Mental Health Month- 2020: Scenarios and why you should not judge


Ask somebody what mental illness looks like, and many paint a rather confined picture, with each and every person who suffers being painted in the same way, with the same face sticking to all the stereotypical but false assumptions. They may even judge them as being weak.

Yet this is not the case…

Someone may be getting up each day, showering, eating and drinking a normal and healthy amount, getting work done and managing to commute from A to B, without a struggle. At least from ones perspective. Someone may be smiling in all photos, mixing well, and be seeming to achieve well in life. Someone may be telling their family how good things are, feeding them with stories about travel with friends, general success and any other “fun” stories. As it seems, swinging from branch to branch in life.

When in reality they may be lugging along a heavy load aside them, trudging through slowly but steadily- as people avoid to see beyond the casual words coming out of the smiling mouth. Though maybe they do not look- as they just assume that the person is “fine.”

However as soon as somebody slips up, or a flaw becomes exposed, we are all far too fast to judge them….

But here is why you shouldn’t…

~The person who we may call a “loner” for wandering alone all day, may seem antisocial for not engaging in more chit chat. But in reality they may be terrified each time they open their mouths assuming people will automatically judge or laugh behind their backs.

~The person we call “antisocial” for missing out on the meal and lovely gathering, as they chose not to join in with everyone else may feel unable to. Overwelmed by the unknown calorific value of food surrounding them. Or terrified to face up to having to eat out.

~The person who we call lazy for not going out, may already be exhausted. Coping with the day to day monseter inside their minds. Trying to deal with un-dealt for trauma. Putting in all their prevailing efforts, to keep themselves as health as possible, after poison has been spilled into their minds from a traumatically young age.

~The person who we call petty, or ridiculous for constantly seeking reassurance, may have experienced some form of abuse, neglect or may be generally anxious therefore would be very uncertain to whether they can truly relay on those they should be able to trust.

~The person who we call over-dramatic may also be very anxious, or have dealt with or be dealing with trauma therefore their mind was already etching on the last straw, and anything small could be extremely overwhelming. Having to be quiet about their loudest worries weighing down their minds.

~The person who we may dismiss as being an “alcoholic” or “drug addict” and see them in bad light because of this, may be using this as their only coping mechanism. As we all know too much about the health defects, but someone cannot just “stop” if their minds are dependent on it. And the last thing that they need is for people to “judge them” for this.

~The person who we call possibly a perfectionist, geek or workaholic may feel they have no choice but to keep themselves buried in work, as a distraction to what is going on else where. Maybe they feel their self worth depends on wholly on how productive they are, how well they can do in a test or how successful their career is.. Rather than regardiing themselves as equally worthy regardless.

~They person who we call vain may be using their aperient self obsession and over confidence, to mask their true insecurities.

There are many more scenarios, or general stereotypes I could list here, but the sad thing is, is that there are far too many.

And no, most of us may not be able to relate to each and every one of these different senarios. But maybe at some point in our lives, we will find ourselves trapped in one or more of these. Perhaps we know we have friends, or companions who are in one of these situations; or maybe we have some are- who we just don’t know about.

We are all too quick to judge, maybe out of ignorance, or out of anger towards how some deal with their “less valuable” emotions in a different way to how you or I might deal with our own. Yet deep down, we know this isn’t the case. Naturally we aren’t alwaays going to be able to relate to ones situation, or ones way of coping with it. Nonetheless we should take a step back and think.

Maybe this would be more beneficial than what we may think at first. Maybe if we all think to open our minds and ears before uttering out something than may be upsetting, then mabye all of us will be less afraid to come to terms with what is going on inside our heads, and open up more. Without fear of resulting bitterness towards them. So in time, we all have a better picture of how mental health effects one another, containing fewer superficial ideologies in our minds about other people, while not having to keep so hushed up about our own issues, being less afraid that people will base their judgements on previous assumptions.

Furthermore I really do admire all of today’s “Mental health advocates”, where their presence has enabled “a raise in awareness”, whilst has helped many of us realise the importance of looking after our own. And I think this movement has definitly been successful.

It’s fair to say that in the last decade or so, there has definitely been “raised awareness”. Whilst many of us are beginning to realise the importance in taking care of ourselves.

Nonetheless, many of us still feel we aren’t deserving for one reason or another. Maybe part of this is because really, there is still a lack of understanding surrounding this. And while the previous decade hass been one to “raise awareness”, it would be niice if this decade could focus on enabling better understanding.

It will enable more people to feel free to open up, while there will hopefully be a reduction in stigma in society.

And really, although we want to be as helpful as we can be, to let somebody feel understood, sometimes listening and being there for them comes in front of offering a seemingly helpful solution. When this may have been previously tried before opening up, or may not truly be helpful. And nothing is more valuable, than knowing that somebody is here for you and cares, and will listen!

Image result for whinnie the pooh and piglet mental health
How thoughtful of Piglet - remember to be kind and restful to ...

Lets remain creative, positive and hopeful- Just like the children of the world!


Reflecting on the talent and creativity oneself had during childhood, may cause one to laugh at themselves! I know I remember creating dance routines, when I was much younger, and I was absolutely horrific! Growing up, I also thought it would be a smart idea to make a business out of loom bands, make my own earrings and even set up a you-tube channel (which was absolutely horrific). But all kids were the same! When it comes to playtimes, everybody could easily aamuse themselves, for an hour each lunchtime- playing at pretending, hide and seek or using the skipping rope. And I won’t even mention how much time we would devote to online sub-reality games, like “Moshi monsters”, “Club penguin” and my favourite “Bin Weevles”.

While I cannot speak so much for the young children of the “20s”, as I don’t really know what they do all day. But before this, I’d occasionally come into contact with them, finding unbelievable how intrigued they seemed regarding certain issues, and how many off them seem so enthuastic to listen to and to offer kind of productive solutions to improve the way of our world.

Whilst ironically, some of our generation arguably grew up too fast, as we begun to question the way of the world, at possibly a younger age than our parents and gran parents, we were sometimes given backlash, raising concerns over issues like the climate crisis. While it may be only a minimalised number who actually take the micky, it just shows how some become devoted to the seemingly more “pragmatic and practical” approach. Therefore as we become increasingly anxious about the world we are living, wanting to improve the conditions the resulting hostility we receive can sometimes make us feel rather marginalised. Nonetheless we are now faced with a situation whereby many are left with little choice but to embrace creativity. As many fall short of money, places to go and things to do. While the world is in an even worse dilemma, when many countries are left out in the blue on how to go forward. And furthermore, the question about whether normality was working, has arisen.

UK: Young people, children rally against climate change
Image of just one of the many climate change protests which have taken place, dominated by young people- proving the concerns, held by many of our generation (source, Anadolu Agency)

So I am going to begin with what is easier, and talk about how young children, who are missing school, missing their friends, and have been deprived of a large amount of their “outdoor play time” as playgrounds are shut, even exercise restrictions are in place- and a tremendous number do not even have access to gardens! Nevertheless just by taking a glimpse down the road, I can see that almost every other home is displaying drawings of rainbows, appreciation notes and even messages to reminding us all to abide with the rules. And it is fair to say, the majority of these pictures have been drawn by, well, by the youngest. Really, the thought that all young children are not only having to follow these strict rules, in which no previous generation has experienced, but are also voluntarily producing beautiful artwork is heart-warming. I think to be fair, part of the reason for this is because of the immense community online, from endless lists on “things to do” with children, free online lessons (Joe Wicks…) and how now pretty much all- even young children’s- lives seem to revolve around social media. Which for once, is a good thing!

8 year old Roxanne Gills, just one of the many young artists out there who have produced beautiful artwork, applauding key workers and as a sign for hope. Unseen but “stay safe” reads above. (Source, Bristol live)

So what? You may be thinking. How else are young children meant to react? Building on what I said at the beginning, I am sure all of the previous “children” can justify their legacy, not just my own. So what actually makes these young children so special, when really (unless in very unfortunate circumstances) they are pretty much safe at home…

In contrast to what many children in the war went through. Yeah, it goes without saying that many of them had it much much worse, while many off them were barely affected.

Though again, children have little choice but to behave (at least outdoors), with playgrounds shut, and while being unable to see friends. Though we all know how cheeky children can be, and how they can often at least try to break rules. However I can honestly say that II haven’t seen any of that at all! Not one child running loose in a supermarkets, no huddles of young friendship groups, and not once I have seen any of them trying to run into a playground. Instead being too busy drawing rainbows of hope.

Coronavirus: Rainbows in windows to spread joy - CBBC Newsround
More rainbows! (source, BBC)

Yet I reckon that part of this, may be down to how with this; everyone is slightly less “alone”. Although each and every household (and child) varies massively, there is a distinct similarity between each and everyone’s situation. It isn’t that one child in London is forced to go on a 100 mile train to forcefully fit in with a family whom they’ve never met before- often unable to keep in touch at all with friends, while some other lucky kid living in Scotland is still out and about, and attending school daily. No, from a child’s point of view, compared to the Evacuee scenario, it is a lot less dramatic. However from the centre of London, to the outer Hebrides- each and every child is having to abide with exactly the same rules, and follow very similar lifestyles….

