant at any age!

Inspired by positive summer vibes and sparkling sunsets, the feel of sand under your feet and the light flutter of the evening summer, the new ART DECO collection, Make Up Your Sunset Stories, is a mixture of intense tones and vibrant hues. The limited edition design Volume Supreme Mascara, €19.30, gives you intense volume and lashes that go on forever.

The flexible kaleidoscopic brush separates the lashes perfectly and fans them out for lashes with volume.

The tapered tip of the rubber brush enables mascara to be applied even to the tiniest of lashes.

OPEN YOUR EYES With smouldering heat and dazzling light, the Bobbi Brown limited edition Infra-Red Palette embodies a fervent vitality and bold exuberance of colour. Mix and match the range of shades to turn up the energy and create a fiery look that will blaze through the night.

FLAW LESS FREE STYLING Keep your locks on point with the prism-like shine of the ghd platinum+ styler, €225, for the hottest festival trends. Innovative predictive technology in the sensors work to predict your personal hair needs and adapt the delivery of power accordingly. By recognising the thickness of your hair and the speed at which you are styling, the ghd platinum+ styler delivers unbeatable results faster than ever before.

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He-Shi Rapid 1 Hour Liquid Tan, €29.50, is a new and improved formula which promises flawless results in just 60 minutes. Featuring a new DHA odourneutralising scent of white nectarine and pear, it is also alcoholfree and contains Argan Oil to maintain supple, moisturised and deeply hydrated skin.

TREAT YOURSELF Presented in a beautiful beauty bag exclusively designed by Meagan Morrison of Travel Write Draw, an illustration house celebrating the unique, bold and colourful worlds of travel, fashion and art, Elemis’ limited edition collection includes a host of favourites including the brand new Pro Collagen Rose Cleansing Balm and Peptide4 Thousand Flower Mask.

GALWAYnow | 45

HEALTH

WHAT TO CHANGE

Before the Change

Menopause is a natural transition that all women will go through as they age. It heralds the transition from traditional childbearing years into later life. Commonly referred to as ‘The Change’ it is often associated with unpredictable and sometimes uncomfortable hormonal and physical change. When women talk about going through menopause they are actually describing the perimenopause, which is quite a recent term.

It is during this stage that you could experience most of the classic menopausal symptoms, but it can start very subtly.

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any women will start to experience hormonal changes from around the age of 40. For some women, they can notice changes from their mid-30s onwards.

These changes can be so subtle that you might wonder if it’s all in your mind. Rest assured that what you are feeling is completely normal and taking steps to support your hormonal balance can help ease the transition. The perimenopausal stage can last between two and six years. The actual ‘menopause’ is the point when you have your last ever period. Obviously, you won’t know it is your last period until you look back, and you need to have no periods for 12 months for the menopause to have occurred. For most of us, the actual menopause will happen between the ages of 48 and 55. The average age for women to experience menopause in Ireland is 50 years.

The hormonal symptoms associated with the perimenopause are linked to a significant natural decline in oestrogen levels. This can trigger symptoms such as hot

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flashes or power surges as our American cousins like to refer to them, as well as irregular periods, vaginal dryness and dreaded night sweats. Less obvious symptoms include changes in sleeping patterns, mood, abdominal weight gain and loss of bone density. While some women sail through menopause symptom free, up to 75% of women are symptomatic to some degree.

Given that perimenopause is a highly unique pattern, rather than a clear cut calendar event, it can be hard to know when it even begins. It can also be easy to confuse many of the symptoms with other processes associated with ageing, leaving many Irish women uncertain about acknowledging and describing their symptoms.

If you are concerned about the impact of menopause, adopting these simple diet and life strategies may ease your symptoms and help manage the chronic diseases that can occur with ageing.

Prepare to clean up your diet.

The perimenopause is a time of change and your female hormones are going to be fluctuating up and down as you go through

Sorcha Molloy BSc (Hons), MBant runs the Glenville Nutrition Clinic Galway which specialise in women’s health and supporting couples planning to conceive. If you wish to contact Sorcha to make an appointment with her, call 091 726344 or email galwayinfo@ glenvillenutrition.ie

this stage until you come out the other side and into the postmenopause, when your hormones will stabilise. The more gradually you go through the menopause, the less hormone fluctuations you experience and the easier the transition. What you eat at this stage can make the difference between having a difficult or easy menopause. If you are suffering from increased mood swings, irritability and depression, taking measures to balance your blood sugar is absolutely crucial. This means not only thinking about the quality of the food that you eat, but also the timing. You can start by eliminating added sugar and refined carbohydrates in order to see a marked improvement in your moods. Switch to wholegrains and always include a lean portion of protein with each meal and snack. The other important consideration is to eat little and often. This means not going more than three hours without eating.

If you wait longer than this, your blood sugar may drop and the stress hormones adrenaline and cortisol will be released. It is the release of these hormones that M AY 2 0 1 9

HEALTH

gives rise to many of the symptoms relating to anxiety, tension, crying spells, depression and irritability.

Symptoms can be connected to your adrenal glands. As your ovaries decline in the production of oestrogen, your adrenal glands take over some of this role and produce a form of oestrogen. If your baseline stress levels are already high, this additional demand can put the adrenal glands under pressure, exacerbating hormonal fluctuations. Along with balancing your blood sugar levels, taking steps to manage stress can be supportive of your overall hormone balance. Ask yourself what you regularly do to relax and go from there.

