Simply Brightlingsea Issue 83

Issue 83

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Upskill for Brain Health Learning new things has all kinds of fringe benefits

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ots of us began 2021 with the ambition to learn a new skill: beginner’s computer programming, conversational Italian, or how to paint with watercolours maybe. We learn new skills for many reasons. Perhaps we need to improve our computer literacy to gain a promotion, or Italian so we can speak to our new in-laws, or we've always fancied learning to paint. Learning is fun but its benefits go way beyond the actual skill learned, and the skill is irrelevant, whether its crochet or advanced mathematics, the extra benefits are the same.

Positive brain changes - The white matter in our brain is comprised of nerve fibres covered in a fatty sheath called myelin. It is involved in learning and co-ordination of communication between different brain regions. The more we practice a new skill the more our white matter increases in density, which

helps us when we learn other new skills.

Increased learning speed – When brain neurons are stimulated, more neural pathways are formed and the faster our brains process new information. It’s as if 'learning' is a muscle which strengthens as its exercised.

Interconnections - When we learn a new skill our brains draw on information and skills we already possess, and we build on that existing knowledge. But a wide knowledge base also makes it easier for us to learn more new skills.

Increased interestingness! (Yes, it's a real word!) Well-rounded individuals tend to find it easier to relate to others because a wider knowledge base makes it easier to find things in common and thus make friends.

Issue 83

Beat boredom - Repetition can quickly become monotonous.

Following the same routine every night, 'supper, bath, TV, bed' makes it easy to become bored. Learning new things breaks the cycle of monotony and gives our brain something to do.

Increased adaptability - Learning new things physically alters our brains in such a way that our outlook and perceptions change.

These alterations make it easier for us to adapt to sudden life changes, like a global pandemic for instance! Adapting to change is a skill, and the more varied our life experiences are, the easier it is to draw on them and adjust Prevent cognitive decline Learning origami doesn’t mean we won’t get dementia. There are many types of dementia and the causes are nuanced. But there are many studies which suggest that

people who learn new skills are less likely to experience cognitive decline including dementia. Mental decline is linked to demyelination of our brain. People who actively learn new skills are not giving their brains a chance to demyelinate, and their neural pathways are primed to create workarounds if some area of the brain does begin to fail. The key seems to be to learn things outside of our comfort zone, so if you are a knitter, don't choose to learn crochet, which is similar, choose Russian, or salsa dancing, or the ukulele instead, subjects which push you out of your comfort zone, but (importantly) which you actually want to learn and will enjoy.

Keep exercising your brain!

By Kate McCarthy

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A Good Read of connection, compassion, and living a life that resonates with one's personal values.

Tuesdays with Morrie by Mitch Albom Tuesdays with Morrie is a memoir that recounts the author’s weekly visits to his former sociology professor, Morrie Schwartz, who is in the final stages of ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease. Each Tuesday, they explore one of life's fundamental questions, making this book a patchwork of profound wisdom.

Albom's prose is simple yet stirring, capturing Morrie's remarkable outlook on life even as he faces his impending demise. Morrie's insights on love, work, community, family, aging, forgiveness, and, ultimately, death, are both timeless and universally applicable. His teachings emphasize the importance

But what makes the book truly compelling is the transformation of Albom himself. A successful sports journalist caught in the whirlwind of a career-driven life, Albom's reconnection with Morrie becomes a catalyst for his own introspection and growth. This personal evolution is what lends the book its emotional heft.

Tuesdays With Morrie is more than a tribute to a dying man's wisdom; it is an invitation to pause and reflect on our own lives. Its enduring popularity attests to its ability to touch hearts and awaken minds. In a world bustling with noise and haste, Morrie's lessons urge us to embrace simplicity, love, and, ultimately, our humanity.

Here We Are: Notes for Living on Planet Earth by Oliver Jeffers Oliver Jeffers is a Northern Irish artist, illustrator, and writer. Here We Are: Notes for Living on Planet Earth is a masterpiece of children's

literature that serves as a gentle yet profound guide to our planet and our place within it. Crafted with Jeffers' signature charm and whimsy, this book is a visual feast that effortlessly blends playful illustrations with earnest, heartfelt advice.

