Connect June 2021

The lifestyle magazine for Kerry

Made in Kerry, for Kerry

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Celebrating 10 Years in Business Meet The Team

Fitness guru Mairead McMahon “It’s never too late to change your life”

Radio star & best-selling author

Dermot Whelan

on how meditation changed his life…

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EDITOR'S NOTE Hi there

BEAT THE COVID STRESS...

So great to be back after what has been the longest Christmas Break in the history of Connect Publications.

Finally we are emerging from what has been a very long and trying period of lockdown. Without a doubt the past 15 months or so has had an impact on our overall physical, emotional and mental health.

Its been a tough few months for everyone and I am not going to dwell on it as its now time to move on and be positive, Vaccinations are rolling out, business is opening up and we have to think positive about it all. Its not going to be easy for any of us, and I would urge you all to support local and ensure the small businesses survive this.

While some people will embrace their new found freedom easily, for others, readjusting may bring about feeling of anxiety, stress and uncertainty.

We chat this month with some wonderful people, Dermot Whelan of Today FM tells us about his new book and how mindfulness has helped him greatly. Mairead McMahon of Achieve Fitness guides us on how to recharge and take charge of our life, this is such a good story and one we can all relate to. I have just embarked on a personal journey with Mairead to get me back to fitness so watch this space for updates…

As we prepare for this new phase of moving forward we all want to feel healthy and strong and it is important to support our overall health and wellbeing during this transition.

We have all the usual tips and ideas and lots of news from our wonderful advertisers who have once again come behind us and enabled us to have an issue on the shelves for you all to enjoy. We would like to thank in particular those who supported us this issue and who continue to support us each month, without you it would not be possible.

There are many excellent natural products which can help support us as we navigate our way through the next couple of months:

We are also available to read online so tell your family and friends to log on to us on www.connectpublications.ie and catch up on all that is happening in Kerry and of course don’t forget to like an follow us on Facebook and Instagram, whereas always we will be bringing the usual giveaways and lots more.

MACANTA L-THEANINE: FOR BALANCING AND CALMING ASPIRE MENTAL PERFORMANCE: FORMULATED SPECIFICALLY TO HELP CALM THE MIND, LIFT LOW MOOD AND SUPPORT COGNITIVE HEALTH. MELISSA DREAM: HELPS WITH POOR SLEEPING PATTERN ALLOWING YOU TO SWITCH OFF

Its time to get back to business and get the wheels rolling again so here’s to a wonderful summer for everyone.

ANX DROPS: VERY EFFECTIVE HOMEOPATHIC REMEDY TO HELP CALM PERIODS OF ANXIETY

Stay safe and remember Dream Big Work Hard Stay Focused and surround yourself with good people.

MAGNESIUM: TAKE AT NIGHT AS A MUSCLE RELAXANT AND TO CALM THE MIND, ALLOWING YOU GO INTO A DEEP SLEEP

See you all next month..

ALSO, KEEP IN MIND THE POWERFUL CALMING, UPLIFTING AND BALANCING BENEFITS OF THE AROMATHERAPY ESSENTIAL OILS.

Mags x

UNTIL NEXT TIME, STAY HEALTHY 3

Editor: Margaret Kissane Print: Kingdom Printers Graphic Design: Yevgen Kalynin Editorial Contributors: Marisa Reidy, Lisa Curran, Tonya Raymond, , Georgina Downes, Romy Birdthistle, Caroline Smith, Dr Rosin Boyle, Dr Mary McCaffrey.

For Advertising Enquiries: Margaret: 086 2408237 sales@connectpublications.ie For Editorial Enquiries: margaret@connectpublications.ie Website: www.connectpublications.ie

DEIRDRE

Radio star & best-selling author Dermot Whelan on how meditation changed his life…

By Marisa Reidy TODAY FM listeners will know him best as one half of the hilarious duo, Dermot and Dave; Others might know him better from Ireland’s stand-up comedy circuit, but comedian and presenter Dermot Whelan has added yet another string to his bow in recent weeks by becoming a number one best-selling author in Ireland.

CONNECT caught up with Dermot just weeks after the launch of his new book, Mind Full – which aims to make the whole area of meditation and de-stressing accessible and fun for everyone.

As friendly, open and honest as you might expect from the funny man we have come to love on radio, Dermot explained how his fast-paced life and his attempts to juggle too much at one time made him realise that things needed to change – and how mindfulness and meditation transformed his life.

Taking us right back to his college days, Dermot explained that he had always

considered ‘some form of media’ as a career choice, but decided to study archaeology first to see where it took him.

“The reason I did archaeology was because I saw Raiders of the Lost Ark when I was 11 and I thought this is for me,” Dermot joked. “But seriously, I used to read books on ancient Rome and Egypt and Greece and loved it all, so when it came to university I said I’ll study archaeology and if I still love it after, I’ll keep doing it, but I’ll try and get into some class of media after that.

“I was always interested in radio and telly though and used to make my own really terrible radio plays on a tape recorder in my bedroom, as well as home movies and fake news reports,” Dermot explained, revealing that his obsession once led to a very embarrassing incident for his father.

“I remember one time I was obsessed with news reports where people had been killed and so I drew two chalk outlines of bodies in my

driveway, like you see in the movies, with fake blood around them and made a fake news report about a murder scene.

The only problem was that my dad came home from work with his American boss and I had forgotten I’d even done it, so they arrived to find chalked out body marks on the driveway of our house.”

After leaving college Dermot ended up working as a runner on a short film and in fact spent most of his 20s working in the movie industry as an assistant director, which he jokes really just meant you ‘made tea’ for the actors.

At 27, however, he decided he had enough of that and wanted to get into radio so he ‘packed in his well-paying movie job’ and decided to work for free in a community radio station, which is now Dublin City FM. “They needed a news reader and even though I didn’t know anything about news, I could do a really good impression of a newsreader, so I just did that and robbed the news off 98FM’s website and I was working in radio,” Dermot admits.

Dermot later moved to 98FM and admits that while there, he used the newsroom at night time to make his own comedy sketches and more fake news reports for his own amusement. His boss at the time heard them, however, and loved them so much that he gave Dermot a job doing comedy sketches for the late night talk show and for the morning breakfast show.

“From that, I got offered the presenter role on the breakfast show. So all that happened in space of two years. I was

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him even more grateful and more aware of the fortunate position that he is in.

“Once the pandemic hit, people really did turn on their radio for entertainment and reassurance and to be informed, and I am very conscious of and grateful for that. It’s a really important time in our country’s history and I never take for granted how fortunate I am to be given three hours a day of people’s attention. I think our show is good mix of entertainment and more serious things – of light and shade - and the fact that so many people have tuned in and laughed with us makes me very aware of how fortunate I am.”

put together with Dave (Moore) and we’ve worked together for 18 years now.”

Dermot’s move to Today FM came in 2014, when he had finished working on RTE’s Republic of Telly TV show and things, as he says, were ‘calming down.’

“I got a call from the boss of Today FM asking if I’d be interested in working for them, and to be honest, that was a dream come true because I always loved Today FM and wanted to be on a national station. So I took their hand off if I’m honest and couldn’t wait to get there.”

You only have to listen to Dermot and his radio partner Dave for a matter of minutes to understand why they are best friends for so long and to appreciate just how much they love what they do.

Dermot considers it a privilege to be able to go to work every day to a job he utterly loves.

“I was only saying it a couple of days ago to the team that, whatever is going on in my life, I always wake up and get excited about going in and doing the show. I absolutely love what I do,” Dermot tells CONNECT. “Even if you’re dealing with something hard in real life, the radio studio is always this safe, fun, creative environment that I get to go into every day, and I know Dave feels the same way.

I am genuinely excited about going in every day. I get to work with my best friend and a great team and we have total control over what we do and say, which is very rare in any kind of media.”

Dermot says that the pandemic made 6

While perfectly happy in his career right now, Dermot admits that it wasn’t quite so peaceful a few years back when he was trying to pack so much into his career and home life, unaware what the pressure was doing to him. It was this shock revelation, brought on by a serious panic attack, that introduced Dermot to the whole area of mindfulness and meditation – first as a participant, then a teacher and now an author.

