Bob Dylan’s 2025 tour comes to the UK this November. The icon is back touring his 2020 album Rough and Rowdy Ways, following a run of performances at the Royal Albert Hall late last year.

Dylan is visiting eight different cities across the UK and Ireland this November, from Brighton to Killarney. Interestingly, no London date is scheduled for this tour. Fans in the south of England will have to try their luck at getting tickets to the one Brighton show scheduled. Or maybe head to Swansea where he’ll be performing for three nights!

Read more: Gary Kemp on ageing in the music industry

Keeping it exclusive

If you’re a Dylan fan, getting tickets to the tour is your only chance at seeing the 84 year old perform though. Dylan has partnered with Yondr (which works with educators, artists, organisations and individuals around the world to create phone-free spaces) to keep these shows completely phone free. So, for those who can’t get tickets, there’ll be no chance of watching footage on social media the following day. Or maybe little chance. It’ll be interesting to see if anyone snags any secret footage!

It seems like a rigorous effort though. Individuals will have to pop their phone away in a pouch when arriving at shows. The pouch locks in certain areas of the venue, preventing attendees from accessing them in auditoriums.

The phone free environment aims to encourage fans to connect with the music, and engage with the artist in the moment.

Bob Dylan sings “The Times They Are A-Changin’” in the East Room of the White House

This isn’t the first time Bob Dylan has employed phone locking pouches at his shows. In 2024, phones were banned in several shows of his European leg, including Dylan’s three-night run at the Royal Albert Hall. Other artists like Bruno Mars and Swedish rock group, Ghost, have also employed phone locking pouches at their shows in recent years.

Exclusive or exclusionary? It certainly brings a ‘you had to be there’ element to live shows, but does leave fans high and dry who couldn’t get a ticket or had other commitments clashing with tour dates.

After tickets?

Set your alarms, tickets for the UK & Ireland dates go on sale Friday 18 July at 10am.

You can find all dates and ticket availability on Bob Dylan’s website. (We’ve popped them down below for ease too!)

UK & Ireland tour dates

7 Nov: Brighton Centre, Brighton
9 Nov: Building Society Arena, Swansea
10 Nov: Building Society Arena, Swansea
11 Nov: Building Society Arena, Swansea
13 Nov: Building Society Arena, Coventry
14 Nov: First Direct Arena, Leeds
16 Nov: Armadillo, Glasgow
17 Nov: Armadillo, Glasgow
19 Nov: Waterfront, Belfast
20 Nov: Waterfront, Belfast
23 Nov: INEC, Killarney
24 Nov: INEC, Killarney
25 Nov: 3Arena, Dublin

GET TICKETS HERE

Lana Hall

Lana can usually be found spinning her collection of records, or writing odd poems in her phone notes. Her mixer of choice is a ginger beer, and you’ll never find her away from the sea for more than a few weeks.

The post Bob Dylan 2025 tour goes device free appeared first on Silver Magazine.

None of us like seeing our beloved pets in discomfort. Whether they’re barking or howling out of fear, or shaking under the bed to feel safer, it puts strain and worry on pet parents. 51 per cent of pet owners say they feel anxious in the lead up to Bonfire night. It can be one of the most stressful times of the year for pet mums and dads.

In fact, an entire 85 per cent of pet pawrents can’t help but remember the 5th of November, as they have to sit tight and comfort their scared pet. The most popular way to provide comfort being letting a pet sleep on your bed.

How can you make it better for them?

Making their favourite meal, playing classical music, choosing some calming mood lighting, and playing spa music are also popular tactics for calming petrified pups and terrified tabbies. One in twenty have also admitted to requesting neighbours refrain from setting off fireworks in a bid to reduce their pet’s stress. As a whopping 64 per cent of animals experience stress caused by private displays.

Top ways British pawrents soothe their pets on fireworks night:

1. Let them sleep in my bed – 36%
2. Give them special treats – 30%
3. Play classical music – 22%
4. Make their favourite meal – 19%
5. Use mood lighting – 14%
6. Give a doggy/kitty massage – 10%
7. Play spa music – 9%
8. Create a chill out playlist – 9%
9. Let them watch animal videos on YouTube – 8%
10. Play soothing sounds like whale song – 7%

Data has shown that on average, it has been seven years since some pet owners last went to a fireworks display. Taking the magic out of special occasions like Bonfire night and Diwali, as they have to stay in.

Babs the corgi’s pet parent, Doug McPherson, said “What makes this time of year especially difficult as a pet owner is all the different celebrations happening throughout the month, so fireworks could go off on any given night during this period. As a result, I’ve had to cancel a lot of plans at this time of year. I’m sad to miss out on these celebrations.”

