From acupuncture, lifestyle seminars, ayurvedic cuisine and onboard spas and saunas, wellness is buoyant and has taken a liking for the high seas. The health cruise is here.

With a personal trainer for zero-gravity massage to guide you to fitness, while muscle and fat diagnostics help you achieve your health goals, the traditional boundaries of wellness have gradually gravitated towards voyages on the sea.

That said, since most cruise ships carry over 4,000 passengers and crew, staying healthy and fit for the duration of the voyage is not always an easy task.

Remember, a cruise ship is virtually a floating city where large numbers of people stay in close proximity, which increases the chances of infection spreading.

That is why it is important to design a wellness focused health cruise vacation that allows you to sail away into relaxation. Whilst at the same time staying committed to health and wellbeing in a state-of-the-art fitness-centre environment.

Read more: why the Maldives is a great choice in May

Choose an itinerary that is fitness-friendly

If you want to stay active and bursting with energy all the time, choose an itinerary that will allow you ways to keep up this practice. For example, a week in Alaska can stimulate fitness, as outdoor activities like dog sledding, kayaking or rock climbing can be enjoyed.

If you prefer a much milder approach, go on a Mediterranean cruise to experience natural wonders, breathtaking beaches and try a different sport each day like horse riding, windsurfing and hiking while on shore.

There are other excursions too that are designed for active cruisers such as a guided hike to the Pulpit Rock in Stavenger, Norway, or to go hiking up the dramatic limestone cliffs of Paklenica National Park in Croatia.

If you are a running fan, there are a number of fabulous urban and suburban hiking paths in Copenhagen around the Kasteller neighbourhood, or along the 17th century colourful waterfront in Barcelona, bordered by the city on one side and the Mediterranean on the other.

Wellness on the water

Take a few moments every day on your cruise to simply gaze at the ocean as there is something healing and energetic about looking at the waves and taking in the surrounding views. You can choose a comfortable spot on the deck or any of the sofas in the lounge.

Consider taking a late-night stroll around the deck before you retire for the night to watch the rays of the moon reflecting on the water for an extremely soothing visual effect. Or simply enjoy the views from your private balcony at sunrise.

Modern cruise ships come equipped with the latest state-of-the-art fitness centres to cater to your fitness routine while on the high seas for a high or low-impact body workout.

On select ships you will find indoor cycling equipment where you can pedal as hard as you want. Or you can put on headphones and join an instructor-guided, music focused workout.

Choose a Class Pass on your cruise to gain unlimited access to all the fitness classes if you want to try them all.

If you prefer something low-impact and soothing, there are a range of yoga and meditation classes available on most ships. Additionally, teachers can focus on breathing and relaxation exercises that place in the open on the deck in fresh air.

Wellness-focused cruises have sauna, steam rooms, sensory showers and heated lounge areas where you will find aromatic steam, salt healing, infrared saunas and the traditional Hammam for a Turkish inspired fitness experience.

Special diets

After an early morning workout or a sunrise run, savour some uplifting fresh juice at the ship’s cafe on your health cruise. A Mediterranean diet can also be arranged if you so please.

Here you can also try other delicious nutrient-packed juices of beet, carrot, apple or strawberry to energise you for the day ahead.

A lavish salad bar is in place at lunch and dinner from where you can create your own salad bowl of nuts, cheese, humus, roast chicken followed by a fruit plate or low-calories ice cream.

The onboard fitness professionals can also help by creating a personalised nutrition plan to cater to your needs. Contrary to what you may have imagined, a cruise is actually a great place to begin a new healthy eating regime as all the food planning and preparation is already in place for you.

Healthy cruising tips

Follow these tips to ensure the best healthy cruise ever:

• Sanitise all the common areas of your states as soon as you arrive. Use sanitised wipes on the door and balcony handles, toilet seats, taps, TV remote, and all light switches.
• Refrain from using the public bathrooms and return to your cabin if possible.
• Sanitise your hands after meals and if you encounter someone sick, inform the medical team immediately.
• On the buffet table, avoid using the service utensils and use the cutlery laid down instead.
• Above all, stay hydrated at all times, avoid excessive alcohol intake, and drink only bottled water.

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Weight loss injections such as Mounjaro and Wegovy, already gaining popularity for their effectiveness in obesity and diabetes management, may soon have another important application — helping people with asthma.

According to new research, these medications could improve asthma symptoms in people who are obese, a group particularly vulnerable to severe respiratory issues.

Asthma affects approximately 7.2 million people in the UK, and being obese significantly increases the risk of developing the condition, according to the charity Asthma and Lung UK. Research has consistently shown a clear link between rising obesity rates and the growing number of respiratory problems across the country.

How they work

Medications like Mounjaro (tirzepatide) and Wegovy (semaglutide) belong to a class of drugs known as GLP-1 receptor agonists. These drugs mimic hormones that regulate blood sugar, appetite, and digestion.

While initially developed to treat type 2 diabetes, they have more recently gained attention for their impressive weight loss benefits. Furthermore, GLP-1 agonists have also demonstrated protective effects against heart disease, strokes, and even neurological conditions such as dementia and psychotic disorders.

Read more: Is it worth seeking a cheap weight loss treatment? 

The new facts

Fast-forward to the present, and researchers are now exploring their potential in improving respiratory health. A recent study led by Professor David Price, chair of primary care respiratory medicine at the University of Aberdeen, suggests that these weight loss drugs may also help manage asthma symptoms — especially in patients who do not respond well to conventional steroid treatments.

“People with obesity and asthma are unique in that they are often resistant to steroid treatments,” said Prof Price. “We know that GLP1s work on inflammatory responses in the airways in a different way to traditionally used steroids.”

To conduct the study, researchers analysed the medical records of over 10,000 individuals taking GLP-1 receptor agonists, and compared them against those who were not on these medications. During the follow-up period, those on the weight loss jabs not only lost more weight, but also showed significantly improved asthma control.

What’s notable, Prof Price said, is that these improvements in asthma symptoms occurred even when the amount of weight lost was relatively small — only about 0.9 kg over the course of a year. The suggestion here is that the medication may directly influence airway inflammation, even independent of weight loss.

“These findings suggest medics should pay attention to the relationship between GLP-1 receptor agonists and the risk of respiratory diseases,” Prof Price emphasised.

There’s hope, but approach with caution

Dr Erika Kennington, head of research and innovation at Asthma and Lung UK, called the research “encouraging.” She noted that for many asthma patients, physical activity can be daunting due to the risk of triggering an attack. This makes it harder to lose weight and worsens their condition — a cycle that’s hard to break.

“Where exercise hasn’t worked, these weight-loss drugs could offer a promising alternative,” said Dr Kennington. However, she cautioned it’s still too early to recommend the drugs broadly for asthma treatment. More research is needed to assess their effectiveness across different patient groups.

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In recent years, the wellness landscape has seen a powerful shift toward natural, food-based approaches to health benefits and mindful living. With a growing interest in the food-as-medicine movement, people are seeking nutrient-dense ingredients that not only enhance flavour but also deliver tangible health benefits at the same time as encouraging a more intentional, conscious lifestyle. Among the top contenders in this trend are microgreens. Small but mighty plants, harvested just a couple of weeks after germination.