“As I was getting into radio, stand-up, starting a family, getting into television and doing all these exciting things in the mid noughties, I wasn’t aware of the impact that stress, lack of sleep, anxiety and all of these thing could have on my system so I ended up having a panic attack on the way to perform at a comedy festival,” Dermot explains. “The truth was I was really worn out. I was burning the candle at both ends and I was doing my best to do all these new things, but I didn’t have any way to manage the stress that was associated with it. After that incident, it gave me a bit of a fright, so I said there has to be a better way of dealing with this than pints “Only in recent years, looking back, that I understood what was happening to me.

I thought this was what life was, and you just worked really hard and tried to have some fun at the weekend and try and keep it all together.

But the truth is that our body gives us little signs, and if we’re not aware of those signs we can miss them. Then our bodies will shout a little louder and eventually, if we’re not listening at all, you

could have something like an anxiety attack or a panic attack or some other kind of health challenge as your body is screaming, trying to tell you that you’re doing great but you’re doing too much.”

Dermot explained that it was by pure chance, after his own panic attack, that he was introduced to the whole area of mindfulness and meditation, when author and now close friend, Siobhan McKenna, asked him to launch a new book that she had just written.

“It was then I found out that she taught meditation to the guards so I thought: well, if she’s teaching it to law enforcement there must be something in it. So I said I’d give it a go, even though I think it’s for hippies and Californian types who wear yoga pants all the time,” Dermot joked.

“I soon realised there was an awful lot of really important science in there and that these techniques were incredibly effective and how doing a small bit every day could have a huge impact on your relationship and work and energy levels and your sleep.”

Dermot started practicing these techniques over ten years ago and saw such a hugely positive impact in his own life that he became a teacher about three years ago.

“I suppose there were a few reasons for deciding to become a teacher. The first was because the techniques were so effective and worked so well for me

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that I wanted to share them with people, but also I realised that you can learn these techniques without buying into the whole wellness, crystals and chakras part of it. That often puts people off. So, if I could communicate these ancient techniques but in a way that’s modern, scientific and hopefully funny, then it could help a lot of people like it helped me. It’s important that people know that doing a very small amount can have a big ripple effect out into the rest of your world. That’s why I wanted to become a teacher.”

Mindfulness, Dermot explained, is anything that takes you into the present moment when we’re not worrying about things that happened in the past or things that might happen in the future.

“That could be simply playing with your pet or your new baby, listening to your favourite song, it could be washing dishes, if you’re simply working on that task in front of you. Meditation, then, is a form of mindfulness - it’s the tool that brings us into that present moment.

That’s when our nervous system can be nice and relaxed and our inner alarm isn’t ringing, so the more times we can put ourselves into that space the more beneficial it will be. The one myth I’d love to bust, however, is that meditation doesn’t mean clearing your mind of al thoughts – that’s impossible because we have 80,000 thoughts a day and they’re not going anywhere.”

Another misconception about this whole area, Dermot says, is that mindfulness is just for elite athletes or ‘monks in robes who live in the Himalayas.’ This couldn’t be further from the truth…

“It’s for absolutely everybody and the benefits are huge. There is a great science around it and it has been proven that regular meditation, even for beginners, can shrink your amygdala – the part of your brain responsible for fearful, anxious or angry thoughts. So, if you think about it, how can we continue to have the same levels of anxiety if the part of our brain that’s producing them is shrinking? So, if you excuse the pun, that was a no-brainer for me,” Dermot explained.

“These techniques have been scientifically proven to lower anxiety, reduce depression, lower the levels of stress hormones in your system, improve your sleep, lengthen your attention span, create kinder thoughts towards yourself and other people, lower your heart rate, lower your blood pressure - the list goes on and on. If we could put all that in a pill, you can be guaranteed that a big pharmaceutical company would be charging you handsomely for it. But we don’t have to put it in a pill because it’s free and all we have to do is make time, even for a few minutes in our day, which can be enough to keep us a little bit happier and a little more balanced.”

Back in April, Dermot celebrated a culmination of years of practice and teaching when his first book, Mind Full , was officially released.

Within weeks, it was the number one best seller in Ireland. Still reeling in the success of the book, Dermot says it is so satisfying to see such an amazing reaction.

“The book makes the whole area of meditation and de-stressing accessible and fun. It was really important to me that I could communicate the science and the

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techniques in a way that put a smile on people’s face, but didn’t expect them to join a cult or give someone their bank details in India,” Dermot joked. “These are every day, simple, usable techniques used by everyone from athletes to the military and we can use them too. All the books I had read were either too spiritual or too academic, so I thought there’s got to be somewhere in the middle where I can bring this stuff to people - and lockdown seemed to be the perfect time to do that,” Dermot explained.

“The idea of writing a book had popped into my head before, but not in a massively serious way, but when Gill (book publishers) talked me though the process of what would be involved I thought: ‘Yeah I can do that’. I thought I’d give it a go. Personally, I never dreamed it would be a number one best seller, but in another way I’m not surprised because people are ready for that information now. They have a lot of challenges in their life and they are ready to learn some tools and techniques to help them navigate everything that’s happening.

So the more accessible I can make it, the more people are likely to try it. It’s a book for everybody - whether that’s stressed out teenagers, parents who are struggling, people who are finding lockdown tough, or those who have any kind of health challenges. Anyone who is human and who has dealt with human issues, it will help them. Everyone just wants to feel a little bit happier, a little bit more balanced and sleep a little bit better at night and these are very doable things and human desires.So if anything I’m doing can help people improve their life in any way, then I’m very, very happy."

Mind Full, published by Gill Books, is now available from all good book stores or online at www.dermotwhelan.com – where Dermot also offers free guided meditations for people who want to explore the whole idea of mindfulness and meditation.

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Fitness guru Mairead McMahon:

By Marisa Reidy IF ever you’ve dreamt of taking control of your health and fitness and turning your life around for the better, then you’ll be hard pressed to find a bigger source of inspiration than Tralee woman Mairead McMahon.

Owner of Tralee’s Achieve Fitness gym, Mairead has gone from an obese thirty-something year old who was barely able to keep up with her children, to finishing in the top eight per cent in the world at a renowned global fitness competition.

Even Mairead herself realises that her story is quite hard to believe, admitting that throughout her entire 30s she was so overweight that just playing with her children would leave her breathless. A far cry from the now 43-year-old who, just weeks ago, reached the penultimate round of the renowned annual Crossfit Open – the world’s largest fitness competition that sees hundreds of thousands of athletes from all over the world compete against each other in a range of works outs and fitness challenges.

Mairead reached the semi-final of the annual competition and tells Connect that she was thrilled to finish in the top eight percent in the world.

“The Open is the ultimate test of fitness and I competed in the 40+ age bracket, with just the top 10 per cent of all competitors qualifying either for the quarter or semi-final. I made the semifinal, which was great, and even though I didn’t make the final, I was really happy to get that far and finish in the top eight per cent in the world.”

Mairead’s achievement is all the more impressive when you consider that her fitness was at an all-time low just 10 years previously. Even as a child, she was never into sports or exercise and couldn’t run 30 seconds without having to stop.

“I was obese for all of my 30s and even when I was playing with the kids I’d be out of breath. I had tried all sorts of fad diets, none of which worked for me long term, and I didn’t feel good about myself at all,” Mairead explained.

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“It’s never too late to change your life”

One January, Mairead decided that things could not continue the way they were and so made the decision to join a gym.

Clearly, she has never looked back.

“I’d had enough of feeling the way I did, so one January I decided to take up exercise and join a gym. I had never run before and I remember I started a Couch to 5K running programme on my phone with my sister and I couldn’t run for 30 seconds I was that terribly unfit and overweight.”

It wasn’t long before Mairead realised that while the exercise and gym workouts were tough, she was thoroughly enjoying them - and the more she saw results, the more enjoyable it all became.

“My initial focus was honestly just getting fit and being able to play with the kids, but I remember how much better I started to feel about myself once I started seeing results. I was really enjoying the exercise and the gym and slowly built things up.”

A combination of exercise and a new healthy eating regime has seen Mairead utterly transform not only her physique but her entire life, with the popular business owner admitting that she has never been happier or in better shape. Four years ago

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she and her sister studied to become fitness instructors and Mairead opened her own gym, Achieve Fitness, a year later.

Asked for her advice for anyone looking to take control and get in shape, Mairead says that the first step is to stop being a slave to the scales and looking for the easy fix.