Whilst although the media enjoys a good boast, I don’t see many teens and young adults hanging out in groups at all. Which perhaps proves that really young people “do care”. And most do, not just the young online advocates we see, promoting sustainability, peace and acceptance.

City's playgrounds now closed | Liverpool Express
Just one of many playgrounds from around the country, which have been closed and in which young people aren’t attempting to “sneak into” (source, Liverpool Express)

Maybe I am being overly optermistic. Maybe everyone’s just too afraid, and that is the dominant force behind why we’re all following these rules. Nevertheless I like to believe that there is another reason behind all this. Maybe it’s hope, care and compassion which are forcing us to all work so strongly as a community. Forcing us to be creative, forget about what we “ought” to be doing, and take a moment instead to step back and appreciate all of the strength and beauty within the world, even in during times of crisis. Such as the sheer courage of NHS workers and other front line staff. But strangely we become apart of this too, by sacrificing our usual activity.

So you can hopefully see how so many of us are showing immense gratitude, strength and creativity, in these difficult times. Like young children, we are almost having think about how to go at things, being in some cases what we choose to do all day while at home- or in the longer run of how to survive financially.

However I think there is a deeper message behind all this. Yes, it is most likely next year hopefully festivals, concerts and football matches will return. Planes will be back in action, so people will be able to vacate to their favourite holiday destination, while once again parks will be filled with innocents choosing to sunbathe (or lie down on the ground if in the UK). However also our country, our world is now facing a massive dilemma on how to run post “lockdown”- and how to return back to “normal”. Or if we should return to normal. Youngsters have been strong and creative, and everyone else needs to do the same. Come to terms with the fact that money isn’t everything, and how the real heros are NHS workers- most likely earning little, as well as he likes of old Phil who works behind the shop counter.

And look. We have an economy. And before all of this; it may have been tremendously flawed, but it was working. And no, we cannot dismiss the importance of the “economy” due to it’s severe defects; as really it is more than a “thing” that the tories tend to obsess on. No! Our livlihoods depend on it…

Nonetheless we have seen the chaos that has risen, partly due to an imperfect economy. From the school children going hungry, homeless people filling our streets and now the thousands of deaths resulting partly from an underfunded but brilliant and fundamental public health service. Perhaps all of us need to take a look at how young children are turning to creativity more frequently, rather than giggling as often at their ridiculous solutions on making the world a better place.

We need to remember that there may be more positive solutions, which could save the world, rather than destroy it. Maybe as we age, we need to absorb more of what these little children are having to say. Rather than deciding it is best to stick like glue to the easiest solution, which is really unfair and unsustainable.

And I am sorry- but I refuse to believe that there is no other way. Could we be the future generation to hold more positivity, having a slightly more informed outlook on the world. yeah, research has to be done, and like with anything good- I believe it would take time. Yet normal may not feel the same as before immediately, but at the same time we won’t all of a sudden find ourselves in an enlightened world- even if all countries manage to eradicate the virus. But it would be nice if we remain resilient, and sustain our hopes in ourselves, our communities and the world.

290 Hope Quotes That Will Empower You
And finally here is proof that things have the potential to change. (Source, Wisdom Quotes)

Should I buy a “Wosh stuffed toy”, a HIIT sports mini trampoline, an earring making kit or more clothes during these months of Lockdown?


Who already misses going to town and buying a load of rubbish they don’t actually need? Unfortunately definitely me. I miss going into Primark and buying yet another pair of feeble earrings which will most likely break after wearing them once, I miss managing to accidently spot these adorable plush avocados tempting us all in the front windows of shops like Scribbler (plus their lovely crude birthday cards!), and I miss being tempted by all of these craft kits which they sell in the Works, which I had to usually avoid getting knowing that I would never actually have time to do them. And whats more we can’t even use the Gyms. Not like I actually went, but hey!

KKB Sport Mini Trampoline Set, 38"/48'' Foldable Fitness Exercise ...
Haven’t dived too deeply into the world of online shopping yet. But here is the solution to the closure of gyms anyway. 100 times more fun, and no one is judging! (Source, Amazon- Duh!)

Although I am not complaining about these places being shut, it is quite rightly so- to protect us all! But like many of us, while recognising how serious situations like these are, I feel it is ok to sometimes take a more light-hearted stance to how the actual Lockdown is effecting us. Otherwise we would all go crazy! Wait… Anyway, if this about the possible “excitement” of online shopping, then so be it…

But instead I know that for a fact, loads and loads of people are alternatively turning to online shopping, and I know this is nothing new. For a long time now I’ve unfortunatly been known to browse through Amazon. Comparing all of the Bargain prices, and finally getting my “basket” filled with 5 products costing no more than £30. But this was when all shops were open. Now people have no alternative choice but to shop online if they want anything which is not deemed to be “essential”.

The UK online retail association, IMRG, has found that sales of clothing online has fallen by 26.7% one week which was already weakening meanwhile online sales of electrical goods rose by 42.4% meanwhile the sale of garden items rose by 80.8%. This probably just shows us that as people are choosing to stay at home, they are wanting more goods to occupy themselves. But the question is; is how often will they actually use them. Funnily enough, I have just been viewing a pair of cow print trousers, off the “Soaestetic” website, and I am honestly so tempted. Though it looks like people on a whole are not so bothered as by what they look like, obviously as they aren’t going anywhere, and most likely have less money to spend. Yet I have to be honest and say that I want to have a few extra pieces of clothing post lockdown.

“Moo Pants”- Off from the So-Aesthetics website. I know right- It is SO SO tempting!

But the purchasing of non useful and non essential items is also reflected with the panic buying from supermarkets. Obviously leading up to the worst of this pandemic, but still now. As I don’t know about you, but I have really struggled with buying eggs in these last few days, and a shop worker stated that flour of all things is “like gold dust” at the moment. A good guess would be that many people are turning to baking as a pass time!” Hmmm

See the source image
I am sure this was a reality for many of you as well, especially a few weeks ago, during the surge of “Panic Buying”! (source, Bristol Post”)

It does make me wonder though, how many people are actually making use of what they buy, and how much stuff is neglected or thrown away? Both with surpermarket hoarding and with online purchasing. As if we use the amount of food that is thrown away as a guideline, it does suggest that many people are online shopping and not actually making good use of what they buy.

Following what I wanted to buy online. I have so far managed to avoid the temptation, being naturally fairly careful with money I guess, plus knowing that whilst I am not at work, it is probably best to avoid spending too much money anyway… But lets pretend that I had brought what I had my eyes set on. If i had brought a tonne of clothes, would I even get the opportunity to go out and wear them, I would have probably made one pair of earrings then they would have broken so I would give in, and I will leave it to you to decide how much use it would be of me to own this stuffed toy…

Load image into Gallery viewer, Wosh Life Official Plush
Um- WOSH..TF? (source, wosh.life)

But what draws us to feel tempted to spend up so much money online during this Pandemic. I guess that many middle aged people may be excited to take this opportunity to revamp their garden, or to redecorate their homes. Though to be fair, if you are in this category, you will be surprised at how many people of my age get so overly excited at the prospect of IKEA. Yeah, don’t ask! However I think generally a lot of people are making use of online shopping at the moment for productive reasons, rather than just to waste money. Other items which are booming, include bicycles, outdoor games and reading matter- sounding that to me, those who are actually putting their money where their mouths are are those buying pproducts of use. A stark contrast to some stuffed toy once again.

But thinking this through, I know that there are some people out there who are going to increase their spending on non-essentials online, because of this. But I also feel that most of us generally are more careful as to what to spend our money on. I personally don’t know many people who have been bulk buying clothing online for instance, probably for the obvious reason of not going anywhere. Meanwhile I definitely think that most of us are worried about the future and especially with reegaards to where our money is going to come from. And when you think about it logically, in most cases, this is going to hit the youngest people the most. As unless we are extremely lucky, we don’t own a property ourselves with sufficient savings to keep us afloat. Meanwhile at least generally older generations are MORE likely to have wealth to fall back on… In-fact a survey (from an unknown source) showed that 96% of US and UK consumers were concerned about the effects of this on the economy whilst just 24% of Boomers were letting this event influence what they buy, compared to nearly half of millelials. Although I know many of us are still in full time education, and how it effects us varies massively depending on what school or University year we are in. And if someone is still at “school”, and most likely relying on family for basic needs etc, you may be thinking does this really effect us financially? Well, actually yes…

For a start, many of us were already relying on part time jobs, alongside full time education. Sometimes in order to be able to afford such “luxuries” like new clothing, travelling to a friends or possibly even going to a concert if you’re lucky! While others I am sure, especially if at university, are literally having to work to make ends meet! Whilst now for many of us, our part time jobs have been put on halt… While many students, say at uni, are STILL having to pay the rent for university halls, which they currently won’t be using. Therefore many off us younger people, aren’t actually spending as much money online than some people may reckon that we are! Although it is tempting. While I feel many older people, may buy a new watering can without even thinking twice about it!

