CLOTHES MAKE THE MAN

While enjoying the sunshine during the day is a dream for many of us in the UK, sleeping in the heat can be a nightmare.

With this in mind, James, ‘the sleep geek’ at MattressOnline, has collated valuable tips to help alleviate the discomfort of sleeping in the heat.

1. Use hot water bottles to lower your core temperature

1. Use hot water bottles to lower your core temperature 

Using a hot water bottle might sound like a strange way to combat heat, but James the Sleep Geek recommends raising your core temperature slightly by placing a lukewarm hot water bottle on your feet thirty minutes before bed; that way, when you go to sleep your core temperature will drop.

2. Use separate covers from your sleeping partner

Use different covers if you are sleeping with a partner; although it might still be tempting for some to snuggle up to your significant other, their body heat will only transfer to you, so use separate covers and if you can and swap out your duvet for a thin cotton sheet.

3. Avoid daytime naps

Hot weather can make us sleepy; as tempting as it is to have a daytime nap in the glorious sunshine, don’t. Multiple sources, such as weather presenter Abbie Dewhurst and Doctor Azmain, recommend saving your precious sleep for nighttime by staying in your normal routine.

4.Put your feet in a bowl of lukewarm water 

Much like a lukewarm hot water bottle, putting your feet in a bowl of tepid water offers a longer lasting cooling process. It also avoids the shock of using ice-cold water, which can jar you awake and make it harder to get to sleep.

5. Open your loft hatch

Heat rises, meaning it will be hotter if your bedroom is on the top floor. According to experts at MattressOnline, opening your loft hatch is one way to get rid of the accumulated hot air by allowing it to escape somewhere else.

6. Use Aloe Vera

Meteorologist Jodi Kodesh states that using Aloe Vera before bed can be even better than taking a cold shower because it absorbs into the body four times quicker than water. Apply it to your skin just before bed for a cooling effect.

7. Shut out the sunlight

James states that one of the main things to help alleviate the comfort of a hot night’s sleep is to keep your house cool during the day. To do this, ensure you are shutting out the sunlight, particularly in your bedroom, by keeping blinds and curtains closed.

8.Swap your sheets 

Lastly, why not replace your sheets and pillow cases with ones made from natural materials such as linen, bamboo and cotton. Not only are they soft and breathable – perfect for the summer heat –  they also draw away mositure more effectively.

Words by Chris Jankulovski

With Father’s Day on the horizon, we find ourselves on the brink of a powerful emotional journey. As the author of “Near Death Lessons” I’ve walked this path and discovered firsthand the life-altering wisdom that awaits us. From my diagnosis of VHL(Von Hippel-Lindau- a rare, genetic multi-system disorder) to the profound loss of my father, these experiences have left an indelible mark on my soul. Through it all, I’ve come to understand the immense value of gratitude, the transformative power of being present for our loved ones, and the artistry involved in crafting enduring memories. As we approach Father’s Day, let’s reflect on these lessons and embrace the opportunity to celebrate the remarkable role of fathers, honor our own fathers, and cultivate the precious connections that make life truly meaningful.

Gratitude is a powerful emotion that allows us to appreciate the precious moments we have with our family and loved ones. Having faced the brink of mortality multiple times, I’ve learned never to take my existence and presence for granted. I’m constantly overwhelmed with gratitude for being here for my kids, my wife, and everyone involved in my life. It’s a fascinating experience to recognize the fragility of life and embrace the opportunity to be present and cherish those we hold dear.

I also can’t help but feel grateful for my own father, who passed away seven years ago. His unwavering support throughout my entrepreneurial journey, especially towards the end of his life, remains etched in my memory. I cherish the moments we shared and his encouragement in my triumphs. It’s a reminder that even in his absence, his influence continues to shape my perspective on fatherhood and the importance of being there for my children.

My family, consisting of my wife and sons, has played a pivotal role in grounding me and putting life into perspective. Amidst the pursuit of success and ambitious goals, it’s easy to become consumed by work. However, my family serves as a constant reminder that they are the foundation of all that I do. I’m immensely grateful for their presence, as it allows me to unplug from the demands of my world and fully engage with them.