“People nowadays, especially women, have made their metabolisms so sluggish and really messed it up because of years of fad dieting. Your body will lose muscle quicker than fat so when you’re crash dieting your body goes into protection mode and will grab onto the calories. You lose muscle mass and your metabolism becomes less efficient,” Mairead explained.

“So while you might lose weight on the scales and get to your ‘target weight’ what tends to happen then is you eventually increase your calorie intake and finish up even heavier than before because of your sluggish metabolism. I know this because I went through it all – numerous times – so now it’s not a diet for me, but it’s my lifestyle.”

Mairead says that people simply have to stop obsessing about the scales and concentrate on the overall picture.

“We are totally preoccupied with the weighing scales, so when clients come to me I tell them to forget about it. I remember myself, crying because I hadn’t lost a pound on the scales, so now I try and tell people to change their focus entirely. People come to me and say I want to lose X stone, and I immediately need them to change that attitude. Our focus isn’t on the scales, it’s on size and helping people get into those size 14 or 12 or 10 jeans rather than being a certain weight.”

Mairead is also keen to point out that she doesn’t believe in using the word ‘diet’ with her clients – insisting instead that getting fit and healthy is simply a new way of life.

“A combination of exercise with healthy eating is key, so we don’t do diets, we do heathy,” Mairead insists. “We set realistic goals for people and once they understand the concept and follow the plan there is no diet and no guilt. It’s amazing how many people aren’t actually eating too much, but too much of the wrong thing, so it’s getting a healthy balance. It becomes a new way of life, not a diet.”

So what about those who feel uneasy about getting into a gym or feel they’ve gone too far now to be helped?

Mairead says that it is NEVER too late to turn things around and would encourage anyone feeling uncomfortable or embarrassed to please not let that deter them.

“There’s an old saying that you can’t teach old dogs new tricks, but that’s actually not true at all when it comes to health and fitness, and I’m a prime example,” Mairead said. “I couldn’t run with my kids and now I’m competing in fitness competitions.

My life has totally transformed and I’ve never been fitter and feel a lot younger.

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“I totally understand that people are nervous of going to the gym. I was too. But the first step inside the door is always the hardest. Genuinely, if you’ve ever wished you could do it, then please just try it. There are so many people there to support you and while some people in there may be faster or fitter than you, others will be in the exact same boat. So many people let their fear of failing or their fear of struggling in front of others stop them from taking the first step, but there really is a great community spirit in the gym and members are very close. I know there’s a perception that the gym is full of fit, confident people - and that can be very daunting - but the reality is that there is massive support there and a great welcome from people who genuinely want to help you.

“My life has totally changed because I made that decision to walk in the door of the gym all those years ago. It’s unbelievable how your quality of life can change if you just trust in the process and make time for yourself. It is never too late to change your life.”

Mairead's Top Tips: - Stop obsessing about the scales!

- Completely move away from 'fad' diets - they do not work!

- Find an exercise/activity that you enjoy - Don't focus on being on a 'diet'. See it as a lifestyle change.

No diet, no guilt!

- You are never too old or too unfit to make a change - If you want to change, take the first step today!

- Don't let your fear of failure hold you back!

- Trust in the process and make time for yourself

Monavalley Tralee 085 2689880

Services - Building Strength - Losing weight - Personal Training - Fitness Classes

We offer affordable options for all your fitness needs.

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Celebrating 10 Years in Business Meet The Team

When the Zip Yard first opened its Kerry store in 2011 Tralee was a very different place as there were still a lot of the 2008 crash. Tralee was chosen for the business as it’s the shopping destination for many Kerry people, with shoppers travelling from north and south Kerry and west limerick. This has proven to be a good decision for the brand, and it has been a great place to find excellent staff that serve our customers daily.

Meet our Staff

Megan Moriarty Is our store manager and brings lots of experience from a varied business background working in other franchises and business. She ensures the Kerry store runs like clockwork and keeps our customer service to its expected high standards, Efficient and friendly welcoming you on your next visit Teresa Fitzell Teresa, a customer favourite has been with the business since day on, she has been putting her qualifications from The Grafton Academy of Fashion Design to good use for our customer alteration ideas for the past 10 years. The Customers love Teresa.

Zofia Mista Brings over 40 years’ experience of dress making and designing in Europe to our Kerry clients. She has made everything from bespoke dresses and outfits from just pictures, as she is a qualified pattern maker. Bridal party and evening wear alterations are her favourite as she has a great eye for detail.

Mihalea Nitu Brings over 35 years’ experience from working in the factories of some of fashions biggest brands to Kerry’s clients. She helps turn client alterations ideas into reality with her knowledge of materials and fabrics. She can turn client ideas into reality.

While the Zip Yard brand is the alterations and tailoring service of choice for many of Irelands Tv, radio, sports and entertainment stars, It’s the local customers that we love serving the most. All our customers care about how they look. We say ‘we don’t sell clothes alterations or tailoring we sell confidence’.

When you have your garment worked on by The Zip Yard you feel and look great because you know it’s been worked on by the professionals.

P: 066 7185684 | 2 Denny Street, Tralee | www.thezipyard.ie | tralee@thezipyard.ie

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Hello to all the lovely Connect Kerry readers, it seems so long since we were with ye but as we start June 2021 let us put a spring in our step and do our best to have a great 2nd half to the year. Here in That’s Perfect we have been lucky enough to have been able to stay open during lock down as we were deemed essential as we were selling masks. It was a strange couple of months been one of a few retail shops open on the street but there was a lovely sense of looking after each other.

Although weddings are now downsized at the moment that doesn’t mean that dressing up has to be downsized, we are at the moment getting in new stock daily and as I have said before there is magic opening up all the boxes as they come in, (I am so lucky to have Paul buying stock). We have scarves in every colour both plain and patterned so they will compliment any outfit. Our range of bags have arrived, and the only negative is being only able to use 1 bag at the time.......

We are getting new styles in Masks as I feel we will be wearing them for a while longer and I get so excited when I get to help a bridal party pick out masks for their big day.

If there is anyone out there that has an elderly mom or granny that needs to get accessories for an upcoming wedding and is nervous to call in to shop message me with details and images of outfits and I will put together what I think is suitable and they can be collected from the shop and viewed safely at home, it is all about the little things to make people feel safe.

Before I sign off, on a personal note I just want to say huge thanks to all our very loyal and super customers who dropped in to the shop with a tea, coffee, a flake , a crème egg and sometimes just a friendly hello, it is because of all of ye that makes it easier for us to keep going.

I want to wish the very best to the Class of 2021 who are sitting their exams this month, they got the worse deal with regards to lockdown. To my nieces Almha and Tara may all your wishes come true as ye sit your exams but always remember as Grandad Tony would say “What’s for you, won’t pass you” Keep Safe and Keep smiling Be Kind to everyone.

Carmel xxx

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ISOLATION

Many of us have had to face dealing with isolation over the past year.

Being cut off from our normal avenues of social interaction, we can struggle with a sense of loneliness and disconnection.

Isolation amplifies a lot of our emotional responses. We often rely on cues, or feedback, from others to help us to regulate our feelings. When this is limited or removed, we can spin out and our feelings become exaggerated and sometimes overwhelming.

Socially, we have relied heavily on electronic means – internet, phone, television and radio – to try to stay connected, and this has been a lifesaver for lots of people. However, those means aren’t fully a substitute for face-to-face interaction, and it is helpful to recognize that.

If you are dealing with isolation, there are some things that you might find helpful. Online groups of shared-interest communities have multiplied. Staying in touch on the phone with family and friends, on a regular basis, helps to feel connected. Recognize the difference between loneliness and solitude. Being alone doesn’t always mean being lonely. Try to find ways of structuring your time and activities so that your days are defined. Be sure to get outside at least once a day.

Write things down. Starting a journal or diary can really help in managing your emotional state. Finally, try to identify somebody in particular that you can turn to when you are feeling low. Often friends will do this for each other, and it is beneficial for both.

As more and more people are vaccinated, the country will be gradually opening up. It’s important not to lose hope or a sense of optimism – we have been through a global crisis, and we are beginning to emerge from it. We can let adversity strengthen us, or we can let it pull us under.

Let it strengthen you.

Caroline Smith , Phychotherapy Counselling www.carolinesmith.ie | 087 6444837

Pearly Whites

by Dr Róisín Boyle We often get asked at what age children should be brought to the dentist for their first dental check up. The answer is within about 6 months of their first tooth erupting or by about 12 months at the latest. This means the dentist can give the parent or carer information about bottle decay, mouth cleaning, infant feeding/diet, pacifiers and finger sucking habits.