Food is medicine and adding phytoestrogens (plant oestrogens) to your diet will help cushion the effects of the hormone rollercoaster as you go through the perimenopause. We know that women who eat a diet rich in phytoestrogens have significantly fewer hot flushes – up to half the amount experienced by women who eat very few phytoestrogens – so make sure these are included in your diet and go for variety. Don’t base everything around soya and include chickpeas, lentils, flaxseeds (linseeds) and kidney beans.

Deficiencies of omega 3 essential fats can look like symptoms that may occur in the perimenopause such as dry skin, lifeless hair, cracked nails, fatigue, depression, dry eyes, lack of motivation, aching joints, difficulty in losing weight and forgetfulness.

Including good sources of omega 3 in the diet can offset this. Aim to include daily food sources rich in omega 3 such as salmon, sardines and mackerel, as well as walnuts, chia seeds, flaxseed and seaweeds like nori used in sushi.

A good quality multivitamin and mineral can help to support your body during the perimenopause and beyond. This supplement should contain vital nutrients for bone health, good levels of antioxidants to help slow down the ageing process, and other important vitamins and minerals, such as the B vitamins and chromium, to help keep blood sugar levels balanced.

It should also contain calcium, magnesium, manganese, boron and vitamin D3. It is also important to consider increasing food sources of these nutrients focusing on wholeM AY 2 0 1 9

grains, lean proteins, healthy fats and a wide variety of pesticide-free vegetables.

There are a number of natural herbs that are helpful for the perimenopause including sage, hops and red clover. Be mindful that certain herbs may interact with other medication so should only be considered under the advice of a medical herbalist. Sage has been shown to decrease hot flushes by 50% after 4 weeks and by 64% after 8 weeks. It also helps with decreasing insomnia, irritability, anxiety, physical and mental exhaustion by up to 47% which can all be symptoms in the perimenopause. Hops have been shown to help with both hot flushes and night sweats. Red clover is one of the most extensively studied herbs and research indicates that it significantly reduces hormonal power surges compared to a placebo.

As well as eating a healthy and bone-building diet, a regular

exercise programme is crucial for warding off osteoporosis. This is because the more physically active we are, the more bone we will build. Research shows that regular exercise can reduce risk of all-cause mortality by up to 50% and death by cardiovascular disease by a staggering 70% in women. Aim for a minimum of 30 minutes exercise five times a week. As we get older we naturally lose muscle which makes it harder to burn fat. Try to include more weight resistance exercise as this helps to build muscle which is metabolically active.

Making sure that you are eating and living well during the perimenopause is not only going to help you with this transition naturally, but it will give you a really good foundation for your long term health. You can have another 30-50 more years to live into the future so take advantage now by sowing the seeds of good health.

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BEAUTY

WeTried . .andloved VAMPIRE FACIAL

Restore Aesthetic & Beauty Clinic Church Street, Loughrea, Co. Galway 087 6868116, restoreloughrea@gmail.com

has no side effects, it increases elasticity and collagen production. PRP injections are hugely successful in the treatment of areas such as crow’s feet, creased eyelids and under eye darkness, thinning hair, acne scars and wrinkles. My skin feels a lot smoother and as it continues to improve over a period of 6-12 weeks, I can’t wait to see the end result!

WORLD OF AROMAS MASSAGE

I made an appointment with Caroline Smullen, an aesthetic nurse and owner of Restore Aesthetic & Beauty Clinic, for a procedure to treat the area under my eyes. In recent years it has become a problem area for me as the skin has become dark and looks creased all the time. Caroline recommended Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) treatments which is the most natural and effective treatment available on the aesthetic market right now to rejuvenate the skin. More commonly known as The Vampire Facial, it is Restore’s rejuvenation treatment of choice because of its effectiveness and minimal downtime. It works by using your own blood which is rich in growth factors and stem cells to restore the skin naturally. Containing no synthetic chemicals and therefore

During a recent stay in Castlemartyr, I treated myself to the World of Aromas massage, one of the resorts signature treatments. The spa uses the range from Germaine de Capuccini who have been developing cutting edge skincare solutions for over 50 years. Based on traditional Chinese philosophy, the World of Aromas massage is specifically catered to the needs of the body by matching one of their five active oils – Relax, Detox, Energize, Hydrate and Stimulate – to your needs.

During the sensual massage, my therapist worked on stressed areas to relieve tension and negative energy from my body. Germaine de Capuccini is one of the few professional skincare brands with in-house laboratories, and through research and innovation, provide genuine solutions to solve your skincare concerns. They are also experts in emotional, physical and spiritual wellness. This knowledge has enabled them to design and deliver treatments which optimise a feeling of wellbeing, including a luxurious range of signature therapies created specifically for the Spa at Castlemartyr Resort to provide their clients with the very best, and I can confirm it certainly was!

A patch test was required 24 hours before the treatment. The following morning I returned and was greeted by the owner, Joy, who has a wealth of experience in the industry and made me feel at ease immediately.

She began by cleansing my face and then applying a gel. Short bursts of intense pulsed laser light called IPL Technology were directed at my skin.