Read more: Overcome trauma from seeing animal cruelty on social media

So how about a free dinner – courtesy of Just Eat?!

We’ve got something to take the sting out of having to stay in. Cancelling plans and missing out on the celebrations is never ideal. So, if you are planning to sit in with a glass of wine and your favourite snacks, you can also take cooking out of the equation and get a takeaway through Just Eat, with their free voucher.

On Tuesday 5 November 2024 only, open up your Just Eat app and type ‘PAW ME’ into the chat box to bag your £15 off voucher. But act quick! As there’s only a limited amount to hand out.

Lana Hall

Lana can usually be found spinning her collection of records, or writing odd poems in her phone notes. Her mixer of choice is a ginger beer, and you’ll never find her away from the sea for more than a few weeks.

The post Comforting pets this fireworks night? How about a free takeaway? appeared first on Silver Magazine.

How do you avoid having a toxic clash when it comes to going your separate ways? Divorce is never easy, but even harder when we are older, and there’s more at stake. We spoke to Ashley Le Core, Senior Associate at Stowe Family Law about the best advice for divorce settlements when you’re both a bit older, and maybe have more assets, and longer term joint or shared finances.

Sadly, divorces can be messy. No one ever expects to be in that situation, and the dream of having a smooth amicable end to years of commitment isn’t always fulfilled.

Over the last twenty years, divorce amongst marriages of thirty years and over, have steadily risen. In 2021, 1 in 4 divorces were of couples over 50. It’s tough feeling like you’re starting over later in life, but to even get there you have to navigate the division of assets and untangle the decades of intertwined life. Even knowing how to take the first steps to broach the topic may allude many.

Ashley Le Core of Stowe Family Law says “In terms of discussing a divorce with your partner, this can be a difficult process, especially if they do not know it’s coming. If you feel able to discuss it with your partner yourself, then perhaps pick a sensible time when you are on your own. If you don’t feel comfortable doing it alone, try to ensure that you have somebody you trust with you.

“It is understandable that you may feel anxious and upset about this conversation, particularly if you have been married for many years and are heading towards or in retirement and later-life plans with your spouse.”

Managing emotions

Ashley stresses that it’s important to try and keep things calm.

“When a marriage breaks down, we would always suggest mediation as a sensible first step. It takes a lot of the emotion out of the situation. Solicitors will always advise that if there is an amicable solution to be found, then it should be pursued. A mediator can give good advice as to what a settlement would look like, and can do that whilst working with the couple together, whereas solicitors of course do not work in this way.”

But if mediation doesn’t work, choosing the right person to represent you is vital. “When choosing a divorce solicitor, build a rapport with the person who is representing you,” says Ashley. “It is a very difficult time, so deal with someone that you feel has truly got your best interests at heart. A firm with good representation, good communicators and someone who is attentive is most likely the right solicitor for you.”

Read more – Divorce later in life – financial and emotional considerations

How does it all work these days?

“In terms of the solicitor’s role in navigating the divorce, the divorce process now is more straightforward, as it’s an online process. The solicitor will of course outline to you exactly what happens at every stage, and involve you accordingly, but instructing a solicitor means that all the preparation of documentation etc is dealt with by them, and simply approved by you.”

In terms of dividing the assets of the marriage, it is important you feel ready to commence that process. It can be very in-depth, and quite upsetting

Having this support and having the divorce online takes a lot of the stress out of a split, but at the end of the day, you’re still going to be haggling over the terms. So what’s the best way to approach this? Ashley advises caution and pacing yourself at this stage.

“In terms of dividing the assets of the marriage, it is important you feel ready to commence that process. It can be very in-depth, and quite upsetting (naturally). If you’re not in a good headspace when you go into that process, it can hinder the progress you can make. And if you are not yet over the end of the marriage, or if there is a lot of animosity, diving into that process too quickly may not be in your best interests in the long term.

“Practically, once you have filed for divorce, you can take as long as you need to organise your assets and finances. This must always be done before you apply for your final order (previously known as the decree absolute), but there is no time limit after your initial 20-week cooling period.”

Ensure you’re ready before entering negotiations

Where is a good place to start?

“In terms of financial planning post-divorce, the way in which the court works in this country is that the settlement will be reached based on what each spouse needs. As such, the court will only give to each spouse what they believe they need to continue a comfortable lifestyle moving forward,” explains Ashley. So there is little point filing for divorce and asking for the moon and the stars. But a roof over your head is the first port of call.

…if the marriage has come to an end, you are effectively starting a new chapter of your life.

