REFRAME #04 Summer 2024

FRESH FODDER FOR YOUR FRAME OF MIND

TRAITORGATE #04 SUMMER 24

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Soul Food | You Do You | Me, Myself & I | Nurture By Nature Juice For Your Brain | Dose Of Dopamine | The Skin You’re In

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What’s the big idea?

The main thing we’ve learnt is… it’s not what you see, it’s how you choose to see it…and that’s Reframe. #04 SUMMER 24

Dear friend, Welcome to Reframe! If you’re reading this then you’re up for challenging, enjoying and caring for yourself. If so, keep reading because you are in for an interesting and quirky experience that may just change your mind!

Reframe was born out of our own experiences, our unquestionable friendship (putting up with each other for a very, VERY long time!) and, most of all, our passion for wanting to help people.

If you are able to take just one article from this magazine and make it work for you…then we are happy bunnies!

Within these pages you’ll find articles from real people with real experiences and real insights on the things that worked for them.

Every advert you see within these pages is there because we’ve

extensively researched that company and believe that they have the best product in their field.

Reframe is all about removing the current labels and stigma associated with your frame of mind.

At some point in our lives we all have our own baggage – some have small rucksacks and others massive suitcases.

Whichever it is that you carry, we hope you find something in here that will help, make you laugh, inspire you and lighten the load!

The main thing we’ve learnt is…it’s not what you see, it’s how you choose to see it…and that’s Reframe. No labels, no fuss, just sharing a bit of inspiration that may help.

Big love,

Lou & Lax 3

JUICE FOR YOUR BRAIN

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YOU DO YOU

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TRAITORGATE Season Two Traitor, Ash Bibi, talks slaying, shields and (kind of) strategy...

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STRANGERS WHEN WE MEET We talk to Tim Allen, who changed things up with a camera and some train tickets.

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NURTURE BY NATURE

ALSO INSIDE ME, MYSELF & I Sweet Freedom 10 JUICE FOR YOUR BRAIN Boost Your Roots 32 SKIN YOU’RE IN Deciding Factor

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The Cent in the Sentiment Hack at the Back

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BEST OF ALLS From running to Roquefort, motors to mojitos and fairgrounds to fajitas, our festival guide has your summer well and truly covered...

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ME, MYSELF & I

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DOSE OF DOPAMINE

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STALKING FILLERS

LESSONS IN LASSO

What started as a darkly comic look at a real life experience has exploded into an overnight phenomenon, media circus and a has come full circle, creating its own stalking frenzy...

Get your dose of Ted wisdom, there’s a Lasso lesson for every aspect of life and if you haven’t already, you need to get some Ted-therapy...

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SOUL FOOD

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THE SKIN YOU’RE IN

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THE VAPE ESCAPE With popularity soaring and more and more new companies popping up, how do you know what’s in your ‘Citrus Punch’?

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MAKING A MOCKERY Our favourite alcohol-free cocktail recipes for happy days without the hangovers...

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ME, MYSELF &I STALKING FILLERS SWEET FREEDOM

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STALKING FILLERS Words/Lou Andrews

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Don’t be fooled by the title people…Baby Reindeer is no heart-warming, festive, feel-good romp!

It’s a brutally open and honest account of one man’s entangled relationship with his stalker. Richard Gadd created Baby Reindeer based on his own life experiences, not only with stalking, but there are also harrowing scenes of his own sexual abuse at the hands of a big-shot comedy writer. To top it all off, he also plays the lead (himself), Donnie Dunn. Having watched it, I think that’s also a very endearing element, I wonder if it was somewhat cathartic to Gadd. To walk in those same shoes, but at a safe distance. To have that control element that he didn’t have back then.

There is no singular blame here and that’s the point. In some ways both Donnie and Martha needed each other.

It’s a very impacting show, one of which is not for the faint-hearted due to its darkened edges, but nonetheless a story that needed to be told, and it’s told with a great degree of empathy for both Donnie and also his stalker Martha (played superbly by Jessica Gunning). It cuts straight through the middle. There is no singular blame here and that’s the point. In some ways both Donnie and Martha needed each other. They both filled an empty void in each other’s lives, one that was carved by the wrong doings of others. As twisted as it may seem, there is understanding in that and maybe somehow it’s what drew them to each other in the first place, although I must admit I will think twice before I offer someone a free cup of tea in the future!

Stalking is very real and for those effected by it. It consumes their whole lives and the lives of those close to them, yet its not discussed very often and when it is, it usually involves someone famous. It can happen to anyone and Gadd’s story highlights this. According to an article on police-foundation.org.uk, its estimated that 1.2 million women and 900k men are victims of stalking every year in England and Wales. That’s a staggering figure, just let that sink in for a minute… and it’s a figure that is rising! Police.UK defines stalking as when someone repeatedly behaves in a way that makes you feel scared, distressed or threatened and it IS an offence under the Protection from Harassment Act 1997, so please do report it if you feel you are being stalked. If you are unsure how to recognise it, there are FOUR signs: F–ixated, O-bsessive, U–nwanted and R–epeated. There is plenty of help available for these situations and there are some useful links for you at the end of the article.

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What I find equally interesting is that there is a small element of social stalking that we all do and has become normal in our world. ‘Surely not!’ I hear you say.

Well, think about it…how many times have you heard friends openly talk about Facebook/Instagram stalking?

In fact, its likely many of you reading this will have done this at some point! Looking through someone’s profile to see what they have been doing and who they were with…what they’ve been eating etc. It’s the norm these days, and that social media element has no doubt become a very useful tool to stalkers because they can now track your every move, infiltrate your circle of friends and the places you like to go.

And sadly, that is now what people have done to the ’real’ Martha. It seems ironic that a story about someone being stalked had turned so many cyber sleuths out there into stalkers themselves! I mean honestly, what the actual...?! People have tracked who they think it is down and now she is getting death-threats and all sorts of unsavoury messages. Then there’s that very questionable interview with Piers Morgan, which served as nothing more than further click bait. I won’t share any details, because quite frankly I think it’s a very sad thing to have happened. I don’t understand how anyone that has watched that story would think it would give any benefit to anyone in tracking this character down.

That wasn’t the point of the show.

It was never about punishing her or showing her in a negative light. It was simply about telling his truth and she was a part of that truth.

Gadd intended his story to show Martha’s ‘emotional truth’ as he very eloquently put it. It was never about punishing her or showing her in a negative light. It was simply about telling his truth and she was a part of that truth. And the story should have ended there. So please down tools people and stop digging, there’s no treasure to be found from this one.

Snt from mi iPhone The Police Foundation – Stalking & Harassment Police.UK – What is stalking and harassment?

AAS – Support for Young People Is This OK? – Relationships & Sex Supportline – Stalking and harassment

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SWEET FREEDOM Words/Lou Andrews

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A little tale of loss, insecurity and how one night of karaoke turned fear into fun and anxiety into determination...