Coronavirus: Six things that are booming in sales - BBC News
Bikes- being one of the “Six things that are booming in sales”, according to a BBC news article

So this kind of shows that the reality for many of us young people is pretty grim. We cannot really bare such risks as to buy another pair of earrings or another I-Pad during the lockdown period being too worried about the future, and the need to reserve what ever we have got, in case we NEED it.

While it is certain that online sales are accelerating. Just consider all of these supermarkets, where there is so much extra demand for deliveries, that you have to wait something like 3 whole days, whatever time you want your food to be delivered. Furthermore it is obvious that the online sales of the household and garden items would plummet like this, as firstly people want something to do, and also no one is going to want to set foot inside Wilko, if they took a peek at the gigantic queues outside… However, it seems to me that people are buying into the advertising tricks of more luxury online outlets, less frequently thaan prior to this pandemic. And I think generally it is rather obvious as to why. As generally these funky firms do tend to target their marketing towards younger people; yet while we are worried about what the future has in stall for us financially, we may also be realising that we don’t necessarily need or want what they are selling us. And not only because in the mean time, we aren’t really going out anywhere.

I know I most certainly will not be purchasing that “Wosh” toy now or the trampoline, literally because usually I would be working, but now I am not. And although I do have a little money saved, I may well need that genuinely “in case of an emergency”, plus even if I don’t- there’s stuff I will want to do in the future. Whilst as for clothing, at some point I may or may not grab a few new buys. In order to keep these online businesses and workers “ticking along” as well as for the purpose of feeling like I have changed or grown some bit down during this. This sounds a little clique sorry…

But I feel the reason at heart of all of this, is that this pandemic is possibly causing us to somewhat reconsider our visions on how we live our lives. And this partially includes our expenditure of money. Even though we are still susceptible to the desire for certain products advertised online, the very fact that for many of us, our inflow of money has almost come to a halt for the time being, plus the fact that we currently can’t do much, is making us rethink the long-term use of money. Perhaps we are realising the importance to buying what we need, and valuing the people we live with, the friends we can talk to, community spirit and whatever hobbies we may have-more so than before. Whilst realising money in stacks cannot bring happiness and true prosperity among us, even though before we liked to think this was the case. Probably seeking out for distractions. Something to stimulate our minds.

Perhaps I am overestimating how these difficult times, are actuaally reshaping our minds when it comes to money. Even when we walk into a supermarket now, we are reminded of the vast amounts of bulk buying people took and still are taking to, as we are left in awe to wonder whether there will be any toilet paper left on the shelves. Meanwhile come the summer holiday providing times have improved, I aspire to have some part time job and to be able to spend money! Nevertheless I truly hope that after this, it will make many of us reconsider the value of wealth in a way in which we haven’t before. Hopefully there will be a stronger sense of realisation among us that money in excess is far from one of the most desirable things, as we will have a stronger sense of what it is like to literally be unable to spend as much money on luxury items, for whatever reason. Realising that it’s maybe nice to have, but taking a strong steer away from the desire to be spending on temporary reliefs…

Yet I shall leave with a meme, to get tweak up everyone’s spirits, having read to the end…

Wosh is a hydrohomie (theory confirmed) : WOSH
Yup- In spite of everything that is going on, Please do take care of yourselves. For WOSH’s sake… (source, Reddit)

The restaurant that fucks with people’s heads


There are already far enough problems in our world, enough problems within our countries, and enough problems within our own lives. Without us being under the constant constraint of feeling the need to “eat clean”, to have the “perfect body image” or to take up the “smallest amount of space” in which our bodies are capable of “health-wise”. From the point of view of someone reading this who has not been so exposed to this… unhealthy culture, what I am writing would seem absolutely trivial. However, I suppose partly due to the “health conscious” society I have grown up in, “diet culture” especially aimed at young people, plus I guess the influence of some people whom I’ve been surrounded by in the past- this is actually quite significant and worryingly easy to be misinterpreted, thus potentially dangerous.

So I have been intending to write about this topic for a while, being far too aware on what dirty “trends” are circulating; from these dangerous “fads”, these rather unappetising “detox” drinks which allegedly clear your skin, to the idea that you can get “lean” by consuming nothing but bananas all day. Yeah, it is crazy. Partially at least in my opinion, this explains why so many far too young people are adopting such unhealthy attitudes towards diet, without even realising. Yeah, it is a danger.

Disgusting Weight Loss Plan Realistic #fitnessaddict ...
Just an example of one of these rather un-appetizing “detox” drinks. (source, pinterest)

Yet if this is not enough for you, now a TV series called “the restaurant that burns calories” has been launched. Right in the mist off lockdown…

While with no intention of watching this, the hearing of the title sparked off many potential problems which could arise from this show- at least from my mind. Yet I am sure that I am not the only one…

As to me, this implies that it may be necessary to burn off each calorie consumed after attending a restaurant.

Then having then taken reluctant steps to watch the trailer, it is exactly as it sounds. So a group of healthy looking men and women attended this restaurant, and within the dining area, everything appeared to be how it should be. Surrounded by decent looking seating, nicely set tables and the sort of menu you would expect, you wouldn’t expect there to be anything to be suspicious about. Nevertheless around the back, there lurks a filthy secret…

BBC's The Restaurant That Burns Off Calories sparks uproar | Metro ...
A glimpse inside of this so called restaurant, featuring Fred Sirieix and Zoe Williams (source, the BBC)

The establishment is also home to a gym, where the patrons are expected to burn off each and every calorie they have consumed.

Now hearing of this, as someone who opposes “diet culture” and “fads” and instead favours a largely healthy attitude regarding eating and exercise, this has made me pretty angry. And while a minority of us may be disillusioned to the fact that it’s not just exercise which uses up energy, but just breathing, our brains and the other vital activities our body is constantly engaging in to keep ourselves alive, I think that the launch of this has the potential capacity to brainwash many more of us. Thus in the future, there will be young children holding this warped view that the only use of this fuel we consume is in order to move our bodies. As opposed to keeping us alive.

The Restaurant That Burns Off Calories jeopardised my recovery ...
The gym which lurks at the back of this restaurant, (source, newsfeed.media)

but there again, it is just some entertainment. Anybody with a basic level of education (hopefully) realises the vital functions of food, irrespective of your activity level. Hence back at primary school, when we learned about “wants and needs”, food was one of the 5 basic needs! Therefore surely the programme is just a bit of entertainment for us all- whilst possibly being a means of reminding us about the dangers of eating “too much”, when many of us don’t live active lives. Especially during lockdown, where gyms are shut, legally we are allowed ONE form of outdoor exercise daily and the kitchen is in constant view! This way it is perfect timing, it will remind us that we should not eat too much and re-emphasises the “importance of exercising at home”.

ABSOLUTELY NOT!!!

This launch of the program has had an enourmous impact on many people struggling with or recovering from eating disorders! According to a surce from “Unilad”, it has caused a “30x surge to eating disorder helpline”. By getting the patrions to burn off ever calorie consumed, it would trigger people who can, or have in the past have had an unhealthy relationship with food. Especially relating to disordered relationships between food and exercise, where exercise is carried out as an inflicted punishment for eating amounts of food; or simply where a specific amount of food is regarded as being a “reward” for a specific amount of exercise. Hopefully you can see how this mindset is distinctly unhealthy…and dangerous! So surely a programme which has been proven to trigger this mindset- should not be allowed to air!

Caroline Price, director of “Beat” eating disorder charity told Unilad that this “Myth” that calories we consume need to be “cancelled” out by exercise can be “devastating” for those “suffering from or vulnerable to eating disorders”. She also stressed that “We” (the charity Beat) “Strongly advise against anyone at risk to avoid these sources of information” and that they “urge television commissioners” to consider the impact their programmes may be on vulnerable people. Meanwhile, Hope Virgo, a mental health campaigner and someone who has been in recovery from anorexia recovery for 11 years, gave her reasons for why this is so dangerous, in a HuffPost article. Stating that her “brain immediately went into overdrive” knowing she used to “thrive off this sort of information”, that the program gives out about how to burn calories, and how much it takes to burn off certain foods. She also emphasises that this sort of “oversimplified” message is inappropriate during the best of times, but during this period of lockdown, as many people are lacking their usual support networks”- therefore could be extra triggering… Personally I am inclined to agree with both “sources” advocating against this programme. As there is a fundamental difference between providing usual information to viewers about genuinely “healthy eating” and about how to make rational choices and misleading viewers by almost painting this picture that food needs to be “earned” as it were, and kind of implying that “the less you eat the better”. Therefore this surly is not making good use of the space available for new TV programmes during the “progressive” 21st century?

