The term "menopause" comes from the Greek words "meno" (month) and "pausis" (end). I think it's the 'end' part some women struggle with along with the discomfort it can bring. Thankfully some good news was announced recently that will make many women feel happy.

Some say that crocheting is the new form of meditation. I admit that I am slightly envious of anyone who has the knack for creating with a hooked needle as I myself have yet to master the art.  However, the rhythmic and repetitive motion of crocheting is said to calm the body and mind almost immediately.

Every time I start to practice yoga, I wonder how I ever stopped. We all know the benefits of yoga for the mind, body and soul. When you push yourself to achieve those difficult-to-reach stretches, it feels like personal empowerment that is both rewarding and self-fulfilling. Yoga practice is your own precious time on the mat where no-one can interrupt or bother you. It is a peaceful space for you to breathe deeply and lose those negative feelings encroaching on your life.

Most of us never forget the wrath of a stinging nettle. Growing wild in almost every patch of grass across the country, many strolls through the fields in our youth inevitably ended up with someone yelping in agony when stung by a hairy nettle as everyone else scrambled to find a neighbouring dock leaf to soothe the pain.  Luckily there was nearly always one nearby.

Magnesium is an essential mineral that assists with hundreds of our bodily functions.  It is present in many foods which allows us to easily incorporate it into our daily diet but it is important to keep it at the forefront of our minds as studies show that 50% of us don't regularly consume sufficient levels.  Magnesium assists our bodies with heart health, bone strength, immune functions & glucose levels amongst other critical functions.  Read this BBC Good Food article  (written by Emer Delaney, dietician) outlining the benefits of a magnesium rich diet.

Passiflora complex tincture is made with 70% organic passion flower and 30% organic avena sativa (oats).  It is promoted as a dietary supplement for anxiety and insomnia, especially for those who are worried or feeling under pressure.  Although there is minimal scientific evidence to back this up,  I can say firsthand that passiflora complex works for me.  I have used it to help me sleep and prior to stressful situations.  However,  remember to read instructions carefully for side effects and precautions prior to taking. A Vogel Passiflora Complex

If you're like me, sometimes drinking water to stay hydrated is a chore.  I have started keeping a large jug of water with lemon in the fridge to drink first thing in the morning & throughout the day.  Not only does it keep you hydrated, it may also support skin health, aid digestion and is a good source of vitamin C.  Although the acid levels  in lemon water can cause enamel erosion on teeth, there are many other culprits in our diet including coffee, wine and sugary drinks.  A good tip would be to follow one glass of lemon water with a glass of plain water to limit any side effects.

As we know, being a vegetarian or vegan is considered healthy in many ways but these diets may result in B12 deficiency due to lack of meat and fish consumption.  What does this mean?  Vitamin B12 is only found naturally in animal products. Our bodies require it for the production of red blood cells, nerves, DNA amongst other bodily functions.  The average adult requires 2.4mg per day, however to consume it naturally on a meatless diet is next to impossible.  Vitamin B12 deficiency can result in anaemia, fatigue and low blood pressure.  If you are experiencing these symptoms or concerned about your choice of diet, it is a good idea to get regular bloods tests with your GP who can advise on a course of vitamin supplements or fortified plant-based products.

Around for thousands of years, experts say that this herb can reduce anxiety and boost mental health.  It is now widely available in powder or capsule form or as part of a multi-complex supplement in health shops & pharmacies.