Somewhere deep in the heart of Surrey tonight, there is a strange sound ricocheting through the streets. A noise proving to be so potent that it is keeping the residents awake. A sound you may well liken to a gang of anti-social mewing cats…but oh no, wait…it’s just Karaoke at The Light in Redhill! Now, whether you are an avidly willing performer or a closet crooner, everyone loves a good sing-along…except for me…or at least so I thought. Many years ago I was a singer and I performed in various venues in and around London. I was always hugely critical of my trade and put pressure on myself to be the best I could. Karaoke was never fun for me, because people always had expectations. I could never have been one of those footloose, crazed aunties at wedding, kicking their feet out of time to I Will Survive!

No, for me it was serious stuff. Major mood killer.

I must say I grieved not only for my mum, but for my one true love… music. I wouldn’t even remotely try to sing, because I couldn’t bear the fact that my voice wouldn’t sound perfect anymore!

Then, when I was 26, my mum passed away and the fragility of it all went straight to my voice. I know right… bummer! It affected my speaking voice and my singing one too, so I had to stop. I must say I grieved not only for my mum, but for my one true love…music. I wouldn’t even remotely try to sing, because I couldn’t bear the fact that my voice wouldn’t sound perfect anymore! I was scared. Years went by and eventually I guess I just became accustomed to the fact that I was no longer a singer. The dust settled on my old faithful Shure

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microphone, left sat in its stand as if the life had gone out of it.

So, I obviously avoided Karaoke at all costs…until now.

I had been invited out for the evening for drinks with five people from my work, which I eagerly accepted.

It was then suggested that we book a karaoke booth at The Light. Unbelievably, I found myself agreeing… and not making weak excuses like ‘my cat’s unwell’!

They are genuinely an incredibly open, nice, non-judgemental bunch of people. They couldn’t care less if I sounded like fox on heat! That gave me strength, because if they didn’t care, then why should I, right?

As it got nearer to the time, I still didn’t feel anxious about it…I just went along looking forward to seeing my friends. This was progress. We met in a bar first and after a couple of cocktails and numerous hilarious conversations we headed towards The Light (unfortunate name when you add it to a sentence like that!). As we were walking there, I realised that I felt totally comfortable with the people I was with. They are genuinely an incredibly open, nice, non-judgemental bunch of people. They couldn’t care less if I sounded like fox on heat! That gave me strength, because if they didn’t care, then why should I, right? And I think that runs parallel in life too – we are always our biggest critics, but why should we worry?

As we got to The Light we were shown to our room. It was a new establishment so everything looked clean

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and ‘unharmed’ as of yet. It was well-equipped too.

In the corner stood a large Karaoke machine (touch screen of course!) and there were two mics ready to go. A large screen hung on the wall waiting to spring into action…and it didn’t have to wait for long. We had barely got in the door when the first song was put on.

No hesitation, just straight in….my kind of people!

Natalie then decided to do Hit Me With Your Best Shot and before I knew it, I was singing along in the background at the top of my voice… and it was FUN! Natalie then decided to do Hit Me With Your Best Shot and before I knew it, I was singing along in the background at the top of my voice…and it was FUN! I felt oddly free. Free to make a complete tool out of myself if I wanted to…and that freedom tastes sweet!

The night went on like this and we were so busy singing, we didn’t even drink very much! It was massively funny too. Dave did an unmentionable rendition of The Spice Girls – Two Become One (Paul commented that he

looked like he was doing a Ted Talk!), Helen rocked a little bit of Avril Lavigne and at one point I found myself quite literally on my knees performing I Touch Myself by the Divinyls with a confused looking Paul. You couldn’t hear the song at one point through the infectious cackle of Timi’s laugh in the background! Too funny. There were countless duos too; Jar Of Hearts, Olivers Army and I got to perform the Bradley Cooper part to Shallow with the Yin to my vocal Yan, Natalie (I’ve always had an oddly low voice for some reason).

When the night ended, I have to say I was gutted.

But, I left that place feeling taller (and I’m only 5ft so I needed that!) and like I could achieve anything, because essentially when you are comfortable enough with yourself not to care, its liberating. So, what am I saying? I’m saying get yourself out there and don’t be afraid. Whatever that may be. Nothing is as scary as the pressure we put on ourselves; how we look, how we feel…how we sound! And does it really matter? If you like music, then find yourself a Karaoke booth…even if you go on your own. You won’t regret it.

Since that day I have started writing songs again…and I don’t care if they are rubbish ones either, because I’m enjoying it again! Haha.

To my Karaoke family; this one’s for you!

Dave’s Ted Talk

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Big love x

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WE CANNOT DIRECT THE WIND, BUT WE CAN ADJUST THE SAILS DOLLY PARTON

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SOUL FOOD MAKING A MOCKERY

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MAKING A MOCKERY Words/Lou Andrews

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Booze-free summer sups – chill today without the ill tomorrow...

With the summer breeze beginning to sweep through the UK, what better way to cool yourself down than with a nice refreshing Mocktail! Yes, I mean the cocktails without alcohol. The UK is well known for being partial to a tipple or two, however, more and more people are now switching to non-alcoholic beverages. You can now get alcohol-free big brands such as Gordon’s, Smirnoff and even Peroni and they taste the more or less the same. And, of course, you don’t have to add any alcoholic substitutes if you don’t want to…just enjoy au naturel! No heavy-headed hangovers or down days and you can rehydrate instead of dehydrating...bonus! There are also some heavy hitters in the juice department that can charge your glass with some serious health benefits too, so let’s have a look at some of the best Mocktail recipes…

Honey & Ginger Lemonade

Non-Alcoholic Pina Colada

Non-Alcoholic Sangria

I have to say I’m a BIG fan of this combo warm, so I’m definitely going to try a chilled version!

For those of you who prefer a creamier cocktail, this one is for you – it also aids in hydration if you have been out working up a sweat in the garden!

It’s the perfect party pitcher! Tap into a taste of Spain with this take on a classic.

Prep Time: 10 minutes Ingredients: • 10-12 lemons (high in vitamin C and antioxidants, supports heart health, boosts immunity) • 1/3 cup of fresh ginger (aids digestion, nausea & has antioxidants that can help with arthritis & infections) • 3/4 cup of honey (associated with both diabetes and cancer management, heart health and even wound healing!)

• 2 1/2 cups of water (you can also use sparkling if you fancy a fizz!)

• Ice Full recipe here: kalejunkie.com

Prep Time: 10 minutes Ingredients: • Light coconut milk • Lime juice (high in vitamin C, antioxidants, boost immunity, prevent kidney stones) • Frozen pineapple (vitamin C, fibre, B vitamins, fights inflammation, aids digestion, relieves arthritis) • Ice • Non-alcoholic rum (Captain Morgan do a good one) • Honey

Prep Time: 10 minutes Ingredients: • 3 cups Red grape juice (vitamin C, antioxidants, may support heart and digestive health) • 1.5 cups Sparkling water.