Beat | The UK's Eating Disorder Charity
Logo of eating disorder charity Beat (source, http://www.beaateatingdisorders)

If anything this is worse than all of these “Plasticly programs” which still exist now but were more common a couple of decades ago. Being exposed to TV including “the Victoria secret fashion show”, from too young age, I have seen the glamorisation of very small girls wearing very little, showcasing to the world their incredibly lean bodies. And despite lacking an interest in these sorts of programs, I was still too aware that these girls were under immense pressure. Having to stick to hugely strict diets meanwhile exercising excessively to ensure their bodies are up to the programmes standards. Was this the ultimate goal for us? You only have to google the “Victoria secret legs workout” to realise the extent of people who aspire to look this way. Nonetheless, notwithstanding the flaws of these shows- at least previously (as far as I know), no program has gone to the extent of explicitly showcasing this toxicity which is truly a life-threatening trait that unfortunately so many people adopt…

10 Years After Dove's 'Real Beauty' Campaign, More Brands Fight ...
Dove’s “real beauty campaign”, promoting real beauty on real sizes in which now more brands have followed the trend. As we hoped we really had now moved a step forward.

I know that some may differ with this view, and may feel that the intention off the launch of these sorts of programmes, to remind people about the importance of healthy eating, and to raise awareness of the number of “hidden calories” in many popular foods thus to reduce obesity in the long run, outweighs the risks inevitably attached. However 1. I strongly don’t think that this is the case and 2. There is no logic in it, when a series can inform people on the same issue, without giving seemingly asymmetric information, and without triggering those who are vulnerable. And it can still be made engaging, funny, catchy or whatever to persuade people to watch. There are ample ways to go about this, without causing unnecessary harm!

So I will repeat again, I have not watched this. And wioll also stress I’ve no intention of doing so… I am foortunatee enough to have enough things to do to keep myself relatively busy, but if I didn’t I would willingly sit in front of a wall for an hour or however long this thing lasts, and watch that instead!

What have New-Zealand and a small minority of countries got right- which the rest of us have got wrong?


Why New-Zealand? You may ask. Other countries, including Germany, Norway and South Korea have all experienced relatively low death tolls; via being fast to react regarding the lockdown and having sufficient health care in place. Thus combining these factors, the capacity to deal with the confirmed cases effectively, and to prevent the spread. However in New-Zealand, as well as the pragmatic approach to this now and healthcare plus the empirical judgements made based on what some of the earlier countries got wrong, but it has been the overall approach taken to nurturing the needs of the country.

Striking my attention, was the impressive attitude Jacinda Arden, New Zealand’s PM, had towards tackling the economic issues which will inevitibly arise due to the pandemic, which will hit hard; businesses, workers and families. More specifically it was her decision to give her, her close allies and her public service chief execuitives a 20% pay cut, in order to show soladiaraty to those who are economically effected due to this pandemic. She acknowledges that “We acutely feel the struggle that New Zealanders are facing” and while it “Won’t shift the government’s overall fiscal position, it is about leadership”.

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New Zealand’s Jacida Arden; who chose to give her ministers and herself a pay cut during this pandemic (source, the guardian)

Arden, so far, has been the first and only leader of any Country to reduce their own, and their aquantances wages, during this pandemic. This reduces annual salary by $47,104 for 6 months, the equilivant to £22639. While in the UK, MP’s wages remain the same- having only increased by 2.7%, april last year, above the rate of infllation.

So this is such a positive movement to make, showing New Zealander’s that she really does prioritise her country and its citizens over the wealth of herself and her close allies. And while it will not eradicate the problems that the country will face, the attitude of the country’s leadership has meant that other decisions have been made- proving to be very successful.

A strict lockdown was only imposed in New Zealand two weeks ago, in-fact being almost identical to what was imposed in the UK, both only allowing residents to go outside for exercise, or for essential travel. However New Zealand’s lockdown was imposed when there were 363 confirmed cases there contrasting to the UK where there were 6650 confirmed cases before the lockdown. By inflicting the lockdown measures early, it made it easier to control and reduce the spread. What with less pressure on hospitals, with fewer cases, managing treatment becomes far easier. She also thanked New Zealand’s residents for taking these measures seriously and “creating a wall of defence” to prevent further spread of the virus. This has led to only 14 deaths in New Zealand, compared to over 18,000 in the UK.

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An almost completely empty road in New Zealand, during lockdown (source, stuff.co.nz)

However this has not been the only reason to why New Zealand has experienced so few cases and such a low death toll. What with being more generally isolated than the UK, with their surrounding countries like Australia having far fewer cases (yet we are still surrounded by the sea…) they’ve definitely been more “on it”. Regarding testing, there has been several testing centres up and running within the country, while she states that the Country has “the capicity” to test far more cases. Yet again contrasting with the chaos within the UK, with the goal of testing 100,000 per day, when the reality is there is currently the capacity of testing just 40,000 people. However reading further into the UK’s mess of testing, the number of tests carried out was a mere 22800 within 24 hours; meanwhile the mirror claims that really only 13500 people were checked due to tests having to be repeated on the same person due to unreliability. This and the late government response is part to account for the few numbers of testing, but it is also due to the vast amounts of distances that many would need to travel to recieve testing, due to too few testing centres within the UK.

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Twickenham Stadium opened as a Corona Virus testing centre a few days ago, being one of 32 sites across the UK open for testing

But as we have seen from the wage cut, it isn’t only the competence of the government regarding lockdown measures and healthcare helping the citizeens. It is also the compassion and dedication to the wellbeing of the Country. A new “mental health initiative” was launched in New Zealand in response to this crisis called “get through it together”. This is a website which includes tips to how to manage mental health, information on other resources to help with mental health as well as the main help lines as well as an area devoted to children regarding their emotional wellbeing. Launched by herself, having to juggle the economic consequences, healthcare and many other unprecedentated challenges, this really does show a leader’s genuine gratitude for their citizens.

FiveWaysposterEnglishA2
One of the many resources free for anyone to download as part of the campaign (source, mentalhealth.org.nz)

If this doesn’t emphasise the wholeheartedly spirit of NZ’s government enough, on the run up to Easter Arden also announced on her instergram account that the “tooth fairy” and the “Easter Bunny” are “essential workersw”, responding to “the kids of New Zealand”.

Finally, although this previous bit may have seemed trivial to you, maybe this huge amount of leadership strength and positivity is what all countries could do with, right now- and really within any times. Being 8th on the “happinesss index”- with a world budget “prioritising citizen happiness over capitialist gains”, plus being first on the social development index which only takes social development factors like education and health into account and excludes any monetary factors like GDP, perhaps it is time that other contries will begin to follow this; her example.

So a persistent mindset, a compassionate support system and competent leadership- may be the key to making a county one of the least effected by this pandemic within the world. In stark contrast to the countries which have tended to put wealth in front, being now more effected by this pandemic- including the USA and arguably here in Britain…

News we may have missed during this pandemic


About a week or so ago, I was startled after watching a video that appeared to be showing dolphins bobbing about in my local seas. I found myself having to play it back at least twice, and then checking its source before I was fully convinced that this was in my area, in spite of instantly recognising the distinctive landscape which paints the map of where I live. Flabbergasted, I “reposted” the video then wandered how many people where I am are still ignorant of knowing that OUR OWN water has now been home to these beautiful creatures.  Considering that the nearest to me that I was aware of there being dolphins was in West Wales, well over 200 miles away.  With this in mind, I wondered how many other crazy stories we have been missing, local to us and far afield.    Yet even when I type in “News we have missed due to Corona-virus”, the first result is the number of confirmed cases of the virus!  But the world still remains upon us with crazy, exquisite, mind-blowing things happening upon it, perhaps more so as humans have been forced to take a few steps back…

  1.  The worlds longest animal- described as a “Spiral UFO”, has been discovered in the Australian seas

This is along with 30 new marine species which have been discovered by scientists resulting from the “Schmidt Ocean institution 2020 expeditions.” This is part of their “Deep sea” exploration, partly to attain more knowledge about the biodiversity in the deep seas, of the Western Australian Coast. The Website states that the coast is known already for its “extensive karst System” yet the deep sea environment adjacent to it remains unexplored”.  However this specie, known as a siphonophore, is 46 metres long and is “made up of many small clones, that act together as one and spread out like a long string in the water”.  Though this one, may well be the longest one ever found. Apparently these species also act like Jellyfish, and are capable of tantalizing tiny fish in the water.  

Siphonophore, believed to be world's longest sea creature, found ...
This may just look like some ripples in the water, but this may in-fact be the world’s longest living creature, the siphonophore (source, The West Australia)

Now if this isn’t enough to either cause you to be immensely fascinated, or to put you off ever entering the Australian seas, they also discovered an “Octopus squid”, a “Long tailed sea cucumber” and a colony of animals that looks like an upside-down jellyfish.  Just a little bit further fetched than dolphins..

Array of sea creatures on a black background.
Some of the other species this team has managed to discover (source, Schmidt Ocean institution)
https://schmidtocean.org/cruises/schmidt-ocean-institute-2020-expeditions/
Schmidt Ocean Institute 2020 Expeditions

2. Colorado has become the 22nd State to repeal the death penalty

Democratic Gov, Jared Polis signed this into law making it a growing trend of enlimiting the Death penalty there.  As  a survey showed in 2019 showed,  60% of Americans had a preference for imprisonment as opposed to long term death for the most severe cases of crime. 