The book is structured as a father's narrative to his newborn son, introducing him to the wonders and peculiarities of the world. From the vastness of the cosmos to the intricate details of the earth's surface, Jeffers' vivid illustrations and accessible text make the complexities of our world comprehensible and captivating to young minds. His portrayal of diverse landscapes, creatures, and people celebrates the richness of life and the value of kindness and understanding.

What makes this book truly special is its underlying message of stewardship and compassion.

Jeffers doesn't shy away from acknowledging the fragility of our planet and the responsibility we share to care for it and each other.

Yet, he does so with such warmth

and optimism that it inspires rather than intimidates.

"Here We Are" is more than just a children's book; it's a tender meditation on humanity and our place in the universe. It's a book that encourages curiosity, respect, and wonder, making it a cherished read not only for children but for parents and educators alike. In its pages lies a universal message: despite our differences and the immensity of the universe, here we are together, and that in itself is something to celebrate.

By Tash Donovan

Council addresses concerns about plans for two city centre car parks Colchester City Council has responded to speculation about the future of city centre parking.

Botolph’s Circus is poised to be the first scheme underway in the eastern part of the city, igniting regeneration.

Developing the Britannia and/or Vineyard Street car parks to help revitalise the city centre has been a goal of the council and a discussion for Colchester for many years, but on the understanding that car parking would, as now, continue to be sufficient for all but the most exceptional moments of peak demand.

The proposed regeneration of Vineyard Street car park is a long-term ambition, and it’s unlikely that any work will start in the next five years.

With the securing of nearly £40 million in regeneration funding, Colchester now has a unique opportunity to breathe new life into our city, ensuring it is fit for future generations, and to look again at the future of both car parks.

Following a comprehensive consultation with over 2,000 residents, the proposed development plans for the Britannia car park site include public realm improvements, a heritage path linking the city centre to Colchester Town railway station, and housing. The project also aims to renew Colchester's distinct Priory, through enhanced lighting.

The £11.8 million redevelopment of St

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“It’s understandable that those who enjoy using Britannia and Vineyard Street car parks are speculating what this means for them,” said Cllr David King, Leader of the Council.

“The proposals for these developments have been guided by data provided by an independent parking specialist.

We have modelled the impact of the regeneration plans on visitors traveling by car to Colchester for shopping, business, and leisure. There will be only minor losses in parking income as most Britannia and Vineyard Street parkers will use other nearby car parks.

“There's more than enough parking space in nearby car parks to meet the expected demand of visitors. These car parks, if developed alongside other measures to improve city centre

accessibility and vibrancy, would offer spare capacity on all but very peak days.

Even on such days, like the Saturdays in the lead up to Christmas, reaching full capacity would only be for a very short period of time, less than 30 minutes.”

part of the Tendring Colchester Border Garden Community development, they are also introducing the Rapid Transit System, which will offer faster-than-car bus services directly to the centre of Colchester.

Based on this data, Colchester City Council is looking to future proof city centre parking through an updated Parking Strategy later this year. These plans could include works to extend the life span of existing multi-storey car parks, ensuring a minimum of 10 years’ further use and widening parking spaces to accommodate larger vehicles, enhancing convenience and boosting confidence among those who choose to travel to the city centre by car.

Councillor King added: “Britannia car park will not be developed for some time. We will share the regeneration plans when available, and we will welcome support and constructive challenges – just as we will with Vineyard Street plans, though they are a long way off now. But we know the benefits of developing these car parks will far outweigh the minimal financial impact, while allowing commuters to continue to park conveniently in Colchester. Helping us to take a once-ina-generation opportunity to regenerate the heart of Colchester city centre, ensuring that it not only has a proud past but also a vibrant future.”

In addition, Essex Highways is working on building a strong and effective public transport system to provide more reliable and frequent services. As

Wash Your Mouth Out!

Opinion is a divided even among members of the dental profession about the usefulness of mouthwash.