• 1.5 cups cranberry juice or orange juice (Vitamin C – more on Cranberries below) • 2 cups Chopped fruit (grapes, oranges, tangerines, peaches, strawberries, apples etc) • Ice • Herbs or fresh citrus slices to garnish

Full recipe here: nourishedbynic.com

Full recipe here: recipesfromapantry.com

Mocktails are so easy to whip up yourself, too! Crush some ice, fill a glass half-full of your chosen juice, add a squeeze of lime or lemon and top with cold still or sparkling water...yum! Here’s a couple of our faves...

Cranberry Juice – These small berries pack a mega punch! They’re high in antioxidants and vitamins C & E. Cranberry juice is commonly associated with being a useful tool in the fight against urine infections and according to a recent review they can lower your chance of getting one by 32.5%.

Pomegranate Juice – Pomegranate is highly rich in vitamin K, which can aid with things such as blood clotting, heart health and bone development. It’s also high in antioxidants. #04 SUMMER 24

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YOU DO YOU STRANGERS WHEN WE MEET

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HOBBIES Words/Lou Andrews

Get lost in something you love The Oxford dictionary defines the word ‘hobby’ as “an activity done regularly in one’s leisure time for pleasure”. Yet so many of us don’t have any active hobbies…at least not ones that are for pleasure! I was discussing this subject with a friend of mine recently who has been having a tough time and I asked them if they had any hobbies. They said they sometimes go to the gym, so I asked if they enjoyed it and they said “no”! The gym wasn’t something they chose to do, but rather something they felt that they should do! That doesn’t sound like a pleasurable hobby to me!

So how many of you out there have a hobby? Something that is just for you and not for your kids or because your friend enjoys it or because you feel you have to do it? I suspect many of us have things that we always wanted to try, so why not give it a go?

We are all born with our own unique set of skills, a toolkit just for you, provided by nature. It’s nature’s way. Each of us a different shaped piece of a very masterful puzzle. So why would we ever try to be anything other than who we are?

Finding out who we are, and embracing that, is the single most powerful tool that we have. With that in mind, I think it’s time that we all explore what really does make us tick. We will be delving into the art of hobbying in each edition of reframe, but for now here’s a mass mind dump…

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Painting/drawing/writing/ squash/golf/photography/ cooking/cake making/ candle-making/woodwork/ gardening/calligraphy/acting/ singing/sewing/cold-water swimming/cycling/running/ pottery/basketball/football/ juggling/winemaking/archery/ shooting/windsurfing/ animation/bird watching/ blogging/bowling/poker/ bonsai/cheese making/crossstitching/ukelele playing/ songwriting/animation/ decorating/car restoration/ fishing/judo/magic/dancing/ pole dancing/pyrography/ metal detecting/ancestory/ astronomy/bog snorkelling/ bee keeping/caving/foraging/ table tennis/coin collecting/ antique collecting/poetry/ chess/darts/paddleboarding/ roller derby #04 SUMMER 24

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STRANGERS WHEN WE MEET Words/Tony Dunn, Tim Allen | Images/Tim Allen

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What started out as personal project, quickly turned into a life changing experience...

Strangers When We Meet is no ordinary portrait photography project. The brainchild of photographer Tim Allen (no, not that one!) the project was inspired by his Dad, Ron, and his fearless, ‘talk to anyone and everyone’ attitude.

Firstly, full disclosure, Tim and I are not strangers... we’ve known each other for over 20 years! In 2007 Tim bought his first ‘proper’ camera and spent a few years working out what he liked (mostly candid street photos) and he’s since had a few of those photos published in several magazines.

In 2011/12 he joined creative forces with his friend Pip on a project Wish You Were Here based around the Kent coast, culminating in a book and exhibition. In 2013 he went on to create 3 balls for £2.50, a black and white photo book shot at fireworks night funfairs and sold to raise money for the The National Axial Spondyloarthritis Society (NASS) charity, having been a sufferer himself.

Following on from that in 2014 he created his Artisans project. This turned out to be a much bigger project that ultimately led to a second black and white photo book, raising £2,000 for NASS. During this time Tim and his wife separated and divorced, and the project acted as a much needed distraction.

“For the next few years it felt like life got in the way of being creative. Work was mad and Mum became ill in 2016 leading to her death in 2019. Then Covid, then I ended a four year relationship at the end of 2020.”

enjoy me relaying the chats I had to him. That was the theory.”

He took two portraits that day, the first after a half hour chat with a lovely lady called Sylvia from Eastbourne who was visiting relatives over the holiday. Then a nice guy called Mark who had lived in Tim’s home town of Dartford. Two people, two interesting stories. It proved there was something in the project worth pursuing.

“This felt like progress beyond my dreams and I couldn’t wait to return. Although I hadn’t planned to base the project in one place, this felt like the right location and the people seemed nice.”

Four days later his Dad had a stroke and by the end of January he had died. “I was dealing with the executor etc and also with the pressure of work this meant I never had the time or felt up to returning to the project. After a while I realised I badly needed a distraction from the gloom of everyday life.”

Still reeling, he headed back to Hastings on the 25 February 2023. “I shot five portraits that day, more than I ever thought possible in one day. Three of the five people I still see regularly.”

18 months, 134 portraits and 134 amazing life stories later, Tim has just moved into his new house ten minutes from the Hastings sea front and, most important of all, I’ve never seen him happier! You see, the unexpected side effect of taking the risk and getting out of his comfort zone with this project is that it’s changed his perspective, given him the confidence to leave a job he was unhappy in and strike out on his own. What started out as a project in honour of his Dad has ultimately helped him through losing him, led to new friends and a new start in life.

Pam and Ron Allen, two of the loveliest people I’ve ever met.

And that brings us to Tim’s most significant work to date. It all started over lunch back in September 2022, when Tim met with fellow photographer and friend, Nigel Rumsey. Having mainly shot candid street photos, Tim mentioned he’d really like to have a go at shooting street portraits to which Nigel replied ‘What’s the worst that can happen...they say no?’. That stuck in Tim’s head.

Getting out of our comfort zone and disrupting our day-to-day lives is a seriously scary prospect. On the other hand, so is looking back at a life half-lived. Be more Tim. timallenphoto.co.uk | @timallenphotogram

By December 2022 he’d bought his old Canon 5D camera back...“I liked the look of the photos it made”.

On Boxing Day he set off to Hastings determined to start a new street portrait project – Strangers When We Meet – named after the David Bowie song.

At the same time, his Dad’s health was deteriorating and Tim says “As Dad was less mobile I wanted to create something that I could spend time talking with him about. I’d enjoy taking the photos and he would 24

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IF YOU’RE NOT IN THE GAME, YOU CAN’T HIT A HOME RUN DAVID HASSSELHOFF

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JUICE FOR YOUR BRAIN TRAITORGATE BOOST YOUR ROOTS

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SPOILER ALERT This article contains some BIG Season Two spoilers!

TRAITORGATE Words/Lou Andrews, Ash Bibi

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Traitor’s Season Two Traitor, Ash Bibi, talks slaying, shields and (kind of) strategy...

