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Relaxing in a sauna shown to reduce risk of heart attacks

We always love bringing you good news, and this is the kind that encourages you to help your healthy by sitting around and relaxing. While going to a sauna has often been regarded as good for one’s health, a new study has shown evidence that men who visit regularly live longer and are less likely to die of sudden heart attacks. The study took place in Finland, where going to the sauna is a popular activity, and looked at the link between people who used saunas and the risk of sudden cardiac death, fatal coronary heart disease, and dying from any cause. The men included in the study were tracked for an average of 21 years. When comparing results, it was shown that the more frequently someone visited a sauna two to three times a week had a 22 per cent lower risk of sudden cardiac death than those who went just once per week. When looking at people who visited between four and seven times a week, that number increased to 63 per cent. The risk of coronary heart disease was reduced by 23 per cent for men bathing two to three times per week, and by 48 per cent for those who bathed four to seven times. Risk of dying from heart disease was 27 per cent lower for the two to three session men, and 50 per cent lower for those who visited four to seven times. When the researchers looked at the risk of dying from any cause at all, they discovered that men who visited a sauna two to three times had a 24 per cent lower risk, while those who went four to seven times saw a 40 per cent reduction in this risk. A hint for those of you thinking of paying a visit to your nearest sauna now: staying for more than 19 minutes appears to be much more beneficial than staying for less than 11 minutes. Image: Getty

Caring

25 ways to relax that don’t cost a cent

Relaxation isn’t just a fun thing to do, it’s necessary to your overall health and wellbeing, says psychologist, Lisa S. Larsen. Yet despite this basic need, many of us are really bad at relaxing. You can thank our modern go-go-go society, she says. “A high-stress lifestyle, which many people lead, puts you constantly in ‘fight or flight’ mode, which can be damaging to your health if there is nothing to actually fight or flee from,” she explains. “But when you employ the relaxation response, your parasympathetic nervous system takes over and helps you rest, digest, and repair yourself.” Relaxation is different for every person – one person’s relaxing day at the beach is another person’s sunburned, sand-in-their-shorts nightmare – so Larsen recommends trying out a variety of things to figure out what gets you into prime relaxation mode. And contrary to popular belief, it doesn’t take an expensive spa day or a trip to another country to make you relax. Go to the botanical gardens Every city offers many local attractions free to the public. And what’s more relaxing than a stroll through a beautifully curated and expertly maintained garden? You get to enjoy all the flowers, trees, and shrub animals without ever having to pull a weed. Build a fort and take a nap in it Forts are a childhood staple, and for good reason: they’re fun! There’s just something so relaxing about snuggling up in a cozy little spot. Make an adult version with a nest of soft blankets, your favourite book, and decadent snacks. For extra magic, string fairy lights across the top. Soak your tired tootsies Foot baths are one of life’s best little luxuries, allowing you to relax in body and spirit. Your feet do all the heavy lifting in your day to day life so don’t you think they deserve a little extra love? You can use a bubbly foot bath if you already own one or simply sit on the edge of a bathtub filled with a few inches of relaxing hot water. Finish off with a little foot massage with scented lotion. (Bonus relaxation points if you can talk someone else into massaging your feet!) Take a swing at your local park Nothing soothes and relaxes a baby like a swinging sensation and, contrary to popular belief, you don’t just grow out of that. Give yourself a gentle rock by heading to the park and swinging under the stars. Go forest bathing ‘Forest bathing’ is one of the hottest new wellness trends as simply being outdoors, in nature, offers a host of health benefits, including a deep state of relaxation. Take advantage of this all-natural remedy by walking or hiking through a scenic spot near you. Admire the sunset Sure, the sun rises in the east and sets in the west every day of your life – but this doesn’t mean it isn’t a glorious experience. It’s all too easy to overlook the daily aerial light show, especially as it normally happens during the busiest times of day. So make an effort to sit down, take a deep breath of fresh air, relax, and just watch the sun set on another day. Look through old photo albums Nostalgia can bring back some powerful feelings. Looking through old family pictures or photos can remind you of the comforting sound of your mother’s voice, the safety of your father’s hug, the laughter of your friends, or the peace you found on that island you discovered on that amazing vacation you took years ago. Remembering how quickly life really goes by can help put your daily struggles into perspective, allowing you to relax and go with the flow more. Have some milk and cookies Milk and cookies are a tried-and-true relaxation method and it turns out there’s a scientific reason for that. The carbohydrates in the cookies combine with tryptophan, a calming amino acid found in dairy foods, to induce a powerful feeling of relaxation, according to a study published in Nutritional Health. Tell a favourite childhood story Sharing a favourite memory with a cherished friend or loved one is a great way to relive happy moments while creating new ones. Not only will this bring a smile to your face and help you relax but it’s a great way to help children relax before bedtime. Call a friend Hearing your mum or best friend’s voice has a way of instantly relaxing you in a way a text message or an email just can’t. So, if you need a quick moment of zen, take a moment to call and say hi to a loved one. They’ll appreciate that you’re thinking of them and you’ll get a quick reminder of why you adore them. Sing some YouTube karaoke Happy music triggers happy memories, instantly boosting your mood and relaxing you, according to a study published in Memory & Cognition. Double the effect by singing along to your favourite tunes. You don’t even need a fancy karaoke machine these days, thanks to the millions of free sing-a-long videos on YouTube. Meditate Meditation is one of the most powerful relaxation methods we have, according to a growing body of research. And the best part is that all you need is a quiet place and your mind (and once you get good at it you don’t even necessarily need quiet). Walk your dog Owning a pet has many health benefits, including stress relief and increased relaxation. Simply sitting and petting your furry friend can help you unwind but for the biggest relaxation benefits – for you and for them – take your pup on a walk outdoors. Head to the library Libraries are a free and incredibly useful resource – yet so many of us don’t even have a library card. Going to a quiet, clean library is calming on its own but add in a good book and you’ve got a recipe for hours of relaxation. Even if your local library hasn’t reopened yet, several libraries have apps that allow virtual lending. Fold your laundry Clutter increases anxiety, according to a study published in Current Psychology. So while chores may not be your go-to strategy to relax, doing some light cleaning will allow you to better relax. Plus, some repetitive chores, like folding laundry, can induce a relaxing ‘flow state’ that leads to less stress and greater creativity. Sketch a doodle You don’t have to be an artist to enjoy sketching, doodling, painting, or some other artistic endeavour. One of the main reasons people enjoy it so much is that creating art is innately relaxing, according to a study published in The American Journal of Public Health. Play a sport While some people prefer a solitary run or hike, many people love to relax with others. Playing a group sport, like tennis or a neighbourhood basketball game, can be a great way to get some happy endorphins flowing and have some fun social time. Make some music Do you play the piano? Have a violin sitting in your cupboard? Love the harmonica? Every person has the capacity to make some kind of music. Even if you’re no Mozart or Itzhak Perlman, you can still find a great deal of satisfaction and relaxation in playing your own music. For example, playing the piano changes the way the brain works, helping even amateur pianists become better at tuning out distracting stimuli and helping them to relax, according to a study published in PNAS. Listen to a podcast Podcasts are a huge trend right now, and while some shows (think true crime) may keep you up at night, others are designed to help you relax. Look for a podcast focused on meditation, music, learning, or even bedtime stories to help you find your chill. Have a good belly laugh The process of laughing actually reduces the levels of stress hormones in your body, according to a Japanese study. This makes having a good giggle one of the quickest and easiest ways to relax. Watch a funny video, ask a friend to tell you a joke, look up funny memes, or read your favourite comic. Play a game with a kid You know who never has a problem relaxing? Small children. We are all born with an innate sense of how to chill out but somehow lose that ability as we get older. Get a relaxing reminder by playing a fun game with your kids. It can be physical, like tag, or strategic, like Monopoly, or just silly, like Candy Land. Just make sure you’re not distracted by your phone so you can fully relax in the moment. Have a cup of tea Tea-lovers have known how to relax for millennia. Whether you choose tea or an herbal blend, the combination of warm water and herbs has an immediate soothing effect. Plus, it gives you the opportunity to sit down and take a moment to yourself – just two of the proven health benefits of green tea. Write in a journal Have a hard time relaxing after a stressful day? Pull out your journal! Simply writing out your feelings eases negative feelings and relieves stress, according to a study published in Behaviour Research and Therapy. Read a good book Between texts, emails, and the never-ending stream of content on the internet, most of us read a lot every day. But when it comes to relaxing there’s a difference between reading for work and reading for fun. By picking up a book you allow yourself to get lost in a good story without the risk of distracting electronic notifications. Take a bubble bath Warm water combined with bubbles and perhaps some candles and music are a go-to way to relax after a hard day for a good reason: it works! A bubble bath is the perfect way to shut out the world and let your body and mind unwind. Written by Charlotte Hilton Andersen. This article first appeared on <a href="https://www.readersdigest.co.nz/culture/25-ways-to-relax-that-dont-cost-a-cent">Reader’s Digest</a>. For more of what you love from the world’s best-loved magazine, <a href="https://www.readersdigest.co.nz/subscribe">here’s our best subscription offer</a>.

