A Wonderful World

                                                                         THE BEST BROWNIE'S ON THE BLOCK. We all love a brownie. Who doesn't? Especially a homemade one. Even better if it also has our favourite chocolate in the mix.  During the first lockdown it became a common occurrence within households to experiment with baking, particularly banana bread. Conversation grew across social media platforms as many shared their banana bread adventures and documented the finished product before enjoying and tucking into their creation. As a nation, baking has also grown in popularity with shows such as 'The Great British Bake Off' airing, it's helped inspire aspirational bakers to pursue their journey, tempt those who may not have baked much before, and tickle the taste buds of all viewers... ...

'It's important to hold onto our passions throughout this challenging time.' As we continue through our third lockdown, we're faced with our own hurdles. Whilst it's important to stay updated, safe and follow government guidelines, it's also acceptable to have time away from the constant hold of Coronavirus and tune into what makes you feel good within the premises of what you can take part in from home. Aspects of the situation we're in can become overwhelming, so it's vital to find your own coping mechanisms that aren't a detriment to your wellbeing. Your own release, way to relax, feel good, shift emotions and tune out of the unnecessary noise for a while.  Although the circumstances at home will be different for everyone, we're all able to ensure we take some time for ourselves to unwind and take part in what we enjoy. It may be learning something new, it may not, there is no pressure attached, just freedom and enjoyment. Explore, experiment ...

   Along with the challenges of Lockdown, there could perhaps be the time to explore ones interests and new beginnings, support small businesses, experiment, and step outside our comfort zones. Lockdown has brought its fair share of hurdles, we're all facing our own difficulties whether it be income, working from home, looking after children, loneliness, anxiety, boredom or simply feeling both frustrated and exhausted by the situation. But a silver lining of some time with ourselves or families is that we're able to experiment with new things, engage with activities to look after our mental and physical well-being. It could be a walk, getting some fresh air and appreciating nature. Perhaps you joined in on the viral banana bread making. Having a relaxing bath, watching a new series, trying out some yoga, starting to learn a language, reading a book or completing a puzzle. Of course, this is a demanding time for all of us, our emotions and state of mind will change and go throu...

  'There are simple yet effective ways to help others throughout lockdown and onwards' With my 'Love in Lockdown' series focusing on stories surrounding good will and selflessness throughout lockdown, I've been passionate about sharing tales of happiness, comfort and support to bring us together through this challenging time, put smiles on faces and most of all, encourage others to do the same. Encouraging caring for ourselves and others in ways that we can, and learning about the work of charities and how to help out is an effective way of doing that. A friend of mine has kindly been working for two charities throughout Lockdown, whilst continuing to work in order to fend for herself, she has been selfless and giving in using some of her time around her own work to support these two charities. One of which is 'City Harvest' , a London surplus food redistribution charity, and the second is a drug and alcohol recovery service. It's hearing from individu...

' WHATEVER YOU'RE GOING THROUGH, CALL US ANYTIME FOR FREE. WE'RE HERE TO LISTEN' BOTH IN AND OUT OF LOCKDOWN, SAMARITANS ARE COMMITTED TO SUPPORTING AND HELPING THOSE IN NEED. 'Samaritans' is a registered charity aimed at providing confidential support to anyone in need, distress, struggling to cope, needs someone to listen without pressure or judgement, or for anyone at risk of suicide throughout United Kingdom and Ireland. Although their support was available prior to Covid19, due to both lockdown and the challenges the virus has raised, their demand has increased and the constant support that the volunteers and charity offer is to be both recognised and praised. They are there to talk anytime, to support mental health, loneliness and difficulties in isolation. Although not a religious organisation, the charity was founded by a vicar named  Chad Varah  in London in 1953. As a vicar he offered counselling to his parishioners, but wanted to do something more spe...