Once exclusive to gourmet chefs and high-end restaurants, microgreens are now showing up in home kitchens and farmer’s markets across the country. Easy to grow, full of flavour, and rich in health-promoting nutrients, microgreens are more than just a culinary garnish. They’re an accessible tool for everyday wellness and mindful nourishment.

What makes microgreens so powerful?

Fifteen years ago, you’d be hard-pressed to find a solid answer to whether microgreens were truly good for your health. But today, the science is clear. These tiny greens can contain up to 40 times more nutrients than their mature vegetable counterparts. This makes them a concentrated source of vital compounds like vitamins A, C, and E, polyphenols, and disease-fighting antioxidants.

Microgreens like red cabbage, broccoli, radish, sunflower, and pea shoots have shown promise in reducing blood pressure, improving cholesterol levels, enhancing digestion, and supporting immunity. Because of their impressive nutritional density, even small servings can deliver significant health benefits.

Food as medicine: why timing matters

Microgreens are typically harvested just 7-21 days after planting. This is the optimal time to capture their peak nutrient content. Unlike sprouts, which are germinated in water and consumed before their first leaves emerge, microgreens are grown in soil and harvested after they’ve developed their first true leaves. This stage is crucial. It’s when the plant begins to concentrate its vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals.

This developmental timing is what gives microgreens their edge in the food-as-medicine movement. Their dense nutritional makeup makes them ideal for supporting various health goals, from heart health to improved cognition and even reduced cancer risk.

The nutritional goldmine

A single handful of microgreens can be rich in:

• Vitamin C
• Vitamin A
• Folate
• Magnesium
• Calcium
• Iron
• Zinc
• B vitamins
• Antioxidants
• Polyphenols
• Prebiotic fibre

These nutrients work synergistically to combat oxidative stress, reduce inflammation, and support the immune system. In fact, consuming microgreens regularly may help prevent or manage chronic conditions like heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, and even neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.

What’s more, microgreens are kidney-friendly, as they generally contain lower potassium levels compared to fully-grown vegetables. This makes them a safe and beneficial choice for individuals with reduced kidney function. Without sacrificing their intake of key nutrients.

Gut health and immunity: a natural boost

Microgreens offer a surprising advantage when it comes to supporting digestive wellness. Rich in prebiotic fibre, they stimulate the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, which play a central role in digestion, immunity, and mental clarity.

A balanced and thriving gut microbiome has been associated with:

• Stronger immune response
• Better weight management
• Reduced risk of gastrointestinal disorders
• Improved energy levels
• Enhanced mood and mental well-being

Adding microgreens to daily meals provides a natural, low-effort way to promote a balanced gut environment without supplements or extreme dietary shifts.

Microgreens as everyday preventative care

Incorporating microgreens into daily meals offers a proactive approach to health. Not just reacting to illness, but preventing it in the first place. Their dense nutrient content supports cellular repair, immune defence, and metabolic balance, of which are crucial for long-term wellness.

Unlike many restrictive health fads, microgreens are easy to use and enjoyable to eat. Which makes them a sustainable habit, rather than a short-term fix. Whether sprinkled over eggs or stirred into grain bowls, they deliver therapeutic benefits without requiring drastic changes. As we shift from treatment to prevention in modern wellness thinking, microgreens serve as a consistent, low-effort solution for protecting health naturally and deliciously. One small serving at a time.

Growing wellness at home

With many people spending more time at home, interest in homegrown foods has skyrocketed. Growing microgreens indoors is simple and highly satisfying. With just a shallow container, a bit of soil, a sunny windowsill, and a touch of patience, you can enjoy fresh greens in no time.

Many microgreens reach harvest size within only 7 to 10 days, making them one of the fastest-growing edible plants. Growing them offers more than just a steady supply of nutritious greens; it can also be a therapeutic activity. The process of planting, nurturing, and harvesting microgreens fosters mindfulness and a deeper connection with the food we consume. For many, it’s a welcome mental break from daily stress.

Emotional wellness through mindful eating

The benefits of microgreens extend beyond the physical. Preparing meals with fresh, vibrant ingredients fosters greater awareness and appreciation of what we consume. This intentional approach not only improves digestion but also nurtures a calmer, more balanced relationship with food.

Nurturing microgreens from seed to sprout can encourage a sense of purpose and accomplishment. It’s an uplifting routine that can ease feelings of anxiety or burnout. In a fast-paced world, microgreens offer a small but meaningful way to reconnect with nature, nourish the body, and slow down mentally. They invite us to treat eating as a daily ritual of care, rather than a rushed necessity.

A healthy habit for the whole family

For parents trying to encourage healthier eating habits in kids, microgreens offer a crafty solution. Involving kids in the growing process helps build excitement around fresh food. Children are far more likely to eat vegetables they’ve grown themselves. Even if it’s a handful of peppery radish greens on a sandwich!

It becomes less about enforcing ‘healthy habits’, and more about cultivating curiosity and pride in what they’ve helped grow. The reward is twofold. Better nutrition, and better engagement with food.

Microgreens and the modern plate

Nutritional perks aside, microgreens are a feast for the senses. Their vivid colours, crisp textures, and wide range of flavours – from spicy and earthy to tangy and nutty – make them a favourite among chefs and home cooks alike.

They effortlessly elevate any dish:

• Add arugula microgreens to pizza for a peppery finish
• Top off soups with red cabbage greens for a burst of colour
• Mix sunflower shoots into smoothies for an energy boost
• Layer pea shoots into sandwiches for extra crunch and protein

This variety not only keeps meals interesting but ensures you’re getting a diverse range of phytonutrients across different microgreen types.

A complement to other wellness tools

While microgreens are a powerful addition to any diet, they’re often part of a larger wellness toolkit that includes mindfulness, exercise, and other natural supplements. Some people also turn to complementary products, such as adaptogens or CBD Gummies, to support stress relief and promote overall balance in their daily routines. When combined with nutrient-rich wholefoods like microgreens, these choices can support a holistic approach to health.

Sustainability and self-reliance

Beyond personal health, microgreens support environmental sustainability. They require minimal space, water, and time compared to traditional crops. This makes them a great choice for urban gardening and reduces dependence on industrial food systems.

By cultivating microgreens at home, you can:

• Reduce food waste
• Minimise packaging and transport emissions
• Cut costs on store-bought greens
• Enjoy pesticide-free, fresh-picked produce all year round

This small-scale, home-based food production aligns with a growing movement toward self-reliance and eco-conscious eating.

Future of wellness: functional foods and smart choices

The wellness world is moving toward personalisation, functionality, and intentional living. Microgreens Facts check all these boxes. They are:

• Easy to grow and integrate
• Packed with targeted nutrition
• In harmony with both ancient healing traditions and contemporary wellness practices
• Safe for people with dietary restrictions or sensitivities

As we continue to explore how food can influence everything from mood to metabolism, it’s clear that microgreens deserve a permanent spot on our plates.

Final thoughts

From their rich vitamin content to their role in disease prevention and gut health, microgreens are small in size but mighty in impact. They fit naturally into the evolving landscape of nutrition, where food isn’t just about sustenance. It’s about healing, prevention, and empowerment.

By embracing microgreens in your daily routine, whether through growing them at home or adding them to your meals, you’re taking a meaningful step toward better health, sustainability, and mindful living.