Body

COVID-19 epicentre Wuhan records new cluster of cases after relaxing lockdown

The Chinese city of Wuhan has reported six new cases of COVID-19 over the last few days which marks the first officially documented re-emergence of the virus in over a month. Wuhan is the city where the coronavirus first broke out last December and had not recorded a new case since April 3rd. The city had since eased lockdowns and reopened schools. The first new Wuhan case was previously asymptomatic, and the 89-year-old man had not left his residential compound since the Lunar New Year in late January. His wife also tested positive for the virus despite showing no symptoms, the Wuhan municipal health commission said. The residential compound has had 20 confirmed cases and experts say that the new round of infections was mainly due to previous community infections. The new cases highlight the potential for new clusters of infections due to carriers who do not look ill or have a fever. On Sunday, authorities also reported new coronavirus cases in northeast China, with one city in Jilin province being reclassified as high-risk, the top of a three-tier zoning system. The city of Shulan was raised from medium to high after raising it from low to medium the day before after a woman tested positive on May 7th. The new cases spike the overall number of confirmed new cases in mainland China to 14, which is the highest reported number since April 28. In Wuhan, more than 20,000 people will be tested in the area where the cluster of new cases was found. Almost 4,000 people have died across the city according to the official tally. There is speculation that the figure could be higher as China faces questions from other countries about the accuracy of its reporting on COVID-19 cases.