Often a morning appointment is better for young child when they are more alert. Pre-schoolers can be prepared before their visit by talking to them about what to expect at the dentist and why it is important to go. Build excitement and understanding before the appointment. At the visit, try to stay calm and not to relay any dislikes or anxieties you may have regarding dental treatment to the child. They can easily pick up on these and become anxious about the visit also.

Regular and positive experiences at the dentist from a young age encourages children to maintain good oral health as they get older and will help them maintain their happy and healthy smiles for life!

We recommend usually every 6 months for an exam and sometimes more frequently if there are any concerns.

49 Upper Rock Street, Tralee, Co. Kerry | (066) 712 1457 | www.macdomhnailldental.ie|fiacloir@gmail.com 18

Explore the Kingdom - Walking Weekends 2021 Explore the beauty of Kerry's landscape this August or October on one of our walking weekends. In a year like no other we have the perfect fix of a safe place to explore our beautiful scenery combined with a gorgeous weekend break at the four star, Rose Hotel. From our inaugural walking weekend in 2019 we have listened to our customer’s feedback and added an extra date to our walking calendar this year, Mount Brandon on 28th August and back by popular demand in October is the Loch a Duin Valley. Our packages include two night’s bed & breakfast, dinner on one evening, a guided walk, packed lunch, transport and of course our famous hospitality! So really all you have to do is select which walk meets your exploration needs, book and arrive, from there we will take care of the rest.

Mount Brandon Walk, 27th & 28th August, is aimed at an experienced walker, our summit is Ireland's 9th highest mountain and if it’s not on your bucket list then why not add it to your list this summer? Enjoy the wide open space and stunning scenery.

This beautiful and challenging Mount Brandon walk offers a dramatic ascent up through the glaciated valley with its series of paternoster lakes and the sheer valley walls. This strenuous walk is aimed at the more experienced walker.

Price: €199, per person sharing.

Loch a Duin Valley Walk, 1st & 2nd October, is classed as a moderate level walk and lasts for 4.5 hours approx. Our guide, John Edwards, from Wild Water Adventures will ensure you see the best of our beautiful landscape and enjoy an exhilarating walk.

This is a stunning walk into Loch a Duin Valley in the shadow of the Conor Pass. This walk is an archaeologist treasure trove. With wedge tombs, stone art, a fort, ancient stone walls, standing stones to name a few. This is a circular walk around a lake in the valley, crossing a waterfall.

Price: €170, per person sharing

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VIVA LA MENOPAUSE Life Can Still Be Awesome

In the last fortnight the topic of menopause has crashed out of the closet thanks to Joe Duffy airing the topic for five consecutive days.

Sadly, it was immediately apparent that thousands of women did not know where to turn for help. Most were lacking in information on menopause or whether any help was available for them.

help our bones and it also helps energy levels and moods. The Omegas are valuable for brain function.

Exercise programmes can help to slow down loss of muscle and bone mass.

The level of distress by women was palpable.

An ongoing social media survey being carried out by The Scotia Clinic shows that over 90% of respondents do not understand the terminology about menopause. Most women state that they need more information on treatments and are open to considering HRT to manage symptoms.

Mental health issues are a big concern for most people replying to our survey.

So here are some facts!! · The average age of menopause in Irish women is 52. However, 1% of women can develop premature ovarian insufficiency (early menopause) before age 40. · Perimenopause is the gradual transition to menopause that occurs as the ovaries produce less oestrogen. I can start in the early 40’s, or even earlier and can last for up to 8-10 years.

Menopause is the date of the last period · Symptoms can include hot flushes, sweats, difficulty sleeping, tiredness / exhaustions, poor concentration, aches and pains, mood changes, reduced sex drive.

Later symptoms include vaginal dryness.

Changes in the quality of skin and hair also take place.

Around the time of menopause, we lose around 30% of collagen leading to skin laxity. Muscle mass occurs in addition to bone thinning.

Symptoms may be shortlived or can last for even ten to twelve years.

Invisible problems related to menopause can include osteoporosis, cardiovascular risk among others · Many women can be reluctant about taking Hormone Replacement Therapy(HRT). However, the most modern research can be reassuring regarding HRT. There are also many alternative therapies including CBT, Non hormonal medications and lifestyle modifications. Vitamin D will 20

A very important message for women to hear is that there are many avenues to pursue in seeking help. There is no need to suffer in silence.

In the last fortnight women now feel they can, AND SHOULD, seek help.

The Scotia Clinic plan to establish Viva La Menopause, a social media based Group where evidence based medical information can be posted. We are hoping that experts in associated areas of exercise, skin care and hair issues will also assist women.

Prior to Covid it was possible to have meetings where women could get information. At the moment this is not feasible but we hope to launch regular “menopause café” sessions where women’s questions can be addressed.

It is important to realise that nothing can replace a good medical consultation and your healthcare professional will be very willing to guide you in dealing with menopause related problems.

Information Resources www.menopausematters.co.uk www. daisynetwork.org (resource for women with early menopause) www.menopause.org/for-women

Ph: (066) 7181100 The Scotia Clinic, Scotia House,Manor West, Tralee Co. Kerry

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RED LOTUS CLINIC -

e Popular Therapist, Eithn nic Cli tia Sco Griffin, is back in a ng eri off where she will be as h suc ns tio host of interven l, cra -Sa nio Acupuncture, Cra d an y ath op Massage, Home Meditation to help with ity & uma, injury & pain, Fertil physical & emotional tra Menopause.

Pregnancy and Gynae & lee, Dingle rience in her clinics in Tra With over 20 years’ expe rience of pe ex e draws on her own and Castlegregory, Eithn she has s thi her practice. Through ill-health and injuries in the root to g diagnosing and gettin developed the skills for eper level. de a ore taking healing to cause of problems theref ing from mm ste an array of symptoms “Clients can suffer from e. “By hn Eit s events in their lives” say to the specific past or present nt clie the t entions we can ge and offering a variety of interv y rap the ate ng the most appropri s root of their trauma usi see nic Cli tus g life.” While Red Lo a are help them on to live a lon the in es alis ailments, Eithne speci l clients with all kinds of ica log eco na use and all other gy of infertility, IVF, menopa adjunct to onncture can be a positive issues, for which acupu hne on going treatments. Call Eit pointment.

(086) 6066865 for an ap

ICAL AUDIOLOGY MED land’s SERVICES – one of Ire ology t audi leading independen es offer: ni pa m hearing care co

Adult Audiology y Paediatric Audiolog Removal ax W r Ea Microsuction Hearing Solutions Hearing Accessories the gift of hearing!

Let us give you back

t more information tment or to find ou To make an appoin info@ 00 501 501 or Email freephone us on 18 lservices.ie web audiologymedica edicalservices.ie www.audiologym

Kerry Speech & Language Therapy Clinic

Kerry SLT Clinic is the longest established private SLT clinic for children & adults in Kerry. Our therapists are experienced and highly skilled. We provide online, clinic based and school-based services. We work with people of any age who experience communication and feeding / swallow ing difficulties. Visit us at www.kerryslt.ie for more informa tion. For appointments email: info@kerryslt.ie or call 086156 4494.

Dr Fergus Leahy ian/ Consultant Paediatric Neonatologist CP (Canada), FRCPI, FRCPCH (Lond), FR FCCP (USA), llege of Chest (Fellow of American Co Physicians /Allergies), onatology) DCH (London), M.Sc (Ne For an appointment with Dr Fergus Leahy 1100 please contact 066-718 d Thursday an Clinic days on Tuesday

Ultrasound @ Scotia

· Pregnancy Ultrasound · Medical Ultrasound · Fertility Scanning including for IVF clinics abroad · Paediatric Ultrasound Care is provided by a team of experienced Sonographers and Consultants We Are Committed To The Safety and Wellbeing of Both Staff and Patients- we are fully compliant with all International Guidelines.

GP or Physio Referrals for non Pregnancy Ultrasound

Play Therapy uses a variety of play and creative art techniques to hel p a child explore their natural means of exp ression and to help them cope in their world.

In play therapy these are some of the following therapeutic mediums that are used: Sand, Art, Clay, Puppetry ,Therap eutic Stories and more...