After all, wellness doesn’t come in a one-size-fits-all package. Sometimes, it sprouts in the smallest places.

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This National Fitness Day, Channelle Hylton-Taylor, Activities Coordinator at Bupa Care Services , shares tips for anyone interested in getting more activity back into their lives, following recent online search increases. If you want to get fit again and you’re over 50, brilliant. But a few words of advice first.

In the last three months, more people have been turning to Google to find out ways to safely reintroduce movement and fitness as we mature. Searches are 26 times higher in August than they were any other month this year.

Staying active in as we age can have a range of benefits for your body and mind. When it’s done right, it can help you ward off aches and pains, not to mention boost your mental health. And yes, help future you to maintain physical independence as things inevitably head south.

5 tips to for getting back into fitness

Build things up slowly

If it’s been a while since you had a regular routine, it’s really important to build things up slowly to protect your body and really feel the benefits. The long-term goal is to aim for 150 minutes of moderate intensity aerobic exercise, every week.

If you’re currently not very active, take it easy with whatever activity you choose, and gradually increase how much you do of it over time. Moderate aerobic exercise is moving in a way that makes your breathing and heart rate faster, making you feel warmer, but it’s not vigorous enough to mean that you can’t still hold a conversation.

Another article you may enjoy: Save serious money and cycle to work

Choose aerobic exercises that you enjoy

It’s easier to make exercise a habit if you find something that you enjoy. Everyone is different, so experiment with a few different movements to see which one you get the most from. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Brisk walking – this could be around your home or garden, or around the block. It may be helpful to listen to an audiobook or some music to motivate you.
• Gardening – activities sweeping can give you a great workout, all while making your garden look more appealing!
• Swimming – this is a great low impact exercise, that’s really handy for those with hip or knee pain.
• Dancing – put on your favourite tunes and have a boogie round the house, or you could even join a dance class.
• Cycling – why not incorporate it into your lifestyle by getting on a bike and heading to the shops?
• ‘Walking’ sports like football or netball – look out for local clubs to feel the social benefit, too.

Don’t forget strengthening exercises

Along with aerobic exercise, it’s important to maintain your bone and muscle strength. Increased muscle tone will not only give your bodywork a bit more support, you’ll also burn calories more efficiently.

Bone and muscle strength is something that’s naturally lost with age. You should aim to do strength exercises on at least two days every week. But again, build this up slowly to give your muscles time to adjust and build.

You can incorporate strengthening exercises into your daily life by challenging yourself, or by introducing a new activity – and maybe even having some fun with it. Here are some ideas:

• Do some squats as you wait for the kettle to boil or you’re making dinner.
• Do some digging in the garden – this encourages you to use your weight against you for results.
• Water aerobics – these low-impact classes can help you maintain and gain muscle mass and strength.
• Pilates, tai chi, yoga – balance exercises are really important, particularly for core strength.
• Life weights at the gym – speak to an instructor for advice on form and limits.

Speak to a health professional if you’re concerned

If you’re worried about starting exercising – it could be that you have a health condition, or you’ve been recovering from an illness – that shouldn’t stop you from exercising completely. In some cases, exercise may help you to get better.

Know when to stop

If you’re getting enjoyment from exercise, it may be tempting to go all-in. However, if you find you have aches, pains, or dizziness when you exercise, that’s your body’s way of telling you that you may have gone a little too hard. So ease it back and build things up more slowly.

Speak to a GP straight away if you get any chest pain, light-headedness, or breathing difficulties when you exercise. Stop exercising until you speak to a health professional.

Generally speaking, start slow, find something you love doing, and you can build your fitness up slowly, surely and with confidence.

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In recent years fermented foods have risen in popularity, due to increasing evidence that they improve gut health. Fermented foods contain beneficial bacteria which aid digestion, boost immune systems, and improve overall wellbeing.

These days you can spot fermented foods in most supermarkets, not just health food stores, making fermented foods more easily accessible.

However, it’s surprisingly easy to make your own fermented foods at home. And once you start, you’ll be hooked!

What are fermented foods?

Food and drink becomes ‘fermented’ when it has undergone a microbial growth process. This is an anaerobic process whereby microorganisms break down food components such as sugars into organic acids, gases, and alcohols.

The fermentation process can include salt, yeast, or even just the preservation of the foods themselves. It’s what happens once the fermentation process takes place that makes the food magical.

People have been fermenting food for centuries, not just for preservation purposes, but to reap the health benefits which the food provides. Humans exhibit a unique preference for fermented food consumption that began to emerge in our ancestors as early as 10 million years ago.

Evidence suggests that the first fermented drink was a fermented alcoholic beverage made from fruit, honey, and rice found in Neolithic China dating back to 7000-6600 BCE. Nowadays, commonly-found fermented foods include kimchi, sauerkraut, apple cider vinegar, cheese, kefir, kombucha, sourdough bread, and miso.

Probiotics vs. prebiotics – what is the difference?

There are some crucial differences between probiotics and prebiotics. Probiotics are living microorganisms, the beneficial bacteria, found in fermented foods which directly support your gut microbiomes. Our guts are filled with millions of microorganisms which maintain good digestion, and probiotics act as a way of repopulating your gut. Probiotics can help with digestion issues, such as diarrhoea, and bloating. They can also be helpful when dealing with lactose intolerances.

Prebiotics are different. They are non-digestible fibres which serve as food for the healthy bacteria in our gut, and can be found in foods like garlic, onions, and bananas. Prebiotics may help with digestion, constipation, mineral absorption, cholesterol, and the immune system.

How fermented foods benefit your gut biome

Maintaining a healthy gut microbiome plays a massive role in our health, as it can significantly impact bodily functions. Each person’s gut microbiome is unique, with scientists estimating that there are around three million genes in the gut microbiome compared to the human genome’s 23,000 genes. Your gut microbiome has a symbiotic relationship with the body, and works to minimise disease risk, support immune function, and may even improve mental health, according to some experts.

Safe fermentation from home

It is both safe and delicious to experiment with fermenting your own foods from home. Easily fermentable foods include vegetables such as cabbage and carrots, dairy products such as yoghurt or kefir, or drinks, such as kombucha.

Another article you may like: Five foods that help with the symptoms of menopause

6 Tips before you begin to ferment

1. Ensure all your jars are sterile and have been thoroughly washed with warm soapy water, before being well dried.
2. Using fresh ingredients can minimise risks, by ensuring the food is not already beginning to rot.
3. To prevent any diseases while storing and preserving foods, such as botulism, it is crucial to limit oxygen exposure. You can do this by submerging your ingredients in a jar with a fermentation lid, or a vacuum seal, for safety.
4. Always use tried and tested recipes.
5. Whilst fermented foods can be kept outside the fridge, once the fermentation process is complete, storing your fermented foods in the fridge will allow for them to last as long as possible.
6. It is always best to stay vigilant whilst fermenting your own foods. If something smells off, or you are unsure about the safety of your fermented foods, it is always best to throw it away.