News

“Relaxed” Prince William and Duchess Kate have ramped up PDA since Megxit

It is not something royal watchers are used to seeing, but in a slightly strange turn of events, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have appeared to become more tactile and love-up than they have seemed in a while. A body language expert has noted the pair appear to have “relaxed their royal rules” when completing their duties, and have dabbled in romantic touches and fun body language that indicates a certain change. Body language expert Judi James told Fabulous Digital that their “body language has always veered on the side of bland, but it is also always pitch-perfect for their royal role”. <img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7834357/kate-middleton-prince-william-2.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/d3a20da8ac984c2e9d5a8c07a0e8b4e6" /> Prince William, Duke of Cambridge and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge speak to young people and employers at Bradford Town Hall on January 15, 2020 in Bradford, United Kingdom. Over the years, royal watchers have learnt not to expect “non-verbal soap opera from the couple,” but Judi says things have changed. The expert said: “William and Kate do seem to be bringing more non-verbal signals and touches into their ‘routine’ post-Megxit though, apparently understanding that they can push the boundaries a little without suffering from obsessive interest and criticism. “As a result we’re seeing an increase of rituals that are showing the fun and the love but without compromising royal tradition.” A notable gesture done by the couple that hasn’t gone past Judi is the Duke handing his wife a rose while they were greeting supporters – it was a move that the expert perceived was well received from the Duchess. <img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7834358/kate-middleton-prince-william-3.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/0a4cd3cad260412f86aae61d323f54c6" /> Duke and Duchess of Cambridge depart City Hall, Bradford on January 15, 2020. She said: “Although he was heavily egged on by the crowds, Kate’s dimpled smile and eye contact showed she appreciated the romantic gesture from her bashful-looking husband”. Not only has the couple appeared more calm and confident with eachother during royal engagements, they also show a closeness when just out and about. “William and Kate are currently showing a capacity for comedy and performing it as a double act to double the laughs,” Judi said. <img style="width: 500px; height: 281.25px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7834356/kate-middleton-prince-william-1.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/1d382265c79849d68ff31fcb357d33f7" /> Duke of Cambridge and Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge visit Joe's Ice Cream Parlour in the Mumbles to meet local parents and carers on February 04, 2020 near Swansea, South Wales. “Kate tends to be more active and demonstrative but William mimics enough to make it mutual and he seems to mutter asides into Kate’s ear to prompt most of the joking.” Cameras followed the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge competing against one another in a baking challenge set by cooking legend Mary Berry for ITV’s A Berry Royal Christmas. Judi said: “Kate is now instigating more tie-sign touch rituals in public and William is reciprocating. “We might not be seeing the kind of intensely tactile behaviour that we did from Harry and Meghan but the increase in caring or thought-sharing touches shows a post-Megxit approach to a relaxing of the ‘rules’.”

Relationships

Relax with some French toast with balsamic strawberries and macadamia crumble

Start your morning with this delectable French toast recipe topped with a delicious crumble and an oh-so-tempting strawberry sauce. Serves: 4 Ingredients <div class="article-body"> Macadamia crumble <ul> <li>35g (¼ cup) plain flour</li> <li>2 tablespoons caster sugar</li> <li>50g chilled unsalted butter, chopped</li> <li>40g (½ cup) shredded coconut</li> <li>40g (¼ cup) crushed macadamia nuts</li> </ul> Balsamic strawberries <ul> <li>55g (¼ cup) caster sugar</li> <li>1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar</li> <li>300g strawberries, hulled</li> </ul> French toast <ul> <li>4 free-range eggs</li> <li>80ml (⅓ cup) milk</li> <li>80ml (⅓ cup) thin (pouring) cream</li> <li>30g unsalted butter</li> <li>1 brioche loaf, about 400g, cut into 8 slices about 2cm thick</li> </ul> Directions <ol> <li>To make the macadamia crumble, preheat the oven to 180°C. Put the flour and sugar in a bowl and stir to combine. Add the butter and use your fingertips to rub the butter into the flour mixture. Stir in the coconut and macadamias.</li> <li>Spread on a baking tray and bake for 20 minutes, or until the crumble is golden and crisp. Remove from the oven and allow to cool. The crumble can be stored in an airtight container for up to 1 week.</li> <li>To make the Balsamic Strawberries, put the sugar, balsamic vinegar and 2 tablespoons cold water in a small saucepan. Stir over low heat until the sugar has dissolved. Add the strawberries and increase the heat to high. Bring to the boil and cook for 3 minutes. Set aside to cool, then refrigerate until needed.</li> <li>To make the French Toast, whisk together the eggs, milk and cream in a wide bowl. Melt half the butter in a large non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Dip four slices of bread, one at a time, in the egg mixture until soaked, then drain off the excess.</li> <li>Fry the bread for 2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown. Remove from the pan and keep warm while you cook the remainder of the slices.</li> <li>Serve topped with the strawberries and crumble.</li> </ol> Tips <ul> <li>Start this recipe the day before, so your crumble and strawberries are ready to go, and all that needs to be done in the morning is to cook the French toast.</li> </ul> <ul> <li>Serve this with ice-cream, even for breakfast, so look for the best vanilla ice-cream you can find or have a go at making some yourself. Alternatively, serve with vanilla yoghurt or mascarpone.</li> </ul> Image and recipe from <a rel="noopener" href="http://t.dgm-au.com/c/185116/69171/1880?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Fall-day-cafe-stuart-mckenzie%2Fprod9781743368404.html" target="_blank">All Day Café</a><a rel="noopener" href="http://t.dgm-au.com/c/185116/69171/1880?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.booktopia.com.au%2Fall-day-cafe-stuart-mckenzie%2Fprod9781743368404.html" target="_blank"> by Stuart McKenzie</a> (Murdoch Books RRP $39.99). Photography: © Armelle Habib 2017. </div> <div class="social-media-column"> <div class="addthis_sharing_toolbox" data-url="https://www.wyza.com.au/recipes/french-toast-with-balsamic-strawberries-and-macadamia-crumble.aspx" data-title="French toast with balsamic strawberries and macadamia crumble | WYZA Australia " data-description="Start your morning with this delectable French toast recipe topped with a delicious crumble and an oh so tempting strawberry sauce. | wyza.com.au "> <div id="atstbx3" class="at-share-tbx-element addthis-smartlayers addthis-animated at4-show" aria-labelledby="at-edac2ffe-731f-44bc-aaa5-ab0be52335b6">Republished with permission of <a href="https://www.wyza.com.au/recipes/french-toast-with-balsamic-strawberries-and-macadamia-crumble.aspx">Wyza.com.au.</a></div> </div> </div>