I didn’t find the treatment painful at all – the sensation was similar to a flick from a rubber band. Elipse treatments of sun damaged skin make your skin look smoother by removing age spots and uneven pigementation. I also had Pure Joy Laser & Advanced Skincare laser treatment on the thread veins Clinic, 18 Mainguard St, Galway, around my nose. My skin feels much 091 530 540 purejoybeauty.ie smoother and fresher following the treatment. If you want to acheive the With the summer fast approaching, I full effect, three treatments may be felt my skin was in need of a refreshing required. I am looking forward to treatment. A friend of mine told me my next appointment in four weeks. about the skin rejuvenation treatment I will be glowing just in time for the at Purejoy so I decided to give it a go. summer season!

The Spa at Castlemartyr Resort, Co. Cork 021 421 9000, castlemartyrresort.ie

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SKIN REJUVENATION

GALWAYnow | 49

HEALTH

THE POWER OF

Meditation

In 2017, I resolved to meditate every day for a year.

Why? There were many reasons. Over more years than I care to remember, I had read a great deal about meditation and it always intrigued me.

WORDS BY BRENDAN KELLY

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s a psychiatrist – a doctor who specialises in mental illness – I knew the benefits of mindfulness meditation for many psychological problems. I had even tried to meditate myself several times in the past, only to drift away from the practice after a few weeks.

So, in late 2016, I resolved to change all of this and to meditate for 15 minutes every day during 2017. I kept a diary of my successes and failures, and that journal became my new book, ‘The Doctor Who Sat For A Year’.

So, what did I learn?

One of the first things I learned was that there are tens of thousands of guides to meditation available online and in various books, CDs, podcasts and manuals. Many are excellent, some are useful, and others are just ridiculous.

Some of the guidelines are highly prescriptive, with rigid lists of dos and don’ts. Others are more flexible. The best guidelines provide advice that is specific enough to help most people with meditation but general enough to allow you to adopt the guidance to your own personality, circumstances and stage of practice.

Meditation is not a punishment. It should not be something

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you fail at. It should not be something you dread. Meditation should be something you look forward to, a welcoming space, an increasingly settled time. But meditation is a practice so there is always scope for improvement.

For me, the first and best piece of advice is to take meditation day by day. In other words, if you want to meditate, just commit to meditating today and do not worry about tomorrow. Act today.

Second, contrary to most meditation guidelines, you should not worry too much about how you sit to meditate. We often think of meditators as sitting in the lotus position in a state of advanced renunciation and bliss. Nothing could be further from the truth.

As you sit to meditate, just keep your body straight and relaxed, your spine upright, and feel a sense of stability. For many people in the western world, this means sitting in a sturdy chair, both feet planted firmly on the floor, and arms on the armrests or resting lightly on your knees, fingers touching gently. That’s fine.

Third, let your mind become clear. This is not easy. Once you try to clear your mind, you will find it fills immediately with a dozen different thoughts, all competing for attention. It’s best

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So much of what we think does not matter in the slightest.

Practice letting go.

Brendan Kelly, a Galway native, is Professor of Psychiatry at Trinity College Dublin and author of The Doctor Who Sat For A Year (published by Gill).

if you do not think of this as clearing your mind (which sounds very active) but rather letting your mind become clear. Our minds are naturally clear and translucent. That is their natural resting state. If we let our minds settle down on their own, they will return to that state: clear as crystal and calm as the quietest sea.

The key is not to focus obsessively on anything in particular but rather to let intrusive thoughts drift away out of your mind. If you don’t engage with your thoughts, they will vanish.

This is not an active pushing away of thoughts but rather a decision not to engage, a decision to resist distraction, and to let your mind settle at its own pace, in its own way. You cannot rush this but you can stand back and let it happen. Do so.

Developing this kind of selfawareness lies at the very heart of meditative practice. Detaching from one’s thoughts is difficult but as you get better at it, it is liberating. So much of what we think does not matter in the slightest. Practice letting go.

Fourth, don’t be upset if your mind remains cluttered. If you struggle with clearing your mind, it is useful to think of the simplest, best advice of all: just sit.

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HEALTH

Don’t think, don’t become annoyed, don’t focus on anything.

Just sit.

Fifth, start each meditation session with a very simple, achievable exercise, like a body scan. The aim of the body scan is to centre you in the moment and in your body. Once you are seated comfortably in a relatively quiet spot, focus your mind on the top of your head and what it is feeling right now: hot, cold, tired, heavy, calm. Feel each part of your body with your mind, not seeking to change anything but simply noting how your body feels right now, in this place, at this time.

Finally, with all of these exercises, be gentle and kind to yourself. Focus is difficult. This is the skill you are practicing, so you will not be perfect. Aim to improve. If you meditate well this week, aspire to meditate better or more next week. Aim for sustainable, incremental progress.

It is easy to lose hope with meditation, especially (and paradoxically) when you start to improve and when you start to look forward to meditating. After a good session, the world can seem loud and annoying, and it can seem as if your meditation sit brought no benefit, just irritation. This is post-meditation irritability and it is very common.

If you experience this, remind yourself that the purpose of meditation is not to have a good meditation session. The purpose of meditation is to change your life.

It is certainly good if you enjoy meditating but it is far better if you can see its effects in your life between meditation sessions. If you are meditating well you will invariably become less impulsive in your day-to-day life, less likely to fly off the handle in the face of life’s minor setbacks, more reflective and self-aware, and more likely to live in the moment.

And in the end, that is all that matters: living in the moment.

That is the purpose of meditation: to make us alive to the moment. This moment is all we have. It is all we will ever have.

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TRAVEL

VitaminSea Located on the Mediterranean coast of eastern Spain, the charming port city of Dénia is one of Spain’s hidden treasures.