In a battle arena predominantly influenced by reality TV shows, one series is emerging from the darkness as a clear winner. With season two’s sword dropped and cloaks abandoned, and the franchise already expanding across the globe, let’s take a look at the new king of the battlefield…the Traitors!

I must admit that The Traitors is now a firm TV favourite of mine and I’ve indulgently binged my way through both the latest UK series and the Australian series like it was a tub of Pringles! With crumbs left in the bottom of the tin, I’m left contemplating the parallels that this programme presents to real-life and maybe that’s why we all love it so much. It could be any one of us, and the thing is there’s no game play or fakeness either…because everyone is playing the same game and everyone knows from the start what that game is! It’s refreshingly open and sneakily underhanded all at the same time. Are we looking for a wolf in sheep’s clothing or a sheep in wolf’s clothing? Or maybe just a lamb to the slaughter! It’s a perfectly blended palette.

As you watch the game unfold, it’s like watching a scene from one of the Final Destination movies! You try to shout at the screen to warn people of the impending doom, but they can’t hear you. All is lost and you find yourself frustratingly thinking, ‘how can you not see that?!’. Love it.

Now, whilst it may be named The Traitors, there is nothing fiendish about this game. It’s not like other reality shows whereby people’s looks or characters are under constant scrutiny – along with their frame of mind. No, while contestants can be visibly affected at times, there is quick recovery because it’s not a personal thing. It’s about playing the game.

Nobody is really being themselves because, well, that’s the idea. The whole thing can be swayed at any given minute by chance or opportunity.

What’s also refreshing is the cast is not made up from reality TV stars…or friends of reality TV stars (as far as we know!).

Far from it. It’s built around real people just like you and me. We have had such a variety of players from chess coaches, business mentors, teachers and even clairvoyants. The latter proves that even the spirit world is no match for one key human trait…peer pressure. You see, it doesn’t really matter whether you are a brutal backstabber or a manipulating master. That alone won’t win you the game. We all have different tools in our tool kits, but how you choose to use those tools is up to you. Everyone is therefore in with a chance. There is one aspect though that IS key…just as in life, you have to forge relationships. Relationships built on loyalty and trust – at least until you get closer to the end. You watch as people form cliques, and these cliques highlight the most popular people – the key players. Once this phase is in place, human nature takes over and peer pressure rears its sneaky head. The number of times a player has said the correct name of a traitor and then been strategically swayed by the masses to vote for someone else! That primal survival instinct that we all have is being ignored. Yes folks, I’m talking about ‘gut feeling’! This happens in real life too. How many times have you done something, only to find out it was the wrong choice, and then realised your first thought was right all along?

Season two of The Traitors was no different. No less than four faithfuls were thrown under the bus before a Traitor was finally axed…and, even then, that was because the other traitors were forcing the hand that way! That first Traitor was Ash Bibi and what I didn’t realise was that she worked at my workplace! (see, I told you they were just like you and me!).

I therefore had the (extremely exciting) pleasure to talk slaying, shields and strategy with the first lady herself...

So, before we start Ash, I want to ask about that very questionable Instagram video you posted of Harry, Paul and Miles doing the electric slide to Dancing Queen! It cracked me up! What was that all about?!

You know what, I deliberately put that music on top of the original <laughs>. Because they were actually dancing to Candy, I think it was, and I just thought it’d be funny!

It was comedy genius! I looked at that and I was like, ‘what on earth?!’ <laughs>. The first question I wanted to ask you is what made you apply for The Traitors? Did you watch it and then go, ‘oh I’d really like to have a go at that’?

There’s a game that we used to play on Zoom with friends every single week during lockdown called Werewolf and someone mentioned there was this show called The Traitors that had come on. I hadn’t heard of it. I hadn’t even watched it when it first came out, but everyone was talking about it, they were like, oh my God it’s like a real-life werewolf and it’s in a castle in Scotland!

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And I’m like, that sounds a bit weird. But I thought, ‘okay, I’m just going to watch this thing that everyone keeps going on about’…and I was hooked <laughs>. With the Traitors, it was very different to me. I think when I watched it, it didn’t feel like regular reality TV. Do you know what I mean?

Yeah, I know exactly what you mean. I watched it because everyone was going on about it...and I ended up binge watching it. I swear I didn’t get out my bed for like a week! <laughs> I watched it twice! It’s brilliant!

So, having watched it before, did that help with your strategy? And what was your strategy? Did you have one? (Ash laughs aloud!) … You didn’t have one, did you? <laughs> What strategy? <laughs> Hindsight is an interesting thing, isn’t it? Because I look back and I’m like, ‘damn, why didn’t I just have a strategy’? <laughs> I was thinking, what’s the point of having a strategy? Because surely strategy is based on the interaction that you’re 29

gonna have with other people? But how do you know what that interaction is gonna be when you don’t even know who the people are? But I should have done what Paul did in a way. His strategy was to play this character and he stayed in that the whole time! But yes, there was no strategy! <laughs> Do you think it’s harder to be a Traitor or faithful?

Oh, I would say it’s harder to be a Traitor, because there’s just another added layer of what you’ve got to do.

There’s another added level of stress. But I can imagine as a faithful, you are thinking like, ‘well who can I trust?’.

And then on top of that you’re thinking, ‘well are they going to kill me tonight?’.

Do you think people really do go to bed at night and go ‘am I gonna get killed?’. Because you hear some people say ‘well, I was awake all night!’ Do they really get that worried about it?

You could see that from the show. He’s genuinely a nice person.

Yeah, and this is what’s brilliant about the Traitors. It’s a game essentially, but what I love about it is it’s not about judging someone’s looks, personality etc. It’s just normal people going in there and playing a game…and I think that’s what’s genius about this program. So, Paul and Harry voted for you quite early on. How shocked were you at that? And how did you deal with that?

I mean, I think the look on my face said it all! <laughs> I was thinking to myself, ‘when did this happen? How did they decide this?’. And all I could think to myself was they’ve clearly been communicating somehow! And I’m like, ‘I’m gonna have to be careful here!’.

Yes. I mean, I think sometimes it’s hard to switch off, isn’t it? Because you’re just constantly thinking ‘what’s going to happen?’. I think even though I was a Traitor, my mind was constantly racing. I now think, ‘why wasn’t I just thinking more strategically?’. <laughs>

Oh, I would say it’s harder to be a Traitor, because there’s just another added layer of what you’ve got to do. There’s another added level of stress.

What’s the point in hindsight Ash <laughs>. You know what I’ve really noticed about this show is it’s not necessarily about the strategy. It’s about changing and adapting to the people you are with and the constant changes. Early on in this series, both Harry and Paul quickly formed tight bonds with everyone in the group, making them hard to go up against.

That’s something that even watching back now, I’m really surprised at myself! Because usually in regular life, that is what I’m like. I could never have predicted how I was going to react in that situation. If I think about it, my strategy was to just be myself. <laughs>. So, I think I just genuinely surprised myself. And if I’m really honest, there’s a part of me that’s really kicking myself for not having one!