Food & Wine

Relax with a mandarin margarita

<div class="article-body"> Grab your cocktail shaker in one hand (or a blender in this case) and some tequilla in the other and create this fruity cocktail sensation! 28.2% alc/vol 2.4 standard drinks Ingredients <ul> <li>45ml gold tequila</li> <li>20ml Mandarine Napoleon</li> <li>15ml Cointreau</li> <li>30ml fresh lemon juice</li> <li>Slice of fresh orange</li> </ul> Directions <ol> <li>Prepare a margarita glass with a salt-frosted rim.</li> <li>Pour tequila, Mandarine Napoleon, Cointreau and juice into a blender over cracked ice then blend.</li> <li>Strain into prepared glass and garnish with a slice of orange then serve with a short straw.</li> </ol> Recipe and image from The Margarita Guide by Steve Quirk (New Holland Publishers RRP $24.99), available from all good bookstores or online <a rel="noopener" href="http://www.newhollandpublishers.com/" target="_blank">newhollandpublishers.com</a> </div> <div class="social-media-column"> <div class="addthis_sharing_toolbox" data-url="https://www.wyza.com.au/recipes/mandarin-margarita.aspx" data-title="Mandarin Margarita | WYZA" data-description="Grab your cocktail shaker in one hand (or a blender in this case) and some tequilla in the other and create this fruity cocktail sensation! - wyza.com.au"> <div id="atstbx3" class="at-share-tbx-element addthis-smartlayers addthis-animated at4-show" aria-labelledby="at-0d972b42-1df1-4030-af34-357e19efee11">Republished with permission of <a href="https://www.wyza.com.au/recipes/mandarin-margarita.aspx">Wyza.com.au</a>.</div> </div> </div>

Food & Wine

Relax with a homemade apricot turnover

Move over apples, it's the season for apricots! This crisp and flaky pastry turnover will bring out the summer flavours you know and love. Time to prepare: 15 minutes Cooking time: 20 minutes Serves: 4 Ingredients <ul> <li>1 sheet puff pastry, thawed</li> <li>3-4 apricots, sliced and stones removed</li> <li>1 tablespoon arrowroot</li> <li>2 tablespoons sugar</li> <li>1 teaspoon vanilla paste</li> <li>1 tablespoon lemon juice</li> <li>1 tablespoon demerara sugar</li> <li>1 egg, beaten lightly, mixed with 1 tablespoon water</li> <li>Icing sugar for dusting</li> </ul> Directions <ol> <li>Pre heat oven 200°C.</li> <li>In a medium bowl, toss apricot with arrowroot, sugar, vanilla, lemon juice until there are no lumps. Set aside for 10 minutes.</li> <li>Place pastry on a lightly flour surface, cut into 4 squares. Spoon apricots evenly into each square and gently pull one side over to the other, making a triangle.</li> <li>Use a fork to seal edges, brush with egg wash and cut a few slits in the top of each to allow steam to release. Sprinkle with demerara sugar and bake for 20 minutes or until risen and golden.</li> <li>Serve dusted with icing sugar.</li> </ol> Recipe courtesy of <a rel="noopener" href="https://summerfruit.com.au/" target="_blank">Summerfruit Australia</a>. Republished with permission of <a href="https://www.wyza.com.au/recipes/apricot-turnovers-with-sugared-puff-pastry.aspx">Wyza.com.au</a>.

Food & Wine

Relax into the new year with a berry margarita

<div class="article-body"> Deliver a delightful, refreshing concoction - it's the perfect way to welcome guests at a dinner party. 14.4% alc/vol 1.8 standard drinks Ingredients <ul> <li>45ml white tequila</li> <li>15ml Cointreau</li> <li>60ml fresh lime juice</li> <li>4 fresh strawberries (diced)</li> <li>Fresh strawberry</li> </ul> Directions <ol> <li>Prepare a margarita glass with a sugar-frosted rim.</li> <li>Pour tequila, Cointreau and juice into a blender over a large amount of crushed ice then add diced strawberries.</li> <li>Blend until slushy and pour into prepared glass. Garnish with a strawberry and serve.</li> </ol> Recipe and image from The Margarita Guide by Steve Quirk (New Holland Publishers RRP $24.99), available from all good bookstores or online <a rel="noopener" href="http://www.newhollandpublishers.com/" target="_blank">newhollandpublishers.com</a> </div> <div class="social-media-column"> <div class="addthis_sharing_toolbox" data-url="https://www.wyza.com.au/recipes/berry-margarita.aspx" data-title="Berry Margarita | WYZA" data-description="Deliver a delightful, refreshing concoction - it's the perfect way to welcome guests at a dinner party - wyza.com.au"> <div id="atstbx3" class="at-share-tbx-element addthis-smartlayers addthis-animated at4-show" aria-labelledby="at-84d7078e-1f0f-4c28-ac3a-868b6bc5b67a">Written by Wyza. Republished with permission of <a href="https://www.wyza.com.au/recipes/berry-margarita.aspx">Wyza.com.au</a>.</div> </div> </div>