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quaint and picturesque fishing village, located halfway between Alicante and Valencia, Dénia is an interesting mix of old and new. Bursting with authentic culture, historical heritage and fine dining on the shores of the Costa Blanca, it is home to some of the most beautiful natural parks and nature reserves in the world.

Dénia’s historical centre is a fascinating mix of modern architecture and ancient neighbourhoods. Elegant buildings command stature and attention while the colourful and cosy streets and alleys are bursting with ancient flavour. Built on top of a cliff overlooking the coast, inhabited and fortified since Roman times, Dénia castle is the

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symbol of the city. A building with more than 2,000 years of fascinating history, which reflects the legacy of the different cultures that have passed through its territory, Dénia Castle overlooks the Old Town and offers the best views of the city. Every summer, the esplanade of Governador Dénia Castle, at the top of the enclosure, is home to two weeks of concerts with traditional and popular music in the concert series Music at the Castle. Admission to these concerts is free and represent one of the most important events of the summer cultural agenda in the city of Dénia.

With a surface area of 66 square kilometers, and more than 20km of sandy beaches, comprising of a coastline of fine sand to the north

and rocky sand to the south, Dénia’s exceptional beaches are the main reason so many visit the resort. The port city is divided into four areas: Las Rotas with its rocky and beloved coastline, the nature reserve Montgó, Las Marinas with its long sandy beaches and the town centre of Dénia. The beaches along Las Marinas are large and sandy while the beach at Marineta Casiana, next to the marina, is smaller and generally quieter. The coves at Las Rotas are ideal for snorkelling and exploring.

Less than three miles from Dénia are the imposing and impressive Montgó Mountains, which was officially declared a natural park in 1987 for its beautiful views, plants and wildlife. The mountain has an altitude of 753 M AY 2 0 1 9

TRAVEL

metres and is home to more than 600 plant species. Discover the caves Cova de Aigua or Cova del Camell, or you can walk to the top of the Montgó.

Halfway between the sea and the mountains, surrounded by a quiet pine forest, is a beautiful hotel with a warm welcome and an invitation to relax. Hotel Palau Verd was our home away from home and it was just perfect.

Located in Montgó Natural Park, a quiet setting in the heart of nature, next to the marine reserve of Cabo de San Antonio, the hotel was just a couple of miles from the centre of Dénia. An adultsonly and pet-friendly hotel, our bright and airy room was a welcome haven from the sizzling summer sun. The hotel serves a delicious buffet breakfast each morning with traditional Mediterranean cuisine and homemade delights to feast on after a night of relaxing slumber.

We enjoyed a mini cruise from Dénia to Xàbia through the Marine Reserve of San Antonio Cape. On our return we enjoyed a spectacular lunch at Restaurant Primera Línea. Nestled on the first line of the beach, we feasted on paella, tapas and local delicacies, all washed down with the most exquisite Albarino wine. It was definitely our favourite place to eat during our stay in Dénia.

Famous for its exceptional cuisine, Dénia boasts more than 300 restaurants to suit all tastes including Mediterranean cuisine, Italian, Mexican, English, Argentinean, Dutch, Chinese and Indian.

The most exquisite delicacy is the Dénia red prawn, which many claim is the best in the world. Rice dishes including paella and arroz a banda (another rice-based dish) can be found on many menus.

Many restaurants offer a lunchtime menu del dia which is a set price three-course lunch.

The main tree-lined shopping street, Calle Marques de Campo, has many bars and restaurants while the nearby Old Town has bustling bars serving traditional fare. A few streets away is the old fishermen's quarter where you can be transported to another world of seafaring adventures.

Cross the main road to the port to watch the fishermen auction off their catches with baskets filled with fish, squid and shellfish.

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With thanks to Valencia Region Tourist Board, Dénia Tourist Office, Hotel Palau Verd, Mundo Marino Excursions and Restaurant Primera Línea. www.regionofvalencia.com www.hotelpalauverd.com www.denia.net www.restaurantprimeralinea.com ww.mundomarino.es

Famous for its many festivals, Dénia is the region in Spain that celebrates the most festivals throughout the year. Spectacular parades, bull running, folkloric costumes and cultural ceremonies fascinate the people again and again. Often the festivities start early in the morning and extend late into the night. All ages and generations get involved, on the streets and in front of the houses, they often place tables and neighbours and friends are invited to eat and drink. Usually the celebrations end with a spectacular fireworks display on the final night.

If you like to party, then Dénia is the town for you. Nightlife there starts late with some bars offering live music starting at midnight. As well as being a firm favourite with northern European holidaymakers, Denia is a popular destination for Madrid residents escaping from the city during the hot summer months.

Many bars and restaurants can be

found in the main Marques de Campo street. The Old Town centring around Calle Loreto has more traditional bars where you can try local wines and beers, perhaps washed down with a tapas dish or two. At the other end of town, Las Rotas provides a picturesque setting for the seafood restaurants with spectacular terraces overlooking the sea.

The marina has several chill-out bars and restaurants if you fancy a few drinks by the water later in the night. In the summer beach bars called chiringuitos are set up so you can sit on the beach and watch the sun set while sipping a refreshing cocktail or ice cold beer. Whatever your taste in music from chill-out to Cuban, laid back to Latino, you will find a bar to suit your soul. Concerts also take place in the castle during the summer while jazz concerts take place at the the Torrecremada for several weekends during the balmy summer months.