Although this still doesn’t make this half and half, being further western may possibly lead to more Western states to follow their direction, yet this remains unclear…

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Map of USA showing where Colorado is (source, ontheworldmap.com)

3. No more UK Tampon Tax!

During the March 2020 budget, which focused heavily on schemes to (hopefully) help people and businesses stay afloat during this pandemic, Chancellor Rishi Sunak also proposed to scrap the Tampon Tax.  This will be from January 2021 onwards, when the UK is currently proposed to leave the EU.  With the EU deeming tampons as an “unessential good”, the UK  currently spends the raised revenue on helping vulnerable women, and for aid. Thus some have voiced their concern about where the surplus will come from in the future, to help these people.  While it is predicted to save women a mere £40 during their lifetime, many women in the UK do currently struggle to afford these items.  Meanwhile will a few pence off per item really eliminate this problem?   While my gut instinct tells me that these ESSENTIAL products should not be deemed a luxury as I’m sure this conjecture infuriates many of us as well as just myself; perhaps it is more important to ensure that we all have easy access to these essential items. Whether we can afford to the pay the price or not.  And while women tend to have to pay more for needs in general; including the “pink” tax on razors, shampoo and generally pay more for childcare- this all adds up.  While a slight tax cut may seem like a gesture, or a small step to tackle the immense inequalities- it isn’t exactly going to lift everyone’s living standards!  Possibly a more compromising act would be to have a smaller amount of tax, on both women’s items and men’s!  Ensuring there is tax revenue to tackle the needs of those most impoverished. 

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It is not right really that women should pay for necessary items when men do not, coming to think of it. (Source, evolve politics)

4. EU to issue new guidelines on sustainability of electronic items

On the subject of the EU, the EU have come up with a “circular economy plan!” As dry as this sounds, it basically means “to ensure that resources are kept in the economy for longer”.  This is part of the “European green deal”, which aims for “climate neutrality by 2050”.

 The “circular economy plan”  includes policies, to make sure products (especially electronics), “have a longer shelf life”, improving treatment of waste and informing consumers on how repairable different items are.

 However  promising this may sound to environmentally concerned consumers, these regulations are highly likely to receive a backlash from some of the top ICT firms, such as Apple whilst environmentalists are likely to still feel dissatisfied. Dutch green MP, Bas Eickhout, stated in a press  conference that “we lack clear targets for reducing resource consumption” saying the European commission “barely looks at pricing” to increase “the uptake of circular products” over those we currently use.  Whilst this is definitely a  leap in the right direction, I’m sure it will leave many feeling ambivalent, wondering how and when this will be achieved.

5. Putin supports a constitutional amendment which could have him re-elected in 2024- then have him stay in office until 2036!

Having been president of Russia for almost 9 years now, having previously been Prime Minister of there for around 5 years, Putin immediately supports a constitutional amendment that would potentially allow him to remain in power for another 16 years.  This means he would be 83 years old by the end of his presidency, having suspended a constitutional law which limits presidents to two terms in power.   MPs have also passed a set of amendments including to define marriage as a heterosexual union, as well as the authority which belongs to Putin would name Prime Ministers and cabinet members.   This has lead to the Prime Minister of Russia actually stepping down.  Alexei Navalny, the most prominent opposition leader tweeted that  “The only goal for Putin and his regime is to stay in charge for life” adding that his desires are to “have the entire country as his personal asset and seizing its riches for itself and his friends”. There is also the possibility of protests amongst the Russian public due to this constitutional change.  This may well leave many people, both citizens of Russia and those living elsewhere very concerned about what may happen if he ends up in power for a further two terms, and the extent to which he will take the country further into a dictatorship.

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Vladimir Putin pictured (source, Wikipedia)

6. Ice sheets are melting too fast!

This time, evidence tells us that ice sheets are melting too fast in Greenland and the Antarctica- in-fact 6 times faster.  We are all aware of the detrimental effects Climate change can have and we have all heard too much evidence proving the hypothesise of these processes having accelerated in recent years.  Nevertheless these scientific findings will prove most shocking, even to those of us most environmentally aware, considering how the melting has massively accelerated in recent years…  Two separate papers published in “Nature” give more information.

A meltwater canyon on the Greenland ice sheet
A meltwater canyon on the Greenland ice sheet (source, Ian Joughin/University of Washington/PA)

7. Rare Leatherback Sea turtles have been returning to beaches

Largely due to beaches being vastly deserted over these last couple of months, due to lockdown, these rare sea creatures have been found nesting in larger numbers seen for decades, in Beaches in Thailand and Florida.  In Florida, 76 nests have been discovered over an almost 10 mile stretch of land over two weeks, by staff from the Loggerhead Marine centre calling this a “significant” increase from the previous year.  These turtles can weigh up to a whopping 700 kg, making them the largest of all living turtles and the forth heaviest reptile: only behind three crocodilians.  Capable of being able to adapt to cold waters, they have the widest global distribution of all reptile species.  While their name is due to having shells which are almost flexible and feel “rubbery” to touch.    Moreover these incredible sea creatures have been on Earth for Millions of years before humans.

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Leatherback sea turtles pictured hatching on a deserted beach in Thailand at thee end of March. (source, Reuters.com)

8. Wales to have been experiencing several grass fires in recent weeks

These have included near Newport by the England/Wales boarder, Snowdonia in north Wales as well as further a field in places including Northern Ireland.

One to have happened very near homes in Rhondda in South Wales, had resulted in the need for “5 fire crews” and “specialist officers” to attend, while people were advised “to keep their windows and doors closed”.  Witnesses of this catastrophe, have expressed their experiences of the sighting; describing it as “eerie” “as everything has turned black” while another stated how it “covered the whole of the mountain”.  This particular fire has brought in many dramatic photographs…

Photo taken by resident Demi Price (source, Wales online)

9. People in the UK to be burning cell phone towers, due to 5g and… apparently the corona-virus

Since we all begun hearing about the “5G” to be launched, many showed antagonism amid concerns and claims concerning negative effects of 5G on health, security and environmental concerns.  But the newest thing is a conspiracy theory that 5G could actually be linked to the Corona-virus outbreak.  An early version of this theory claimed that 5G technology first begun in Wuhan in China where the outbreak begun- which is responsible for weakening immune systems.  Furthermore some celebrities have brought attention to this, just growing the prominence of this strange theory. This could have well been the last straw for many who were already truculent towards this “technological advance”.   By the UK government addressing this theory as “dangerous nonsense”, maybe it’s quit rightly so do so, having low tolerance levels for citizens engaging in destructive behaviour during such unprecedented times, however it’s maybe also simply choosing to dismiss people’s genuine anxieties regarding this…

A Mobile phone tower centred in the background landscape in the UK, (source, Istock)

However “MobileUK”, the industry group that unites the UK’s four main networks, published an open letter to customers reassuring them that the there’s no connection between 5G and the Corona-virus and pleading them to help them stop the vandalism.  That was by asking that if they were to “witness abuse of” their “keyworkers”, or if they see “misinformation”- to report it…

10. A million Seed grass seeds have been planted along the coast of Wales, to tackle climate change

A stark contrast from the increased carbon emissions resulting from the recent catastrophic fires, this story actually brings in good news for Wales, and will contribute to reducing these emissions.  Planted in a new meadow off Pembrokshire, these can absorb carbon dioxide faster than trees, and scientists hope that these can boost sea life.  This new “Sea grass”, is found at the bottom of the sea, and was collected by Volunteers last summer, mainly by diving.

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Just some of the gorgeous seascapes along the Pembrokshire coast (source, Reddit)

So here are the 10 stories.  I have tried to keep them as off topic from Corona virus as possible, and being aware that one or two or these stories are related have slipped in, i thought they may have been missed by many amidst everything else.  Plus I thought they were pretty interesting.

 I tried to include a range of good news and bad news, as I feel that it is equally concerning how easy it is to act and hide the stories during such crazy times, whilst to remember that not everything in this world is bad.  That amazing discoveries are being made, people are performing even more miraculous accts of kindness and that the world is still bringing such beautiful things to us.

If you follow me, I will deliver a free cup of Positiv-TEA to your doorstep during lockdown!