Food & Wine

Relax with ricotta pancakes with redbelly citrus compote

Lyndey Milan delivers this unique citrus twist on a scrumptious breakfast classic! Time to prepare: 10 minutes Cooking time: 25 minutes Serves: 3 – 4 Ingredients <ul> <li>Redbelly compote</li> <li>8 redbelly citrus (also known as blood oranges)</li> <li>1 tablespoon honey</li> <li>2 star anise</li> <li>½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract</li> </ul> Ricotta pancakes <ul> <li>2 eggs, separated</li> <li>150g (¾ cup) low-fat ricotta</li> <li>75ml low fat milk</li> <li>75g (½ cup) self-raising flour</li> <li>Pinch of salt</li> <li>Greek yoghurt to serve (optional)</li> </ul> Directions For the redbelly compote: <ol> <li>Finely zest two redbelly and reserve zest for the pancakes. Juice 2 redbelly to give approximately 100ml juice, strain and set aside.</li> <li>Cut a small slice off the ends of each remaining redbelly. Stand up on one end, and carefully, following the contour of the redbelly, cut down to remove the peel and the pith. Slice crosswise into about 6-8 pieces each. Using the tip of the knife, carefully pick out any seeds. Place in a shallow dish.</li> <li>Combine honey, 2 tablespoons of water and star anise in a small saucepan over medium heat. Allow this to bubble up, then stir in redbelly juice. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla. Pour over the redbelly slices and allow it to infuse.</li> </ol> For the ricotta pancakes: <ol start="4"> <li>Whisk the egg whites in a small bowl with an electric beater. Place reserved zest, ricotta, milk, egg yolks, flour and salt in food processor and whizz until combined or beat with an electric beater. Fold in the egg whites. (Mixture can be covered and stored in the fridge for later use.)</li> <li>Melt butter in a small 15cm non-stick frying pan, over medium heat until it melts. Wipe out with a paper towel. Spoon about 3 tablespoons of batter mixture into the pan, tilt to cover pan. Cook for around 3 minutes or until bubbles rise to the surface. Flip over the other side and cook for a further 2 minutes, or until just cooked. Place on a plate and keep warm, either in a very low oven (with the fan turned off) or by covering with a clean cloth. Repeat with remaining mixture.</li> <li>Either ladle compote on top of pancakes and serve to the centre of the table – with extra compote and Greek yoghurt on the side – or divide pancakes between serving plates, ladle compote on top of the pancakes. Serve immediately with Greek yoghurt if desired.</li> </ol> Tips The compote is also delightful for breakfast, simply served on yoghurt with quartered fresh dates and sprinkled with chopped toasted pistachios. Republished with permission of <a href="https://www.wyza.com.au/recipes/ricotta-pancakes-with-redbelly-citrus-compote.aspx">Wyza.com.au</a>.

Food & Wine

Relax with a calypso mango curd ice cream sundae

Perfect for a cheat weekend, this ice cream sundae pairs perfectly with the tropical taste of mango! Ingredients <ul> <li>3 Calypso mangoes</li> <li>1 litre good-quality vanilla ice-cream</li> <li>½ x 250g packet butternut snap biscuits</li> <li>½ cup pistachios</li> <li>½ cup shredded coconut, toasted</li> </ul> Calypso mango curd <ul> <li>1 Calypso mango</li> <li>6 egg yolks</li> <li>¾ cup caster sugar</li> <li>3 lemons, juiced</li> <li>125g butter, chilled, chopped</li> </ul> Directions 1. To make the curd, cut the cheeks from the mango. Using a large spoon remove the mango fruit from the cheeks. Puree mango until smooth. You need ¾ cup. Whisk egg yolks and sugar in a 6-cup capacity heatproof, microwave-safe bowl until combined. Whisk in ½ cup lemon juice. Add the butter. Microwave, uncovered, for 6-7 minutes on Medium/50%, whisking every minute, until the curd thickens and just comes to the boil. Stir in mango puree. Cover surface with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for 2 hours. 2. Spoon the ice-cream into a large bowl. Stand at room temperature for 10 minutes, or until softened slightly. Fold in 1 cup of mango curd. Spoon into a 12cm x 22cm (base) loaf pan. Cover and freeze overnight. 3. Process biscuits and pistachios until finely chopped. Stir in coconut. Cut the cheeks from the mangoes. Using a large spoon remove the mango fruit from the cheeks and cut into 2cm cubes. 4. To serve, spoon half the biscuit mixture into the base of six serving glasses. Top with scoops of ice-cream and half the mango. Repeat layers. Serve. Tips Mango curd makes 2 cups; store the remaining mango curd in a jar in the fridge for up to one month. Try folding it through whipped cream and serving on top of pavlova or serve over scones, toasted waffles or toasted crumpets. Recipe courtesy of <a rel="noopener" href="http://calypsomango.com.au/" target="_blank">Calypso Mangoes</a>. Republished with permission of <a href="https://www.wyza.com.au/recipes/calypso-mango-curd-ice-cream-sundae.aspx">Wyza.com.au</a>.