“The most likely effect of the divorce is a feeling of unknown financial security. If there are enough assets at the end of a marriage to rehouse both people appropriately, then that financial security is there. However, if that’s not the case and it means that both people need to review their finances in order to consider themselves comfortable, things are more complex.

“Selling the family home does end up being one of the more stressful aspects of a marriage or relationship breakdown. Often it has been a property that the couple have shared for a significant period, and letting go of that can be exceptionally difficult.

“However, if the marriage has come to an end, you are effectively starting a new chapter of your life. To start that new chapter, you potentially need to cut ties to everything that was in place before, including a house. Whilst it may be a wish to try and retain the property, I always ask people how they would feel living in a property where they have a significant number of memories, and potentially not the nicest memories.”

It it worth having a pre-nup?

“The major positive of having a prenuptial agreement is of course to protect any wealth that was brought into a marriage. If one spouse was particularly wealthier than the other, it is common practice that prenuptial agreements (whilst not legally binding yet, in this country, but considered exceptionally persuasive) are very normal in cases such as these.

“When the marriage breaks down, the prenuptial agreement takes precedence and the individual who came into the marriage with more wealth should be able to have the majority of those funds returned. There are increasingly popular for those entering second or third marriages as a way to protect property and inheritance for children from the previous marriage.”

…you should regularly review the agreement, particularly when any significant changes occur to your finances

It’s important to keep checking in on this though, as things change. “The ‘con’ of having a prenuptial agreement is that they can become massively out of date. If you agreed one pattern at the beginning and then there are significant changes throughout the marriage, it can tie the couple to an agreement that might have been made a significant number of years ago.

“This is why you should regularly review the agreement, particularly when any significant changes occur to your finances, property, or children. If you do not have a prenuptial agreement, then the court will take the standard position. Which is that – depending on the circumstances as you are at the point of divorce (i.e., your ages, any children, earning capacity, assets, future) – they will look at what each person needs and decide accordingly.

“The usual starting point for individuals who have been married for a long period and who have children over the age of 18 or no children at all, is 50/50 of all the assets.”

How does a divorce affect pensions and investments?

“The divorce itself will not affect any pensions, but it is likely that if one spouse has a larger pension pot than the other, then they may well be expected to share some of that pension with their spouse as part of the divorce process.

…any assets that form part of either person’s asset portfolio will be considered as part of the matrimonial pot, although a split isn’t always 50/50

“Usually, a pension actuary would be instructed to address how those pension pots should be split to make it fair for each spouse, and that advice should be pursued.

“In terms of investments, any assets that form part of either person’s asset portfolio will be considered as part of the matrimonial pot, although a split isn’t always 50/50. One party may wish to ring-fence certain assets due to having only just received them. Or there may be issues arising from prenuptial agreements or other such arguments. But everything will be considered by the court before making an appropriate determination.

“It is therefore very important to be categorically clear when you end your marriage as to what all assets are, where they are, and the value. The court expects complete openness and honesty about all these matters in order to make an appropriate decision. And any attempt to be seen to be hiding or dissipating assets unnecessarily, the court will usually take a very dim view of.”

Starting anew

Finding your way through a divorce is never easy, no matter what stage of life you’re at. Approach it with patience and composure, and discuss things openly with your solicitor at each step. Being equipped with knowledge can give you some confidence going through this taxing time.

When things feel overwhelming or too distressing, remember the reasons why you or your partner came to this decision. At the end of it all, there’s a fresh start and an exciting future ahead of you.

Lana Hall

Lana can usually be found spinning her collection of records, or writing odd poems in her phone notes. Her mixer of choice is a ginger beer, and you’ll never find her away from the sea for more than a few weeks.

The post Best advice for divorce settlements when you’re older appeared first on Silver Magazine.

Are children really using anti-ageing products? Our children fear hitting 30, let alone 50. And it has become increasingly apparent that anti-ageing products and plastic surgery is rife amongst Gen Z and Alpha.

A quick look at TikTok will horrify you on this score. Many young people and even children touting and posting the use of anti-ageing products. But with all the positive ageing messaging we have now, why are our kids terrified of ageing? What is going on?

We’ve faced our fair share of beauty standards across the decades. And we know that some days it’s easier than others to embrace the fine lines and love the wrinkles. But we also know ageing has its own beauty. The tales of laughter, late nights talking, and a life well-enjoyed are in every laughter line. We are increasingly able to celebrate the evidence of a life well lived.

