 No doubt you've heard of Belvoir, the British family drinks company, but maybe you don't know that they organise a lovely event every year called the Elderflower Harvest. Around the end of May, they ask people from their local community and three bordering counties to pick flowers for the following year’s Elderflower Cordial production. And YES! pickers get paid for their efforts. This year the harvest is getting a helping hand from BBC presenter Gemma Hunt, who is raising awareness of the event by going behind the scenes at Belvoir Farm.  Picking takes place at Belvoir’s 60 acres of organic plantations and surrounding hedgerows. Within 24 hours of harvesting the flower heads, they are poured into vats and stirred by hand so continuing the 40 year-old tradition of producing Elderflower Cordial. It's still made to the same family recipe. Belvoir Farm was the first company to produce elderflower cordial commercially, a business started by John Manners and his wife Mary, who created the original recipe. The farm was established in 1981 initially to grow ‘pick your own’ fruit because the Manners didn't like to see anything go to waste. It was when they were looking for a way to use unpicked and over-ripe fruit that the idea came to make pure fruit cordials. Great idea! The cordial has to be diluted so one bottle makes up to ten pints which I think is fabulous value. I love Elderflower Cordial's refreshing taste, it's lovely to drink on its own, or - and you can add it to recipes for cakes or desserts and - this is one I also like lots, you can add a splash to your white wine or cocktails! All Belvoir drinks are made from local spring water and natural ingredients. Belvoir kindly sent me a couple of bottles of Elderflower Cordial to see what I thought.  And here are three things you might not know about elderflowers
More about the Belvoir 2021 Elderflower Harvest, how paid to pick works and how to get involved at www.belvoirfarm.co.uk. For more on Gemma Hunt and her work with Belvoir, see www.theoutdoorguide.co.uk. Images (c) Belvoir  When it comes to reading glasses, I choose Sight Station because their styles are trendy, fun and fashionable. When the store I used to buy them from closed its doors, I contacted the lovely people at Sight Station to ask where my nearest stockist was. Not only did they reply oh-so-promptly, they also sent me a couple of pairs to try out. Sight Station have styles to please even the fussiest wearer - round ones, square ones, classy ones, preppy ones .... do have a look at their website. They are ... well... spectacular ! You will find something you love, I promise! Remember, specs change the way you see the world and the way the world sees you
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Reading glasses are not suitable for driving or distance vision.  Would you like more energy?
Would you like to know how to reach your maximum cognitive capacity? Read on ..... Your productivity levels can rise to new heights with this new energy supplement shown to enhance mental performance We start the day with the best intentions and motivation to get things done. Yet how often do we end the day feeling tired and frustrated because there are still tasks to do? Take charge of your energy and increase your productivity with NEW Pro Plus® Ultra This superior caffeinated energy source which contains a unique blend of slow-release caffeine, vitamins and adaptogens, has been shown to support focus, boost energy and enhance mental performance. Commenting on the benefits of energy enhancers, productivity hacker and founder of the UK’s No. 1 peak performance podcast Take FLIGHT, Mark Whittle says: “Productivity doesn’t happen by accident. Accomplishing the things you need and want to do requires continuous energy and focus. I recommend long-lasting energy supplements such as Pro Plus® Ultra to all my clients wanting to improve their performance, both physically and mentally.” Pro Plus® Ultra contains Guarana Extract, a natural source of caffeine, and slow-release caffeine to provide a sustained release of energy throughout the day, improving your mental focus and sharpening your attention. Pro Plus® Ultra can help reduce the impact of stress on the brain and body’s functions thanks to the adaptogen Ashwagandha, shown to enhance mental clarity and boost energy levels. Thanks to added Vitamins B6 & B12, known for improving energy, as well as Ginseng, contributing to mental performance, Pro Plus® Ultra can help reduce symptoms of physical and mental fatigue, heightening cognitive functions such as improved focus and alertness. Mark Whittle Comments: “On days when we are tired and struggling for motivation, there are steps we can take to re-energise and perform at our best. By combining self-discipline and determination with a powerful combination of slow-release caffeine, vitamins and adaptogens, such as those found in Pro Plus® Ultra, we can help improve our energy, vitality and productivity.” Pro Plus® Ultra RRP £6.99. Available from Superdrug. For more information, visit www.proplus.co.uk. Pro Plus Ultra’s Unique blend of ingredients includes:
About Mark Whittle Founder and host of the UK’s No. 1 peak performance podcast Take FLIGHT. Mark is a former athlete turned lifestyle coach, entrepreneur and productivity hacker. Mark is passionate about helping others reach their highest level of performance. More about Mark and the Take FLIGHT Podcast at fl1ght.co.uk (Promoted Post) Respilon's new eco-friendly face mask blocks 99.9% of viruses, bacteria and other dangerous particles, including COVID-19. RESPILON’s RespiPro VK Mask filters out over 99% of viruses, bacteria, air pollution, allergens and fine dust. It physically blocks Covid-19 particles thanks to its tiny 0.01 micrometer-wide filter pores and copper oxide technology.