How to make sauerkraut

What you need:

• 2kg very firm, pale green or white cabbage (any leathery outer leaves removed), cored and shredded/finely sliced
• 3 tbsp coarse crystal sea salt (or 6 tbsp flaky sea salt)
• 1 tsp caraway seeds
• 1 tsp peppercorn

1. Begin by washing a large bowl and rinse it with boiling water in order to fully sanitise it. Make sure that your hands, the container you will store it in, and anything in contact with the cabbage are clean.
2. Shred the cabbage thinly before adding to the bowl with your coarse salt.
3. Massage the salt into the cabbage for five minutes, then wait a further five minutes, before repeating this step again, and combining the peppercorns and caraway seeds.
4. Press out all the air bubbles from the cabbage by covering the surface with clingfilm, before pressing down.
5. Then weigh the cabbage down to minimise air bubbles, by using heavy plates, or small weights. Once done the level of the brine should rise to cover the cabbage a little
6. Cover the tub and leave in a dark place at a cool room temperature (about 18-20*C) for at least five days.
7. Check the cabbage, ‘burping’ it daily to release any trapped air, whilst keeping it in a cool place.

It will be ready to eat in five days, but for maximum flavour leave the cabbage to ferment for anywhere between 2-6 weeks (about one and a half months).

How to make yoghurt

• 2 litres milk
• 10 g yoghurt culture (or 2 tablespoons of homemade or commercial yoghurt)
• ½ cup powdered milk (for thicker yoghurt)

1. Pour the milk into a pot. If you want thick yoghurt, add the powdered milk at this stage. Mix well.
2. Gently heat the milk until it boils, being careful not to burn. Stir to prevent the milk from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
3. When the milk reaches 82*C, remove it from heat and let it cool down to 42*C. To speed up the process, plunge the saucepan into a sink filled with ice water.
4. Then add the starter culture to a small amount of your warm milk and mix well.
5. Pour this into the remaining milk, making sure you stir well to distribute the culture in the milk.
6. Pour the inoculated milk into one or more containers. Close, and place into either a yoghurt maker, turned off oven, or pressure cooker.
7. Let it sit and incubate for 4 to 8 hours. Fermentation speed varies according to temperature and incubation method. The longer the incubation, the denser and sour the yoghurt will be.
8. Then place in the fridge for 8 hours, or overnight, before enjoying.

For more information on fermenting, check out this beginner’s guide. There are also plenty of fermenting fan groups on Facebook, like this Wild Fermenting one.

Isabella Poderico

Overly enthusiastic and obsessed with everything a little nerdy, Isabella has written about everything from movie premieres to politics. She can often be found, as many writers often are, sitting in front of her laptop typing away obsessively in an extortionately priced independent coffee shop.

The post The benefits of fermented food and how to get started at home appeared first on Silver Magazine.

Flying out to Zurich it was an unusually clear day. So clear that as we flew over the edge of England I could see my house from the plane. I waved goodbye to Blighty and settled in for the short journey to Switzerland. I was off to review the five star Grand Resort Bad Ragaz, hurrah.

Upon landing, the first thing I discovered was that my phone provider didn’t work in Switzerland. I’d just blindly assumed that I’d automatically get data switched over, but no.

No biggie, I figured, I’d just use the free Wi-Fi that I could see was in the airport. But connecting to the airport Wi-Fi was impossible. Log in here, add this code, no you can’t because you don’t have connectivity, log in here etc.

In the end a fellow traveller did me a hot spot so I could log in and buy some data. So be warned – Switzerland is not in the EU and your phone might not automatically work there. Plan ahead.

Leaving the airport, I was excited about my onward journey, because we had a train ticket to ride. I have a mad passion for train travel. The train was very clean and – we discovered to our amusement – very strictly silent.

In fact, our small group (all women, all quite excited) was roundly told off by a very cross little man who genuinely leapt out of his seat to tap the sign that presumably said “quiet”. We all shut up, trying not to look at each other and giggle.

I was right to be excited though…

I had a first-class ticket, and a first class view of Switzerland as we sped towards our destination. Awe-inspiring mountains rising out of stunning blue lakes, the tops so high they were lost in the clouds. It was thrilling, and I don’t say that lightly. There’s a huge benefit in feeling the power of awe, and the landscape really is awesome.

I could have spent hours on the train. But we arrived at Sargans station all too soon, and were picked up to head to the hotel resort.

Once inside the hotel I was hugely impressed. The lobby is light and airy, with a fantastic art installation of bubbles to represent the natural spa/spring water in the area. It’s upmarket without feeling oppressive. I don’t know how they manage to make such a vast hotel feel so family-run, but that’s how it rolls.

Dogs are allowed, which always makes me happy. And also kids, which I’m generally less enthusiastic about, if I’m honest. The resort is very much geared up for children though, unusual for a spa hotel like this, and I think actually it’s a nice idea. There’s a Kindervilla on site, for the children to hang out in during the daytime, as well as plenty of babysitters.

There’s also a children’s Heidi-themed spa area. So although the little darlings are allowed at the hotel, you don’t get them killing the chill in the adult spa zones. I don’t really mind kids. But don’t want them squawking next to me in the jacuzzi.

Also, something that one finds increasingly these days, despite the hotel having five stars and a very luxurious offering, guests were dressed quite informally. Not scruffy, you understand. Just in a relaxed fashion – which I totally appreciate. I’m done with heels and uncomfortable clothing these days.

My suite was a total corker

The view from my balcony

The suite was vast, situated at the front of the hotel with breathtaking views across the mountains. Standing on the balcony staring at the scenery whilst soft rain pattered around me was a quiet moment of bliss that I can still feel now if I close my eyes.

On my desk I found a gorgeous little selection of sweet and savoury snacks. And I was also delighted to find a very well-stocked fridge and snack zone. Decent gin and tonic! Big tick.

Another word to the wise: I’d felt very smug remembering to bring my UK to Europe plug adaptor, but guess what?! The plugs in Switzerland are different. At our hotel the concierge had a bunch of them you could borrow, and almost everyone in our (British) group needed one. But something to be aware of.

Standing on the balcony staring at the scenery whilst soft rain pattered around me was a quiet moment of bliss

In the afternoon we’d been due to have a tour of the outside art installations, part of the Bad RagARTz exhibition, which happens once every three years. It’s a region-wide showcase, with art, sculptures and statues dotted everywhere. Worth planning a trip around this to see it, if you’re thinking of heading here. But it was raining, so instead we relaxed, had a tour of the hotel resort, including the Kindervilla, and got ready for dinner.

As I was dressing for dinner, a storm broke out over the mountains. Storms always excite me – it was quite something, thunder and lightning over the mountains. I watched it for a bit, spellbound.

Around the resort

The Grand Resort is home to several very lovely restaurants, as well as a health and medical centre, dental centre, and of course the spa. There’s even a take-away sushi kiosk, KOiSO, which I confess to ordering twice from during my stay.

The resort is a centre of medicine and wellness, not just a place for a massage and dip in the water. There are doctors here practicing in everything from orthopaedics, traumatology and vascular disease to mental health, dental health, and Chinese medicine.

There’s also a full-service plastic surgery department, sports therapy clinic, rehab centre, nutrition clinics… you name it, it’s probably at the resort. One could absolutely have a face lift and tummy tuck, and hide out here in the mountains to recover, having regular massages, therapies, and swimming in the various pools. Have put this on my mental wish list for in a few years’ time.

Our first night, and we met in the elegant lobby for cocktails

I’ve had beautifully-made cocktails in places all over the world (she said smugly) but the mixologists here are amongst the very best I’ve experienced. Exquisitely crafted drinks, gorgeous choice of glassware – a very good start to the evening.