Play enables a child to be able to experience their own power and connect to their inner self.

When would a child come to pla y therapy?

Anxiety, Abuse- physical, emotio nal, sexual or neglect ,Aggressiv e Behaviour/Anger, ASD Behavio ur , Attachment , Attention Defi cit Disorder (ADHD/ADD) For further information please con tact Clodagh on 0851866299 or email clodaghmoriarty.playth erapy@hotmail.com.

Anna O Donogue Breastfeedingkerry 10 years experience in breastfeeding support, and 17 years practice nursing. I offer home visits throughout Kerry to support and advice families on their breastfeeding journey . ses in Scotia Clinic, I offer breastfeeding preparation clas comfort of your the or you can view my class online in home .

To book an appointment contact me Anna O Donoghue Tel. 0872851915 www.breastfeedingkerry.ie Fb/instragram breastfeedingkerry

Come Sit A While -Counselling and Psychotherapy services Antoinette has a private practice at the Scotia clinic, and is also available from her studio (online and by phone) tment. appoin by s for private session 087 6232497 or Email antoinettegiovannelli@yahoo.ie

Psychiatrist

Mas Mahady Mohamad MB BCh BAO BMedSci MRCPI MRCPsych is a Consultant Psychiatrist. A graduate of University College Cork who leading the Specialist Perinatal Mental Health Services in University Maternity Hospital Limerick (HSE Mid-West).

He is a member of the Specialist Perinatal Mental Health National Oversight and Implementation Group.

Dr. Mahady is supported by a team of therapists including music therapy.

Colm Duffy

Physical Therapist MIAPT Providing physical therapy for both sporting and nonsporting injuries. Managing ergonomic workrelatedissues. The rapy for arthritis/ rheumatoid conditions

For appointments: T: 087 7572070 E:colmduffy7@gmail.com

GentleBirth is a comp lete antenatal class to prepare you and your partner for a positive birth, as yo u define it - with or without medicati on.

GentleBirth classes inc lude traditional anten atal education such as signs/stages of labour and medic ation options.

Mental Preparation : Feel more confident , excited and empowered using th e recommended daily training recommendations in the GentleBirth App. Navigating Your Optio ns: Understand your options to navigate your birth pr eferences confident ly.

Physical Comfort Me asures: You and your partner will learn advanced physical co mfort measures includ ing effective breathing techniques , acupressure, optim al positions and more.

Scotia - Tralee sharon.m.breen@g mail.com 0861607013

The Holistic Haven

• Reduce Anxiety • Improve Circulation • Alleviate Insomnia • Increase Energy • Stimulate Nerve Endings • Improve Immune System Services: Reflexology, Indian Head Message, Ear Candling, Baby Reflexology Instructor Contact Katie on (086) 4045701 Email: katierobertsreflexology@gmail.com reception@scotiaclinic.ie

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HELLO!

My name is Katie and I'm a reflexologist. My love for complimentary therapies started when my eldest child suffered with very bad eczema. I needed something that helped both the condition and the side affects and reflexology had all the answers for me. From there I went on and trained and qualified with a practitioners diploma in reflexology . Now I am delighted to be able to help others with all my skills and knowledge that I have learned along my journey.

Reflexology is a hands-on treatment that leaves clients feeling relaxed and renewed. I love showing my clients how just a few treatments can make an enormous difference to their health.

It takes into account the whole person and helps activate each person's natural healing processes as well as restoring their physical and emotional well-being.

Reflexology is proven to help with pain relief, circulation, lymphatic drainage, energy boosting, reducing stress levels, improving your immune system reducing anxiety and many more.

• Indian head massage is a relaxing holistic treatment that uses acupressure massage to release stress that has accumulated in the tissues, muscles and joints of the head, face, neck and shoulders.

• Ear candling can rebalance auricular pressure,and improve tinnitus. It is very calming and relaxing in cases of anxiety and is an amazing treatment to help de-stress. This treatment also includes a marma point facial massage or a lymphatic drainage facial massage.

• I also offer Baby and Child reflexology either on a one to one basis or in a class setting. This is fantastic for helping with teething, sleep pattern,colic, reflux, constipation and anxiety in children. It's a fantastic opportunity for extra bonding with baby for mom or dad!..

Holistic therapies consider your physical, emotional, social and spiritual wellbeing.A Holistic approach focuses on a person's welness and not just their illness or condition.

If there's any issue that concerns you and you aren't sure if any of these therapies can help you just give me a call and we can have a chat about it.

Ph: (086) 4045701 24

25

Back to groups, back to you!!

It has been an unprecedented 14 months and no one could have predicted that we would not be in a physical environment for so long. We are so glad to be back in our venues doing what we love best, supporting our members in their weightloss dreams.

Slimming World groups are delighted to be in a position again to offer venue and virtual groups commencing across the county effective from May 17th. And your local Slimming World group is missing you!!!

If you have not attended a group during the lockdown we would like to assure any person who is worried about rejoining to please not to have any concerns. We understand our members and the psychological needs of slimmers like no others. And we would like to assure members that all that awaits you is a warm welcome. People can be worried and anxious about their first weight. We need to frame this into a positive, firstly this is a chance to refresh, to refocus and to renew their commitment to their weight loss dreams. Having the support and warmth of their consultant and the few mins of a chat and a cheer on can be beneficial for the week ahead.

Layered with that our team also provides ongoing support via zoom, facebook, whatsapp and sms to members. We use a multilayered approach for members to provide them with the tools necessary for their journeys and we also provide motivation and information through these means.

Like a trip to any service providers we will have a booking system in place so please contact your local group consultant to arrange your booking. This is a very straightforward process and it helps us to provide a controlled and safe environment for our members. Nothing is more paramount than everybody's safety and wellbeing. So if you would love to Slimdown coming out of Lockdown please get in touch. We would only be delighted to welcome you back x

As lockdown restrictions gradually ease, we’re really excited to be planning our return to real-life Slimming World groups. In the meantime, we’ve put in place a temporary Venue + Virtual service, which means that our members can: attend their local group to weigh in on our scales, pay their membership fee and visit the Slimming World shop – all with safety measures and social distancing in place attend their virtual group for IMAGE Therapy – a motivating support session to help members develop healthy new habits, understand their own danger zones and make a foolproof plan for the week ahead

Your local Slimming World Consultants are: Tuesday Killarney Marie O’Sullivan 086 156 5485 Wednesday Tralee Sharon Brosnan 089 2201599 Thursday Tralee Nora Butler 087-2489838 Thursday Killarney Hayley Carter 087 7036975 Friday Tralee Nora Butler 087-2489838 26

Saturday Killarney: Marie OSullivan 086 156 5485 Killorglin: Hayley Carter 087 7036975 Tralee: Lauren Fitzell 086 0528303

27 Connect Kerry | July 2019 |27 23

In 1967, 2 brothers Jonas and Robert af Jochnick started a business called Oriflame a long with a friend called Bengt Hollston. Oriflame is a high quality brand producing beauty products, and is inspired by nature from Sweden. Today it is available in over 60 different countries.

Research for all products is undertaken in two centres, one is in Bray Co.Wicklow and the other in Stockholm in Sweden. Products can take up to 7 years in the making, and only tested on human panels of all different ages. Nature inspires everything Oriflame do. To date Oriflame is in over 60 countries with over 3 million brand partners working with Oriflame..

Teresa Parkinson tells us of her journey with Oriflame - I started with Oriflame 8 years ago, I just love the products, if you knew me that is all I talk about. I have built up a good team under me, which I get a percentage from. Commission for agents ranges from 20 to 30%, and you get a lot of extras including free gifts, cash bonuses and holidays.

One of the things I love is that there are no targets ( only your own), you can do the hours that suit you and you are not pushed into something you are not comfortable to do. There are loads training options available both online and offline, Oriflame will help you set up your own beauty shop, you can sell offline too with your catalogues. The skincare sets are amazing with all ages and skincare covered and Oriflame cater for men too. If you would like to know more about the products or joining please do not hesitate to get in contact.

Would you like to join our team?

For more details call Teresa Parkinson. 087 6462594, Teresaporiflame@gmail.com.

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Romy Birdthistle, Makeup Aritst, Educator and Owner of Paradise Salon & Academy

Now that lockdown has finally lifted it's time to get yourself summer ready!! I'm going to share some of my favourite summer buys.