GP Dr Nisa Aslam explains that these masks protect professional staff as well as the general public. ‘The entire mask is a single large protective RESPILON nanofibre two-way filter that’s light and incredibly breathable, plus they are re-usable which is essential as we live with COVID-19. RESPILON’s RespiPro VK Masks work well for those workers who wear a mask continually, as well as the general population who need to feel safe and protected when they leave home. Importantly, these masks are certified PPE as a filtering mask to help protect against Covid-19.’ Additionally, with disposable masks adding to the plastic pollution problem, the RespiPro VK Mask offers 30 hours of protection replacing on average 10 disposable masks. This reduces mask wastage and environmental impact by 90%. How does the RespiPro VK Mask work? The advanced RESPILON® nanofibre filtration technology is placed between two layers of RESPILON’s Accelerated Copper Oxide (ACuO) virus-deactivating material. This patented ACuO technology offers stronger protection over other virus killing technology such as silver and zinc as copper possesses anti-viral properties. The RESPILON technology contains an accelerator to boost the efficacy of copper, making it even more effective against bacterial, fungal and viral activity. Dr Aslam adds that many other toxic compounds are also physically blocked by the nanofibre filter. There is a growing trend across Europe for certified protective masks to be worn instead of consumer fabric masks, Germany has made masks with a minimum of 94% filtration (FFP2) mandatory on public transport with other countries such as France looking to follow. RespiPro VK masks block 99% of virus particles. The RESPILON nanofibre filters actually work best in humid conditions. This makes them perfect for professional use where a mask wearer needs protection over a long period of time. Produced in Europe, the RespiPro VK masks are so highly praised that one thousand of them are being used at the Millennium Point COVID-19 Vaccination Centre in Birmingham. These protect marshals and other site staff involved in the Birmingham vaccination programme. ‘We needed a highly protective mask for staff on site at the vaccination centre’, says Linda Degg, Millennium Point Facilities Manager. I heard about the RespiPro VK Masks from our Health and Safety partners, the Compliance Standard Group, as an option that not only offers viral protection and excellent filtration, but is reusable.’ The RespiPro VK Mask comes in two adult sizes; medium and large. To ensure the perfect fit, a small plastic clip included in each pack allows the wearer to tighten the straps around the back of their head so the mask is sealed firmly to the face. RRP £16.50 per 2- pack. A portion of RESPILON’s worldwide profits are donated to climate change causes and disability charities and the majority of their technology is 100% recyclable (Promoted Post)  Do you feel vulnerable when you go out to visit the supermarket or travel on public transport? What can you do to protect yourself and your family until the vaccine is available to you? Breathing expert Tim Ives says, “Our nose is an effective natural filter and does a great job at keeping many airborne viruses at bay. Noses filter 98% of bacteria and allergens so breathing through our noses is recommended if you’re looking for protection. In my opinion, ensuring you breath through your nose rather than through your mouth is more effective at protecting you from viruses than wearing a face mask.” ”Encouragingly, we’ve seen a number of recent US-based laboratory trials that prove the efficacy of Xlear Nasal Spray for killing the Covid-19 virus. I am impressed with the findings of the studies and have first-hand knowledge of the product’s capacity to kill bacteria and viruses”. Recent scientific research to which Tim refers demonstrated that in laboratory conditions, Xlear Nasal Spray is proven to reduce the viral load in the nose, vital in fighting COVID-19. Research shows COVID-19 primarily infects and spreads through the upper respiratory system. By reducing viral load in the nose, nasal sprays like Xlear can help limit the severity and transmission of Covid19. Xlear Nasal Spray’s components are antiviral, which means they block viral adhesion in the nose. A recent study carried out at The University of Tennessee on SARS-CoV-2 concluded “Xylitol exhibits antiviral activity on