Do you know what, you say that Ash, but as a viewer from the early days, both me and my Mrs wanted you to win!

Did you?

Yes. And it was purely because you were being yourself. You had the big characters of Harry and Paul who were quite confident. But with you, you weren’t going ‘Oh, I’m going to win’ and I quite liked that!

Oh, oh, thank you <laughs> What I wanted to ask you, is…when you initially saw your fellow Traitors (Paul and Harry), you said you were very, very, very happy with who your fellow Traitors were... Do you still feel that way?! <laughs> <laughs> Of course. No, I do. Because you know what, they were brilliant. Sometimes when you meet people, you are just drawn to their energy. Paul was one of the first people that I saw. And I was just drawn to his energy.

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I mean, there was certainly a lot of swearing in that Traitors Tower scene afterwards! <laughs>. But did you really trust them after that?

No, of course I didn’t. I didn’t trust them at all! <laughs>.

But I’m thinking to myself, ‘well, what’s the point of me continuing to be angry and continuing this argument?’.

Because that’s not going to resolve anything. Right? All I can do now is carry on. And you know, they’re giving me their explanations and I’m thinking, ‘yeah, all right, love, whatever, you just throw me under the bus!’. <laughs> After that was the whole prison thing, do you regret that decision? Because it could have gone either way.

I’m gonna give you my thought process of me going in the dungeon, because we didn’t have a lot of time, it was kind of sprung upon us! We are in the middle of thinking about who we’re going to kill…and then Claudia comes in and I’m like, ‘oh, what now?!’. My initial thought was, ‘there’s no way I’m going down there’ <laughs>, but then immediately Paul volunteered, and, in my mind, I was thinking, ‘he’s the mastermind behind this, so I need to be where he is ‘coz, I can’t allow him to control the

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narrative!’. That was my only logic. If I hadn’t have gone down there, it could have been completely different.

to him! It did lead me to think that if anyone else other than Molly had been at in that final three, could Jaz have actually won?

If I think about it, my strategy was to just be myself. <laughs>. So, I think I just genuinely surprised myself.

He could have. It’s interesting talking about what could have happened. What if the two other Traitors weren’t Paul and Harry? Or what if it was Harry and somebody else? Miles may not have been bought in. Any slight change can shift the entire dynamic.

Yeah, totally. Let’s talk about Ross and Diane. I mean we are obviously watching it, so we knew, but how shocked were you and the others because they played a blinder?!

That must have been so difficult! I mean, you are in there with your mum, and you can’t even call her mum <laughs>. That’s difficult in itself! Honestly, I was absolutely gobsmacked! I genuinely was. The first thing I did was text Ross. I was like, ‘what the hell?!’. <laughs>.

Some people were like, ‘oh, we see the resemblance now’. And I’m like…’I still don’t see the resemblance!’.

So good! <laughs> The other thing I wanted to talk about is Brian. What was that all about? I mean, poor Brian, because let’s face it, he wasn’t going to be voted out until he had that crazy outburst <laughs> He wouldn’t have been! And I think that thing that happened during the days task just kind of stayed with him. Do you know what I mean?

Yeah, I mean he fed himself to the lions! I was thinking ‘what are you doing? Stop. Stop talking’. <laughs> Yeah <laughs>.

So, let’s talk about peer pressure in the game. My question is, if they did a silent disco challenge prior to the votes (so no-one could discuss), how dramatically do you think that would change the votes? <laughs>. Maybe. I mean if you look at our season, in the beginning, most of the time the votes were so like spread out - apart from with my vote, which most of the people voted for me. There was one really genius moment with Harry around the round table, when he starts discussing exactly what we discussed in the Tower and he’s making it sound like it was his thought process that came up with it! Just the way he played that was brilliant.

Since you’ve finished filming, who have you remained in contact with?

All of them really. When the final aired, we were all out together. It’s really difficult because everybody lives in a different part of the country, but when we can see each other, we will. This sounds so soppy, but I love everybody! <laughs>.

Let’s talk about Jaz for a bit because, for me, that guy played an absolute blinder! Early on there were suspicions on Jaz, but from the point in which he realized that Harry was a Traitor, he basically went under the radar, and I thought that’s genius!

And you know what was clever of Jaz is that he tested the waters first didn’t he? He put Harry’s name out to his closest people to see how they reacted. And when he didn’t get the response that he wanted, he decided not to voice that at the round table, so he went under the radar.

It was great because for the first time, you could see on Harry’s face that he did not have a clue Jaz was on

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Absolutely. Now, everyone’s going to want to know this one…what is Claudia like? Did you get to have a bevvy with Claudia after the show?

Sadly, not a bevvy! We chat obviously during the day, like when she’s around and stuff. Something that really surprised me about her (which I absolutely loved) is that she’s so quirky. <laughs>. And she’s hilarious! I didn’t realize how funny she was.

She does have the best hair! <laughs> And she looks amazing.

She’s so lovely. And every time you see her, she always comes up and gives everyone a big hug and asks if you are alright?

I can imagine that actually! We only get to see the role she’s playing, and she plays it so well! But more importantly…is her hair as amazing as it looks on screen? <laughs> How is it so glossy? I mean, how does she do that? <laughs> She does have the best hair! <laughs> And she looks amazing. She’s so lovely. And every time you see her, she always comes up and gives everyone a big hug and asks if you are alright? Even on Instagram, if you send her a message, she always responds!

You know what, that’s amazing. And this is what I’m talking about. It’s getting the right mix on a show and when you have a presenter that cares and talks to people, you get that really nice, open dynamic. Another thing The Traitors have got right! So, what are your plans next Ash? Well, you know what, since I was a child, I wanted to work in the entertainment industry. I wanted to be an actor or presenter, but it took a back seat because you know, you have bills to pay etc. I’ve been doing some interviews since The Traitors and it’s made me think ‘oh my God, I actually really love this’. I think presenting would be fun, so I’m currently doing an intensive presenting course and possibly looking for agents!

So, there you have it a very interesting insight from the lovely Ash Bibi, but what has the traitors taught us about ourselves? Well for one, it’s that relationships are a core function to any process. Without that foundation how can you ever expect to build a solid house? And secondly, be more YOU, because essentially that is what will win you life’s battles. Don’t be swayed so easily.

You’ve got this. If your gut is telling you something, then maybe for once listen to it! You may just be tussling with a Traitor! @therealashbibi

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BOOST YOUR ROOTS Words/Lou Andrews

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Best brain fodder

Still Apple TV Many people both young and old will be familiar with Michael J. Fox. His movies are etched, eternally, in the wall of fame. I grew up on Family Ties, Teen Wolf and of course, the legendary Back to the Future! For me, he was my hero… well Marty McFly was! When I saw this documentary advertised, I knew it was one I had to watch.

I must admit I knew little about Parkinsons and the effect it has on people’s lives until I watched this. The opening scene shows where it all began – with his little finger uncontrollably trembling.