So, what productive but fun activities have we been engaging in during the lockdown, in order to occupy ourselves and remain as positive as we can? I know that for sure my life-style has changed compleatly. Instead of aimlessly rushing off from place A to place B about 110 times each day, I am actually having to find other mind stimulating activities to enage in during this. Especially in the last two weeks, which have been the “Easter holidays”, where usually I would be going out rather a lot, and I expect I would have been spending a higher number of hours at work…

So instead I have been practising the guitar more where previously time was very scarce, reading more- especially before bed, and have even played a few games of cards and have had a go at painting… Last night, I even managed to clamber on top of my bed, to get a little glimpse of the sunset peeking through the houses outside my flat. Though I cannot recall otherwise, at least in recent years, when I have made considerable effort, only to see what is outside my own window…

And I know this sounds fake happy, and oh my God it is! Desite the fact that I do genuinely aapprecriate engagement in these creative pass times, an even bigger reason for doing so, is to give me something else to do. Which I am sure is the case for the masses of us. Whilst although I have aspired to read last thing at night for a long time, cause apperiently it is a good habit to be in, a lagre reason for it is also to reduce my chance of experiencing these squiffy dreams which have become all a sudden more prominent this pandemic… But maybe the concept of “Fake happiness” is not QUITE as toxic as we may think. Although it is super important for us to open up about our feelings, and address them ourselves, I also feel that sometimes using distractions is also vital to keep us afloat. Even if we are sstill terrified beneath the surface. I’m sure that whenever we are going through a difficult time which is personal to us, we try our best to keep our minds busy, to mix with the clouds stuck inside. And usually, even if we are surrounded by caring people, we may still very alone regarding what we are having to push ourselves through. Nevertheless, this pandemic is effecting every one of us in some way. And I feel that many of us are turning to hobbies and activities we may otherwise engage in far less frequently, in order to remain occupied and to remain positive, however shit we may feel underneath all of this!

Resulting from these following reasons, I have noticed many people are putting together blog posts, videos or simply stating what they are doing to keep themselves busy during these, well crazy times! So I thought it would be an idea to put forth what I have been doing, maybe to possibly inspire, to make a statement or.. Gosh, I don’t even know anymore. But it is really an account of what I am trying to do to make things feel a little more at ease, when realistically everything is immensely insane…

1. Attending more often to my plants

I dread to think how many times I have ventured into a plant shop, gotten overly excited about the extensive variety of plants on hand, then brought one or two pots; with very little knowledge on what to actually do with them. Or more specifically how to take care of them. However now with more time on my hands, plus having panic brought a few pots, I have been able to grasp the fundamentals of basic care. Moreover this has even got me actually using the soil and pots that I brought, having realised that these things do actually grow, therefore it is actually necessary to repot them every couple of years or so…

A plant that I managed to re-pot this morning. I know its leaves look a little off, but I am trying to sort that.

2. Spending more time reading

Who else has previously wished that they devoted more time to reading, or had specific books in mind, yet never got the chance or found the time to read them? Yeah… It’s kind of a shame really. Many of us may have dismissed the activity as “boring” as children, now realising that once you find what you are into, it can actually be so rewarding. Enabling us to expand both our knowledge and vocabulary, whilst it is a pretty good distraction- like mentioned earlier. I am personally reading both books related to what I am studying as wider reading, as well as fiction. The books I am currently reading, are pictured below 🙂

3. Gemstones and Spirit animals

So you are probably thinking this sounds rather arty-farty. But surely I am not the only one of whom to have about a dozen or more gem-stones aimlessly lying around the household, having spotted them in a shop, reading their meaning at the time, and then come a week later, we have completely forgotten about the meaning. Regardless of whether you have any faith behind whether these crystals may work or not, I think it is still desirable to have some background to the meaning of these stones. And as for spirit animals, I did take 2 quizzes the other day, and although I got two different results, I still found it quite intriguing.

And in case you are curious, I think there is no harm in looking toward the implications behind these stones or “Spirit animals” as a positive guideline.

Here are some of the gem-stones that I own 🙂

4. Guitar Practise

I am pretty sure that anyone who plays a musical instrument, of whatever ability, has often felt they don’t get round to practising it enough. For those taking it most seriously maybe we regret not putting in enough hours a day, while some of you may just wish to get it out every couple of weeks or so, whilst I often find I have only practised two or three times between each of my lessons. And that is not good aha. So it has been nice to be able to actually manage to devote myself to daily practise, and it makes the day seem that bit more productive 🙂

5. Cooking

Now that the option of “getting food out” isn’t really available to us, unless we opt for a delivery, and that most of us are home all day anyhow, there is less of an excuse to bypass the task of cooking. As well, there are so many good online recipes out there to try, many of these being fairly simple, which anyone could achieve. However it is also totally acceptable to have a look in your fridge or local supermarket depending, then put together what you think will taste good. It works for me, and saves me from spending additional time traipsing down the supermarket aisles for something they may not even have!

6. Craft activities

To be honest, I haven’t done too much of this, however I do intend to do a little more in the next few weeks. If I am capable to spare a bit of time from procrastinating…

However I did ATTEMPT to paint a flower vase. Don’t ask why, it was a little spontaneous and it was Easter so I suppose there was nothing really to lose.

Please don’t comment- least its colourful I guess…

7. Tidying

Talk of procrastination. Haven’t done much of this either if I am honest. Being brutally honest, I have allocated more time to making a mess. It is just so difficult, what with having to do school work at home, with the temptation of just leaving folder after folder on the nearest sofa, rather than putting it “away”, back into the school folder box. Yeah, life sucks… There’s always tomorrow…

Update: I actually managed to clean down my Windowsill this morning. Though it is still hard to tell the difference…

8. Do at home workouts

To some, regardless on whether you love or loathe exercise, I am sure that the idea of an “at home” workout sounds like a bit of a nightmare. For a start, there are so many obstacles, and it can get boiling hot. But look on the bright side, you can wear your pyjamas or underwear and no one needs to know! Personally I enjoy it, as it seems to release good amounts of nervous energy, although I tend to only do it once or twice a week.

On that note- don’t get too bogged down with it. You are entitled to want a healthy and fit body, however with all this time it is all too easy to become too engaged with all this “fitness” and “healthy eating”, without even realising that a point can be reached when you may be treating your body unkindly. Exercise should be used as a part of looking after ourselves well, not to hurt and exert extra pressure on our bodies or minds. Just feel we don’t read or hear this more down to earth stance on exercise enough…

9. Journal!

Ha, a blog post about things to do to keep busy during quarantine, cannot be complete without latching onto journaling or blogging. Yet I have been able to assign FAR MORE time to this blog now compared to before. I think that journaling for anyone has the potential to be rewarding especially during times like these, regardless of future career prospects. For me it is obviously good practise and rewarding anyhow- but it also can let off steam, and it is something to show to children and grandchildren in the future, whenever they are complaining that they’re bored. Thus I hope that the climate they’d be experiencing will be a far calmer in comparison to what we are experiencing now.

There is also an article about Trump, and about “veganuary” in cased you’re interested…

10. Sleep

So as grim as what this situation currently is, we might as well make take advantage of what we can. And without the morning journey to work/school/uni, we might as well devote that time to sleep!

So finally I just want to stress that these are just ideas, and personal to myself. We all have different interests, and contrasting needs and situations. So really I will stress how important it is to find and do what you fee comfortable with. This is a global pandemic, not a productivity competition, or a game to see how many of us aren’t actually capable of running 5K! (raises hand) Remember to take care of yourself! Seriously, what with everything going on, you are still just as worthy if not more so of efficient self care. If you feel worn out even by not doing much during this, you have EVERY RIGHT to take more rest than what you may do so usually. It is completely normal to feel emotionally exhausted and drained at the moment. Most importantly, beyond finding things to do to keep you sane in this moment in time, is to remember that times will not remain this dark forever.


And I was lying about the free “Positiv-TEA”, that I promised to hand out resulting from you doing something. I think it is more off a long term mindset, and there is no perfect solution, to completely turn things around (though tea, like my other listed activities can help!) In fact, the other day I read that remaining positive actually means recognising that better times will lie ahead (So sorry, I can’t remember the source). So keep strong, and remember to distract yourself (I have the grim prospect of “internet school” returning to my laptop on Monday…) but hey! But also look at the bigger picture, remembering that we have every right allowed to feel worn out and even vulnerable, regardless of what we may be doing or not doing. And I will stress again, when there is a deep tunnel, it unlikely that anyone will find huge amounts of light. But if we remain strong, together we will eventually pull ourselves through enough of it, that we will begin to see rays of sunlight peeking through once again. And this may appear brighter to us than ever before, and will give us a fresh resemblance of what can be done with it.

April, March, Feburary……Then VEGAN-uary


Edit- Heyy, I’m just reading this back to myself, and to be self critical, I haven’t made it that engaging, and I don’t really know what to change to make it more so either! I would still however recommend giving it a read though, as it is about an interesting topic, and it’ll help you choose where to go for food once this lockdown is over (sorry). I am not going to end up as a food journalist, so it’s ok…..

Who remembers a time where we used to be able to go out and get food from places like Greggs, Subway and Maccys. Nah, me neither…

But believe it or not, once upon a time, these places were actually open to the public so we could buy fast foods ready made for us. Yeah, crazy. In fact as recent as March, places like this were open, selling lovely burgers, sausage rolls and pizzas! Bet it’s all coming back to you now 😉

Maybe you even remember all the fuss that was made back in January, where loades of fast food places increased their number of options for us, including those places you may not necessarily expect. We all know about the amount of piss take which went with Greggs launching their “vegan sausage Roll”, but you may not be so familiar with their new(ish) vegan stake bakes, McDonald’s new “vegan dippers” and even new so called vegan burgers produced by Burger King and KFC, which I discovered which aren’t even suitable for vegans, so I rest my case.