First up is one of my favourite products to get a gorgeous face glow which is sculpted by Aimee These self tanning drops are completely customisable so that you can achieve the bronzed glow that you want and comes with it's own mini buffer brush for easy application.

It comes in 2 shades - Light/Medium and Medium Dark. It also contains Hyaluronic Acid for added hydration and Vitamin E for skin nourishing.

This is definatly a Staple for your summer makeup routine

Summer Vibes

Next up is the IT Cosmetics CC Cream, this product is not just a summer staple for me; it's in my makeup bag all year round. This foundation is medium coverage and comes in 3 finishes Normal, Illuminating and Oil free mattifying.

It's SPF 50 so its perfect for achieving that flawless skin look all summer long Preparation and setting are two of the most important things if you want your make up to last in the warm summer months and a great combination is the Rebound collagen Prep Spray and Anti Pollution setting Spray from Urban Decay

It wouldn't be summer without a bit of an added glow and Shiseido Synchro Skin Illuminator. The great thing about this product is that it can be worn in many different ways.

For a serious glow, wear alone over foundation, or for a more natural radiance, mix with your moisturiser or makeup for a healthy complexion Finally I love to add a bit of extra dimension with some Blush and my absolute favourite is the Milani Luminoso Baked Blush. It adds a gorgeous fresh glow to the skin.

The perfect finishing touch to any glowy, bronzed summer look

PARADISE HAIR & BEAUTY

First Class Pass To Paradise

Sign up today and get UNLIMITED HAIRDRESSING. Visit as may times as you like!

Limited availability - Book yours today

Also Includes: 10% Discount on all retail 1 brow wax & Tint every month 1 Lash Lift & Tint Special friends & Family Discount

CLUB PARADISE VIP MEMEBERSHIP ONLY €99 PER MONTH!!

*Must pay 3 months in advance (total €297) Excludes 12 week blowdry and hair extensions services.

1 lash lift & tint every 3 months. Friends and family discount valid on Tue-wed- thur for Hair services only. Other Terms and Conditions apply. Enquire today for full details - 066 712 1578 or info@paradisehairandbeauty.ie

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4

L’OREAL ELVIVE COLOUR PROTECT PURPLE REVIVING OIL

Its been a long time since we had the pleasure of browsing through cosmetic counters in our favourite stores, it’s always a joy to take a few hours to check out the latest scents, colours or even that new miracle cream to make your skin glow. We had a look to see what products we should include on our list To get us glowing again

1

Kiehls Midnight Recovery Concentrate A potent blend of botanical ingredients really do work on the skin overnight.

2

Elvive More Than Shampoo Collection

Washing your hair holds a special place in self-care.

Especially in recent times, washing your hair could be the only time you have to yourself without any distractions.

Even though the act of shampooing our hair is primarily to clean and care for the hair and scalp, “Why not make it the best experience possible and transform your hair up to 3x softer.”

For 2021, L’Oréal Paris reinvents the haircare essential to reveal a luxury shampoo that is richer in not just texture, but also results.

(Available late may)

3

Armani Scents

In 2021, Giorgio Armani takes inspiration from the rocky shores of Pantelleria for the latest addition to the Les Eaux fragrance collection, with the introduction of CYPRÈS PANTELLERIA, an ode to this captivating Italian volcanic island.

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Blonde or bleached hair in need of a refresh? Introducing Purple Reviving Oil from Elvive Colour Protect, Britain's number 1 for coloured hair*. Highlighted brunette, blonde, and grey hair can become yellow and brassy over time. This leavein hair oil treatment transforms dry, brassy hair! The unique, caring Purple Oil formula helps neutralise yellow/orange tones whilst leaving hair feeling soft, nourished and revived. How does it work? Purple colour is the opposite to yellow on the colour wheel, the purple within the Purple Oil formula helps neutralise yellow tones.

The perfect finishing touch to complete your antibrassiness routine for an even brighter blonde.

(Available June 2021)

5

L’OREAL PARIS REVITALIFT FILLER RENEW SPF 50 DAY CREAM

Discover Revitalift Filler + Hyaluronic Acid, our Anti-Wrinkle + Replumping regime, highly concentrated in hyaluronic acid.

Revitalift Filler Renew Day cream is highly concentrated in pure Hyaluronic Acid, now with SPF 50 to protect your skin and prolong your skin's bounce. Clinically proven to reduce the appearance of wrinkles. It is also enriched with Fibroxyl plant extract, known for its firming properties. Replumps the skin with moisture. Skin bounces back. Day after day, skin looks plumper and fuller. Contours appear more defined, you look younger.

6

L’Oreal Elvive Dream Lengths Super Blowdry Cream

Elvive Dream lengths Super Blowdry Cream

by L'Oreal Paris is so smart!

It eases blow-drying while locking down shape. Part of the in-between washes style extender range, to style hair and maximise care without water, you can restyle with one blow of heat.

The unique formula offers up to 230°C* heat protection and heat-activated 72-hour* shape memory meaning unlimited restyling without weigh down. Alongside thermosoftening polymers that care for your hair, softening for an easy blowdry with long lasting definition and hold. Dream Lengths Super Blowdry Cream by L’Oreal Elvive is ideal for achieving bouncy blowdrys day after day on long hair

6

REVITALIFT FRAGRANCE FREE FACE CREAM

DISCOVER A LUXURIOUS ANTI-WRINKLE AND FIRMING CREAM.

Formulated with Pro-Retinol & Probiotic Extracts, to lift the skin, reduce the appearance of wrinkles and help skin achieve a healthy looking glow.

L’Oréal Paris' Revitalift Fragrance-Free Hydrating Cream uses a new formula powered by biotechnology, to firm & lift the skin and reduce the appearance of wrinkles. This cream harnesses the power of dermatologist-inspired ingredients pro-retinol and probiotic extracts. Together these help the skin stimulate its natural lifters for extra-firm skin, visibly reduce wrinkles and develop a smoother surface.

Simply applying the cream once a day for 4 weeks will help your skin to feel hydrated, firmer, tighter and less wrinkled.

8

L’OREAL PARIS SKIN PARADISE TINTED WATER CREAM

QUENCH YOUR THIRST WITH L’OREAL PARIS SKIN PARADISE TINTED WATER CREAM HYDRATION FROM ADIFFERENT KIND OF BOTTLE COVETED CELESTIAL SKIN: THE SCIENCE OF THE GLOW THE OPTICAL EQUATION TO ACHIEVE A DEWY, GLASS SKIN GLOW IS COMPLEX. GLOW IS A MIX OF LIGHT REFLECTION, DIFFUSION, LUMINOSITY, COLOUR, CONTRAST AND DEFINITION; ALL OF THEM ENHANCED WITH SKINHYDRATION. Skin Paradise Tinted Water Cream achieves next level luminosity by drenching the skin with 24 hours worth of hydration. With a multitude of other skin benefits to boot, thanks to the 70% caring water formula, it offers that covetable lit-from-within skin. The lightweight texture gives a delicate shimmering wash of colour, available in 10 shades.

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Outdoor Dining This Summer

In line with government guidelines pubs and restaurants will be allowed open this June, it is going to be hard especially with our weather, but many are making the most of it just to get the doors open again. There are many but here are just a few places around the county that you can check out.

e e l a r T l e t o H dowlands

Mea

We are excited about opening our doors again this June!

The Meadowlands Hotel has been continuously adapting and upgrading all areas of the hotel, including the kitchen, conference centre, bar, restaurant, reception, guestrooms etc.

We are thrilled to announce the addition of our new outdoor terrace. The Terrace is located just off our spacious bar & restaurant and adjacent to our beautiful private gardens.

For updates and menus, please contact us on 066 718 0444 or follow us on our social media pages. We look forward to welcoming you!

Moorings Portmagee

Enjoy fresh seafood, sizzling steaks, juicy burgers and lots more, in the beautiful surroundings of the sea at Portmagee, so beautiful you wont want to go home, and as they are now open for guests, why not book in and stay the night. I am looking forward to my trip there this June.

The Thatch

The Shire Killarney

The Shire Café & Bar offers a range of wines, beers & spirits as well as speciality coffees, teas and a selection of sweet treats; there is something here to suit all tastes!

Trust us – this place is a must for all you coffee lovers out there!

Breakfast, Lunch and Evening menus are all available.