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C L A I R E C A LV E Y ’S

CULTURE SHOCK 10.30am on a beautiful spring Sunday morning. The sun shines hazily over South Galway, trees are frothing with blossom and birdsong, and I’m on my hands and knees under a bush, digging for pignuts. As you do.

No, I haven’t finally flipped from the strain of six children and a husband working abroad (it can be touch and go!), but instead I’m spending the day on a foraging workshop, something which, having dabbled last autumn, I’ve wanted to do for ages.

I started growing my own vegetables for the first time last summer, with varying results.

However, while I was watering, pruning and creating supports for my vegetable patch, a whole pantry of goodies were growing right beside me in the hedgerow.

Mother Nature was cleverly weaving her magic, filling the branches with heavy berries like rosehips, sloes, haws, elderberries and blackberries, without any help from me. Having grown up believing that most berries were poisonous, I had ignored the jewel-like offerings right outside my window, and were it not for a rosehip syrup recipe demonstrated on an episode of River Cottage, I might never have wandered outside to inspect what exactly was out there. Discovering a treasure trove, I spent a joyous few weeks making syrups, jams and cordials, as well as several bottles of sloe gin put away for Christmas. I had been bitten by the foraging bug!

Keen for more knowledge, I took to the internet and discovered foraging expert Mary Bulfin

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Tweet Claire @arabiaclaire

(wildfoodmary.com) who offers, among other things, foraging workshops. It was just what I was looking for.

The workshops run during the warmer months in Offaly and Galway, and today we are at Crann Og Eco Farm outside Gort.

It’s the start of the season so we are a small group of four, and following a quick chat over good strong coffee, we head outside to see what we can find.

Just paces from the farmhouse, Mary drops to her knees to show us some meadowsweet, which is growing under a willow hedge.

Brimming with knowledge, she explains the leaves’ medicinal uses; it’s a natural pain-killer and anti-inflammatory and is used in teas, jellies and syrups. Close by is a crop of bright green sorrel leaves, arrow shaped and citrus-flavoured, Mary pops some in her bag to contribute to our lunch later.

As the morning progresses we come across many spring greens and flowers – wild garlic, navelwort, ribwort, coltsfoot, cleavers, chickweed – and Mary patiently explains their culinary uses as well as their medicinal properties. Nature truly is our medicine cabinet, if only we stop to notice.

Back to the pignuts, and here we are, digging in the ground for the elusive little nuts, like hogs rooting for truffles. Mary eventually brings one to the surface and we dubiously pass it around; similar to a hazelnut and covered in mud, nobody’s brave enough to give it a try.

Heading into the woods, we push through a gate which implores us ‘leave no trace’. Eyes fixed to the leaf litter underfoot, we search for edibles while discussing everything from the symbiotic relationship between trees and fungi to the unsustainability of the current trend for foraged food in restaurants.

We reach a clearing where an old oak tree is surrounded by several silver birch, by now the hazy sky has given way to deep blue, a gentle breeze tickling the leaves overhead. We sit and rest, making shy enquiries into each other’s lives, curious as to what brought each of us here today.

Back at the farmhouse, we help Mary rustle up a delicious lunch of wild garlic soup, homemade bread and the salad we picked ourselves, adorned with edible wild flowers, along with some local cheese and hummus. This is followed by pudding and a small sample of Mary’s very own awardwinning damson liquor.

After lunch we linger over coffee while Mary demonstrates how to crystallise violets for cake decoration. It’s been a wonderfully relaxing and informative day, and I leave eager for future foraging forays and feeling just a little saner. As naturalist John Muir famously said, ‘In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks.’

M AY 2 0 1 9

PROMOTION

I

f a traditional church wedding isn’t your thing, let your dreams set sail and celebrate your nuptials on board a luxury cruise ship. Getting married at sea is the ultimate destination wedding. It’s an affordable, romantic and fun way to combine your nuptials with a honeymoon for you as well as a holiday for your guests. This exciting concept is becoming hugely popular amongst both single sex and same sex couples.

Weddings at Sea by Fahy Travel will be the only dedicated service specialising in weddings at sea in Ireland. Caroline O'Toole, Manager of Fahy Travel and Director of Weddings at Sea by Fahy Travel, heads up an experienced and knowledgeable team who offer a full array of wedding packages on board the most luxurious cruise ships in the world. From the right venue to the right menu, you’ll find fantastic options to celebrate your special day. The wedding can take place on board the ship or at an intimate shoreside ceremony followed by a romantic cruise honeymoon. Available at a fraction of the cost of a standard wedding, family and friends can join you for the ceremony or be part of the full cruise. Weddings at sea are intimate, romantic and adventurous, and give your big day an extra special touch. This is one of the most exciting and important times of your life, and Fahy Travel has everything you need to make your wedding as beautiful and seamless as you can imagine.

Four years ago Caroline saw an opportunity to celebrate weddings at sea and finally she is seeing her vision come to life. “I had a bride and groom enquiring about weddings abroad some time ago. We discussed a number

Sail Away with Me ARE YOU LOOKING FOR THE PERFECT VENUE FOR A DESTINATION WED DING BUT DON’T WANT THE HASSLE OF WEDDING PLANNING? LAUNCH ING THIS MONTH, WEDDINGS AT SEA BY FAHY TRAVEL OFFERS THE PERFECT SOLUTION FOR YOUR DREAM DESTINATION WEDDING.