Even mainstream media figures are saying a big eff-you to outdated beauty messages

Over the past decade or so, our acceptance of the ageing process has powered a pro-ageing movement. And this is particularly evident in the beauty industry. Products now support maturing skin with a pro-ageing message, rather than shaming it with ‘anti-ageing’ ranges.

Even mainstream media figures are saying a big eff-you to outdated beauty messages, and the idea that women become past it once they hit a certain look or age. Check out Nicole Kidman in 2022’s Vanity Fair cover, or And Just Like That normalising women over 50 wearing bold prints and trendy items and unashamed grey hair. We’re – thankfully – getting miles away from the phrase ‘dress your age.’ And hey, Pamela Anderson, I’m looking at you, with your fresh-faced confidence… you go girl!

So why is it, that with a generation of older women – older people in fact – to look up to, who are openly embracing maturity and challenging the idea that beauty is reserved for the young, we’re seeing under 30s getting Botox and plastic surgery? Meanwhile, even more worrying, under 18s are so afraid of a single fine line, they’re putting anti-ageing skincare on their Christmas wish lists.

Packing plastic

People are cutting and injecting themselves for cosmetic purpose more than ever before. Plastic surgery procedures increased by 102 per cent in 2022. With breast augmentation, tummy tucks, and liposuction being the most popular among women, who made up 93 per cent.

Nose jobs, chest reductions, and eyelid adjustments were top dog among the men who went under the knife. Under 34s are the highest demographic undergoing breast augmentation procedures.

The number of young people investing in preventative Botox has also increased, with many in their mid-twenties getting the injections to keep wrinkles at bay.

‘Preventative Botox’ has become a hot topic online. The hashtag for Botox has over one million videos on TikTok, with the top videos amassing 2-4 million views.

Over two-thirds of TikTok’s usership is made up of 18-34-year-olds. Young people are engaging in content which positions Botox and other cosmetic procedures as standard, common even. When you’re seeing countless people sharing their experience or recommendations for fillers, it’s gradually going to become as trivial as trying the latest viral foundation. Perhaps it’s just a way to try and get a face that looks like it’s filtered in real life?

Attainable attraction

In the eighties and nineties, you’d really only see augmented beauty in magazines, or posters. These days, Gen Z and Alpha open their phones and are confronted with endless images of influencers and celebrities. Many of these faces are supporting plumped lips, refined noses, and sculpted jaws. Never mind the filters that give you flawless skin, or even a full face of makeup. With this pressure from infinitely tweaked faces, it seems young people have become afraid of their natural, asymmetrical beauty, warping what is considered attractive.

Once considered an exclusive and unattainable way to update appearances, treatments are far more accessible to the wider population

The invention of silicon and cosmetic technologies in the sixties led to the rich and famous adjusting their appearance through cosmetic surgery. Once considered an exclusive and unattainable way to update appearances, treatments are far more accessible to the wider population. Botox injections can set you back by as little as £100 in the UK (essentially the price of a new coat, or a pair of trainers). Plus, medical tourism offers cheaper prices for these procedures, making for an appealing option – after all, you get a built-in holiday too.

Over the last decade, we’ve seen the discussions around medical beauty treatments everywhere. The Kardashians discussing their lip fillers, surgeons online breaking down a celebrity’s latest cosmetic work, and Love Island contestants sharing what they’ve had done. When you feel like everyone’s doing it, it’s understandable more people will gravitate towards it. Attitudes change, as cosmetic surgery has gone from being perceived as exclusive to something everyone can do.

Alpha’s anti-ageing frenzy

Although these treatments are illegal to perform on under 18s, that hasn’t stopped Gen Alpha from getting involved with anti-ageing effects. Earlier this year, dermatologists spoke out about the dangers of parents buying their children skincare products with highly active ingredients.

This comes from the recent boom of tweens pining after expensive retinol and vitamin C serums. Online trends where young women share their ‘get unready with me’ (GRWM) routines are packed with colourfully packaged products with fun names, like Watermelon Glow Serum, which contains hyaluronic acid. These products aren’t necessary for young skin, and can damage their sensitive faces.

Whilst part of Gen Alpha’s motivation may be to assimilate with the online community of women sharing their routines, the attraction to ‘anti-ageing’ results is worrying. Children shouldn’t be worrying about signs of ageing; in fact no one should be worried about it. For far too long youth has been equated with beauty and worth, and it’s causing anxiety and harm to our children and grandchildren.

I can’t help but wonder, with existing concerns of social media impacting mental health and self-worth on the young now, will that intensify as they do age and develop a tapestry of life experience on their skin? I can’t believe children are already using anti-ageing products I’m only in my 20s and I feel the pressure. It’s everywhere.