No matter how much we achieve or contribute to society, neglecting our family’s well-being is a fundamental mistake. Fatherhood has taught me that our primary responsibility is to look after our families, ensuring their happiness, security, and support. By placing our loved ones at the forefront, we can build a strong foundation from which we can positively impact the wider community.

Facing my mortality has propelled me to make conscious decisions about how I spend my time. Time is our most valuable resource, and we must optimize it to create meaningful memories with our loved ones. Planning and scheduling activities become essential in ensuring that magic moments happen. If we don’t make time for these experiences, we may wake up one day to find that our children have grown and those opportunities are lost.

As a driven entrepreneur with businesses in different countries, balancing work and family has been a challenge. However, I’ve come to understand that my family matters most. They provide me with grounding, allowing me to serve them and appreciate the true essence of life. Father’s Day is a reminder that before handing over the accomplishments of my career, my family’s well-being and happiness are paramount.

Father’s Day is a powerful reminder for us as men to reflect on the lessons that life has taught us about gratitude, the value of family, and the creation of unforgettable memories. Whether we have children of our own or we think about our own fathers, this is a moment to pause and appreciate the profound impact that family has on our lives. As fathers, we are willing to sacrifice everything to ensure the well-being of our loved ones. It is through our families that we find grounding, purpose, and the opportunity to serve them wholeheartedly. They bring clarity to our priorities and help us shape a life that is truly meaningful and rewarding.

Happy Father’s Day to my own Dad, who we lost in 2010.

Father’s day is fast approaching, but if you’re still struggling to find a gift don’t panic- there’s still time to shop last minute father’s day gifts ahead of the 18th of June celebrations!

The most technically progressive earphones from the brand to date, the Urbanears Juno.  Using ANC (Active Noise Cancelling), this is the first ever noise cancelling true wireless headphone for Urbanears. Consists of 57% plastic, of which 91% is recycled. 

CleanCo is the premium non-alcoholic spirit brand founded by Spencer Matthews, who offers a selection of premium non-alcoholic spirits that taste just like the real thing across gin, rum, agave spirit, vodka and whiskey, allowing consumers an alcohol-free alternative without compromising on taste or social interaction.

Clean W is like Bourbon Whiskey but without the alcohol. A characteristic Bourbon nose with classic notes, oak and sweet vanilla, underpinned by rich spice, apple and figs, with a smooth finish.

This VR experience is the perfect gift to the special man in your life. After all, what could beat spending time with your family on Father’s Day? Sandbox is a futuristic VR game experience for groups of up to 6, in which you can see and physically interact with everyone inside, just like the real world. Pick from 7 games, including Deadwood Mansion, Star Trek Discovery, Amber Sky and the NEW Seekers of the Shard. Thanks to Hollywood motion capture cameras, 3D precision body trackers, custom hardware, and haptic suits, you get a feeling of transformation you can’t get anywhere else. And whilst you visit, don’t forget to visit Toni – the resident robotic bartender who can server up a variety of non- and alcoholic beverages!  

This Quick-fire pocket-sized fun game for on-the-go is a great idea, Gabble is a frantic race against the clock to describe people, places and things for your team-mates to try and guess. The more you can describe the more you’ll score! Slip a card out of the dispenser and then score using the snappy little poppers on either side. Take on holiday or play on the move… Travel Gabble is the perfect carry out card game!

From BBQ King to BBQ novice, no matter your level of barbeque experience, our chilli-inspired apron and burger flipper set will be the perfect finishing touch to rule any grill. The two-piece set comes in a handy bag and features a front pocket and waist tie fastening.

A nice bonding idea for new Dads. These two pack of supersoft sensory muslin squares, one of each of Keith Haring’s iconic ‘Baby’ print and colourful ‘Brazil’ print. Expertly rescaled and recoloured to support babies’ cognitive and visual development between birth and around 1 year old.

Perfect for feeding, for cuddles, spillages, for using as a lightweight blanket, breastfeeding cover or to put over a playmat to encourage tummy time. You can even wind them up in a car window for shade and stimulation for calmer car journeys.