Namun is their Asian-inspired restaurant, and where we ate on our first night. The joy of travelling in a small group means you get to order a la carte, rather than have a set menu, which can happen if you’re in a bigger group. I had Thai prawn summer rolls, and a mix of dim sum including dumplings, melt-in-the-mouth Wagyu beef, and various gyoza.

Sadly I couldn’t manage any pudding, but I did choose some sake from their extensive sake-specific menu. And by the time dinner was over, I was ready to drop. The food was magic, and I slept like a baby.

Deliciousness at Namun

Next morning the sun had broken through…

And I was chuffed to bits that I’d ordered breakfast in my room. I leapt out of bed – well, maybe not leapt, but rose enthusiastically – and before even having a cup of tea, bolted downstairs to the outside pool. I’d seen it the day before, and was desperate to get in it, to swim with that phenomenal backdrop, and make the most of the dry weather. It was heavenly.

Back up to my room and my breakfast trolley had been delivered. This for me is the height of dining delight – to eat indulgently in the privacy of my own room. I made a point of having the ‘<<verve>>’ special, so named after the resort’s Michelin-starred restaurant. If you’re interested, it’s crispy sourdough toast, with a tomato jam, and lovage whipped tofu cream, topped with poached eggs and baby salad leaves. I could have done without the jam, very sweet. But the whippy tofu stuff was magic.

Outdoor pool; <<verve>> breakfast; spa relaxation area

I was booked in for the ‘Pause and Reset’ treatment – an 80-minute aromatherapy full body workover that is “specifically designed to help ease the side effects of hormonal changes.” I don’t know about that, but I do know that I could barely stand when I got off the bed. Can’t remember the last time I felt so relaxed.

After that it was a short stagger to the spa area, where I bobbed about in the fabulous body-temperature swimming pool, before somehow making my way to my room for a short siesta. Nice to be able to wander around in my robe. It’s one of the nicest and oddest things about fancy spa hotels, I find. Fortunately I had the presence of mind to grab sushi to take up to my room. Because once I landed there, I was wiped out! Siesta time…

The afternoon saw a few activities before dinner…

Post-lunch, members of our group pottered around the local area. For me it was a chance to take in some of the outdoor art installations, and also have a little mooch around the little village next to the resort. Some of the group went to the Tamina Gorge, the source of the 36.5° C warm thermal waters that have made Bad Ragaz world famous.

‘Bad’ by the way, means ‘bath’, in case you were wondering. I didn’t know that until I came here, and I’d thought Bad Ragaz sounded a bit like a rapper’s name. But now we both know.

In the evening we were lucky enough to eat at verve by Sven, the Michelin-starred restaurant on site. I’d been excited about this since we arrived, and made the most of the exciting menu. For starter I had tomato, redcurrant, basil, and pine nut burrata plate, which was outstanding. Then for main course, a few of us shared the frankly astonishing seared beef cutlets with hoisin jus, served with seared lettuce and other bits.

A beef encounter

I know, not very adventurous in a place with a star. But frankly I think you can judge a restaurant by its steaks, eggs, custards, and sauces. I’m going to say it’s a yes from me here. The beef was meltingly delish. I wish I had two stomachs.

Our final day…

And I woke up to breakfast in my room again. I went all-out this time. Eggs, crispy bacon, caviar and a little bottle of Ruinart, my favourite champagne. How could I not?!

Oh well, if you insist

Once we’d checked out, we had a trip to Heidi’s Village, which was as surreal and adorable as you might imagine. Although Heidi is a fictional character, the stories are set in the region, and Heidi’s Village is only a short 10 min ride from the hotel. There are goats, natch. And they’ve created the houses that Heidi and all the other book characters would have lived in. It’s a bit nuts, but very endearing. It’s perfect for children who know the stories.

The Grand Resort Bad Ragaz is a great place for multigenerational trips because it’s one of the only places in the world that I’m aware of that accommodates kids at an upmarket spa hotel.

Plenty of childcare, coupled with the children’s spa and pool areas, mean that you can take your kids and grandkids there and not have to sacrifice your own peaceful experience. Or enable your darling offspring to annoy other guests. And when you’re not in the hotel, there’s plenty to do within a short hop from the resort.

I loved the place, and wished I could have stayed longer. The food was exemplary, and the service and facilities faultless. I didn’t want to come home!

Now, to start planning my next visit there…

Grand Resort Bad Ragaz
Rates: high season, rooms and suites from 750CHF (Swiss francs) per night. A suite like mine is around 1,100CHF (£990) per night
‘Pause and Reset’ treatment 295CHF (£265)
Tasting menu at verve by Sven 120CHF (£116)
Return flight Heathrow-Zurich is around £200-300 off peak, but you can easily double that in high season

Sam Harrington-Lowe

Sam is Silver’s founder and editor-in-chief. She’s largely responsible for organising all the things, but still finds time to do the odd bit of writing. Not enough though. Send help.

The post Five star treatment at the Grand Resort Bad Ragaz – review appeared first on Silver Magazine.

From one heartache to the next

This time two years ago I ended my marriage of 15 years, a week before my birthday. My husband and I lived in our apartment for another 12 months, finishing the renovations so it could go up for sale. I found a much smaller place in St Leonard’s on Sea, just five miles away, while my ex was planning to move back to his native France.

Meanwhile I was in relationship with a man I was besotted with. A man who would go on to repeatedly ghost me then leave me for another woman.

Fast-forward a year and we were finally due to exchange contracts on our flat. Only for the buyer to pull out at the last moment. I had to pay the fees for the flat I could no longer buy, along with the fees for the one we hadn’t sold. I had no work at the time, so it was a huge blow, both financially and emotionally.

It’s fair to say that life was overwhelming for both of us.

Gautier’s father had died unexpectedly during COVID and his mother had recently been diagnosed with cancer, and was undergoing brutal treatment with a bleak prognosis. We were both devastated, obviously him more than me. But I too was so stressed I was worried that I’d end up with cancer.

Guess what?

The unthinkable

Gautier had just left for France when I found a weird cocktail sausage-shaped swelling in my left breast whilst maneuvering myself into a new bikini. I was sent for a mammogram, scan and biopsies immediately after the consultant had examined me, and had a lumpectomy six weeks later.

Friends helped out post-surgery, but there was nobody to make me a cup of tea, give me a hug, do housework and make dinner. Each night I went to bed exhausted, scared and alone. I struggled physically and mentally for months, especially after radiotherapy. I was stuck in a flat I couldn’t sell, so I literally couldn’t move on with my life. And I found it hard to ask for help, so I didn’t.

I desperately needed a break before I broke.

Another article you may like: 10 things I wish I’d known about breast cancer – before I had it 

A change of scenery – the road to recovery

An all-inclusive hotel in Egypt’s Sharm-el-Sheik wouldn’t have been my first choice of destination. I was thinking more of Madeira or Menorca. However, a deal popped up for the Iberotel Redsina and the word ‘snorkeling’ jumped out at me.

I went bananas and booked a ‘swim-up’ room instead of the cheapest room, which is what the old me had always done. The sea appeared to be the same shade of blue as Paul Newman’s eyes. My body needed this like it needed oxygen.