Impacts on ageism

Fears of ageing shouldn’t be intensifying, but lessening. I’d hoped that the next generation would learn from the OGs here. After all, maturity should be championed and seen as a blessing, rather than something to slap plaster on. And certainly not something to be avoided by pumping chemicals into your face before you’re barely in double figures.

Young people’s desperation to take up whatever’s available to slow ageing is a disheartening sight.  We know that ageing skin isn’t a curse, but our young people might not reach acceptance of that fact until the damage is done.

Perhaps we need more untouched and mature faces online to counteract young people’s perceptions of what normal is. I don’t think it’s the entire responsibility of over 50s to resolve this issue. However, there could be a positive influence made by sharing the beauty and comfort of silver skin and drowning out the noise of filtered faces and altered bodies. The fight against ageism continues, and we’re going to keep on flying the flag. Whatever our age. We never thought we’d see children using anti-ageing products, but here we are.

Lana Hall

Lana can usually be found spinning her collection of records, or writing odd poems in her phone notes. Her mixer of choice is a ginger beer, and you’ll never find her away from the sea for more than a few weeks.

The post Why are school children using anti-ageing skincare products appeared first on Silver Magazine.

Many of us love a spa weekend. The calm atmosphere and relaxing treatments – you come away feeling rested and pampered. However, the results don’t always last as long as you’d like! The new Longevity Accelerator Retreat has taken pampering and rejuvenation to the next level, so the effects carry on long after you leave.

The science-focused experience combines technology and wellbeing to boost cell function, re-energise, and detoxify the body, all tailored by personal bio analysis information. The retreat’s personalised scientific insight is invaluable to building a regime that boosts longevity. And the entire experience is underscored by the care and attentiveness of staff and treatment.

A spa trip like no other

The retreat is held here, at the Four Seasons, Hampshire

The entire retreat is set in the stunning Georgian mansion of the Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire. With the beautiful English countryside as the backdrop to the trip, you’re sure to feel rested and relaxed before any of your treatment even starts.

The team provides more than just an overnight spa trip. Consultations with nutritionists and medical experts formulate the treatment you receive, ensuring every guest gets the most out of their retreat. A one-to-one consultation with a doctor will also address concerns and help you gain a deeper understanding of your individual health.

Tailored, scientific longevity treatment

The bio analysis is what makes this retreat a truly stand-out experience. It provides a breakdown of each guest’s body on a molecular level. This analysis measures fat mass, skeletal muscle mass, and visceral fat composition.

Fat mass sheds light on any weight fluctuations within a person. Measuring your skeletal muscle mass will help maintain the muscle mass through weight management and diet. Finally, identifying visceral fat value is highly important, as it’s a high indicator of how at risk an individual is to cardiometabolic illnesses, like heart disease, stroke, or diabetes.

The bio analysis provides a breakdown of each guest’s body on a molecular level

Genetic testing is also included at the retreat, which will highlight any changes in the genes, that could cause health issues. So, you’ll know well in advance if there’s a chance you’re susceptible to a rare or inherited condition. Providing guests with knowledge and the empowerment to take their health into their hands.

Following the bio analysis, experts use this information to build the most effective nutrition plan, exercise regime, and treatments for your body, during the stay. Which is what truly makes this a unique and personal retreat experience.

The spa treatment side

The science doesn’t just stop at bioanalysis though. The spa treatments on the retreat utilise the latest scientific technology to boost and rejuvenate your cells.

LGP and red light therapy treatments are used to improve skin health, boost collagen, increase muscle recovery, and reduce joint pain. So how does this work?

This type of light therapy has been found to enhance the body’s cellular function through stimulating the mitochondria, which power the cell. The stimulation of mitochondria strengthens cells, leading to cells repairing themselves and functioning with higher efficiency. Providing deep life-enhancing treatment.

The spa treatments on the retreat utilise the latest scientific technology to boost and rejuvenate your cells

Other treatments are also available to re-energise and boost muscular fitness. EMS training targets deep muscles which are often hard to activate in traditional work outs. Altitude training and radio frequency will regenerate and increase endurance, and ‘airenergy’ inhalation feeds your body’s cells with highly oxygenated air.

The tailored life-enhancing treatment also extends into nutrition and movement. Expect locally sourced ingredients and fresh smoothies to further boost your internal rejuvenation by detoxifying the body and boosting digestion.

The take aways

A luxury venue, the highest standard of service and care, partnered with leading technology to enhance and rejuvenate the body makes this spa experience unsurpassed by others.