Food & Wine

Royal fun in the sun: Princess Mary poses makeup-free during relaxing holiday

Denmark’s Crown Princess Mary never steps a foot out of line when it comes to looking impeccably polished. So, it’s only fitting that when the royal is on holiday, she opts for a more casual appearance, choosing to go makeup-free as she spends time with her family. The 47-year-old was glowing in a recent photograph posted to the Danish royal family’s Instagram page, as she stood by her husband Prince Frederik’s side aboard the family yacht. Sporting a fresh face and a paisley-print dress, Mary soaked in the afternoon sun. The Crown Prince shared a series of snaps on the Danish royal family’s official social media page, documenting their summer break in Denmark. Frederik and Mary, alongside their children Prince Christian, 13, Princess Isabella, 12, and twins Prince Vincent and Princess Josephine, eight, have been exploring the country that they call home by visiting several locations on board the yacht. They recently visited Kongsore, in Denmark’s north, where the entire family took part in an obstacle course. Having trained at that same location during his time in the Danish navy, Prince Frederik wrote on Instagram that he “had the pleasure of showing the whole family my former workplace”. Another photo shows Prince Christian bravely diving from the deck of the yacht, showing off his penchant for adrenaline-filled activities. Scroll through the gallery above to see Princess Mary and her family having fun on their summer break.

International Travel

The top 5 most relaxing destinations around the world

It can be hard to get away from it all, especially when you don’t know where to start. <a href="https://www.lastminute.com/en/discover/most-chilled-out-countries-in-the-world.html">Lastminute.com</a> has ranked a variety of locations from around the world in order of noise, light pollution and the number of green spaces available to make this easier for you. The top 5 most chilled out destinations worldwide are: 1. Indonesia<a href="https://www.gettyimages.com.au/detail/photo/ohoililir-beach-kei-island-royalty-free-image/1012860334"></a> Indonesia is well known for relaxing by the ocean, as well as connecting with Mother Nature. With 88,000 of coastline, a beach isn’t too far away from you no matter where you are in Indonesia. 2. Australia<a href="https://www.gettyimages.com.au/detail/photo/helicopter-view-of-the-white-sands-turquoise-ocean-royalty-free-image/952973680"></a> Australia is known for their abundance of wildlife, as well as the variety of natural beauty that occurs. Whether you’re along the Great Barrier Reef or journeying into the red-hot centre of the nation, there’s something for everyone. 3. Iceland<a href="https://www.gettyimages.com.au/detail/photo/cascata-di-gulfoss-di-notte-con-aurora-boreale-royalty-free-image/932194018"></a> Iceland is ideal for stargazing, as it’s near the top of the Arctic Circle. This is where you can see the Northern Lights. However, with an average temperature of 1.75 degrees Celsius, don’t forget to bring your thermals. 4. New Zealand With landscapes that can make you believe you’re in another world, it’s no surprise that New Zealand was chosen to be Middle Earth in the Lord of the Ring franchise. You’re also never too far from the sea, but if you’re not a fan of the waves, lakes are nearby as well. 5. Sri Lanka With lush rainforests covering the landscape and a solid average temperature of nearly 27 degrees celsius, this is bound to have you feeling more relaxed as soon as you step off the plane. Scroll through the gallery to see what these relaxing destinations look like. Have you been to any of these destinations? Are they really as relaxing as this list claims? Let us know in the comments below.

Domestic Travel

How to truly relax on holidays

More often than not, people take holidays with the hope of getting some R&R only to return feeling like they need another holiday. To avoid getting burnt out while you travel, follow these tips to relaxing well. 1. Choose the right destination People go away on holidays for various reasons but if the goal of your trip is to rest, then be sure to choose a destination that will help you achieve that. Also, be aware that your accommodation choice will impact your relaxation on holidays. Staying in a house while you are away will involve duties such as cooking and cleaning. It is great to stay at destinations that you get to explore and do various sightseeing activities but it is important to know how much you are capable of handling each day. Sociologist Christine Carter explained to Real Simple that “a week of sightseeing is recharging only if you get restless sitting around.” 2. Don’t overdo the sightseeing When you are travelling to a new destination it is easy to over book your itinerary in an attempt to not miss anything ‘important’. However, overextending yourself while you are away can lead to stress and tiredness from rushing to each location. If you are travelling with someone, having a busy itinerary can also get in the way of having heart-to-heart conversations. Christine recommends making sure you schedule time in to rest in your holiday itinerary. She said, “Plan downtime. In my family, we do activities in the mornings, then have afternoons free. Or you can slot sightseeing every other day to rest up for the next adventure.” 3. Switch off If you go on social media while you are away, people will presume that they can contact you. This can contribute to being worn out because you know you have to reply to people’s messages, comments and questions while you are enjoying your holiday destination. Enjoy taking photos and making memories but save posting for when you return to your trip so you don’t miss out on what’s happening around you in real life. You also might see something on your news feed that will disappoint you or cause stress. While you are away, maximise the opportunity to be unreachable. 4. Accept that mix-ups happen While it is great to spend time planning your holiday to make sure everything will go smoothly, it is also important to remember that sometimes things go wrong. Be sure to be patient and accepting when things go wrong because it makes the situation less painful and helps you cope. Always get your perspective in check when a mix-up occurs. If something goes wrong but then is fixed within 30 minutes but you spend the whole day complaining about it, you’ve actually wasted more time than necessary. 5. Transition back into your schedule Take time to adjust back into reality so you have time to recover from your journey and jetlag. Don’t over book yourself when you return so you can get back into the swing of things without the exhaustion. What are your tips to relaxing while you are on holidays? Let us know in the comments below.