Burger King Launches Vegan Rebel Whopper Burger in the UK (Updated ...
Burger King “Rebel Whopper” advert which has now only very recently been banned, due to the discovery of it not really being vegan….(source, LiveKindly)

Anyway, I was actually aiming to try some of these new foods before writing a post about it, however I haven’t got round to trying as many of these as what I would have liked to have done so. Yet for once, I actually have a legitimate excuse! So I’ve decided that I will rank the new vegan foods which I have tried, as well as ones which were previously available in chain restaurants. Meanwhile I will stste what options are out there which I haven’t actually tried yet. I also thought it would be cool to expose those foods which chains are claiming to be “vegan” which are not actually vegan, so you don’t have to try them either. Oh, and for record…I am not actually vegan. Oops, I do apologise. Though I am mainly veggie and currently just eat free range fish… Maybe one day though; I like all animals and I care about the environment and that…

1. Subway- Meatless Mariana (8/10)

So the first thing I will rank is the “balls for all” “Meatless mariana” from Subway. Judging from the name, this sounds pretty funky and I mean it tastes pretty good as well to be honest. It obviously depends what you choose to have alongside the actual balls as well, but that is up to you! But for me I found that the amount of “balls” I got was more substantial than most off these “veggie” substitutes where you may not get that much stuff. Take the vegan patties from there, which have existed for as long as I remember anyway, they don’t have as much in them lets say, and it is pretty standard for a veggie option. Therefore I also find the balls are nice for variety too. Also the vegan cheese used pretty good too!

Menu - Meatless Meatball Marinara | SUBWAY.com - United Kingdom ...
Subway Meatless Mariana, sadly I didn’t get a photograph of mine, plus it was all a bit messy. But the picture isn’t exaggerating the size of its Balls! (source, off the menu of the Subway website)

2. Pizza Express- Giardiniera (10/10)

Phew, I cannot pronounce this let alone spell it haha! Had to copy and paste… As long as you aren’t one of these people who won’t eat vegetables. The cheese on it is quite distinctive, and I ppersoonally love it. However I know a lot of vegans aren’t too keen on vegan cheese, as most of it doesn’t really taste much like cow’s cheese, and like I said, it is quite distinctive. However if you are more open tto vegan cheese, or you actually like it, like I do, then I would definitely recommend it!

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Vegan Giardinier pizza, (source, Plant Based News)

3. McDonald’s “Veggie sticks” (4/10)

Ok, so to be honest, these weren’t bad, at all. But there wasn’t much to them. However I wasn’t too happy to pay 4 pounds for 4 small sticks when you pay less for an individual “Big Mac”, whilst a standard cheeseburger remains at 99p. I am sorry, but i personally don’t think this should be acceptable, as it feels to me thay are trying to take advantage of people who may be devoted vegans, who would be willing to pay more, as they don’t really have much alternative choice (apart from go elsewhere, which makes most sense really!). However next time I end up in there, I shall definitely stick to the old “Veggie Deluxe”, as at least I know there is more to it, oh and it’s cheaper…

Not going to lie, but part of the cost was optional.. It actually came to 3 pound something, but you could opt to round it to £4 and the rest would go to charity. Which i did. But they ought to have that option for all these Big Mac’s too!

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They don’t look bad, but would you really be willing to pay a whole pound for one of these, Nah me neither. Or at least not again anyway.. .(source, Burgerlad.com)


4. Zizzie- Vegan Jackfruit Pizza (9/10)

This is definitely something worth trying, and it is very different from usual vegan options, even including pizzas. To start with, although i am sure it had existed long before, it was the first time I had come across Vegan pepporni, let alone made from Jackfruit. Now it didn’t taste exactly like pepporoni, but there again I wouldn’t know because it has been years since I have tried it. But I feel itt was most definitely better than most meat substitutes you get. One slight issue for me, was that I found it a little too sppicy,, especially with those nasty red peppers, but not so bad that I had to be constantly drinking water with it. And I also think it is good tht some places are finally trying to aim their vegan alternatives towards vaarious tastes and preferences, like with the spicy option.

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No words really… (source, Veganfoodandliving..com)

5. Greggs- Vegan Stake Bake (3/10)

Ok. So there wasn’t actually anything wrong with it, and I don’t want to discourage anyone from trying this just because I personally didn’t like it. As i think it is more to do with preferences rather than actual quality when it comes to this. But for me, the “Vegan Stake Bake” didn’t really do much. I found it quite bland, had a rather unpleasant taste about it and I do not like gravey. However really this migh actually say something good about Greggs! Although I didn’t like it at all, I have never liked stake meat, or gravey when I used to eat meat (literally years ago haha), so this may suggest that greggs are poroducing stuff which tastes very ssimmilar to the real thing. Which although I love variety, it can definitely be good to have it very similar too, as i know some people considering going veggie/vegan or those who already are, would and do miss meat.

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Vegan Stake Bake, I had actually taken a picture of that one, but had sadly lost it, as it didn’t stand out that much. Photo of it here doesn’t look much better than the one I took… (source, Scottish Sun- yeah sorry guys!)

Perhaps this is a similar to the vegan sausage rolls. Which I would definitely give 9 or 10/10, and I guess they taste quite similar to the real thing.

So I am going to put a list here of other Vegan foods you can get from Fast food outlets, just to tempt you all and to be a pain in the butt. But then is is all of this fast food veganism worthwile?

So other newish vegan options in the UK, include Pizza Hut’s vegan “pepperphoni” pizza, KFC “zero chicken burger”, Costa coffee’s vegan “Ruby” hot chocolate, Costa’s vegan strawberry Croissant, Starbucks Vegan Smoky Jackfruit grains, Starbucks vegan beetroot wrap, Café Nero Vegan Vegetable sausage roll, Dunkin Donuts Vegan hash Browns and Oatmeal (porriadge FFS), and many other mainstream fast food ooutlets offering vaster ranges of vegan foods

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Pink Vegan hot chocolate (on right) to be added onto the Menu at Costa (source, Metro)

Finally as usual, it is harrd to tell what the genuine intentions of these restaurants are. Realistically, if you were a long term, die hard vegan, you wouldn’t begin going to McDonalds because they have released another vegan burger. However we all quite aware of veganism as a growing trend (especially back in January), and “flexatarianism”, where people who may still be frequent meat consumers, may increasingly try out vegan foods, and alternatives. Some in order to help the environment, some to keep up with what their friends, and some just out of genuine curiosity. To me it seems most likely that restaurants are increasing their vegan options, just to keep up with consumer demand, rather than due to a moral obligation. Hence why so many new vegan options were introduced in January, in response to many people wanting to give up meat for the month, or just to be “healthier”. In contrast, It is most likely however that the owners of small cafes and resterants which specialise in Vegetarian and vegan food, do want to increase the availability of vegan food partly for their sake, being likely to be non meat eaters themselves. Therefore I part of this vegan movement is in response toa deep down moral rooting, at firsst not being as cclear to where from as it seems. But at the end of the day, as more people become aware of the benefits of not eating meat, be it animal welfare, the environment or health reasons, the more people become curious to why they choose to turn to veganism and are interested to try vegan alternatives themselves. Maybe not being so convinced as to give up meat, they may choose just to try vegan options rather than stick to them, and make a massive thing about it whenever they do so. This is where all these crazy trends bloosom from, and the more people involved, the more of the biggest firms have to respond to this increased demand. Which in a way is good I guess, they are responding and hopefully benefitting the animals, the health of people and the environment in the long run. Nevertheless whilst many vegans and veggies may be greatful that they, well could, go along with their meat eating friends and actually be able to eat something, many are far from convinced.

A Greenpeace article titled “Are fast food companies really going vegan?” stated that “the fast food business model, which centres around increasing the sales of meat-based dishes, is incompatible with preventing the destruction of the world’s precious forests”. Therefore we cannot really relay on fast food firms to help cut the meat production and consumption, as their real incentive is to maximise sales, and realistically the people who go to these places the most, are those who love meat. However they did say it was “a tiny step in the right direction”, and I feel that because of these trends, there is plenty of room for veganism alternatives in these meat devoted chains. Yet again, should we really be rushing off to these places that have previously been absolutely stuck to the sale of meat, can’t even be trusted to use the right oil, and are basically massive corporations, where owners are millionaires. Whilst owners and workers of small, ethical, family run chains are currently terrified of the prospect they may no longer have a job, after this lockdown ends, as we will all rush off to the cheap fast food outlets,frequently purchasing dare I say… crap, (most likely myself included…)

So wow. All this “petty” veganism thing, isn’t just about middle class gals in their teens and 20s wanting to tip off a bit of weight. It isn’t even just about the massive potential to promote environmental sustainability and help animan welfare. It is business, economics and at the moment, can cost people’s lives… Not just “via climate change”…

So whenever all this is over, I expect I will be rushing into Greggs to buy one of their Vegan Sausage rolls. Like if no one does, they will eventually go down I guess. However I will also make sure to visit small businesses when I can, especially Vegetarian and Vegan specialising firms. As I think more people would be less likely to go to these small places due to having less money, but every small purchase helps!