And, in addition to all that, support from the Longevity Accelerator Retreat extends beyond the stay. Personalised meal plans and supplements are provided to continue guests’ rejuvenation journey past the walls of the Four Seasons Hotel. You are also given a report from the genetic and bio analysis. Therefore, you come away feeling confident in your own health journey.

Details

The Longevity Accelerator Retreat takes place across two days and one night. From 24 February to 25 February 2024. If you’re interest in boosting your own health and longevity, you can book this experience now.

Lana Hall

Lana can usually be found spinning her collection of records, or writing odd poems in her phone notes. Her mixer of choice is a ginger beer, and you’ll never find her away from the sea for more than a few weeks.

The post A retreat where longevity science and spa treatments combine appeared first on Silver Magazine.

Here are five tips on how to communicate with your cat, from leading cat expert Claire Bessant

Nurturing a relationship with an animal is one of the best feelings. The patter of their paws as they come up to you for attention, nuzzling up against you. But do you ever wonder what they’re thinking?! 

Claire is the chief executive of the Feline Advisory Bureau, and has recently released an updated edition of her book How to Talk to Your Cat. In her book, she shares tips on building a stronger relationship between you and your moggie. As well as analysing problems that can arise between cat and owner, and how best to resolve them.

Here are Claire’s top five tips on how to communicate, and keep your cats happy.

Cat lover? Take our cat quiz

1. Treat cats as cats 

Cats are sensitive creatures, tuned into their environment, and to the people and other animals within it. They’re not like people, or dogs, who have an inbuilt need to collaborate and compromise in exchange for the benefits of being within a group. 

Cats (except lions) have evolved as solitary predators. And as such don’t have the genetic make-up which drives them to compromise. Therefore, some of their behaviours may seem ‘selfish’ to us, but that is a human point of view. The word ‘pet’ implies certain behaviour on both sides. But we are dealing with an animal with strongly inbuilt needs, not a teddy bear or a robot. The fact that we can live successfully together is actually a huge credit to the adaptability of the cat. 

Many of us call our pets ‘fur babies’ or ourselves ‘pet parents’, which shows our love for them and the responsibility we take for them. However, this also allows us to consider them as children and interpret their behaviour and needs as such. This can do the cat a disservice, removing the need to understand the species, and can lead to miscommunication. 

2. Let the cat take lead

When a cat comes for interaction, react and stroke or talk, being sensitive to how long the cat wants this interaction to occur. Go slowly and don’t push the physical interaction – the cat may not want to be grabbed, or cuddled or kissed.  

Watch out for signs that the cat has had enough. If it dips away from your hand, turns to look at the hand which is stroking it, that’s a sign. So is it if its skin ripples, its ears move lower or turn around, or it tries to move away. 

Cats usually like short interactions which do not confine them – longer and closer is not usually the cat way. React to positive signs from the cat – approaching with its tail up, rubbing around your legs, purring, or moving towards your hand for interaction. It’s about trust and gentle, respectful interaction; few cats want intense handling or tummy tickling. If you ignore negative signs, then the cat is less likely to initiate interaction, and vice versa.

3. Get to know your cat

Just like people, there are bold and confident cats who take life and its challenges in their stride. There are others which are nervous, and for whom change may cause stress. Being stressed means that cats may behave by hiding, or by pushing people away, which may be interpreted as aggression. 

How the cat reacts can be a result of its genes and its experiences in the first couple of months of life, when it can learn to be comfortable with people, or to be fearful of them.

4. Listen to your cat

Between themselves, cats do make sounds such as small chirrups, purring, and of course hissing or growling if they are not getting on. However, cats have learned, very cleverly, to develop interactions with their people using different miaows.  

If a certain miaow is interpreted by us as them wanting food or attention, they may encourage us by making some parts of the sound higher pitched or drawn out. The more you allow yourself to be ‘trained’, the more likely the cat is to interact in this way.  

Listen to your cat’s purr. You will start to notice that there are two ‘modes’; one that is rather sleepy and contented, when for example they are sitting quietly on our laps; the other more demanding, with an underlying pitch which stirs us into action! If you react positively to their encouragement, communication is being built up.

5. Be respectful of your cat

Be respectful, and don’t try to control the cat. All of its instincts will interpret this as a threat to survival, not that you are doing something you feel is for its own good. Enjoy the contented moments and read the signals the cat is giving. They may be subtle but if you tune in you will notice more and more. Encourage and reward with whatever your cats likes; stroking, food, or play. But identify when the cat has had enough.  

Enjoy the small things. It’s not all about cuddling the cat. The cat may want to be with you when you are working at the computer or in the garden, it may begin to communicate more if you react in the right way and that is rewarding too. Even small things can make you happy, as well as the cat. Each relationship is different.

