#58 MONTHLY MEDICINE... The best workout for the mind, Gen Z's 'wellness' drink and how one PT swerves digital overwhelm
Saying 'see yah' to April with what's been well and unwell in the wellness space these past few weeks...
There’s been viral (of the good kind) goings on in the world of Well, Actually… this month. My piece on the way natural ageing is being erased for future generations really struck a chord—thanks in large part to being shared by the brilliant journalist India Knight (behind the newsletter HOME), whose work I have admired since my teens. I also explored the link between revenge and wellbeing (via Taylor Swift), and the latest Buy This, Not That… special revealed the expert verdict on ceremonial grade matcha, water flossers and anti-anxiety patches. Now, onto April wrapped (if you get a ‘post is too long’ for email notification, just click ‘view entire message’)…
LISS
Stands for low-intensity steady state. This is gentler cardio conducted over a longer period—such as walking, swimming and cycling—and it first came to my attention several years ago thanks to fitness star Kayla Itsines (who is today launching her health and wellness podcast Sweat Daily with Kayla Itsines). Now, a new study has found a strong link between low to moderate-intensity exercise and reduced rates of depression. Researchers believe the mental health boost is through beneficial ‘biochemical reactions’, whereas alternatives like HIIT may sometimes ‘worsen’ stress. Indeed, Jessie J told me recently in an interview for Women’s Health that nothing calms her down quite like going for a stroll.
Preserves
Fruity spreads are having a moment. No sooner had Meghan Markle delivered a batch of American Riviera Orchard-branded strawberry-flavoured jam to 50 friends and acquaintances, then the Buckingham Palace shop saw their own offering—which includes orange and Scotch whisky marmalades—sell out in a case of accidental cross-promotion. The regal associations of preserves has long been strong, with spikes in sales seen both around the time of the Queen’s funeral and the King’s coronation. While the popular bread and scone toppings are generally whipped up with nutritious and unprocessed ingredients, just beware that recipes call for plenty of sugar even when homemade. Sweet.