Because it was summer and off-season – high season being spring or late autumn/winter – the resort was almost empty. I arrived at night, ordered room service and jumped straight in the pool outside my room. I swam under the soft white lights with no interruptions except the faint rustling of palm tree leaves as they swayed in the breeze.

The grounds are beautiful

There’s nothing but polite staff, beautiful flowers and palm trees everywhere you go. I felt very relaxed despite the 45-degree heat doing its best to floor me.

I’d sit cross-legged in the clear shallows playing with passing fish and little things that were like a cross between starfish and tarantulas (we held hands/tentacles)

The 60-minute deep tissue massage I treated myself to was the best I’d ever had, and I left the spa with some gorgeous Egyptian skincare products. The beach was two minutes’ walk from my room; the deep water accessed by a long jetty. I was in heaven the moment I jumped into the water.

In the main restaurant, giddy from such a vast choice of food from so many different cultures, I chose Egyptian (obvs). Dishes were beautifully cooked and bursting with flavour. I ate grilled red mullet and sardines, zesty tabbouleh, stuffed aubergines, perfectly dainty French-inspired patisserie, and about 87 different breads.

“Hello Miss Juliette, would you like to do yoga and Pilates each morning, outside in the shade?” Er, yes. After that I’d sit cross-legged in the clear shallows playing with passing fish and little things that were like a cross between starfish and tarantulas (we held hands/tentacles).

Facing phobias

I snorkeled for the first time. This was a huge deal since I have three lifelong phobias: anything covering my face, eels and the other things like eels beginning with ‘s’, and deep water. I had two panic attacks then went back in minus the snorkel, waving to beautiful blue and yellow fish as I swam along the coral. Still in panic mode, though, since I was in 40ft deep water and THERE MIGHT BE AN EEL. I don’t do things by halves.

At the zen pool I could sketch or read in peace while sipping ice-cold Sakara (Egyptian beer) with lemon. I dressed up for dinner each night and was happy to eat alone while I mopped my sweaty brow, insisting on eating outside – “I’m on holiday!” – rather than in the air-conditioned interior.

Four days later, despite a horrible flight, I came back a better, calmer version of myself. I’d been looked after, and I’d relished it. I wouldn’t recommend waiting until you get cancer to allow yourself that. But for me, I guess it was better late than never. Do go in October, though, won’t you?

www.jazhotels.com

Juliette Wills

Juliette writes about football, F1, fashion, health and interiors for national magazines and newspapers. She’s also Bexhill’s new Town Crier (true story!), runs a pet sitting sideline and heads up her own creative agency. If she’s not at home she’s in the sea

The post My cancer recovery: the charm of Sharm appeared first on Silver Magazine.

Two experts on how to find and where to buy sustainable fish and seafood, whether eating out or cooking at home. Having a little fishy on a little dishy isn’t necessarily as simple as seeing what’s on offer when the boat comes in.

Knowing how to find and eat sustainable fish isn’t always straightforward. You want to eat fish that isn’t appallingly farmed, or fished to extinction, but maybe you’re not sure how to verify that.

The Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) is an international non-profit organisation supporting sustainable fishing and fish stocks. Seeing an MSC label on your food is a very good place to start.

But the latest MSC consumer insights survey asked 4,000 people about their fish consumption, and found that people over 45 are eating more fish, but that awareness about the organisation’s eco-label is low.

Loren Hiller, commercial manager at the MSC, and specialist chef ‘Tom the Fish’, who has been running The Salutation Inn, a seafood hotel and restaurant in Devon for more than 10 years, have some useful tips for filling your dishy with fishies – with a clean conscience.

Love cooking fishy recipes? Try this zingy shrimp and turmeric soup

What are you putting in your trolley?

“The easiest way for a consumer to be assured that their seafood has been sustainably sourced is to look for the blue MSC eco-label,” says Loren. “This can be found on over 1,500 products across 53 species in UK supermarkets in the frozen and fresh sections. And even on pet food and supplements.

Look for the MSC label on all fishy products

“Essentially, that means you’re buying fish and seafood that has been sustainably sourced from a well-managed fishery. So that’s good for you and the ocean too, because these fisheries make sure the stocks are healthy.”

MSC-certified fisheries have a “minimal impact on the ecosystem and other endangered, threatened and protected species,” says Loren. Chef Tom is also a keen advocate of the MSC eco-label and urges responsibility on the part of supermarkets and shoppers.

“Most fish from supermarkets is farmed and imported. In 2022, the UK exported £1.7bn of fish and imported £3.7bn of fish. And we still import Russian cod to the UK via China, for instance,” he says. “But we live on an island so there’s a responsibility for supermarkets to sell local products. And there’s a responsibility to customers just to look at the labels and ask if it’s wild, how is it caught and where is it caught? Is it local or imported?”

Tom adds that it is important to consider how far a fish has travelled before it ends up in your trolley. “If fish has travelled across the continent, how have they been processed within the factory environment to make it still good to eat?

“There aren’t many fish counters left – Tesco has closed all of their fish counters now, so you can’t ask these questions directly from the fish-mongers – which is unhelpful,” Tom says. “And most people in this busy world don’t read the packaging – fish is convenient to buy in plastic, but, of course, it’s not great for the environment – so there are a lot of questions and choices for consumers to consider how ethical the fish is that they’re purchasing.”

So, which is better? Wild or farmed?

There’s no simple answer to this question, apart from “it depends”. While it’s common to assume that fish caught in the wild are automatically more sustainable than farmed fish, this might not always be the case. If the fish are wild-caught in an area that has been overfished, is unregulated, or uses unsustainable practices, such as drift net fishing, which can scoop up endangered marine life along with the more plentiful species, it won’t be a responsible consumer choice.

While it’s common to assume that fish caught in the wild are automatically more sustainable than farmed fish, this might not always be the case

The US-based National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) makes it clear that wild and farmed fish can both be part of the solution. NOAA defines sustainable seafood as “wild-caught or farmed seafood that is harvested or produced in ways that protect the long-term health of species populations and ecosystems.”

The UN Food and Agricultural Organization’s guidelines for assessing what they call “marine capture fisheries” include transparency, consultation processes involving all stakeholders, robust objection procedures and standards based on “sustainability of target species, ecosystems and management practices.” MSC adheres to these guidelines when certifying wild fishing operations.

Fishmongers and fish markets

To reassure consumers buying from fishmongers and markets, Loren says to look out for the blue MSC label, which shows they meet chain of custody standards.

Not just for human fishy products either

“Every time you see the blue label, you can be confident that it’s come from a certified fishery [and] been handled by a supply chain where everyone has that chain of custody certification – they have been independently assessed – there’s no mixing of MSC and non-MSC fish.”

“And it’s just great to have that conversation at the fishmonger or fish market,” she continues. “Just find out a bit more because they really like having those conversations as well.”

Tom agrees that asking questions and learning from the expertise of fishmongers is important. He advises asking where the fish is from and how it was caught, as well as asking for cooking tips to “mix up the selection of fish you consume.”

“Waiter! Is this fish sustainable?”

Loren says the MSC eco-label can be found in many restaurants and fish and chip shops across the UK: “We work with a wide variety of food service outlets and it’s still growing.”