Cruising

4 unhealthy relaxation methods we’re all guilty of

When it comes to relaxing not all vices were created equal. For instance after a trying day if you like to unwind with a nice hot bath or if you like to switch off by spending hours in the garden, you're doing it right. If, however, you’re more inclined reach for the wine or hit the shops and spend too much money, you may have formed a bad habit. Either way, don't be too hard on yourself as we’re all guilty of at least one of the things on this list from time to time. While self-soothing is a natural response to stress, it’s important that you try and self-soothe with a relaxation method that is a healthy habit. Here are four unhealthy ways of self-soothing that you should keep in check and try and replace with something else - at least most of the time. 1. Reaching for the wine a little too often While there’s nothing quite like a glass or two of wine at the end of a busy week, if you find you reach for the bottle after every hectic day - and you have hectic days most days - you might want to rethink your relaxation method. As alcohol interferes with a good night’s sleep, too, you might find you get into a vicious cycle and don't feel well rested each day after a few wines the night before. 2. Retail therapy Many a people love a spot of shopping. And while there’s nothing wrong with treating yourself to something new on occasion, when shopping becomes your go to way of self-soothing, you could be in for trouble - and so might your bank balance. Furthermore, using “retail therapy” to self-soothe is only a quick fix and the feeling good isn't likely to last. In fact, if you’re shopping and you can't really afford it or you don't really need the things, you could find it makes you feel worse. 3. Eating your emotions It’s not uncommon to turn to food in a moment of crisis. From a young age many of us have been conditioned that if you're feeling a little down - i.e. if you were crying when you were younger - a little treat will fix it. What’s bad about this scenario is eating your emotions tends to lead to unnecessary overeating when you’re feeling blue. Rather than eating your emotions away, why not try walking or talking them away. Next time you want to reach for the chocolate, reach for your sneakers or the phone and walk and talk it out with one of your closest friends instead. 4. Locking yourself away With all the negative things going on in the world, from time to time it definitely sounds like a good idea to lock yourself away from the world and hide under your duvet in front of the television. Unfortunately as the old saying goes - you can’t run away from your problems. And hiding away and burying your head in the sand is only going to make things worse and detach you from the world. For a surefire way to turn your frown upside down when you can’t face the world, try volunteering - whether it be reading to children at a library or helping out at a community garden, it’s a great way to take your mind off things and do something that will make you feel good.

Mind

Simple tips to have a relaxing spa day at home

Your body may be screaming out for some pampering but your wallet is saying otherwise. Ditch the spa experience and make your own at home with some of these spa hacks. Read on to find out how you can create a relaxing environment without having to leave your house. 1. Set the scene Light a candle and dim the lights if you can – it might seem cheesy, but it really does help to position your mind and body into relaxing. If you have a bath, run a long, warm bath and add some bath salts, bath bombs or oil into it. Allow the fragrance to fill the room just as a room in a spa smells. Pop on some music and sit back to relax. Try to clear your mind and be in the moment. While you lay there relaxing, the botanical ingredients of the products you added will start to soften and nourish your skin. Those without a bath need not worry, there is still plenty you can do to create a spa experience. Hop into the shower to wet your skin and then either move the water away from you or quickly pop out to apply a salt scrub or body oil, use a loofah or exfoliating glove to work the product into your skin before popping the water back onto your body to rinse off. 2. Get the right tools From inflatable pillows to body brushes, there are plenty of cost-effective options for spa tools out there. Visit your department store or pharmacy to see what's on offer. A great start is to get a body puff which can be used to wash and also exfoliate your body. Another great option is a cooling gel eye mask which you can pop in the fridge and lay over your eyes to either help your eye cream sink in or on its own for a de-puffing treatment. 3. Mask up There is no denying that masks are big news at the moment and this is thanks to their ability for drawing out impurities while also delivering a high concentrate of skin-loving goodies into your dermis. Choose what you want depending on your needs and pop it on while you are soaking in the tub. 4. At-home mani and pedi Ditch the salon and give yourself an at-home experience. There are plenty of gel polishes on the market now which will give you two weeks’ worth of colour. Take the time to push back cuticles, buff and shape your nails to the desired shape and polish. Set aside enough time to allow your nails to dry sufficiently or invest in some quick dry drops. Happy spa days! Written by Sarah Simpson. First appeared on <a href="http://www.stuff.co.nz/" target="_blank">Stuff.co.nz</a>.