How to Talk to Your Cat, by Claire Bessant, is out now

Lana Hall

Lana can usually be found spinning her collection of records, or writing odd poems in her phone notes. Her mixer of choice is a ginger beer, and you’ll never find her away from the sea for more than a few weeks.

The post Five tips on how to communicate with your cat appeared first on Silver Magazine.

It’s a busy time in the run up to Christmas. Hopefully, you’re mostly prepared for the big day, but if you’re not there’s still plenty of time. If you’re a bit last minute dot com, we don’t judge. Instead, we’re here to help you! (With Christmas posting dates that is… we can’t tell you what to buy for your niece’s boyfriend.)

Whether you’re yet to send out your Christmas cards, or you’ve got presents to post to friends, it’s good to be aware of how long you’ve got left till they have to go out.

So, we’ve gone and rounded up the dates for the absolute last possible days you can leave it to post something, using any of the main courier services in the UK, and it arrive in time for Christmas.

Last Christmas posting dates for UK couriers

Royal Mail

• Royal Mail 2nd Class and 2nd Class Signed For – Monday 18 December
• Royal Mail 1st Class and 1st Class Signed For – Wednesday 20 December
• Royal Mail Special Delivery Guaranteed – Thursday 21 December

Parcelforce

• Parcelforce Worldwide express48 and express48 Large – Wednesday 20 December
• Parcelforce Worldwide express24. expressAM – Thursday 21 December

DPD

• DPD Next Day and DPD Next Day by 12 – both Thursday 21 December
• DPD Next Day with Saturday delivery and DPD Next Day by 12 with Saturday delivery – Friday 22 December

Evri

• Evri Standard Tracked – Wednesday 20 December by 11am
• Evri Next Day Tracked – Thursday 21 December by 11am

Yodel

• Yodel Direct Store to Store and Store to Door – Sunday 17 December

Read more – Managzing Christmas bonuses and windfalls

Lana Hall

Lana can usually be found spinning her collection of records, or writing odd poems in her phone notes. Her mixer of choice is a ginger beer, and you’ll never find her away from the sea for more than a few weeks.

The post Last Christmas posting dates UK appeared first on Silver Magazine.

Tazmin Outhwaite’s red carpet look has got us feeling inspired for our party look this season – festive red, luxurious velvet, and a strong silhouette. As far as women’s Christmas party wear goes, it doesn’t get much better than this.

She’s a classy dresser and we particularly love this zhuzhy, velvety red look.

The champagne is in the fridge, the RSVP is sent, and you need an outfit to feel your festive best in.

GET TAMZIN’S LOOK

Velvet V-Neck Pintuck Blouse, M&S Collection, £35

It’s all in the details in this one. Subtle shoulder puffs and waist shaping pleats, all in glamorous, smooth velvet.

Velvet Elasticated Waist Wide Leg Trousers, Nobody’s Child, £62

Fitted and fun. A great party trouser to dress up or down, depending on the dress code.

Reiss Opal Fitted Velvet Single Breasted Suit Blazer, £298

Walk into the party with power in this velvet crafted blazer, with a touch of silk on the lapels.

Longline Double Breasted Oversized Coat, Principles, £109

Your outfit doesn’t have to suffer from the weather. Keep the entire look sophisticated with a long-line neutral coloured overcoat.

Cassette Strappy Heels, Dune, £110

The brooch details on this sling back heel will look classy and fun peeking out under wide leg trousers.

Citrine Auroral Pendant Necklace, QP Jewellers, £385

This stunning emerald cut citrine necklace will add sophistication and some subtle glam to any outfit.

Sphere Chain Necklace, Abbott Lyon, £45

The perfect chain to layer with a pendant or any other necklace in your collection. 

Square Hoop Earrings, Abbott Lyon, £75

A take on traditional circular hoop earrings. These hoops can even be stamped with a name to make for a personal gift.

Jeff Goldblum’s red carpet look – men’s party wear

Lana Hall

Lana can usually be found spinning her collection of records, or writing odd poems in her phone notes. Her mixer of choice is a ginger beer, and you’ll never find her away from the sea for more than a few weeks.

The post Party glam from Tamzin Outhwaite – women’s Christmas party wear appeared first on Silver Magazine.

As red carpet season kicks off, who better to turn to for inspiration than jazzy Jeff Goldblum, working his cool and classic on the red carpet, for some men’s Christmas party wear ideas.

Pairing black and blue takes a bit of skill, but we love what he’s got here – black coat, dark blue tie, black shoes. It’s a classy look with a bit of a twist.