Perhaps surprisingly, McDonalds, JD Wetherspoons and Oaxaca are among the companies that work with MSC. So you can have that Filet-O-Fish with confidence. Or you can simply have a conversation with restaurant staff if the provenance of the fish is not made clear on the menu or you can’t see the eco-label anywhere.

Don’t be afraid to ask your server if the fish is MSC approved

“The origin of where the fish comes from should be displayed on the menu and if it isn’t, then just ask your server,” says Tom.

Loren says asking if they know where the fish has been sourced and what type of gear is used by the fisheries can be instructive. Generally, pole-and-line fishing has a lower impact on ecosystems, but if hundreds of boats are using this method, it can make fish stock vulnerable. Big trawlers, such as those used in the North Sea, are sustainable if the fish stock is healthy and plentiful.

Having that conversation in a restaurant may mean the manager gets involved. Or, if you’re eating in a restaurant that’s part of a group or chain, emailing head office to ask about their fish sourcing or checking the website can be useful.

Loren says that starting these important conversations with consumers is “the way to drive improvements [and] create a culture where people think, why wouldn’t you buy sustainable fish”.

Getting certified

MSC is an independent non-profit organisation that sets globally recognised standards for sustainable fishing and seafood traceability, with its certification programme for sustainable fishing practices. To obtain this certification, fisheries are independently assessed based on three main principles. These are the health of the stock, whether there are enough fish for the fishery to operate indefinitely, and the impact on the ecosystem.

“We look at what type of gear they are using. What impact does that gear have on the surrounding ecosystem? How do they interact with endangered, threatened and protected species – these are the ones they’re not directly trying to catch.”

Additionally, fishery management is scrutinised by MSC, such as complying with relevant laws and adapting to new information, according to scientific research. For example, well-managed fisheries will change the gear they use if new information shows that they need to use something better suited to the ecosystem where they operate.

MSC allows all gear types in its programme, apart from explosives.

The certification process can take 12 to 18 months, with certification lasting five years, albeit with regular checks each year.

Local fish for local people

Keeping your fish consumption as local as possible is one of the best ways to be an ethical, sustainable diner or cook.

“I believe that localism is the way forward with fish – it has been spoiled with factory fish farming, which can be far from ethically produced,” says Tom. “We have a fantastic wild bass season at this moment [Summer 2024] – it’s a few quid more, but it’s so worth it. And hasn’t travelled 2,500 miles.”

As a bonus, localism can help the UK’s fishing industry, which has taken a – pardon the pun – battering in recent years, with winners and losers emerging since Brexit.

“The UK has amazingly rich fishing grounds with conservation areas within the waters and I think it’s much better for the environment if we buy locally, buy seasonally, and don’t travel fish around,” Tom concludes. “If we kept the fish we exported and ate them too, it would be such a positive for the fishing industry, I believe.”

Check out the MSC website.

Georgia Lewis

In a career that has spanned Australia, the Middle East and the UK, Georgia has written about all sorts of things, including sex, cars, food, oil and gas, insurance, fashion, travel, workplace safety, health, religious affairs, glass and glazing… When she’s not writing words for fun and profit, she can usually be found with a glass of something French and red in her hand.

The post How to find and where to buy sustainable fish appeared first on Silver Magazine.

It’s not patronising to recognise this. As we age, a holistic approach encompassing physical activity, balanced nutrition, mental stimulation and social engagement is essential for staying fit and healthy. Particularly once you’re over 50. Here are a few useful tips for lifestyle changes that can help promote longevity, and enhance your life for as long as possible.

Keep moving

It’s essential to keep moving, whatever form of exercise you choose. Low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, or yoga, which are gentle on the joints but effective in keeping the body active, should be incorporated. Above all, choose the exercise you enjoy as you’re more likely to do it regularly.

Although we often associate ageing with slowing down, research shows that you don’t necessarily have to stop intense exercise if you enjoy it. Individuals who did a few minutes of intense exercise around three times daily reduced their risk of dying from a cardiovascular issue by 50 per cent.

As we age, our joints may become more prone to inflammation and discomfort

Pilates can improve core strength, flexibility, and posture. Jessica May, a registered nutritionist and Pilates instructor, says it can challenge muscle stiffness, joint pain, and balance problems.

“As we age, our joints may become more prone to inflammation and discomfort,” she explains. “Pilates, being low-impact and gentle on the joints, is an ideal workout for individuals with joint issues. Its controlled movements and emphasis on alignment alleviate muscle stiffness and improve overall mobility.”

May says resistance training can be incorporated into Pilates using reformer beds, weights or resistance bands. “By integrating resistance training into your Pilates routine, you can build muscle, increase bone density, and enhance overall strength.”

Whatever way you choose to stay fit, make sure you’ve got the right gear to stay comfortable. Whether it’s the right footwear, or a softball jersey!

Overcoming hormone changes

There’s dealing with hormone changes too, particularly for women. As oestrogen declines during perimenopause and menopause, it can lead to increased insulin resistance and potentially joint stiffness. This is where strength training can also be beneficial. Regular strength training helps to maintain muscle mass and increase bone density, which is crucial in reducing the risk of osteoporosis, a condition more prevalent in women as they age. Additionally, it boosts metabolism by increasing lean muscle mass, aiding in weight management and fat loss.

Regular strength training helps to maintain muscle mass and increase bone density

Bex Prade, functional medicine practitioner and registered clinical nutritionist  says, “Heavy strength training is effective for easing symptoms in perimenopause and menopause. It helps gain muscle and change your body composition. Lift heavy! You want to get to a weight where your muscles start to fatigue after six or so reps.

“Mobility exercises are essential before every weight session as women in their late forties and early fifties are more susceptible to soft tissue and joint injuries due to the drop in oestrogen.”

Gut health and nutrition

Unsurprisingly, nutrition plays a crucial role in staying healthy. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats provides essential nutrients that support bodily functions and combat age-related health issues. Also boosts your immune system.

“We need more protein as we age, so make sure you’re getting at least 100g of quality protein a day, spread across the day,” says Prade. “A good benchmark is 30-50g of protein at each meal, especially focussing on a high protein breakfast to help protect skeletal muscle and balance blood sugar and hormones throughout the day.”

Prade also believes we must take care of our gut health. “Imbalances in the gut are inextricably linked to inflammation, accelerated ageing, and nearly all chronic disease including cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and dementia,” she affirms.

…make sure you’re getting at least 100g of quality protein a day, spread across the day…

So, how do you look after and balance your gut health and make it part of your daily routine? “Reduce sugars and starches, and increase your prebiotic, probiotic, and polyphenol-rich foods intake. Good bacteria feed on prebiotic fibres (avocados, artichokes, asparagus, berries, peas, chia seeds, and pistachios), probiotics (fermented foods like sauerkraut, pickles, tempeh, miso, kefir and kimchi), and the polyphenols found in colourful plants (olive oil, turmeric, pomegranate, kiwifruit, green tea, cocoa, nuts).”

Therefore, probiotics as part of your lifestyle may be something to add. Prade also recommends “Prebiotic powders like PHGG and GOS, bitter vegetables that help digestive enzyme production, organic bone broths to heal the gut lining, and a good multi-strain probiotic.”

Another health option is to practice short bursts of heat therapy followed by cold water exposure. According to London ice-bath venue Sauna and Plunge, combining hot and cold therapy can activate responses that enhance immune function, energy, mental focus, and circulation. It also encourages cellular repair mechanisms, increases stress resilience and metabolic activity, improves sleep, and reduces chronic pain.