Gum disease begins with plaque.

This is a film of very sticky bacteria on the teeth which, if not removed, causes gum disease. Because it is so sticky plaque can only be removed from teeth with a brush or dental floss. Mouthwash can never replace good brushing.

Studies have found that antiseptic mouthwash used twice a day reduce the build-up of plaque and gum disease over a six-month period. Mouthwash makes teeth 'more slippy' so the sticky plaque finds it difficult to adhere, which in turn means your mouth feels fresher for longer.

Bad breath (halitosis) is caused when excess bacteria emit excess gas. Pockets of bacteria can lurk around fillings, ill-fitting crowns and impacted wisdom teeth.

Halitosis requires treatment from a dentist or hygienist, but a mouthwash can help. Use one with ingredients such as chlorine dioxide, which kills the volatile

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sulphur compounds that cause foul odour.

Mouthwashes can have a high alcohol content, especially when compared to the alcohol content of beer or wine. Some common mouthwashes with alcohol are between 14% and 26.9% alcohol!

As some studies have linked alcohol to oral cancers, many dentists advise these are avoided.

Alcohol can also exacerbate bad breath because of its drying properties, and because it is quite harsh it may also cause stinging.

Most dentists and hygienists agree that if you use mouthwash it should be alcohol-free.

Finally, most of us don't hold mouthwash in our mouths long enough for it to work. The optimal time is 30-60 seconds.

As part of a good dental hygiene routine mouthwashes are helpful but they will never replace the mechanical action of a toothbrush and floss for getting teeth and gums really clean.

By Louise Addison

Across 1 3 9 10 11 14 16 17 18 21 22 23 24

pools (8) Egyptian canal (4) New York City (3,5) Put in order (7) More infrequent (5) State appointed temporary guardian (6-6) Cyst, bag (3) Recites, announces (5) Become older (3) How long it takes to react (8,4) Plea of being elsewhere (5) Tasteful, exquisite (7) Embellished (8) Curve (4)

Down 1

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British noblemen (5)

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Frozen water (3)

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Eliminates unpleasant room odours (3,9)

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Carnivorous fish (7)

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Make money (4)

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Break, stoppage (12)

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Type of shellfish (5)

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Backslide (8)

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Care about deeply (7)

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Picture (5)

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Predetermined course (4)

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Scrutinise (3)

Sea creature found in rock

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Colchester Castle Museum named finalist in East of England Tourism Awards

Colchester Castle Museum has been selected as a finalist in the prestigious Accessible and Inclusive Tourism Award category at the upcoming East of England Tourism Awards. The Visit East of England and Visit England award, sponsored by Hoseasons, recognises outstanding achievements and excellence in the tourism and hospitality sector across Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, Essex, Suffolk, and Norfolk.

The Accessible and Inclusive category recognises businesses that excel in providing exceptional visitor experiences for everyone, with a particular focus on meeting the needs of individuals with accessibility requirements.

Colchester Castle Museum has been acknowledged for its dedication to inclusivity, ensuring that all visitors, regardless of their needs, can enjoy a memorable and educational experience.

From prioritising accessibility to providing information in various formats, Colchester Castle Museum has been assessed as stands out for its commitment to creating enriching experiences for all.

In-house Sensory Champions and

puzzle solutions:

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Access Champions ensure inclusion is considered at every stage, from exhibition design to school visits.

The museum offers Sunflower lanyards, concessions for disabled visitors, and welcomes requests for free familiarisation visits.

Councillor David King, Leader of Colchester City Council, said: “Colchester Castle Museum has consistently demonstrated its commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that our cultural heritage is accessible to everyone. Being named a finalist is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the museum's staff in creating a welcoming visit experience for all.”

The winners of the East of England Tourism Awards will be announced at the awards ceremony on Thursday, 15th February 2024, at Snape Maltings, Suffolk. This event promises to be a celebration of the outstanding contributions made by tourism and hospitality businesses in the region.

