A Wonderful World

                                                       “Let’s talk Skincare” Since the pandemic began, the importance of hygiene continues to be emphasised. Over lockdown, with more time at home many have taken the time to research and develop a skincare routine as part of establishing adequate hygiene and self-care. A recent study reported by Mintel, found that usage rates have risen across the board for skincare products including moisturiser, toner and face wash. Face masks and night creams have also seen a growth in purchase, to help improve overall skin health and boost consumer wellbeing. It was also found that 76% of women who invested in skincare products shared that price is a key purchase driver. With that being the case, I have collated my favourite four high quality, effective brands that are of a reasonable and affordable price. 1. ...

                                              “LISTENING TO EDUCATE, ENTERTAIN, AND INCREASE CONVERSATION.” A podcast is an episodic series of spoken word digital audio files that a user can download to a personal device for easy listening, they’re available via the podcast app or can be accessed on websites, Spotify or Apple Music. Their popularity has increased greatly during the last decade. Over the course of the pandemic, there’s been a rise in both Podcast listeners and creators, perhaps due to an increased availability of time on ones hands. They can provide entertainment when faced with boredom, or when wanting to keep occupied or engaged with something they can be useful in keeping the brain ticking. Whether you’re walking, on a long train journey or getting ready to go out, listening to a podcast whilst doing so can be comforting. Alongside the benefit of ente...

                                                     “IMPACTING TELEVISION AND LIVES" A POIGNANT MASTERPIECE: ‘IT’S A SIN’ A deeply moving and important watch, certainly a Lockdown love for me. As many continue to wind down or switch off amid the pandemic by turning to some television, I recommend making this your next watch if you haven’t seen it already. It’s a Sin aired on Channel 4 at the end of January 2021, a series set in the 1980’s about a group of friends whose lives are changed irrevocably by the HIV/Aids Epidemic. It was written by Russell T. Davies and has been crowned the most watched drama series in Channel 4’s history. As an eighteen year old gay man when the crisis first broke out, the series is loosely inspired by Russell’s own life experiences. The accredited Screenwriter, known for creating other popular series including Doctor Wh...

                                                        HAPPY EASTER WEEKEND! Despite Easter being a Christian festival and holiday commemorating the resurrection of Jesus, it’s no secret that the annual return of Easter eggs sparks excitement for all. An investment that many look forward to, religious or not. Over 80 million boxed Easter eggs are sold in the UK every year, it’s evident that they are an extremely popular purchase. Crème Eggs are Cadbury’s most popular, over 500 million are made each year and about two thirds of that are enjoyed in the UK. They’re a global sensation at Easter time. This year, Easter weekend falls on the 4 th April. When amid the ongoing pandemic and unable to socialise with those we care for face to face, it’s another Easter where restrictions may result in the inability to gift an Easter egg or meet with a hos...

This month we celebrated International Women’s Day, within the same week we heard from a woman who faced suicidal thoughts as a consequence of being targeted by the media and press, victimised, accused of lying and admitted to feeling trapped in a system. Simultaneously, a young woman was reported missing, investigations soon revealed that she was sexually assaulted and murdered by a man when walking home. Allegations were made that it was her fault for walking home alone late after drinking, and a police officer whose responsibility is to protect has been arrested for her murder. Despite the progressions we’ve made on the treatment towards women throughout the 20 th and 21 st Century, there are still major changes yet to occur. But it shouldn’t take a tragedy in order to acknowledge them. There are many behaviours that have become the norm for women through both fear of safety and what’s taught growing up, whether it be taking the longer route home, holding keys between her finger...

                                                          HUGE HIT FOR FREELANCERS AND SELF EMPLOYED It’s no secret that the current pandemic has initiated dramatic and sudden shifts to all lives, despite the differences we may face when it comes down to personal circumstances. Throughout both the pandemic as a whole and amidst our third lockdown, our work lives have had to be considered and thousands have been majorly affected. Some businesses may have thrived, lots have struggled. Many employees have been furloughed under the ‘Furlough Scheme’ and others have shifted to ‘working from home’. One particular circle of occupations that have taken a huge hit are those who come under the definition of either ‘Self Employed’ or a ‘Freelancer.’ Those who run their own business, carry out multiple jobs for various organisations, and perhaps aren’t con...

                                                              International Women's Day (IWD) is a day that’s celebrated globally on the 8 th March , honouring the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. A time to commemorate women's achievements, raise awareness about women's equality, speak out for gender parity and fundraise for female-focused charities. Purple, green and white are the colours that mark the day. Purple signifies justice and dignity. Green symbolizes hope. White represents purity, albeit a controversial concept. The colours originated from the Women's Social and Political Union (WSPU) in the UK in 1908. Covid-19 has changed or stopped many things this year, but International Women’s Day continues to be remembered. Usually, the day is marked around the globe with performances,...