Staying hydrated and moderating the intake of processed foods, sugar, and alcohol are equally important for long-term health. May says, “Get 7-9 hours of sleep, drink 1.5 to 2 litres of water daily, engage in regular physical exercise, consume balanced meals, and minimise stress and alcohol intake.”

Mental wellbeing

Mental health is another key component of overall well-being. Engaging in activities that stimulate the mind and maintain social connections can help keep cognitive functions sharp, release endorphins and reduce the risk of mental health issues and stress.

“Staying active can profoundly impact your mental well-being. Exercise has been linked to reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression, improved self-esteem, and enhanced body image,” says May.

“Age should never be a barrier to staying fit and feeling fabulous. It’s never too late to try new activities or prioritise your health. Embrace opportunities to explore new hobbies, push your limits, and take care of your body and mind.”

Sarah Haselwood

Sarah Haselwood is a freelance writer and journalist, who is passionate about travel, health and wellness, and HR topics. She dabbles in creative writing and is trying to write a novel.

The post Practical tips to stay fit and healthy over 50 appeared first on Silver Magazine.

When people ask me how I’m doing, I’m usually honest, or so I believed. I would say yes, I’m okay thanks, but the last few years have been really tough.

And they have. Within the last five or six years I’ve lost my beloved dad and stepmum – brutal to lose both parents so close to each other. I’ve moved house twice, not by choice, with all the stress and upheaval that goes with that. The longest relationship of my life ended, not without its drama and heartbreak. My daughter spread her wings and left home, just when we had stopped teenage/menopause fighting. Which brings me to the joy of perimenopause, and menopause, and all the fun stuff that goes with that. That’s been in the mix too.

I tell you this, not to have a whine about how awful life has been… but mostly, that you do come out of it

But it hasn’t all been personal either. I started a business with two other people, both of whom left within a year, and left me holding the baby. We’ve had Brexit and Covid, both of which placed enormous pressure not only on the business, but on my mental health. Money has been a constant worry. Suppliers and associates have been going out of business left, right and centre. I have lost friends and family to illness, and to suicide.

There are days when I am frankly astonished that I even have a business. And on my more honest days, I’m pleased that I’m here at all. Because things have been dark sometimes. I’ve struggled with depression, through antidepressants and out the other side. It’s been a ride.

I tell you this, not to have a whine about how awful life has been – although it has, in parts. But mostly to tell you that you do come out of it, somewhere along the line.

I have been underestimating the length of my tough years though

This morning I realised that although I talk about ‘the past few years’ having been challenging, it’s been quite a lot longer than that. About ten years ago, for a period of about five years, I used to get chronic migraines. Like, proper three-day mind-bending and stomach-churning battles that happened at least once a week. It was appalling, trying to slog through the pain and debilitating symptoms, to run a business and try to be a half decent parent to a challenging teen.

…what I really ought to say is that the last decade has been a brutal rollercoaster. The hardest decade of my life

Turns out it was the pill, and I’d become oestrogen-intolerant. Stopping the pill brought instant relief – the migraines completely stopped, immediately. I quit the pill, and I’ve never had another migraine since. The relief was astonishing. I could function! But then as migraines left the building, perimenopause slid in through the back door, bringing the most god-awful periods known to womankind. Of the two problems though, the latter was definitely the lesser in terms of hideousness.

And finally, possibly the most fundamentally huge shift for me, I was diagnosed with ADHD (officially) and (unofficially by my doctor) with autism. I got medication for the former, and dived headfirst into understanding and learning coping mechanisms for the latter, and that’s been utterly life-changing. I am, however, having counselling to deal with the ‘what ifs’. What if I’d been diagnosed as a child, for example. What might my life have been like? It’s a form of grief, dealing with what feels like the loss of Potential Samantha. But I’m getting there.

So although I say to people ‘the last few years’ have been tough, what I really ought to say is that the last decade has been a brutal rollercoaster. The hardest decade of my life. I’m 54, in case you were wondering.

It gets better

And I mean that literally, not sarcastically. This isn’t a huge, life-changing article full of unique revelations, and tips for making your life fantastic. But if you’re reading this and identifying with all or any of the issues I’ve experienced, I am here to tell you it gets better. It really does. There is a midlife coming of age, and it’s beautiful.

I can see it happening all around me, to my friends, and my peers, and it’s bloody fantastic. It’s actually really exciting.

There’s a phenomenon called the U-shaped curve of happiness, and even though we’ve published articles about this, I had my doubts about its legitimacy. But it’s real. The timeline isn’t the same for everyone, but by and large, at some point in mid-life, things improve. Priorities change. Attitudes change. Seismic shifts often occur, where people choose lifestyles and jobs that make them happier. I can see it happening all around me, to my friends, and my peers, and it’s bloody fantastic. It’s actually really exciting.

My own experience has been thus; firstly I’m now officially menopausal, and it’s fucking fantastic. No hormonal rollercoaster, no monthly pain and mess. I didn’t do HRT, mostly because of the oestrogen, but also because I just wanted to get it out of the way and not be reliant on anything anymore just to function. And for me that was the right choice. I feel exactly like I used to before perimenopause. Better in fact – more like when I was about 35. My brain works properly again, I can remember things. My body works. I don’t feel shut down, or dissociated, or in crazy hormonal flux. Ladies – hang in there. It’s brilliant the other side.

Your midlife coming of age brings about some good stuff

Now that I’m older, I eat better, and drink less booze, so I feel clearer in mind and body. I’m lucky and VERY grateful to be healthy and well. My body, bless it for all the shit I’ve put it through, functions well. My relationship with my daughter is wonderful. I love what I do, mostly, but wouldn’t cry if I just gave it all up tomorrow and went off round the world. That’s liberating in itself.

My body, bless it for all the shit I’ve put it through, functions well

I’m single, which makes my life less complicated. And – bear with me because this is going to sound a little weird – there’s something quite freeing about not having any older relatives left to worry about. Don’t get me wrong – I’d swap all my limbs to have my dad back, for example. But honestly? If he went on for years like a creaking gate, he would have been a difficult bastard, I know it. So there is a little silver lining. I have no elders to be responsible for. No care homes to worry about. No nursing to do. No guilt-ridden trips to medical facilities. It’s a thing, even if it sounds a bit heartless.

More than anything, I give fewer fucks. I don’t care what people think of me – although that’s never been a big thing for me, I care even less now. I have let go of wild ambitious dreams that I once had but which made me stressed trying to achieve. You’ve all read that poem When I Am An Old Woman I Shall Wear Purple, by Jenny Joseph? I’m there, and it’s fabulous.

Hang in there. Man or woman, midlife is a fucking minefield assault course of a time, and we will all face a lot of similar challenge. And yes, I know not everyone will have a positive trajectory. Some of you will die too young. Some of you will not be happy. But for the vast majority – and we have undertaken our own research on this – there is light at the end of the tunnel, and a positive outcome to look forward to. Take comfort from the fact that I am here to tell you, it gets better.

Sam Harrington-Lowe

Sam is Silver’s founder and editor-in-chief. She’s largely responsible for organising all the things, but still finds time to do the odd bit of writing. Not enough though. Send help.

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