For more information about Colchester Castle Museum and its inclusive initiatives, please visit www.colchester.cimuseums.org.uk/ visit/colchester-castle

OUCH! How to remove a splinter

Splinters are painful and tricky to remove. I remember my mother digging around in the tender ball of my thumb with a darning needle one evening when I was ten. The splinter on that occasion had lodged itself firmly and resisted all attempts to prise it out while I resisted all attempts to have it prised out!

Years later a friend training to be nurse taught me how to remove splinters safely and I pass on the knowledge here.

First clean the area with soap and water.

Inspect the splinter; use a magnifying glass if you have one.

Look at the angle of entry and how deeply embedded the splinter is.

If the splinter protrudes from the skin it can be removed with tweezers. Sterilise the tweezers first using surgical spirit (neat Vodka also works) and if you need a magnifier get someone else to hold

it; then grip the splinter gently and pull it out along the same angle it entered the skin.

Small, fine splinters can be trickier, especially if they are more deeply embedded. In this instance cover the affected the area with Magnesium Sulphate paste (cheap and available from all pharmacies) and then bandage it. Leave overnight and in the morning the splinter will have surfaced. If it hasn’t, reapply and bandage again. The Magnesium sulphate is anhydrous and draws moisture out of the wound and with it the splinter. Once the end of the splinter pokes out you can use tweezers to remove it completely.

Remember: If you use a needle to break the skin prior to applying the paste make sure the needle is sterile.

Never try to squeeze a splinter out; you may drive it in further.

By Louise Addison

Beetroot Burger Perfect for those trying to reduce their meat consumption. This burger is full of flavour and such a pretty colour we think it's perfect Valentine's Day fayre!

Preparation time: 30 mins

Cooking time: 40 mins

Ingredients 1 onion, quartered 3 tbsp olive oil, plus extra for brushing 2 garlic cloves, crushed 200g mushrooms (chestnut are good) 250g tofu 100g cooked beetroot (about 2-3 beetroot bulbs) 1 x 400g can black beans, drained Serving suggestions 8 burger buns, split Chilli jam, lettuce, slices of tomato, red onion rings, avocado slices, lime wedges, vegan cheese slices, vegan mayonnaise Method Put the onion in a food processor and pulse until it is the texture of cooked rice. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large frying pan, add the onion and fry for

Makes: 8 burgers

1 tbsp tomato purée 2 tbsp vegan mayonnaise 1 tbsp miso paste 100g oat flour 2 tbsp ground flaxseed 50g pecans 200g cooked brown rice (75g dry rice is approximately 200g cooked)

10 mins until soft and pale golden.

Stir in the garlic and fry for another minute. Remove the mixture to a large bowl and set aside.

Now put the mushrooms in the food processor and pulse until they are as small as the onions.

Heat the remaining oil in the pan, add the mushrooms and fry for 10-15 mins, until any liquid released has evaporated and the mushrooms are tender.

Add to the bowl with the onions.

Place the tofu, black beans, beetroot, miso paste, tomato purée, mayonnaise, flour, and flaxseed into the food processor and blitz until smooth. Add seasoning then mix this with the cooked veg. Pulse the pecans and half the cooked rice in the food processor until finely chopped. Add this mixture and the remaining rice to the veg too.

Using your hands, shape the mixture into little burger-shaped patties about the same size as the buns.

Vegetable burgers are more fragile than meat burger so chill in the

fridge for at least 30 mins before cooking. I usually pop them in the freezer rather than the fridge.

To cook, heat a frying pan over a medium heat. Brush both sides of the burgers with a little oil. Cook for 5-8 mins on each side, turning once after a crust has formed, until hot through to the centre. Avoid moving or turning them too often, as they may break up. Toast the buns on the open side, then spread each with a little chilli jam, and fill with lettuce leaves, sliced tomatoes, avocado with lime, vegan cheese and mayonnaise as required.

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Garden View - This month - When to prune Clematis left unpruned, these clematis can become a tangle of old wood with few flowers.

