CLOTHES MAKE THE MAN

ishga is derived from the Gaelic word for water. To be more specific, in this context,  the pure, clean waters of the Hebridean Islands off the north west coast of Scotland which is home to ishga, and where they sustainably hand harvest the four types of seaweed that are at the heart of their organic skincare range.

Hebridean seaweed contains potent natural antioxidants with properties which transform and protect skin. ishga has developed a process to extract its natural goodness, harnessing an abundance of vitamins and bioactive minerals to create a remarkable range of high performing products that deliver efficacy for all skin types. 

Indulge in the restoring powers of the ocean and allow the marine skincare to connect your mind, body and soul back to nature.

The ocean is at the heart of ishga, and their unique seaweed extract is at the core of their award-winning organic skincare range. Since day one back in 2013, the brand has  been sustainably harvesting the wonder ingredient on the shores of their home of the Isle of Lewis. They allow nature to replenish her stocks by rotating the harvesting locations and most importantly only taking what they need.

They owe the powerful hydrating, firming, healing, and skin protecting formulas to Fucus Serratus Seaweed, Pelvetia Canaliculata Seaweed, Ascophyllum Nodosum Seaweed and Fucus Vesiculosis Seaweed; each containing its own unique skin enhancing properties.

When the seaweed extract is combined with high-performing active skincare ingredients, it becomes a transformative must-have ingredient for your skincare regime.

One of the key products within the range which is particularly great for Men is ishga’s Balancing Marine Face Cream. It’s designed to balance and hydrate the skin, regulating excess sebum production it also hydrates, refreshes heals and smooths.

Certified organic and vegan-friendly, Balancing Marine Face Cream features ishga’s potent seaweed extract and Hebridean spring water, which together includes 86 different vitamins and minerals.

Balancing Marine Face Cream’s organic ingredients include Shea Butter, Apricot Kernel Oil, Macadamia Nut Oil, Vitamin E, Cucumber Extract and Aloe Vera concentrate. These ingredients combine with Hebridean Seaweed and Hebridean natural spring water to soften, repair and moisturise leaving a protective barrier that helps rejuvenate and protect the skin from environmental damage. Ideal for all skin types.

Shea butter and extract of macadamia contain essential fatty acids Omega 6 and 7, which absorb excess sebum while nourishing thirsty skin. Vitamin E plumps, heals and smooths, and fresh citrus peel combats oil and detoxifies the skin.

Sensual, aromatic oils of bergamot, sandalwood and patchouli add a refreshing scent, to lift your spirits and soothe your senses.

For students starting university later this month, university is a diverse place with people from different backgrounds – making it a great opportunity to make new friends or even meet the love of your life!

With nearly a third of students finding love whilst at uni, The Knowledge Academy surveyed 3500 participants in the 30 top universities in the UK, revealing the best universities for falling in love and finding a life-long partner! The Knowledge Academy can reveal that the best university for students falling in love is the University of York, with over 63.3% of students admitting that they have met their romantic partner whilst studying there! According to the survey, 85.51% of relationships at University of York are short term (less than a year) , meaning that students here may focus more on the present rather than a long-term commitment. 

Ranking second is the University of Manchester, where 61.7% of participants revealed they were in a romantic relationship whilst studying at university. Not only is this university popular for falling in love, but it was also found that around one in five (21%) of participants also ended up marrying their university partner.

University of Bristol ranks as the third best university to fall in love, with 57.4% of participants disclosing that they have been lucky in love at this university. Known for its quirky, creative and vibrant background through street art and music, participants reported that they had been engaged in both long and short-term relationships throughout their university life.

The likelihood of marrying a romantic partner from university is overall much lower statistically, with an average of only 12.17% revealing they married their university love.

Falling first place, Queen’s University Belfast has been found to be the best university for finding the right person to marry, with 21.5% of participants marrying their university love, the highest out of all 30 universities analysed.

Following closely behind, the University of Oxford ranks in second place with 21.1% of participants revealing that they married their university love. In third place is the University of Manchester with 20.87%. It is also the only university ranked both in the top three for finding a romantic partner and a marital partner, so it truly is the best for long-lasting love. Maybe it should claim the title of the new city of Love ?!?!.

The top 10 UK universities for falling in love

Images

RUT MIIT

Vasily Koloda

Tasilia Stupak

Adam Winger

Footwear is not just an accessory – for many, it’s a way to express themselves, their values and personality. In the footwear industry and even in wider fashion conversations, an interesting debate is becoming more popular. In this day and age, should society prioritise ethical considerations over style? As the rise of vegan leather signifies a shift in consumer values, we delve deeper into the pros and cons of each stance.

What Is Vegan Leather?

Vegan leather has been growing in popularity, especially for accessories such as bags, belts and boots, often derived from polyurethane, and when manufactured in innovative ways, it provides a very realistic appearance that is convincing of traditional leather. Vegan leather can even be created using materials like apple peels, pineapple leaves, cork, or recycled plastic – these more experimental methods are also growing in popularity, but are yet to really break into the mainstream of fashion. The general increase in demand suggests a growing appreciation for cruelty-free alternatives but also an innovative approach to sustainable fashion materials.