For bookings call 064 6671605

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The Thatch Lisselton Joanne John and all the team at the Thatch Lisselton have been working really hard to create the ideal outdoor space, so be sure and pop by to check it out, guaranteed delicious food and refreshing drinks you will enjoy your trip to the thatch.

For bookings contact - 087 6768634

Experience Al Fresco dining at Meadowlands Hotel and enjoy spacious dining options on our terrace and gardens.

New Outdoor covered and heated terrace coming this June!

Covered & Hea ted Terrace

| Casual Outdoor Dining Area

| Spacious Gardens

Enjoy our delicious specialties on our Barfood & Takeaway menus sourcing ingredients from local producers.

Our Seafood is directly sourced from our own fish company Iasc Uí Mhathuna in Dingle. Delicious pies in house from Pióg Pies.

Ár m

B uíochas

L ibh

See social media for menus and updates.

33

Mor e Than a Match

CONNECT chats with Castleisland woman Lisa Geraghty on how she used lockdown in the Kingdom to pen her first novel More Than and Match

Jennifer Burke is a real woman, raw and flawed. Her story is one that will resonate with all women at some point in their lives.

Tell us a little bit about yourself

You credit the ‘fresh Kerry air’ with helping you write the book. Tell us about the process

I grew up near Castleisland with my parents Denis and Martina Reidy and five younger siblings. I went to school in St Joseph’s Presentation, Castleisland before going to Dublin to study Veterinary Medicine. I practiced as a vet in Galway in both farm animal and small animal practice for about ten years. I then took up a post in Athlone Institute of Technology as a lecturer in Veterinary Nursing. I now live in Ahascragh, East Galway with my two teenage children, 19 year-old Donnacha and Maeve who is 16 and my Irish Wolfhound, Mac. When did you first realise you enjoyed writing?

Last year, at the start of lockdown, I started writing some blogs. I knew I really enjoyed writing but had only ever written scientifically. I've published a few employment law articles, a peer reviewed paper on antimicrobial resistance in veterinary practice and I am co-author of a textbook 'Veterinary Law and Practice in Ireland' which is due out in June.

When did you make the decision to write a novel?

So, I loved to blog, and had a few nonfiction articles published in local papers.

Writing really gave me pleasure. A few friends suggested a novel. I had some themes in my head for a long time, but I just needed to put a story to them.

Last June, while renting a house in Abbeydorney where both my sisters live, I literally opened a word file and started to write.

Tell us where your inspiration for More Than a Match came from I knew I wanted to write a story about a strong woman - a character that could empower other women. The #MeToo movement was well underway at the time. The themes I wanted to encapsulate in the story were that people are flawed, 34

we all make mistakes and have to learn to live with the consequences. I wanted to address the theme of stress and mental illness and the message that it is possible to heal and be well and move on. I also wanted to include the theme of bullying and the destructive force that it can be in peoples' lives, especially when it happens behind closed doors. Lastly I hoped to include the theme of grief and loss, and how universally it hits all of us, nondiscriminatory, without prejudice.

So, tell us about the book itself Jennifer Burke lives the dream life – a successful law practice in Castlebar, a husband who worships her and two beautiful, talented teenage daughters. At least that’s what she’s always told herself.

A West Kerry native, Jennifer met her future husband John and best friend Sinead in UCD where she studied law in the 1990s. From University, the confident and stylish Jennifer followed the pair back to their home County of Mayo where she started her family and opened her own law practice. But as the years progress, somewhere inside of Jennifer the splinters begin to deepen. When her mental health is shattered by a lifealtering diagnosis she discovers how fragile her world has become.

This is a story of fear and loss, of desperation and pain, of hope and survival. When a woman’s strength is tested to the limit can she stand and fight for her life?

The story of More Than a Match was written in the summer of 2020, when the country was in lockdown. I was in Abbeydorney at the time, breathing Kerry air. I wrote it in 90 days. It sort of flowed out of me once I got started. I had asked a couple of trusted friends to proofread the chapters as I wrote them and they gave me so much encouragement. I generally wrote for a couple of hours in the morning and again at night, which meant that I got to spend plenty of time on Banna Beach and in the National Park with my niece, Hanna.

How difficult is it to have your book published?

From a mainstream publishing point of view, it’s not easy, especially as an unknown author. If this is the route you want to take the best option is to get an agent - again not easy as the number of new authors that they take on each year is limited. Details of literary agents are available online. The alternative route

Total Cleaning Kerry We are delighted to reopen our retail store in Clash Industrial estate after a Renovation, now offering our customers a much improved shopping experience.

In addition to supplying to our trade customers, we are delighted to offer our range of Products to the general public from our two retail stores, Clash Industrial Estate & The Horan Centre, Tralee.

We are extremely proud to be a key supplier across a number of sectors across Kerry, Limerick & Cork hospitality, education & childcare, healthcare ,pharmaceutical and the public sector amongst others and to have retained such a customer base despite a competitive and challenging marketplace.

We have really enjoyed extending our product ranges each year and bringing new and innovative Products to the local market. We source the majority of our products from Irish manufacturers And are firm advocates of supporting local where possible. The company has successfully grown its Market share in providing catering and homeware supplies to all customers which has really Complimented our core business lines. Our very different and diverse backgrounds of engineering And healthcare have certainly given us a greater perspective in all aspects of business and in understanding the various needs of our customer base.

Next year we will be celebrating 40 years in business .

Niamh & Kate Brosnan look forward to celebrating this milestone next year With their mother Marelda, one of the co-founders of the original company Back in 1982.

NEW STORE

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Clash Industrial Estate & The Horan Centre, Tralee, Co. Kerry 35

How exciting is it to see your book become a reality?

is self-publishing or independent (indie) publishing. This is a fantastic option for new authors who do not have a direct route into the big publishing houses.

Indie publishing is coming into favour lately, even with the more established authors, because they see it as a way of having more control over their books and they get more of the royalties ultimately.

The most important thing when you are hoping to publish a book is to hire a good editor. They are skilled and experienced and will transform your book into a professional product. I was introduced to Liz Hudson of the Little Red Pen Editing Company in Dublin and she was literally invaluable to me when it came to preparing my manuscript for publication.

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I have to admit it’s very satisfying. When you are sitting in front of your laptop on your own watching your characters come to life, it’s difficult to imagine the final product – to see your friends and family hold it in their hands. I believe that this is the only reason someone should write – because it makes you feel good. If you write because it gives you pleasure, then your work will always be a success.

A second reason to smile, in my case, is that the cover of the novel was created by my son, Donnacha. He is an aspiring tattoo artist and hopes to move to Tralee in September to study Tattoo Artistry.

Will we see more novels from Lisa Geraghty in the future?

I’m going to enjoy this one first. However, I believe that Jennifer Burke has more stories to tell. She is such a strong character, one that I hope will have an empowering influence on women. I think there is a possibility that she might make an appearance in the future.

What advice would you give to someone thinking about writing a novel, but doesn’t know where to start?

The best advice that I can give is this: If you want to write, then write. If you have a story to tell, then let it out onto the page in front of you. That is the most important bit of the process.

You don’t need specific training in writing.

I didn’t have any training in creative writing or fiction. Writing your novel should be for you first. If you think you would like to have it published, then my next advice is to hire an editor. This is essential and is worth every penny. Lastly, look into indie publishing. It is easier than it sounds. I used Kindle Direct Publishing and can recommend it, but there are several other options.

Finally, where can people read your book?

My novel, More Than a Match, is available in eBook on Amazon.co.uk and in paperback on Amazon.de and Amazon. com.

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“How I Got Here" Margaret Flannery Mediator

by Mary Lucey of Career Ahead Meeting Margaret Flannery recently at a networking event, she explained how she has recently set up a Mediation Services Business. Below she answers a number of questions about mediation, what she does and why she finds it a highly rewarding career choice…..

Tell us a bit about yourself …

My name is Margaret, and my business is called Margaret Flannery Mediation Services. While I am physically based in County Kerry, I work online with individuals and groups from all over the country. I work, and have done so for the past 15 years, in HR management and had a wide range of experience dealing with workplace conflict and resolution. I found that when I understood the mediation process and qualified as a mediator, it was a wonderful tool to support and assist me when dealing with challenging workplace relationships.

What is Mediation and the role of a Mediator...