Clematis, often hailed as the "Queen of the Climbers", is a beloved fixture in many UK gardens. Its enchanting flowers, ranging from delicate, star-shaped blossoms to bold, dramatic blooms, can transform fences, walls, and trellises into living art. But clematis, like many plants, needs pruning, and understanding the pruning requirements of your particular clematis will depend on its pruning group.

Clematis are categorized into three main pruning groups: 1, 2, and 3.

These groups are determined by the plant's flowering time and the age of the flowering wood.

Group 1 clematis bloom early in the year, flowering on the previous year's growth. These varieties, like the alpine clematis, produce flowers in late spring and are generally the least demanding in terms of pruning. Pruning, if necessary, should be done immediately after flowering. The goal is to remove dead or weak stems and to shape the plant, but heavy pruning is not needed. If

Group 2 clematis flower in late spring or early summer on short shoots developing from the previous year's growth and often have a second, less vigorous flush in late summer on the current year's growth. Examples include the popular varieties like 'Nelly Moser' and 'Miss Bateman'.

Pruning for Group 2 should be light, focusing on removing dead and weak stems in late winter or early spring, so February is the perfect time. You can also lightly prune after the first flowering to encourage a more robust second bloom.

Group 3 clematis flower on the current year's growth, producing blooms from mid to late summer until the first frost. This group includes varieties like 'Jackmanii' and 'Sweet Autumn Clematis'. They require more extensive pruning, cut back almost to ground level (15-30 cm above the ground) in February. This encourages strong

new growth and a profusion of flowers at a manageable height.

Why prune at all? It’s important because it rejuvenates the plant by encouraging new growth, which is essential for flowering, particularly in Group 2 and 3 clematis. It helps maintain the shape and size of the plant, preventing it from becoming unruly and tangled. Regular pruning also allows for better air circulation through the plant, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.

When pruning, always use clean, sharp tools to make clean cuts. This prevents damage to the plant and reduces the risk of disease. After pruning, it's beneficial to apply a balanced fertilizer and mulch to provide nutrients and maintain soil moisture.

With the right pruning techniques, your clematis will be a stunning feature in your garden, showcasing its floral beauty season after season.

By Rachael Leverton

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Thoughtful Valentine Gift Ideas I did go for extra Brownie points one year when I sourced a Sony Walkman and real cassettes.

Out of cash? Chocolate too boring?

We’ve got Valentine’s Day covered.

Create a ‘Mixtape’ - I fondly recall making mixtapes for my boyfriend during my sixth form years. These days, I create similar playlists for my

husband using Spotify! Music often conveys emotions we struggle to articulate, and crafting a mixtape is a heartfelt way to show your partner your affection. Select songs that evoke shared memories. A Spotify playlist does the job, but

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ACROSS 1 What’s-his-name is lanky, sticky fellow (12) 9 Aviatrix gives listener courage we hear (7) 10 Some birds do this at the speed of a fighter plane? (7) 11 About to be taking drug to ease pain (7) 12 A moist perfume ultimately designed to make fine spray (7) 13 Petty quarrel involving river fish (5) 14 Failure to notice supervision (9)

16 Suitable means to an end (9) 19 Rex gets stuck into finest French port (5) 21 I tried swimming with Penny in disturbed sea (4,3) 23 Foster child’s fuss disturbed Pete (7) 24 Terrible cruelty with knives perhaps (7) 25 I’d plunged into river to find spear (7) 26 Furniture of actor’s assistant from Cardiff? (5,7)

Reenact Your First Date Recreating your initial date is a personalized and meaningful Valentine’s Day idea. The specifics will depend on your original date, whether it was a simple movie and dinner or something as extravagant as a trip to Paris. Recreate the experience with as much detail as possible or go for something that evokes the vibe of the original. Our first date was bowling followed by a Chinese meal. A few years ago, we recreated this by playing Wii Bowling and ordering a Chinese Takeaway. It was fun! If you went to the cinema, find the film on Prime or Netflix and order in the popcorn.

Props to my son who took his fiancé to an aquarium for their first date, and last year presented her

with a novelty illuminated ‘fantasy’ fishtank complete with jellyfish!