Beauty & Style

5 of the most relaxing beaches in the world

Some beaches are great for swimming and catching up with family and friends. Other beaches are perfect for doing nothing but lying on the sand and relaxing. If you prefer to spend your time at the beach soaking in your surrounds and relaxing, then these are the beaches are for you. 5. Anchor Bay Beach, Lizard Island, Great Barrier Reef, Australia There are 24 beaches on Lizard Island but Anchor Bay is by far the most relaxing. It is reserved for Lizard Island Resort guests so the day-tripping crowds are not a problem. There is also a bar at the end of the beach to help you unwind even more. 4. Meads Bay, Anguilla Although this beach is quite popular it remains peaceful and laidback. You also have the option to rent a beach chair for $3 a day to get comfortable as you stare at the crystal blue Caribbean waters. This beach is also renowned for its mesmerising sunsets. 3. Sea Grass Bay, Laucala Island, Fiji Sea Grass Bay is surrounded by coconut groves, rainforests and green mountains. Whether you are looking out at the horizon or looking toward the rainforest and mountains, your eyes will be captivated by the natural beauty surrounding you. Laucala Island Resort is the only resort on the island but is one of Fiji’s best resorts and each villa boats its own private plunge pool. 2. Honeymoon Beach, St. John, USVI This tranquil beach is located within the Virgin Islands National Park and it is one of the seven beaches that make up Caneel Bay Resort. This beach will take your breath away but the only way it can be accessed is by boat or a mile-long hike. From this beach, you can look out and see views of St Thomas and the British Virgin Islands. 1. Cocoa Island Beach, Makunufushi, South Malé Atoll, Maldives Although Maldives is lined with numerous beaches over the coasts of its 1,102 perfect islands, this beach has something special. This white sand and turquoise sea offer views that look like paradise. If you need a break from soaking up the sun while you are on this beach you have the option to go to a spa, various dining options and even a library. Have you ever visited one of these beaches? Let us know in the comments below.

International Travel

Adorable baby enjoys the ultimate relaxation

Lauren Torrence has shared a video of her son having a nap while gently being massaged by a continuous jet of water. The adorable baby, Logan, is living the life as his face and hand are resting on the petals of his flower supporter for his shower. <img width="500" height="498" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/35286/baby-2_500x498.jpg" alt="Baby 2"/> Lauren shared the <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BSetrFRFU_U/" target="_blank">video</a> on Instagram and many have users commented expressing how much they need one of these flowers supporters. Logan’s cuteness and chubby cheeks have made him go viral and the video has been viewed over 100,000 times on Instagram.

News

10 easy ways to relax and boost your intelligence

It can be oh-so tempting to kick back with a glass of wine and your favourite TV show at the end of the day, but as relaxing as this might be, it isn’t exactly doing wonders for your mental – or physical – health. <a href="https://brightside.me/inspiration-psychology/ten-simple-ways-to-relax-and-become-more-intelligent-at-the-same-time-185505/" target="_blank">Bright Side</a> has come up with 10 ingenious ways to help you unwind AND become smarter at the same time. Sound good? Take a look at their ideas above and tell us in the comments, what do you do to relax at the end of the day? Related links: <a href="/health/mind/2016/09/crying-can-be-good-for-you/">Having a big cry can actually be good for you</a> <a href="/health/mind/2016/09/5-scientific-ways-to-make-your-brain-happy/">5 scientific ways to make your brain happy</a> <a href="/health/mind/2016/09/why-some-people-handle-stress-better/">Why some people handle stress better</a>

Mind

Top 5 relaxing activities, according to science

In today’s busy, modern world, there doesn’t seem that much time to relax. All too often time for oneself to rest and rejuvenate is seen as something we’d love to do – if only we had the time! However, according a new study, you shouldn’t feel guilty about being lazy if take time out for some R&R. A survey of 18,000 people from 134 countries – led by Durham University, and dubbed “The Rest Test” – compiled the data on people’s experiences and attitudes towards relaxation and busyness. The results indicate that taking time to relax is essential for our mental and physical health. In other words, it’s not something that we should opt out of because we’re too busy. “The survey shows that people’s ability to take rest, and their levels of wellbeing, are related,” said Dr Felicity Callard, a social scientist at Durham University, who led the Rest Test project. She added, “We’re delighted that these findings combat a common, moralising connection between rest and laziness.” The researchers also identified the most restful of activities, according to survey participants. “It’s intriguing that the top activities considered restful are frequently done on one’s own,” said Dr Callard. “Perhaps it’s not only the total hours resting or working that we need to consider, but the rhythms of our work, rest and time with and without others.” Here are the top five restful activities, according to science. 1. Reading According to a 2009 study from the University of Sussex, reading for just six minutes can be enough to reduce stress levels by up to 68 per cent, as losing yourself in a novel helps you escape from the worries and stresses of the everyday world. 2. Being in a natural environment There’s plenty of evidence that finds that spending time outdoors in nature is good for your mental and physical health. 3. Being on your own Although too much isolation isn’t good for anyone, spending some time on your own is important to give your brain a chance to rest and replenish itself, without distractions. 4. Listening to music Whatever your tastes, listening to music helps relax us. Classical music, in particular, can help improve sleep quality and insomnia. 5. Doing nothing When we have nothing to do, it makes most people feel unproductive. But psychologists and neuroscientists say setting aside time to just do nothing is vitally important. A paper published in the scientific journal Nature shows when we “do nothing”, our brain is actually working to help us process our experiences, consolidate memories, reinforce learning, and regulate our emotions and attention. What do you do to relax? Share your tops activities in the comments below. Related links: <a href="http://www.oversixty.com.au/health/body/2016/05/benefits-of-cold-start-to-day/">The benefits of a cold start to the day</a> <a href="http://www.oversixty.com.au/health/body/2016/08/how-group-cycling-can-combat-loneliness/">How group cycling can combat loneliness</a> <a href="http://www.oversixty.com.au/health/body/2015/11/exercises-to-help-get-out-of-bed/">Exercises to help get out of bed</a>

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Adorable baby enjoys the ultimate relaxation

10 easy ways to relax and boost your intelligence

Top 5 relaxing activities, according to science