“

Getting married at sea is the ultimate destination wedding.

of different options and when I suggested having their wedding on a cruise ship they were just blown away. A year later, 88 happy guests attended their wedding on an MSC Cruise off the coast of Italy. The setting was stunning, the fun was amazing, and the cost was a fraction of what they would have paid choosing another option.”

At the helm of the new innovative offering for engaged couples, or for couples looking to renew their vows, Caroline will be joined by fellow cruise specialist Fiona Flaherty. With a combined 40 years of experience in the travel industry, they have built up amazing relationships with cruise liners from around the world so they can advise couples on the best available options.

Caroline and Fiona have worked on eight weddings to date on board the most stunning ships in the world, and with each wedding they have learned valuable insights into what works best. Their passion for cruising is undeniable, and their overwhelming excitement for their new project is infectious. “Cruising is just the most amazing experience and to have your wedding

on board a cruise ship is just the icing on the cake. The process is so easy and straight forward, we will do all the organising for the couple and their guests. It is probably the most cost-effective way of having a wedding abroad.

There is also the option to get married at one of beautiful stops along the cruise, the destinations are endless. Cruising is open to any generation for any kind of celebration from weddings, vow renewals, birthdays, family occasions, and even hen parties which are becoming very popular. Guests can now go on a four day cruise at a very reasonable price,” explains Fiona.

Weddings at Sea is located at Fahy Travel, Galway’s awardwinning travel agency where every customer receives the highest standard of care and attention when deciding on the most memorable trip of their lives.

*

Launching on 8th May at 6pm in their Galway store, Weddings at Sea by Fahy Travel is available nationwide. With a wide range of packages available to suit every budget and party size, all you have to do is make an appointment and Caroline and Fiona will do the rest.

FAHY TRAVEL, 2 BRIDGE STREET, GALWAY, 091 594 747, INFO@WEDDINGSATSEA.IE, WEDDINGSATSEA.IE M AY 2 0 1 9

GALWAYnow | 55

OUTSIDE

InsideOut

Garden inspiration for Galway’s green fingers If I had a field, I would plant an apple orchard. Not because of any particular fondness for the fruit, worthy though it is.

You see, the best thing about an apple tree happens now, not at harvest time – the apple blossom.

BY ANNE BYRNE, ANNEBYRNEGARDENDESIGN.COM

I don’t mean a catwalk in the literal sense, although on press day, when celebrities show up to see and be seen, the outfits can certainly rival the flowers in colour and splendour. But rather in the fashion sense – just as the creations paraded on the runways of Paris, New York and Milan filter down the supply chain towards the high street, what you see on display in London during Chelsea week is an indicator of what’s hot and what’s about to be in the garden design world.

Just as fashion designers use their collections to make a com-

56 | GALWAYnow

With qualifications from the worldrenowned Royal Horticultural Society (RHS), Anne can advise you on all aspects of your garden design.

By combining her skills and experience with imagination and passion, Anne’s garden design will be the perfect finishing touch to your beautiful home.

ment or highlight an issue, garden designers can use show gardens to reflect ideas or introduce concepts in an eye-catching way. Recent show gardens have touched on mental health, climate change and biodiversity to name just a few, and this year, a number of gardens will focus on encouraging children to get outside and play in the garden instead of on an electronic device.

Vast sums are spent, with mature trees being craned in, waterfalls built and pavilions erected – there was even an attempt to recreate the sea recently – and from sculp-

ture to planting to workmanship, the quality is superb.

Although only in situ for a few days, these ephemeral creations are about pushing the boundaries of what’s possible and celebrating innovation by using elements that exist already in an entirely new way, to do something different, thoughtful and beautiful. It’s when imagination takes flight that innovations are possible – in science, technology, the arts and even in the garden and the natural world itself.

I can’t wait to see what they have to show us this year.

M AY 2 0 1 9

INSIDE Geo pattern plate set, Next

€28

Tropical leaf food box, TK Maxx

€3.99

Plant stand, Next

£72

M&S

Print & Stitch abstract leaf cushion, M&S

€34

TropicalVibes

WE’VE ROUNDED UP A COLLECTION OF LUSTWORTHY, FLORALINSPIRED AND PALM PRINT PIECES THAT WILL EARN THEIR PLACE IN YOUR HOME THIS SUMMER. Tropical birds round dish, Amara

£24.99

Botanical monkey lamp, HomeSense

€19

Tropical print mug, M&S

€8.25

M AY 2 0 1 9

ra ion, Ama leaf cush lm a p l a ic op antine tr Jan Const

€89

Palm print chair, HomeSense

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GALWAYnow | 57

INSIDE

When Nature Calls

From spring florals and oriental blooms to forest and jungle themes, nature inspired interiors are bang on trend at the moment. This time of year it’s all about letting nature in with bright colours, vibrant patterns, real flowers and elements inspired by nature.

M AY 2 0 1 9

GALWAYnow | 59

INSIDE Use wallpaper in small spaces, such as alcoves or bookshelves to add a surprising touch.

ALL THINGS BRIGHT AND BEAUTIFUL Vibrant colours never fail to bring a bright touch to an interior. The colour of choice will also add personality to the room. Think corals, oranges, reds and yellows for the ultimate bright and beautiful colour scheme.

Whether you’re bringing fresh flowers in or adding flower inspired elements to the design scheme doesn’t matter, there are a million ways to use this trend when designing an interior. Add brightly coloured accessories to neutral rooms to refresh your look with minimal effort.