Make sure you never miss a beat with Gingko Flip Click Alarm Clock! This powerful, modern alarm clock features the latest in technology to make sure that you never forget a thing. Incorporated into its design are laser-engraved touch control buttons and our revolutionary flip alarm system. With these advanced features, it is now easier than ever to ensure that your alarms are always ready to go when needed. Plus, if you want some peace of mind during the night, Gingko’s unique sound activation system means that the LCD display will turn off while still counting down every second in perfect accuracy. When it’s time for waking up again, simply give it a gentle tap, clap or click and the light will come back on. Enjoy both function and style with Gingko Flip Click Alarm Clock – access your alarms with ease and experience accurate timekeeping all throughout the day!

Treat Dad to this delicious M&S Italian food and wine gift, created with the help of Fred Sirieix. Your lucky someone will receive a bottle of our exclusive Gavi di Gavi, perfectly paired with mixed antipasti, flatbreads, gorgonzola, tallegio, parma ham and salami. Inside the box, they’ll also find a booklet with tasting notes and supplier stories for the products inside showcasing the best of Italy.

Keep his cool with this warm-weather pyjama set by British Boxers. Crafted from a smooth and breathable cotton, it’s just the ticket for when you’re travelling somewhere exotic, or simply relaxing at home in the summer months. Offered in a timelessly stylish design, the shirt is finished with elegant contrast-colour red piping and three pockets, while the shorts feature a soft elastic waist, back pockets and a self-fabric tie.

As our wonderful avid readers know, I am an ardent fan of the Montblanc Explorer range and chances are if our paths cross, the fragrant tones aerating from my good self will be Montblanc Explorer.

For any kind of explorer, the journey is never over. There are always new horizons to discover, new boundaries to push and new heights to reach. Montblanc Explorer expresses the irrepressible spirit of adventure and the extraordinary environments in which explorers thrive, offering every Montblanc Explorer hero the opportunity to challenge his limits. Just as the adventurer answers the call of the wild as he embarks on a new adventure into the unknown, the Explorer fragrance story continues with Montblanc Explorer Platinum. The new addition to the Explorer collection captures the thrill and beauty of a journey to higher altitudes with a powerful woody fragrance and enhanced bottle design.

A tale of the exhilarating encounter between man and mountain, Platinum is rooted in the very foundation of the Montblanc brand and its connection to mountains. A Maison named after Europe’s highest peak, with designs and products inspired by the majestic beauty of the mountains and its glaciers. 

Platinum reveals a new side of Montblanc Explorer with a modern take on woods, evokingthe ascension of an adventurer into the mountains. An olfactory adventure created by renowned perfumers Bruno Jovanovic, Nathalie Lorson and Fabrice Pellegrin, the telluric force of the rock is expressed by a signature scent built around noble woods, enlivened by a breath of vibrant Cypress and airy crispy accord,articulating a bold and refined masculinity.

 Travelling is a joyful and exciting time away from home we’re looking forward to. It allows us to break from the routine and recharge our batteries.

But with ever-changing travel regulations, train strikes, and baggage requirements, this can often leave us fatigued and anxious.

What is travel anxiety?

Travel anxiety is a feeling of worry or fear related to travelling, from planning to transportation to running all the things that can go wrong in your head.

While travel anxiety isn’t an official diagnosis, it’s common and can further trigger your symptoms. These include agitation or irritability, difficulty focusing, trouble falling or staying asleep, panic attacks, muscle tension, and more. This can make planning or going on a holiday difficult and even turn your vacation into a nightmare.

Bethany Teachman, a psychology professor and director of clinical training at the University of Virginia, said: “Travel involves being willing to expose yourself to new situations and to be able to tolerate some uncertainty because you don’t know exactly how it’s going to go.”

With some help from the cycling shorts division at Leisure Lakes Bikes, we’ve rounded up the most common travel anxieties and how you can cope with them.