That being said, traditional leather is certainly still selling well today and it continues to be in high-demand. That’s why we are here to explore some of the differences between the two materials, and to ponder on the future of leather in general.

Pros of Ethical Considerations:

Animal Welfare:

Vegan leather offers a cruelty-free alternative, ensuring no animals are harmed in its production.

Environmental Impact:

Some vegan leathers, especially those sourced from recycled materials, may have a lower carbon footprint than traditional leather.

Innovation in Fashion:

The search for ethical alternatives drives innovation in material science, leading to new, exciting textures and styles.

Pros of Style Considerations:

Durability:

Traditional leather is often revered for its long-lasting nature.

Aesthetic & Feel:

Many find the texture, sheen, and feel of genuine leather unparalleled.

Historical Significance:

Traditional materials have cultural and historical significance in fashion, marking timeless classics.

Historical Context of Leather

Leather has been intertwined with human civilization for millennia. Its origins trace back to prehistoric times when ancient humans utilised animal hides for protection against the elements. These hides, once cured, provided warmth and durability that early fabrics could not.

As civilizations advanced, so did the techniques for leather treatment. In the Middle Ages, the process of tanning leather became more refined, and the material became synonymous with durability and quality. Different regions became renowned for their leather goods, from the thick sole leather of Cordoba to the fine glove leathers of France.

The Industrial Revolution brought machinery that increased production speeds and introduced newer methods of leather processing. This, in turn, allowed leather goods to be more accessible to the masses, cementing leather’s status not just as a utility but as a symbol of style and luxury.

Today, leather remains a staple in fashion, representing both tradition and luxury. However, with growing awareness of ethical and environmental questions, alternatives like vegan leather are emerging to provide choices for the modern consumer.

Now it’s common for brands to offer both traditional and vegan leather, as they understand that consumers like to have this choice themselves, rather than a brand deciding for them. For example, see the vegan range by Blundstone, the famous Chelsea boot company who are well-known for their hard wearing footwear, made of real leather. This just goes to show how influential new materials are on the market.

Caring for Leather Boots (Traditional & Vegan)

To ensure the longevity and maintain the appearance of both traditional leather and vegan leather products, proper care is essential. Here’s a general guide on how to care for each:

For Traditional Leather:

Brushing Off Dirt:

Initiate cleaning by gently brushing off accumulated dirt with a soft brush. For stubborn spots, a slightly damp cloth can be of aid. Excess moisture, however, might harm the leather.

Drying Process:

Post-cleaning, position your boots in an airy location away from direct sun and heating appliances to avoid leather dehydration.

Conditioning:

Before applying any leather maintenance product, it’s wise to test on a less visible part of the boot. Once deemed safe, use a clean cloth or brush, apply the product in a circular motion, and then wipe off the excess.

For Vegan Leather:

Simple Cleanup:

A damp cloth effectively cleans these boots. Swipe gently to avoid material damage.

Drying Technique:

Like their leather counterparts, vegan boots should be air-dried away from intense heat or sunlight.

Footbed Maintenance:

If your boots feature a detachable footbed, it’s advisable to wash it separately with a gentle soap, followed by air-drying it in a flat position.

Choosing Between Traditional & Vegan Leather

For some, the allure of traditional leather lies in its rich history and durability. Its timeless nature has cemented its place in the wardrobes of many. On the other hand, the emergence of vegan leather and other sustainable materials showcases a society increasingly attuned to its ethical footprint.

We have established that it’s not only about appearance, or even just morals. There are some fair points when it comes to wearing traditional leather, a big one being durability. The question of ethics does come into play, but remember that different cultures and individuals have a unique set of values and morals due to the many factors in life, this is ultimately a personal decision. Either way, we’ve learned that it’s not only about how something looks, there’s a lot more to consider when it comes to shopping.

So it’s evident that both ethical considerations and style have their merits. As with most aspects of fashion, the decision often boils down to personal preference and values. The beauty of the modern fashion world is its diversity, offering choices that range from contemporary and innovative to timeless and traditional.

Choosing Your Boots

When it’s time to select boots, your unique style should take centre stage. Whether you opt for vegan or traditional leather, ensure your choice resonates with your personal aesthetic and meshes well with your existing wardrobe. This way, your boots will effortlessly enhance any outfit they accompany.

As the fashion industry evolves, it gifts consumers with a myriad of choices. From vegan boots symbolising innovation and ethics to classic Chelsea boots embodying tradition and timelessness, there’s something for everyone. Ultimately, the choice between ethics and style is personal. And that’s the essence of fashion: a canvas for individual expression, where every choice is valid. Whether one leans towards the contemporary or the classic, it’s a testament to the rich tapestry of options available in the fashion world.

With 93% of people admitting being on holiday improves their wellbeing and mental health, it’s easy to see why many of us may feel down after a trip abroad. 

As we head into peak travel season, many of us will be returning from getaways and finding the adjustment back into daily life difficult. But how can we beat the blues and what causes them?

To answer this question, Psychologist and Co-founder of UK Therapy Rooms, Dr Daniel Glazer, has shared 5 tips to beat holiday blues and revealed the science behind this feeling and what it could signal for us.