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The sort of Vegan burger you may well get if you actually go to a small restaurant, a stark contrast from the one they sell in Maccy’s if you ask me! (source, One Green Planet)

What the Trump


So In the last few days, I had come up with a good range of cool ideas to write about.  Obviously all of them tied to the infamous Corona Virus one way or another.  All of the weird and wonderful ways people are responding still to this, how am managing to stay semi-productive and um…the shambolic UK government’s handling of all of this, now and prior to this…

But no…  What has drawn my attention, like I am sure has with many other people, is actually the Trump.  Once again proving to the semi-sane side of the world, that is is nothing but a fasict, arrogant biggot.  To say kindly. 

So what on earth has he done this time?

Trump is changing the international order - CNN
Ay, looks like he is on a bit of a mission here! Don’t know when this was taken…(source, CNN.com)

So first things first, to begin with Trump was almost declining that the Coronavirus even existed, saying that when it “gets a little warmer”, it could miraculously go away, hugely underestimating the immense, catastrophic effects that it could have had on the USA, which now have been proven.  Moreover, his dismissing attitude led to some of his supporters literally believing that this virus “doesn’t exist”, and even holding numerous protest shutdowns in dense crowds.  One being outside the Statehouse Atrium in Columbus. This attitude reduced the urgency for there to be a lockdown, and meant that official “lockdown guidelines” were later than what most countries followed with, being mid March. 

Shutdown Protests taking place in the USA, lets play where’s the Trump hat… (source, @futurecanon twitter)

Following on, these restrictions were far far looser than in most countries, as I am sure you are more than aware of the firmness of measures within most countries.  However in America, the published two page guidelines, titled “15 days to slow the spread” ADVISED people not to eat in restaurants, or drink in bars and to avoid gatherings of more than 10, called for schools in affected areas to be closed and that older people “should stay at home”.  Although the individual States have some control over these lockdown measures, and some States have come down much harder on the approach. 

Now quite rightly so, many people from America and elsewhere will have strongly pursued the view that he has done far too little too late.  Although the social distancing measures have now been extended until the 30th April, testing kits reduced during a continuing surge in deaths.

USA daily deaths per day, nbc news

Furthermore Trump is now already looking to “reopen” America, claiming America has passed the Peak.  Nevertheless his analysis seems rather unconvincing.  “US CNN.com” states that he is looking to lift stay at home guidelines even before the 1st of May deadline, saying it is time to prove America as the “Comeback Kid”.  To me, this just emphasises Trump’s complacent ideological stance towards capitalism, favouring the economy over people’s livelihoods and his continued underestimation of this Virus, to spread USA capitalist patrionism, even though it could and will cost lives.  However one could view this as a tactic to save the economy, and to reduce the effects this will inevitibly have on workers who are currently out of work, and to save job opportunities for young people in the future.  Yet there, it is far too early to be looking at ways out considering the cost of lives, as well as the inevitible strain on their health service…

So if this is not enough, however, he has now taken the decision to stop the funding of the World Health Organisation (WHO).  This is not out of wanting to abolish the organisation, but rather replace the entire management team.  Who “seem to work in the interests of the Communist party of China, rather than the health interests of the Whole community” according to “Neweurope.eu”.  He believes that the organisation shouldn’t have supported the reopening of China’s boarders this soon, stating in a tweet that “The WHO really blew it” claiming “it is funded largely by the US, yet very china centric”.  He also stressed that he was glad that he took the decision to “reject their advice on keeping their boarders open to China early on”.  To many of us, this just continues to show his ant-internationalist stance on the world, whilst maybe partially being prejudice towards China due to their communist government, when we know he is all out there for the stark opposite.  Yet again, some of us may be able to scrape out scraps of legitimacy to his claims.  Many feel China is “covering up” for the virus, claiming that the spread has drastically declined, where maybe, realistically it hasn’t having been known to cover up for what is really going on in the past.  However by him reportingly referring to the Coronavirus as the “Chinese flu” , it is likely to spread further hatred and hostility towards the Chinise, especially amongst his supporters.  And although maybe back in January some of us may have referred to it as that as a joke before we realised how serious this really was, I strongly do feel that as a leader of one of the most influential Countries in the world, calling this any mock names is beyond appropriate.  And although China may have made some mistakes in order for the spread of the virus to have been so drastic, and most likely the spread rooted from there, realistically this could have surged from many countries.  We probably will never know how this began, however a pandemic is never an excuse to spread such hatred towards a country, or people within it…

Is the Lockdown re-tying us together again as a community


I know that I am one who prefers to be left alone. Rembering when I was a child, which wasn’t that long ago, where I used to feel at slight unease with knowing most people who lived along my drive, and that the lady who always delivered the “bridge” or community magazine seemingly somehow managed to know me and my parents, as well as I expect everyone living on our road. Yet, balancing this out, I also miss the strong sense of community which existed back then. Especially during times like these.

Taking the clock back to the run up to the 2012 Olympic games, I remember that seemingly the whole community had gathered, in order to perch down on one a spot of pavement, in order to catch a glimpse of the Olympic torch and to possibly be handed a bottle of CocoCola. That year, also happened to host the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, where children, teachers and parents congregated on the school playing field one lunchtime. I remember one lady distributing Union Jack bucket hats to lots of us, at no cost, while us kids would guzzle down whatever food we could find. And I’m sure that you remember the street parties that occurred after the royal wedding, yet again bringing the community together again.

Royal wedding street parties: What does it take to plan for a ...
Photo of a Street party celebrating the Royal wedding (Source, the Telegraph)

Yet if you live in a very urbanised area, such as in the middle of a town or towards a city, it’s most likely that most off the time this strong sense of community is lacking. Living in a block of flats now, within very easy walking distance of the town centre home to an area of over half a million people, I only actually know the name of ONE of my neighbours. As there isn’t really the time usually to talk to one another. As everyone is just so preoccupied with their own private lives; being work, studying, going out…or whatever. However recently we have seen communities beginning to rebond, having no choice but to work together. And perhaps it is during these times where everyone local is “in it together”, being good or bad. But the shared experience unites us…

So I’m sure that if where you live is not underneath some colossal rock, that squishes your head flat, then you will be aware of the “clap for carers” movement. Across the country, people of all ages, backgrounds and beliefs have come together from the comfort of their homes in order to acknowledge and show appreciation for the wonderful efforts of doctors, nurses and all other crucial NHS staff. Consequently this has led to neighbouring households along the street assembled together to celebrate the immense efforts and achievements of these wonderful staff together. A rare sighting in modern England, where many people wouldn’t even find it appropriate to say “good morning” to fellowing neighbours, let alone stand united with them all, to celebrate something that really they have all been indirectly effected by, whether it being now or at some other point in their lives. Whilst despite the lacking opportunity of getting out of the building, for those of us who live in flats, we have still managed to muscle through this. Instead opening our windows and cheering from outside, although encapsulated in our own flats, we are still uniting.

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Family pictured joining on the “Clap for carers movement (Source, The express)

And if you think this is an achievement, it’s nothing compared to what some communities living in blocks of flats have achieved. In Spain and Amsterdam there have been videos of balcony raves, one even being conducted by a DJ. While we have seen balcony sing-alongs of various hits like “We rill rock you” and even two neighbouring flats playing tennis.

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The Balcony over which the rave took place in Amsterdam (source, OMG.blog)

Furthermore, there has been an impressive number of people putting themselves forward to help those more vulnerable people, with shopping, dog walking or even a chat. Not to mention the over 500,000 people who signed themselves up within 24 hours to support the NHS (source, Guardian). It just shows, in spite off our differences and vast cravings and obviously our usual ability to reach out much further afield, when hard times hit us, we are more than capable of pulling together once again as a community. Whether this be within our neighbourhoods, our communities or online. That really, wherever we live, there is still this strong sense of attachment to our community even though we sometimes lose sight of it. But overall, it shows everyone’s willingness to go the extra mile, or further in many cases, to help those most in need.

However some of us may find some of the occurances abroad a little strage still. Especially in those coountries which have enforced stricter, and so far longer periods of lockdown compared to what we have experienced in the UK. Would everyone really want to begin singing from our balconies, or windows. I personally cannot see it down where I live, without at least one of our neighbours knocking on the host’s door complaining that their children and themselves need to sleep. Perhaps it is better to stick to hosting a street tea gathering, like in a street in Wales. I think as well that it would have been more difficult for us to have coped and united as a community now, without the internet. As it is no longer natural for people to communicate by chatting; or shouting across the balcony. With the fear that people would automatically show hostility. Nevertheless we have seen that the clap for carers notion was cheered on by many supporters and rold models online, enabling communities to genuinely be able to gather and applaud. I reckon that realistically, once things return to normal, communities will move back to their original less socialable model.. However I feel there will still be a strong sense at times where it is needed. Where events occur in which unite us. Whilst hopefully too, left behind there will be a slightly stronger transparent connection, whilst there will be stronger consideration for one another.