Enjoy a Spa Day - Book a couples spa day, or if finances are tight, create your own with a bubble bath, face masks, a manicure and pedicure set, and a glass of prosecco. Light the candles, put the music on low and relax together.

Take a Dance Class - Channel your inner Strictly! Dance classes, whether it’s salsa, jazz, ballroom, or swing, are a fun and intimate way to connect with your partner.

Dancing together can enhance closeness and the physical activity releases endorphins.

Happy Valentine’s Day!

By Sarah Davey

Answers on page 14

DOWN 15 One removes former motor vehicle(9) 2 Athlete Ben led off run (7) 17 Flat pack from Cornish town (7) 3 Closest home houses a Royal 18 Writer is awfully rude about Rugby’s Engineer (7) first students (7) 4 Crazy place to find flag? (2,3,4) 19 They give better odds (7) 5 Old lady captivates a doctor with 20 Militant leader in Exeter excited snake (5) 6 Plant causing disappearance of pests? radical (7) 22 Mentally defeat some tipsy characters (7) (5) 7 Putting up with demeanour (7) 8 Teen regrets bad time in London thoroughfare (6,6) 9 They don’t want to see Brussels sprout! (12)

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A History of Leap Years Leap years are a concept that might seem merely a quirk of the calendar, but they are rooted in a rich history of astronomical observations, mathematical calculations, and fascinating folklore. Spanning across cultures and centuries, the story of leap years reveals humanity's ongoing quest to align our timekeeping with the cosmos.

The history of the leap year begins with our understanding of the solar year - the time it takes the Earth to complete one orbit around the Sun. Early astronomers noticed that this period was not exactly 365 days but rather approximately 365.25 days. This extra quarter of a day presented a significant challenge: without adjustment, the calendar year would gradually drift away from the solar year, causing significant mismatches over time.

The solution to this problem was first systematically implemented in the Julian calendar, introduced

by Julius Caesar in 45 BC. Advised by the astronomer Sosigenes of Alexandria, Caesar reformed the Roman calendar by adding an extra day every four years to account for the additional quarter day. This

leap day was added to February, traditionally the last month of the Roman year, making it 29 days instead of 28 in leap years.

However, the Julian calendar overcompensated slightly because the actual solar year is approximately 11 minutes less than 365.25 days. This discrepancy led to the introduction of the Gregorian calendar in 1582 by Pope Gregory XIII, which refined the leap year rule. According to the Gregorian system, a year is a leap year if it is divisible by 4, but century years must be divisible by 400. Thus, 1600 and 2000 were leap years, but 1700, 1800, and 1900 were not.

Beyond the technicalities, leap years are wrapped in a tapestry of folklore and traditions. One of the most famous is the practice, supposedly originating in Ireland, where women are encouraged to propose marriage to men on February 29th. This custom was popularized in the British Isles and beyond, breaking the historical convention of men initiating marriage proposals.

In some cultures, leap years are considered unlucky. In Greece, for instance, couples usually

avoid marrying in a leap year, and especially on a leap day.

Conversely, in other traditions, leap years are seen as times of renewal and change. The Chinese believe that a leap year is an auspicious time to tie the knot.

In 1712, Sweden briefly experienced a unique calendar date, February 30th! This anomaly occurred twelve years after Sweden's initial decision in 1700 to switch from the Julian to the Gregorian calendar. The change required eliminating some days to align the calendars, which Sweden intended to achieve by

omitting leap days gradually.

However, the outbreak of the Great Northern War in 1700 distracted the Swedes, leading them to overlook the omission of leap days in the subsequent years. By 1712, to simplify the transition back to the Julian calendar, Sweden added an extra day to the usual leap year, resulting in the one-time occurrence of February 30th. The complete shift to the Gregorian calendar was eventually realized in 1753, and February 30th disappeared forever.

By Louise Addison

Sudoku

How to play Sudoku It’s simple!

Fill in the grid so that each row, column and 3x3 box, contains the numbers 1 through to 9 with no repetition.

You don’t need to be a genius. These puzzles use logic alone.

Watch out! Sudoku is highly addictive.

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