Are the post-holiday blues real?

According to Dr Daniel Glazer “The holiday blues isn’t a scientific or medical term or diagnosis but certainly many people experience low mood and anxiety when returning from holiday or during a holiday season.” 

This is confirmed by surveys which show that many people do in fact feel down after taking a holiday – with 57% of us experiencing “post-holiday blues”. 

Dr Daniel Glazer explains how holiday blues can present as “feelings of sadness and low mood around the end of a holiday” but it’s also possible for these to “present as anxiety and irritability around returning to day-to-day life. This can impact sleep, appetite, motivation and energy levels.”

Why we get the post-holiday blues

Glazer doesn’t believe there is “one why”, there is likely to be a number of factors. 

Firstly, heading abroad can create opportunities for us to release ourselves from the stress of everyday life, routine and day-to-day issues. When we return to this, it can be “a sign that something in life needs attending to”

Secondly, it can be a connection to “more existential anxieties” as the start and end of something often holds emotional tension.

“At the beginning of a holiday, we are full of anticipation and by the end, it often feels that time has gone too quickly. A holiday puts us in touch with a reality that everything ends and it can be hard to return to everyday life with that sense of time passing at the forefront of our minds.”

5 ways to beat the holiday blues

Dr Daniel Glazer explains that “If the holiday blues shows itself more as anxiety and irritability then it can be helpful to use your usual strategies to manage difficult feelings such as exercise, meditation, doing something creative or being in nature”

With this in mind, UK Therapy Rooms has outlined 5 ideas for activities which can help beat the holiday blues:

1. Log your memories

One of the most rewarding elements of a holiday is the memories we bring back with us. Travelling can offer both life-changing experiences, and even just simple moments of bliss. Scrapbooking, journaling or creating a photo album is a great way to reflect and reminisce on these moments. In fact, crafts like scrapbooking and journaling can provide cognitive benefits, improving memory and providing a form of stress relief. 

If you’re not into crafts, another option is simply uploading your memories to social media. This will allow you to show gratitude for your experiences, while also acting as a form of self-expression and relationship-building. However, it’s well worth noting that balance is important here, and time online, especially using social media, should be limited both in length and to content that fulfils you. 

2. Bring your experiences home with you 

Travelling is a great opportunity to explore new experiences from hobbies, to learning a language or tasting new foods – but we often forget about these as soon as we step foot off the plane. But there can be enormous mental health benefits to learning new things.

Learning a new skill helps to boost confidence, and gives a sense of purpose and studies have foundpeople engaged in learning report feeling better about themselves and have a greater ability to cope with stress.

Bringing home some of your newfound skills, hobbies or experiences can also help you to look back fondly on your time away. Consider continuing to learn the local language of the place you visited, learning to cook your favourite dish from your time away or continuing with any hobbies you may have tried such as water sports or crafts.  

3. Spend time with loved ones

For some people, heading away abroad is a perfect opportunity to meet new people and build connections with others. Humans are social animals, used to being part of groups and so time spent with others can be key to our wellbeing. 

In fact, it’s been reported that direct person-to-person contact triggers parts of our nervous system that release a “cocktail” of neurotransmitters tasked with regulating our response to stress and anxiety.

If you’ve come back from a holiday and find yourself feeling lonely or isolated on your return, make sure to plan in time with friends and family. It’s also a great opportunity to share your experiences and show gratitude for your time away. 

4. Avoid unhealthy habits 

When we go away, we often change our habits entirely, and not always for the better. Many people stay up late, drink more and abandon routine. 

When you return, it’s important to be mindful about how much you are drinking, especially if you’re experiencing low mood, given that alcohol is a depressant. Consider swapping to mocktails and finding low, or no-alcohol drinks that you genuinely enjoy to ensure you form a healthy habit. 

Alongside this, when we’re in holiday mode, plenty of us also stay up later than normal and go without as much sleep. But on our return, it can be difficult to return to our normal routine. This can be exasperated if you’re also experiencing jet lag. 

However, sleep is essential for our wellbeing with one study finding inadequate sleep was associated with significantly increased odds of frequent mental distress. Therefore, try to return to routine as soon as possible and make use of pre-bedtime relaxation techniques to ensure you can drift off easier. 

5. Get outside and exercise 

One extremely positive benefit of our time away, is the time we spend outdoors and within nature. There’s an enormous list of benefits to spending time in nature: it can lower blood pressure and stress hormone levels, reduce nervous system arousal, enhance immune system function, increase self-esteem, reduce anxiety, and improve mood.

And the great news is that we only need 2 hours a week spent in nature, and this can be either as one chunk or spread out – the benefits remain the same according to studies. 

Therefore, on your return make sure you head outside to experience some natural light, nature and fresh air. This can be anything from walking and gardening to more active exercise like cycling or running.

How to know when it’s something more serious

While the holiday blues isn’t uncommon, it’s always best to be mindful if your symptoms could be a sign of something more serious. Dr Daniel Glazer notes “If these feelings interfere with functioning such as they impact significantly on sleep, appetite, work, relationships then that would be a time to seek help.”