GET JEFF’S LOOK

Italian Wool Overcoat, Jaeger, £299

Made from gorgeous wool and cashmere, and cut in a classic design, this sophisticated overcoat can be worn for formal events, or dressed down with jeans.

Navy Tie Set, Santoro Milan, £29.99

Not just a beautiful silk tie, but pocket square and tie pin too. Would make an excellent gift.

House of Cavani Seeba Navy Regular Three Piece Suit, Santoro Milan, £289.97

Look sharp with this slim-fit, elegant three piece. Transition from day to night, with or without the waistcoat. A must for any wardrobe.

Glasgow Black Hi-Shine Brogues, Barker, £175

You can tell a lot about a man by his shoes. These shoes say you’re stylish, classy, and ready to party.

Pure cashmere scarf, Autograph, £55

Luxurious, warm and soft. Just the thing to keep the chill off your chest.

Lucky Sixpence Cufflinks, Hersey & Son London Silversmiths, £108

Those of you too young to remember sixpennies might not know this, but a sixpence is a very lucky charm. Keep the luck, and the charm, with you at all times.

Men’s Full Leather Gloves, The House of Bruar, £34.95

Soft leather and fleecy lining, perfect for when the weather is freezing but your fashion sense is still hot.

Collection Long Sleeve Ultimate non-iron shirt, Russell, £54.99

Ah, the term ‘non iron’ is so alluring! This elegant shirt looks sharp, but is definitely low maintenance. 

Bering Ultra Slim Watch, The Watch Hut, £149

Watches are a big deal, but not everyone can afford a Rolex. This elegant, simple design gives off all the right signs, and all the right times.

More Goldblum – The Jurassic journey an interview with Jeff Goldblum

Lana Hall

Lana can usually be found spinning her collection of records, or writing odd poems in her phone notes. Her mixer of choice is a ginger beer, and you’ll never find her away from the sea for more than a few weeks.

The post Jeff Goldblum’s red carpet look – men’s party wear appeared first on Silver Magazine.

There’s only a week of November left and advent is nearly knocking on the door. In case you haven’t thought of how you’re going to countdown to the festive day, we’ve got you. 

We’ve whipped up a collection of what we think are the best advent calendars on the market so you can treat yourself (or a loved one) throughout December. 

Food & drink calendars

Hotel Chocolat Dark Advent Calendar, £11.05

Love a sweet treat? Want something indulgent for the festive season? Hotel Chocolat’s dark chocolate advent calendar ticks both those boxes.

English Tea Shop Pyramid Advent Calendar, £8.67

From Gingerbread, to Tropical Lemongrass. This calendar has a variety of tea bags for you to find your next favourite herbal tea flavour.

Whiskey Advent Calendar, £149.95

24 samples of whiskeys from across the globe, so your December evening tipples are sorted. *Obligatory drink responsibly message*

Wine advent calendar 24 days, £95

Achieve your wine-iest dreams with this advent calendar. We hope you’re not picky, because this box has Chardonnay to Malbec, and everything in-between.

Beauty Calendars

Clarins 12 Day Women’s Advent Calendar, £65

A mix of full size and sample size products from Clarins so you can feel your best, all December long.

Rituals Classic Advent Calendar, £87.90

Wrapped up in a stunning festive building box, filled with Rituals most loved and best selling products. 

Joules Starry Night 24 Days of Gifts Advent Calendar, £28

Luxurious body products and little extras, like a sleep mask, thrown in makes up this colourful advent calendar. 

Jo Malone London 25 Day Advent Calendar, £350

Gingerbread inspired and jam packed with luxurious Jo Malone products – fragrances, bath and body samples, and more.

A little something different

Yankee Candle Wreath Advent Calendar, £19.50

25 christmassy tea light candles to burn throughout the festive month. A nod to traditional pillar advent candles.

Pringle 12 Day Sockvent Calendar, £50

Pimp up your sock draw with 12 quality cotton socks in classic colours in this Pringle advent calendar. 

Artisan Coffee Bag Advent Calendar, £28.99

Perfect if you’re a coffee aficionado, or you need that boost of energy to get you through the busiest month of the year.

Just Spices Large Calendar, £99.99

With 24 quality spices and a recipe book to guide you on what to cook with them, your December meals will be flavoursome as ever. 

Lana Hall

Lana can usually be found spinning her collection of records, or writing odd poems in her phone notes. Her mixer of choice is a ginger beer, and you’ll never find her away from the sea for more than a few weeks.

The post Christmas advent calendar roundup appeared first on Silver Magazine.