JUNGLE FEVER

FOREST BATHING Add a little nature to your home and breathe some life into a tired room. Organic shapes, natural materials and earth-inspired motifs make for beautiful nature-inspired architecture and interior design.

The mindful practise of ‘Forest Bathing’ refers to spending time in a forest, drawing on the therapeutic powers of nature.

It’s believed to reduce stress and promote wellbeing. If you are feeling inspired to reconnect with nature, these hyper-realistic forest wallpapers will really allow homeowners to take a walk in the woods all year round.

BLOOMS AND BIRDS Bring the outdoors in with colour flower patterns and floral scents.

There are so many reasons why floral, botanical and nature inspired designs are continually popular within the home. The desire to reconnect with nature

60 | GALWAYnow

and the freshness and versatility of blooms is a huge attraction each and every year.

In some cultures, birds are thought to bring light, inspiration and good luck to a home. In traditional feng shui, for instance, birds can symbolise love, abundance and good fortune.

Bright colours have maximum impact – smart pastels such as pink, cornflour blue or sage green are all good choices.

Cushions and throws in a vivid hue will deliver high impact in any room.

A TASTE OF THE ORIENT

BLOOMING MARVELLOUS RUGS A colourful rug will instantly update any room. Bold patterns and bright colours will create a fresh and vibrant feel.

While abstract and floral rugs make a bold statement, soft colourways are so easy to work and live with. Cornflower blue and cool shades of pink are key colour combinations for this look.

This summery botanical trend is testament that our love of nature continues to grow. Bold wallpapers, such as tropical leaves, are going from strength to strength this season. Vibrant bold prints can breathe new life into rooms, big or small. Choose botanical prints to make a style statement, and layer textures and combine different fabrics.

Palm prints are the key motif throughout this look, whether real or as part of a fabric or wallpaper design. Oversized palm prints or exotic pineapples look fabulous on rugs – a brilliant way to work in pattern from the ground up.

theprboutique.co.uk

Asian-style interiors instantly evoke an image of serenity and tranquil calm. Oriental-themed interiors accomplish this goal in inimitable style by ushering in harmony and balance. The lovely pinks of cherry blossoms, ravishing reds and luxurious purples are all an integral part of the oriental style. It’s the little details that make a big difference to the ambiance of a room. Make sure you keep the accessories and furnishings as sustainable and organic as possible to induce a truly oriental vibe.

M AY 2 0 1 9

Rebecca Meaney & Ruadihri McTiernan

celebrated their wedding in style in the spectacular surroundings of Trump International Golf Links & Hotel Doonbeg

Dress: Belladonna Bridal, Galway; Suits: David E. Menswear, Galway; Bridesmaid Dresses: Debenhams; Flowers: Margaret Moriarty; Photos: Fintan McTiernan

Aimee Crawford & James Carlin

were married in St. Mary’s Church, Knockmoyle, Omagh, followed by a magical reception in Cavan Crystal Hotel Dress: Verona Bridal, Magherafelt, Suits: Red Groomswear, Cookstown; Flowers: Nettles and Petals, Carrickmore; Honeymoon: Caribbean Cruise; Photos: Darren Fitzpatrick Photography

Marie Keady & Joe Folan

were married in Cashel Church followed by a reception with family and friends in the Ardilaun Hotel Dress: Ellie & Dal, Galway; Suits: Corless Formalwear, Galway; Flowers: Suzanne O’Donnell; Cake: Walsh’s Bakery, Clifden; Photos: Sean Lydon, 087 2483583, lydonimages.ie

Mary Larkin

Dana Geraffi

Sharon Bennett

Maire Geoghegan Quinn and John Quinn

Grainne Seoige

Paudie Grealish and Lauragh Quinn

Ciara Uí Chonghaile, Riona Ní Ghriallais and Eimear Kearns

Michelle Ní Chrónín and Donal Leonard

ALUMNI AWARDS

NUI Galway hosted the 20th annual Alumni Awards Gala Banquet which recognises individual excellence and achievements among the university’s 100,000 graduates worldwide.

Photos by Martina Regan

Patricia Hynes

Hugh and Olivia Hamrock

Maeve O'Rourke, Sean O'Rourke and Caroline Murphy

Sarah Kate Quinlivan, Danielle Quinlivan and Christine Smith

Paul and Anne Quinlan

Jennifer Collins and Stephen Norris

William and Sarah Rymer

Aoife Kavanagh

Rosin Farrelly and Gillian Smith

Jennifer McCafferly and Seamus Sharkey

ALL SMILES

The Irish Dental Association hosted the 2019 Annual Conference Presidents Dinner in The Galmont Hotel & Spa, Galway Photos by Martina Regan

Ashley and Alison Byrne

Conor Barry and Suzanne Beecher

Darragh O'Loughlin, Rory and Mary Culliton and David Dodd

Cathy Hackett, Elaine Joyce and Maretta O'Shea

Claire and Iggy Greaney

HEALING HEARTS

The 34th annual Croí Gala Ball took place in The Galmont Hotel & Spa, Galway with all proceeds going to support Croí in continuing to lead the fight against heart disease and stroke.