What unravels shows the daily battle that Michael and his family take on, which they do with sheer determination and a lot of laughter, and I love that. This man hates pity and so he should, because he doesn’t need it! He faces it head-on like a machine… albeit a micro one! And I think that rings true with everything we are faced with in life. No point in trying to hide, right? You’ve got to face things head-on and hit it where it hurts if you want to move forward.

It’s common knowledge that external factors such as movies, TV, books, music etc. can impact your frame of mind. So in each edition of Reframe, we will be bringing you something to warm your cockles and soothe your soul. Don’t say we never give you anything!

Here are this editions top feels…

Dynamo is dead

Joyride

Sky Max

This one not only has the feelgood factor, but it also has some topnotch acting to go with it! Olivia Coleman plays Joy, a hapless new mother on a journey to give away her newborn child, when her Taxi is stolen by Mully, a foulmouthed charismatic young lad played superbly by Charlie Reid.

It’s filled to the brim with moving moments and classic deadpan humour in equal measure. As the pair become entwined, they leave behind them a journey that unravels like a yarn of wool, leaving a heart-warming trail behind for us to follow. It’s about connections and making the most of what we have.

The master of magic shares with us his own, very frank and humbling story, which in the end, will result in the death of Dynamo!

Yes, at the end of the programme you will literally watch Dynamo bury himself alive and hopefully escape to be reborn as Steven Frayne. This is a tale of survival and change. We watch as Steven shares his internal battles with his alter ego Dynamo. Battles with self-harm and suicide, which until now it seems Dynamo has always won. Steven talks to other celebrities about their own battles such as Tyson Fury, Pete Davidson and Coldplay and of course it wouldn’t be the same without some incredible and mind-blowing magic from the man himself. It’s one to watch. As Steven says in the show, ‘If I’m not Dynamo, then who am I?’…well, let’s find out.

Amazon Prime

Just because you may be on the wrong path in life, doesn’t mean you will never find the right one. If you need a pick me up – this one is for you.

When I got to the end, I realised that I didn’t see Michael any differently to what he truly is…an absolute legend!

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NURTURE BY NATURE THE BEST OF ALLS

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THE BESTOF-ALLS Words/Lou Andrews

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Bringing you the best festivals kicking around this summer It’s that time of year again when the sun is starting to make its annual appearance, and you all know what that means… it’s time to dust down your festival gear and Febreze those tents! Best-Of-Alls is back and its bigger and badder than ever! We’re bringing you the top alternative festivals across the country to massage those minds and put you in the summer groove! Most of us have heard of the main ones; Glastonbury, Reading, Isle of Wight etc, but what if being slapped in the face with mud and wondrous stenches is not really your thing? What if you are more into meditation than music? What if you are more into cars than camping? Dishes than dancing? You get the point! So what are you waiting for? Dive in, dig out those debit cards and get booking!

Wellness The Wilderness Festival The overview on this one states it’s a weekend of escapism, high jinks and wholesome hedonism and, from that alone, I love it already! There’s a lot to take in with talks, comedy & conversations which this year features Claudia Winkleman & Joel Dommett. Wellbeing body & mind featuring Lottie Murphy Pilates, a lakeside spa and even tantric communication (to put a Sting in your step. Get it?!). It’s a magically chilled environment which is family friendly and boasts big live music acts this year such as Michael Kiwanuka, Jessie Ware and De La Soul. You can only book tickets for the full weekend and they offer a variety of different camping methods. Get yourself down there!

Where: Cornbury Park, Oxfordshire When: 1–4 August 2024 wildernessfestival.com

The Greenman Festival The website homepage is a trippy visual I must admit, but delve deeper and unearth the true potential of this very welcoming festival. If you purchase a settlers pass you are invited to immerse yourself in its community of settlers for a week – host BBQ’s with fresh produce sold daily by the local butcher, team up for the legendary pub quiz, cuddle up around the settlement bonfire or enjoy live music, workshops and outdoor adventure. The whole package looks very family orientated and a chance to spend some quality time in a rural environment. This year the live acts include Big Thief, Sampha, Jon Hopkins and many more.

Where: Bannau Brycheiniog National Park, Wales When: 15–18 August 2024 greenman.net

Soul Circus The Cotswolds is such a beautiful place to be anyway, let alone when you combine it with a wellbeing festival. The home page invites you to ‘escape to the circus where wellbeing meets music’ which is an intriguing claim. When you dig deeper you will see it is a very well thought out (some would say mindful!) event, hosting some of the most sought-after yoga instructors and wellness practitioners to soothe your soul. You can get weekend or day tickets and it’s a child friendly event.

Where: The Cotswolds When: 15–18 August 2024 soulcircus.yoga #04 SUMMER 24

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Running/Fitness Love Trails Festival They boast being the world’s first running and music festival, so if you are a fan of running and the outdoors, then this is a must for you! They invite you to join them for four days of running, hiking and exploring and then spend the evening dancing under the stars! They have both live music and DJs to swing your souls and nutritious food stalls to prep you for all the dancing!

The pictures on the site look pretty darn epic so get yourself down there.

Where: Gower Peninsula, South Wales When: 11–14 July 2024 lovetrails.com

Food The Big Feastival I have to say this one looks so good that I have already been persuaded into going! It’s held at Alex James’ (Blur) farm in the Cotswolds and is a perfectly blended mix of Michelin star chefs, award-winning street food and top-notch music. At first glance you can tell this is a very family orientated festival with plenty of fun for the kids. They also have top chefs and some very epic-ly delicious looking street food stalls (If you don’t believe me, just look at the images!). The live music acts quite frankly kick some bottom and this year you have acts such as Becky Hill, Snow Patrol and Cat Burns! So don’t be chasing cars…jump in one and head down there.

Where: Churchill Heath Farm, Kingham When: 23–25 August 2024 thebigfeastival.com

The Edinburgh Food Festival Launched in 2014 and celebrating its tenth year this year, this festival see’s some of Scotland’s top food and drink vendors descending on George Square Gardens for a food fuelled 10-day extravaganza…and to top it all off, its free to enter.

Theres not much info on the site at the moment, but do check out the images because they are enough to make your mouth water!

Where: George Square Gardens, Edinburgh, Scotland When: 19 – 28 July 2023 edfoodfest.com

Foodies Festival The foodie’s festival holds 14 festivals at various locations across the country and each one is a celebration of the food in that region. The heart of the festival is the theatres, where you can watch top local chefs show off their culinary capabilities… and you can even take the recipes away with you. MasterChef winners and finalists go on tour with Foodies as do Bake Off winners and finalists, so you are in very good (and skilful) hands! There is even a kids cookery theatre, giving kids the chance to taste new flavours and learn some simple cooking skills. To top it all off there’s music from Peter Andre, Blue and Symphonic Ibiza. Head to the website to find out more.