Mediation is a process where an impartial third party assists when there is a dispute between parties, to resolve conflict using specialised communication and negotiation techniques. All participants in mediation are encouraged to actively participate in the process to reach a resolution. Mediation is a wonderful tool for working through workplace, community, and family disputes.

Mediation can help resolve a wide range of disputes, such as commercial, legal, diplomatic, workplace, community, and family matters.

A mediator, like I am, is an independent professional who guides individuals in dispute, through the mediation process with the view of assisting the parties to come to a mutually acceptable agreement. The Mediator facilitates parties to sit down and air their grievances in both private and joint meetings. They ensure that all parties are heard and are given the opportunity to explore options for moving forward to a future, rather than focusing on 38

past difficulties. You can have specific mediation accreditation like Mediation for Separating Couples, as I do, and this means I mediate for many separating couples with children. I help the couples prepare a parenting plan to act as their road map for the future. As time moves on and their children grow, the plan gets reviewed and amended to suit the families changing needs. Mediation can have a huge positive impact in these scenarios, helping all parties to cope with a difficult situation.

Did you always want to be a Mediator…

No, I was not even aware of mediation when I first started to undertake my studies and work. When on my course in 1990’s, I always loved law, and as a result moved into HR and secured a position in that role. Working as a HR Manager for many years; I was constantly addressing workplace conflict. In 2018, I had to take time off work due to work related stress, I found this exceedingly difficult because as the HR Manager, I was the person other people relied on to help them cope with stress and problems at work. When I returned, I wanted to bring about more positive changes in the workplace - to encourage open communication about workplace wellness and support positive mental health. Mediation was the natural solution and thankfully my employer fully supported me and I began my official mediation training.

How did you qualify to become a Mediator…

Having previous qualifications in Accounting and Law, I trained in Mediation with an approved Mediation Institute of Ireland trainer. Qualification is determined via an assessment process

with an independent assessor. The training involved, within a group scenario, exploring the core concept of mediation, its procedure and practice. We learned how to develop the core competencies necessary for mediating a dispute; and methods and techniques for identifying the heart of the conflict. As mediators, we were trained to identify how disputants individually handle conflict and changes they may need to make. Mediators must learn how to empower disputants to move from conflict to resolution.

Techniques such as role plays are a huge part of the training.

What was Secondary School like for you…

I attended Mean Scoil na Toirbhirte, in Dingle, for my secondary school education. I loved school and English was my favourite subject. As I become a mother at a young age, college was not for me, immediately upon leaving school. However, I always had a passion for education and continued to source a variety of courses to complete over the years and obtain several qualifications – Accounting, Law, Training and lastly Mediation. I see myself as an eternal student and a life-long learner!

What typically does your job involve in a day…

My life revolves around zoom meetings due to the current COVID pandemic! I have corporate clients who I work with on a weekly basis providing HR and mediation services. In addition, I have private mediation sessions. I ensure that I keep a very well-balanced work/life structure.

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resolve issues is hugely rewarding, and I plan to continue with my training to an advanced level until I too will be Mediation Trainer.

Is there anything you don’t like about your job…

Although it is a necessity now - zoom! I love meeting people face-to-face and it will be great to get back to seeing clients in person once it is safe to do so.

Would you change any of your career decisions todate…

What are the main skills necessary to be a Mediator…

The two skills that I believe are vital are to be a good listener and to remain non-judgemental. A mediator must remain objective in every scenario and be completely impartial.

What do you love most about your job…

It probably sounds cheesy; but I love helping people and I believe that working together, we can solve almost any problem. If we talk to each other, and really listen to what we are saying; a solution can be found. Helping people

I wouldn’t change anything, as every decision I have made has led me to where I am now and I love my career.

What are you most proud of in your career?

I am part of a Skillnet steering group; I had noticed through my HR work that there was very little in the way of a formal qualification for Retail Managers.

I raised the matter with the Skillnet Manager and decided to take some positive action to rectify this situation.

The Munster Technological University (MTU) Kerry Campus was approached, and it was agreed that they would develop a programme entitled a BA in

Retail Experience Management. The first intake of students will be in September 2021. This course is for retail staff who will be able to attain their degree on a part-time basis while continuing to work. This demonstrates again through communication and negotiating, a problem was rectified.

Advice for those making course choices now after their Leaving Certificate…

Think about the future lifestyle you would like to have; then plan what steps you need to take to ensure you eventually get there.

Any final words of inspiration…

There is a path to get everyone to where they want to go, even if it is a long and winding one…..

Mary Lucey Founder of Career Ahead may be contacted at 0879338941 MaryLucey@ careerahead.ie careerahead.ie

Taxation of Pandemic Unemployment Payment (PUP) Now that the PUP is due to come to an end on 30 June 2021, this explains how the payments have been taxed in 2021 and what happens when they cease.

Since 1 January 2021, the Department of Social Protection (DSP) has informed Revenue on a weekly basis of the amount of PUP paid to each recipient.

The tax due on the payment is collected by reducing the person’s tax credits and rate band. The weekly amount of PUP is annualized and the annual tax credits and rate band reduced. The adjusted tax credits and rate band have been applied on a week 1 basis. In most cases, no additional tax liability will arise at the end of 2021.

An individual must advise the DSP immediately if he/she has returned to work. The DSP advises

Revenue that the PUP payments have ceased and the individual’s tax credits and rate band are readjusted to normal entitlements on a week 1 basis. This readjustment will also be made when the payments cease on 30 June 2021.

In January 2022, an employee can complete an income tax return through ‘My account’ for 2021 to obtain a statement of tax liability for 2021. This will show the final tax and USC liabilities for 2021 and any overpaid tax/USC will be refunded.

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Music in the Kingdom

By Lisa Curran

Kevin Walsh

During lockdown amazing campaigns have come about where artists are striving to help communities across Ireland by using their talents and resources. One project is ‘embrace the world’ a supergroup single in aid of Ireland’s leading autism charity Asiam.ie and here to tell us all about it is singer, songwriter, composer and autistic Adult Kevin Walsh.

Hi Kevin why don’t you start by telling everyone about yourself!

I’m from Cork. I am a singer, songwriter, musician and actor who has graduated from the Cork School Of Music with First Class Honours MA and BMus.I love to do bits of anything and everything that involves performance and creativity!

I was diagnosed with Autism at the age of five. Through the years, the one thing that guided me every step of the way was music.

How did the project come about and why did you choose asiam as the charity to support?

I really wanted to mark diversity in the music styles to exactly mirror that spectrum of Autism.

Yourself Lisa, Molly Lynch and Caroline Kay are all from the Classical / Musical Theatre style with vocal ranges for day and dynamic power. Molly’s top-end takes on the classical Soprano quality and Caroline can utilise a belt in that register that can lean more towards a soulful, gospel side. Then you have Emma Langford who has a strong Trad influence and can do that lilty Irish enunciation.Stephen Gormley of Moon Looks On is vocally like a male version of Emma in terms of its influence and style, and Mark Daly has a raspy rock sound. There are also six more artists that I am hoping to court, ideally of a more renowned and international stature.

Tell us all how we can support the project.

We have a Fund It page. You can make donations to sponsor the project, starting from €5 and there’s different rewards E.g opportunities for Meet + Greets, signed memorabilia, Virtual Performances (with any of the artists involved) and personalised messages to be found. Check out the page for all the details. https://fundit.ie/project/embrace-the-world Finally where can we follow the journeyof the project and show our support?

We have Social Media pages for the project:

Networking is key to establishing oneself in the industry but it takes a lot of social nitty gritty to be able to pull off, something which doesn’t come naturally to me as a person on the Autism spectrum.Lockdown gave me a pause actually, I was slowly building my confidence.I had the opportunity to meet Meat Loaf virtually several months ago. He’s been my musical hero through my whole life. That put me in a social place of “Okay, I’m not going to talk myself down”.

I wanted to write a song that reflected: following your dreams, believing in yourself and belonging to yourself, so came the song Embrace the World. People had been suggesting to me for years that I should do something in advocation of an Autism charity but I was always afraid to commit to it fully as my perception at the time was that I had to “mask” to be accepted.

AsIAm is a charity ran by Adam Harris who is Autistic himself.I’m not just an Autistic guy putting my experiences to the forefront and I believe this project and the song contributes to AsIAm’s philosophy.

A supergroup single is a great choice for a project like this, tell us who are the artists involved so far.

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