Photos by Martina Regan

Ronan and Sharon Rooney

Tosca Keppler and Brian Kirwan

Bill McEvoy, Aidan Flynn, Yvonne Flynn, Katherine McEvoy, Verona Hegarty and Jim Crowley

Fiona O'Donohue and Margaret Greaney

Jessica O'Malley and Ailish Loughnane

Karen Kenny

Caroline Fahy, Rosanne Gallagher, Yvonne Faherty and Lucy Hayward

Grainne and Tess O'Laughlin

Dolores Ryan and Peggy Muray

GREENES SHOES

Celebrating 80 years in business, Greenes Shoes hosted special birthday events in Galway, Limerick and Letterkenny with special guests Brent Pope, Una Healy and Tommy Bowe Photos by Cathal Bowe, Zoe Conway and Clive Wasson

Shirley and Lauren O'Brien

Nola and Niamh Murray

Freya Ahern and Elaine Breathnach

Caithleen Jones, Una Healy and Shannon Nally

Tasha O'Conne and Denise Power

Colette, Amy and Aoibhinn Ahern

Clare and Chloe Scahill

Sean Broderick, Orla McFadden, Gerry Mallon, Brent Pope and Sandra Mallon

Marie Helene Boudevigne, Roger Biondi and Nawal Collot

GARDEN PARTY

Celebrating their 2nd birthday in Armorica in Oranmore, Natasha Hughes and Nicolas Denis kicked off the season with a family garden party

Una Delharpe with Lauren and Delores Pitt

Photos by Declan Monaghan

Mary McCormack and Brent Pope

Tess and Mark Kelly

Michael and Cordelia Cormack

Trish and Brian Gannon

Laura Moore, Nicole O’Donnell, Tommy Bowe and Amanda Johnston

Paula and Dion Inns

Gerard and Carol McMahon

Ellie Karney, Una Healy and Sinead Braddick

Tom and Celene Graham

Brenda Cawley and Olwyn Trainor

Elizabeth Carroll, Andrew Rees and Tara O’Hanlon

Stephanie Smyth and Julieanne Barrett

BEST IN THE BUSINESS

A celebration of outstanding excellence in the industry, the 2019 Irish Hotel Awards took place in The Galmont Hotel & Spa, Galway with over 300 guests representing hospitality professionals from around the country.

Photos by Geoff Telford

Anne Marie and Johnny Garcia

Jonas Razgus with Roger and Nuala Russell

Annette O’Donnell and James Casey

Anna Maslej, Jamie King and Diane McHale

Maria and Michael Yates

John and Avril Robson

Leanne Murphy and Matt Smith

Niall McNelis with Nicci and Shane Smith

Sarah Kenny, Ashley Conroy, Catherine McGovern and Niamh Leddy

EVENTS

Galway Guide WHAT’S ON THIS MONTH

3-5 MAY

Leenane Enjoy the unique combination of Connemara’s mountains and Atlantic coastline along the Wild Atlantic Way. The exhilarating walking festival takes place in Leenane, which is situated on the edge of Killary Harbour, Ireland’s only fjord, and is surrounded by majestic mountains in all directions.

This May will be the 11th year of the Connemara Mountain Walking Festival (formally the Leenane Mountain Walking Festival) which has become a major walking event on the calendar for Connemara and the region. connemaramountainwalkingfestival.com

13 MAY Dirtbirds

Town Hall Theatre The Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour is back for 2019, bringing evenings of extraordinary adventure to venues around Ireland this May. The events feature a brand new collection of adrenaline-packed films, with the world’s top adventurers tackling extreme expeditions in the most stunning corners of the planet. Audiences will witness life-changing journeys, incredible wildernesses and spectacular cinematography – all via the big screen. tht.ie

A Different Thread

Connemara Mountain Walking Festival

18 MAY

Dip in the Nip

Róisín Dubh Transatlantic Americana duo, A Different Thread, is a collaboration between Robert Jackson from Lichfield, England, and Alicia Best from Durham, North Carolina. Both are songwriters and multi-instrumentalists and both take

inspiration from the music that has crisscrossed the Atlantic Ocean over the generations, in true folk fashion. Think Beatlesque folk rock meets Gillian Welch dark country. The couple originally met busking on Shop Street back in 2016 and this show marks the third anniversary of their chance meeting. Since their last performance in Galway, they’ve released their debut album, On A Whim, and are now on tour for a month in Ireland, following six months of dates in the USA, Mexico and Guatemala. roisindubh.net

24 MAY Town Hall Theatre If making the school lunches, doing the jaysus homework and dodging the guards because your NCT is out by two years is sending you over the edge, you are not alone. Come and join the Dirtbirds as they navigate the stresses and strains of modern life in their brand new comedy show. This rip roaring two hours of comedy gold is a unique blend of hilarious sketch comedy and stand up. Brand new characters take to the stage along with some of the well-known favourites. Don’t miss this sidesplitting show from the queens of sketch comedy. tht.ie

26 MAY Secret Location If you fancy getting your kit off for cancer, join hundreds of brave participants and take a dip in the Atlantic Ocean raising thousands of euros for Galway-based charity Hand in Hand. The location will be disclosed to participants closer to the event.

The hugely popular event raises vital funds which allows the charity to provide families across Ireland with the support they need at the most difficult time imaginable. The Dip in the Nip was the world’s first skinny dip for charity and is speculated to be the longest running in the world too. handinhand.ie

DON’T MISS... OUT & ABOUT: WERE YOU CAUGHT ON CAMERA? WOW WEDDINGS: WHO’S TIED THE KNOT? GALWAYnow MAY 2019 DOULAS

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GALWAY GIRL NAMED IN FORBES 30 UNDER 30 LIST TESTING TIMES Stress-saving tips for exam season