Where: Multiple locations When: 2–4 August 2024 foodiesfestival.com

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Cars The Silverstone Festival The Silverstone Festival presents a unique blend of the best historic motorsport, incredible music, family fun & amazing food. For racing enthusiasts this is a must, with plenty of races and a mass display of automotive eye candy! What more could you want? You can get a day ticket or go for the full weekend. Music-wise they have some big acts on show this year such as Kings of Leon, Stormzy and Rudimental. Don’t get left for dust and check out the website for tickets.

Where: Silverstone Circuit, Northamptonshire When: 23–25 August 2024 silverstone.co.uk

Goodwood Festival of Speed Other half of Reframe, Lax, went to this last year and can confirm this one does exactly what it says on the tin! ‘The atmosphere is fantastic, the access to cars in the pits and padock is unrivalled and, if you’re a proper petrolhead, you’re in for a huge treat!’ You can meet your motorsport heroes, see iconic road and race cars and get a glimpse of some epic future tech. Kids go free too!

Need for speed? Then this one’s for you.

Where: Goodwood House, Chichester When: 13 – 16 July 2023 goodwood.com

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DOSE OF DOPAMINE LESSONS IN LASSO

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LESSONS IN LASSO Words/Lou Andrews

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Get a dose of Lasso wisdom...

“Laughter is the best medicine”. That’s a phrase that gets thrown around, but it’s actually true! Research has shown that laughter increases the brains production of Endorphins, which are feel-good chemicals that can also relieve stress and even pain. Endorphins (or Endolphins as Lax calls them) contribute to us feeling happy and calm, thus improving our frame of mind. Good job that we have an entire section dedicated to your chuckles, sniggers and cackles then, isn’t it?!

This editions Dose of Dopamine is on the master of one-liners Ted Lasso. If you haven’t watched it yet, head over to Apple TV and check it out. It showcases some of Britain’s best assets; football, tea, sarcasm and the F word! Mix that with some of the best one liners I’ve ever heard, and the premiership has a new winner! Ted has become my new hero!

The nicest man alive, full of beautiful optimistic brilliance! In fact, I wish he was my brother, uncle and my dad all at the same time. As always, don’t just take it from me, take it from Ted! Here are some of his best quips!

“Call me Dumbo because im all ears!”

Ted on Scones:

“It tastes like a muffin, but it sucks all the spit out of your mouth!”

“Living in the moment, it’s a gift.

That’s why they call it the present!”

“I gotta say man, sometimes you remind me of my grandma with the channel hopper.

You just push all the wrong buttons!”

Ted on his team:

“These guys are more distracted than a bunch of cats playing laser tag!” #04 SUMMER 24

“Boy, I love meeting people’s moms.

It’s like reading an instruction manual as to why they’re nuts!”

Ted on the offside rule:

“I’m gonna put it the same way the US Supreme court did back in 1964 when they defined pornography. It ain’t easy to explain, but you know it when you see it!”

Ted on his team:

“Nah, he’s a wigwam in a teepee right now…he’s too tense!”

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SKIN YOU’RE IN DECIDING FACTOR THE VAPE ESCAPE

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DECIDING FACTOR Words/Lou Andrews

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With the summer around the corner, it’s time to slap on some extra protection to prevent those singe and tinge sessions...

How much do you really know about sun creams? Do you know what UVA is? What factor should you use (and no, the answer is not X!)? What is SPF? I must admit that my knowledge is limited when it comes to this subject (or at least it was until now!) and, let’s face it, we really should know, because its so important! According to Cancer Research UK, since the early 1990’s, skin cancer incident rates have more than doubled. I have to say I was surprised by this because you would think that we are so much more aware now than we were back then. I can remember when I was young, and my mum used to buy coconut oil in a tub from the local chemist and use that as suntan oil! I mean good god…I use that to cook now! But still, it seems, we’re not in the shade just yet. There are around 16,700 new melanoma skin cancer cases in the UK every year – that’s huge! Maybe it’s the change in climate? Maybe the increased use of sunbeds? Or maybe it’s just lack of knowledge that is letting us down. Well, whatever it is we are going to do our usual deep dive and find out everything we need to know…

SPF It stands for Sun Protection Factor, and it basically means how much longer you can stay in the sun before overexposure. So, if you multiply the SPF by the number of minutes you can be out in the sun before starting to burn, this will tell you how long you can stay out (i.e. factor 10 x 10 mins would give you 100 minutes). It’s also based on your own skin type – some people burn much faster than others (fair skinned, red or blonde hair). The NHS recommend that we should be using at least factor 30.

Nivea recommend that if you are going out for the day to the beach or park, you should apply factor 50 to give you protection for a longer amount of time.

UV UV stands for ultraviolet radiation and is this radiation from the sun that makes our skin tan or burn! It’s split into two parts – UVA and UVB. UVA is the type of radiation that causes things like premature skin aging.

This type penetrates the skins deepest layer. UVB will burn the top layer of the skin and plays the biggest part in the development of skin cancer. Look for a suncream that protects you from both. The UVB level of protection is what is provided by your SPF. The NHS advise that the star rating on a cream will show you the level of UVA protection you are getting. It’s out of five stars so the higher the better. If you see UVA in a circle on the bottle, it means that cream follows EU standards.

How often should we apply it?

The NHS recommend that we re-apply our suncream every two hours. As well as this, we should re-apply cream after we have been in the water (even if it is water resistant cream), if we’ve towel dried and especially if we’ve sweated copious amounts!

Does it go off?

I will admit that I have on many occasions used cream that I have had in the cupboard for some time. I have never thought of the fact that it may have an expiry date. Well, it does! Most creams will have an expiry date on them so ‘bin before you burn’ is what I’m saying! If you can’t find the expiry date, the general rule of thumb on the web is three years.

Lastly, try and take breaks throughout the day. No, I don’t mean for a cuppa and a KitKat! I mean in the shade. If possible, make sure you get that down time.

Maybe find a darkened corner of the garden and read a book for a bit!

Melanoma skin cancer statistics | Cancer Research UK Sunscreen and sun safety - NHS (www.nhs.uk) Which SPF do I need? | Sun Care | NIVEA – NIVEA

How much to use?

It is especially important to make sure you cover every part of your body that’s exposed to the sun.

Nivea are recommending that you use on average 2-3 tablespoons for an average adult’s body or one finger length of cream for the face. If you apply it too thinly, the level of protection is reduced.

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THE VAPE ESCAPE Words/Lou Andrews

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With around 4.5 million people vaping in Britain alone, it’s here to stay. But how safe is your ‘Strawberry Shortcake’?

There used to be a time where you would go out for the night, only to return smelling like an old ashtray left fermenting in the garage for a few months! Smokers and non-smokers alike were victims of the same tragedy. These days, you are more likely to come home smelling of fizzy cherry or rhubarb and custard! Yes people, I’m talking about vaping. While the latter of the aromas proves more palatable, what do we really know about our fruity friends? Well, luckily for you, I have done one of my deep dives to bring you all the ‘juicy’ gossip!