1. Fear of flying

Fear of flying is more common than one might think. In fact, between 33% and 40% of the population experience some form of flight anxiety. This can be related to worries about crashing, fear of heights, claustrophobia, or discomfort when taking off or landing.

60% of sufferers experiencing generalised anxiety during the flight (and leading up to it) can easily manage it on their own, with the help of relaxation techniques such as breathing and meditation or bringing along distractions such as books, games, and movies.

Nevertheless, in its severe form, a genuine fear of flying is classed as aviophobia, and between 2.5% and 5% of the population experience it. In that case, seeking professional help is recommended. The most common way of treating aviophobia is exposure therapy, which, combined with cognitive-behavioural therapy, can be extremely beneficial.

2. Luggage allowance and restrictions

Airlines are constantly changing luggage rules and regulations, and travellers often find it hard to keep up with them. This causes anxiety about ensuring the baggage meets the guidelines set out by airlines and avoiding any unexpected fees or restrictions.

The best thing you can do in this case is to plan in advance. Research the airline’s luggage policy and restrictions, as they vary from one to another. Find out weight restrictions, the number of bags allowed, and the dimensions of the luggage.

If you’re bringing sports equipment, such as a mountain bike, skis, or a snowboard, make sure you check what can be accepted on board and what can’t.

Usually, bikes and winter sports equipment need to be checked in at an additional fee. Electric bikes, however, can only be checked in on board without the battery, so ensure you have made arrangements to rent a battery at your destination or ship it in advance.

If you’re bringing a mountain bike helmet, the worst spot you can place it is in your bike bag, as helmets crack under pressure. It’s best if you bring it in your carry-on.

3. Lost luggage

The fear of lost luggage is another concern that adds to the stress of travellers, with the possibility of not having their belongings with them during their trip.

According to data from the Air Travel Consumer Reports, more than 684,000 bags were mishandled in the first quarter of 2022. That means that about seven bags out of every 1,000 handled are classed as lost baggage.

The top reasons for delayed bags include transfer mishandling (37%), failed to load (20%), and ticketing error/bag switch/security/other (19%).

While you can’t prevent your bags from getting delayed or lost, there are certain things you can do to ease your anxiety about it and be as prepared as possible when it happens.

Labelling bags with contact information will ensure airlines can easily identify the bag and return it to the rightful owner. It’s also a good idea to place a copy of your contact details inside the luggage in case the external tag is lost.

In case your checked-in luggage gets lost, packing a carry-on bag with essential items is a smart idea. This includes a change of clothes, toiletries, and any medication that may be required. It’s also a good idea to pack any valuable items in the carry-on bag, as they may not be covered by the airline’s insurance policy.

Airline policies on delayed and lost baggage vary, but as a general rule, bags that don’t arrive with you at your destination are considered delayed. The airline declares them officially lost between five and 14 days after arrival.

It’s best if you file a baggage complaint with the airline as soon as possible. That way, you will expedite the process of finding your bag or being compensated for any lost items.

4. Getting there and missing a flight

The anxiety of missing a flight is a common concern for many travellers, and this can be compounded by factors such as traffic and recent train strikes.

Whether driving or taking a taxi, traffic congestion can significantly delay your journey and cause you to miss your flight. To avoid this, it is important to plan your journey and factor in extra time for potential delays.

Similarly, train strikes can also create chaos for travellers, leading to delayed or cancelled trains, overcrowded stations, and a lot of frustration. If you are travelling by train, it is important to keep an eye on the news and stay updated on the status of any potential strikes. It may be helpful to book your tickets in advance, so you have more options and time to plan your journey if a strike does occur.

Once you get to the airport, you need to navigate yourself to your gate. The earlier you arrive, the more time you will have to find it and relax before your flight. At bigger airports, check the airport map to identify how you need to get to your gate, as some may require taking a shuttle. Also, stay organised while going through security to save time.

Travelling can be a wonderful experience, but it can also be a source of anxiety for many people. By addressing the common causes of anxiety and using the tips and tricks provided in this article, you can overcome your fears and enjoy your travels to the fullest. Keep up the positive attitude, and you’re sure to have an amazing adventure. Bon voyage!