The E-cigarette was initially invented by a Chinese pharmacist in 2003 as an aid to help you give up smoking. As the industry developed, so did vapes with contemporary designs and new flavours such as cotton candy and bubble-gum. According to an article in The Grocer, in 2023 the UK industry was worth a staggering £1.7 billion. ‘That’s great’ I hear you say, ‘so many people giving up smoking’. Well, sadly, that’s not the only thing that has increased…so has the use by children.

In a study published by Ash.org.uk, the volume of 11 to 17-year-olds experimenting with vaping in 2023 has increased by 50% to one in nine – which is made more worrying when you consider it’s an offence to sell them to anyone under the age of 18. Can you imagine 1 in 9 kids all crammed behind the bike sheds smoking! When you think of it that way, the implications become very sobering.

The volume of 11 to 17-year-olds experimenting with vaping in 2023 has increased by 50% to one in nine Vaping has, therefore, branched away from being a tool to merely give up smoking and has taken on a mass entity of its own. With increase in demand, comes an increase in associated health risks. While it seems that vaping is far less harmful than smoking, we still don’t know of the long-term effects they may have, which to me is a worry. Are we filling our bodies full of things that we don’t yet know enough about?

Let’s look at what we do know. The jury is not yet out on the health implications, but early reports suggest a possible link to chronic lung disease, asthma and even cardiovascular disease. If you’re a vaper (like me) then a good idea is to try not to vape for longer than you would smoke a cigarette for. Because of the nature of vapes it’s amazingly easy to keep it in your hand and continuously smoke it for hours on end. Logic would deduce that this would be far more harmful than using it for its intended purposes…to curb the cravings for cigarettes. Limit your time folks!

If you’re a vaper (like me) then a good idea is to try not to vape for longer than you would smoke a cigarette for The other thing that does come up is side effects!

Things such as throat/mouth irritation, headaches, coughs, nausea have all been reported and linked to vaping. I do get allergies with vaping, one of which is really blocked nose! I have tried numerous brands, and some had worse effects than others, so if you do have any issues, try other brands and see how you go. I am currently using a refillable with Mix-Lab’s juice and that seems OK for me.

There are currently Government regulations to ensure all vapes follow safety standards in the UK. The authority in the UK is called the MHRA (Medicines & Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency) and all products sold in the UK must be registered with the MHRA and appear on the MHRA’s website as ‘approved’.

Among other things, this standard ensures that certain ingredients are not used such as colourings, caffeine and taurine etc. It’s vital if you are vaping that you check your product is listed. Without this, there is no way of knowing that what you are putting in your body is safe (or safer). There is a good retailers guide which tells you all about it (link below).

The message is very clear…if you are unsure, stick to the well-known top selling brands such as Elf-Bar, Lost Mary or SKE Crystal Bar…or don’t do it at all!

The Grocer – Vaping sales more than double to £1.7bn as cigarettes are cancelled Ask.co.uk – Use of e-cigarettes (vapes) among young people in Great Britain (PDF) Eco Vape – Retailers Guide Cancer Research – Is Vaping Harmful?

Gov.uk – E-cigarettes: regulations for consumer products

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THE CENT IN THE SENTIMENT Words/Lou Andrews

We heart personal gifts...

100% love capsule message jar

You’ve heard the phrase ‘it’s the thought that counts’? And its true, we all love the idea that somebody has gone to the effort of looking for a gift that would mean something to you. Some of the most amazing gifts I have been given are the cheapest ones, but a lot of thought and effort has gone into them. These are the keepers! The gifts that never get tossed out with the broken electronics or clothes that are now too tatty! So, with that in mind, we thought you would like to take a look at some of the most interesting and meaningful gifts out there that won’t cost you the earth.

My adventure book

Handwriting Jewellery

Well, I have to say if someone filled out an entire jar of teeny tiny messages just for me, I would definitely feel loved! That’s commitment right there! I think this is a really thoughtful gift at a great price.

And you know what they say, love is the best medicine!

Have you ever seen the movie ‘Up’? If not, then this may be lost on you! For those of you that have seen it, you will know what a beautiful, moving story it is – relationship goals right there!

Well, now you can own a replica of Ellie’s adventure journal and fill it to the brim of your own magical tales with your partner. Start making those memories!

£8.99 amazon.co.uk

£25 disneystore.co.uk

I stumbled upon this site whilst doing my research and they have so many little unique gift ideas that I just had to share one with you. This gift takes the concept of engraving to a whole new level! Yes, you guessed it, you send them a copy of what you want written in your handwriting and they copy it onto a bracelet! I think this sort of thing would make a great keepsake.

I would have loved to have something in my mums handwriting to remember her by. Great idea. Check out the site for the unique styles and designs. £17–£27 wildhoneybee.co.uk

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NO-ONE HAS EVER BECOME POOR FROM GIVING ANNE FRANK

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HACK AT THE BACK Words/Lou Andrews

Summer sizzlers...

Another one of our recurring remedies! In each edition of Reframe we will be bringing you the best life hacks to make your life that bit easier. A seasonal slice of time-saving goodness – because, let’s face it, every minute of life is precious!

In this edition, we are serving up a side of sizzling summer hacks to bring the bangers to your BBQs!

Soft Scoop

Natural highlights Well now, where was this little nugget of knowledge when I needed it?!

Having two young kids who love a summertime scoop, I can’t tell you how many spoons I’ve bent trying to get the cream to the cone! And then I came across this. It seems that if you place your whole ice-cream tub into a large freezer bag and seal it up before placing it in the freezer, it keeps the ice-cream nice and soft. Game changer!

Now this one I had heard of, but not for a very long time. This simple trick was all the rage in the 90’s. It’s natural, cheap and gives you highly effective highlights. Simply squeeze the juice from a lemon and then add it to your hair in streaks (or wherever you want it to be lighter) and the head out into the sun and let that do the rest of the work.

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Ice cold drinks If you like your drinks chilled like I do, then this hack is for you. So simple its silly, but it works a treat! Just get a few of those small drinks bottles and fill them about a third of the way with water (more if you want more ice). Then lay them on their side in the freezer. When it’s time for a drink just grab a bottle out and fill it with whatever you choose. The wall of ice will keep your bevvy chilled. bobvila.com

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Spiral sausages These bad boys not only look like a treat, but they also hold more mustard and ketchup in the grooves! It’s a simple win/win! You can use hotdogs or regular sausages and then pop it onto a skewer and slice at an angle whilst you roll it. You are now ready to BBQ these bangers! delish.com

DIY fire starters Natural mosquito repellent If you’re planning on lighting up the fire pit or chiminea then why not create your own fire starters using two items readily found in most households…the cardboard inner of a toilet roll and lint (commonly known as the fluffy stuff you clear out of your tumbler dryer!). All you need to do is stuff the toilet roll full of lint, place it in your kindling and logs, light it and then stand back and enjoy that heat.

The bane of many people’s summer, mosquitoes are the one reminder of a beautiful summer’s day none of us want! If you’re doing a barbie, grab a few limes and some cloves, chop the limes in half and press the cloves into them, then dot them around to keep the bugs at bay! onegoodthingbyjillee.com

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