SARS-CoV-2.” One of the most interesting active ingredients in Xlear is Xylitol, known for its antiviral qualities. Peer-reviewed case studies indicate Xlear Nasal Spray helps in treating COVID-19. A first-look trial at Larkin Community Hospital in Miami determined, 'The patients demonstrated an improvement in symptoms and a reduction in the clinical course post use of xylitol plus GSE in the form of a nasal spray, commercially available as Xlear nasal spray.' Xylitol nasal disinfectant and viral inhibitor Studies have also shown the reduction of virus in the nose and sinus, in particular, SARS-CoV-2, is affected by the ingredients in Xlear. All you have to do to give yourself protection is spray Xlear Nasal Spray twice in each nostril - once when you wake in the morning and again before going to bed at night. In short, a xylitol nasal spray makes it difficult for the viral attachment mechanisms to work . For more information visit https://www.xlear.com. Xlear is available from Amazon. (Product Review)
 Pukka’s Fresh Start Organic Tea
Uplifting and caffeine-free to boot, this tea is a lovely blend of organic lemon, lemongrass and warming spices. How better to start the day than with this energising, healthy herbal brew? Pukka Herbs, the UK’s largest organic tea company, has launched Fresh Start. Blended by expert Master Herbsmith and practising herbalist Sebastian Pole, its sustainably sourced organic herbs, zesty organic lemon and warming aromatic fennel seeds, gently awaken your body and mind at the start of a new day. Stimulating yet soothing, this tea helps strengthen the digestive system to support optimum metabolism and, like all Pukka’s herbal blends, it is made with 100% organic and ethically sourced ingredients. Pukka plastic-free tea bags come in their own recyclable envelopes to retain the essential oils in the organic herbs... and here's the clever bit, each bag has two chambers. This allows the herbs to flow and release the full potency in your cup. Pour boiling water directly on the bag and leave to steep for as long as it takes to make the perfect brew for you. Nature’s finest ingredients to help you start your day in the best possible way:
Jo Webber, Head of Herbal Education and Ayurvedic Practitioner says: “A Pukka twist on the traditional lemon morning drink, Fresh Start helps to promote healthy rituals, so you feel your best. The benefits of lemon are well-known. It’s been used in for centuries as a digestive due to its aromatic and bitter properties. Fresh Start supports the body’s own natural actions. The result is a refreshing cup of herbal goodness to leave you feeling energised. This brightening blend helps to optimise your wellbeing to awaken your best self." Besides all the above plus points, Pukka Teas are Organic - Vegan - Gluten free - Vegetarian - Wheat Free - Dairy Free Pukka Fresh Start organic herbal tea is available from online retailers, health shops and supermarkets. RRP 2.99 for 20 sachets. Product Review  Pukka Herbs has launched a fabulous bedtime tea which is absolutely chocca with immunity supporting ingredients.
Blended by Pukka’s Master Herbsmith, Sebastian Pole, Night Time Berry is a taste of fruity heaven with 100% organic blackcurrant, echinacea and elderberry combined with nature’s A-list night-time herbs; lavender, chamomile and valerian, making this the absolutely perfect bedtime brew. Nature’s finest ingredients for sleep and immunity : Elderberries: Bursting with brightly coloured pigments that act as natural antioxidants, elderberries are a natural source of vitamin C. Echinacea: A renowned immune tonic, echinacea can be particularly helpful to maintain seasonal wellness. Valerian: Traditional tonic to support restful sleep. Valerian can help us to drop off into an undisturbed sleep Chamomile: contains an antioxidant called apigenin which works on brain receptors to help initiate sleep. Night Time Berry (RRP £2.99) is a new addition to Pukka’s popular sleep range which includes Pukka’s Organic Night Time tea and supplements. I've been trying Pukka night time berry tea to see if it would help improve my sleeping pattern. I have to say that I am surprised (because I've tried many others which have no effect on me at all) and very pleased to say that it has indeed improved my sleep .... and what's more, it's lovely fruity taste is extremely relaxing .... zzzzzzzzzz  BRAINZYME® PLANT POWERED BRAIN FOOD
Brainzyme® Focus brain food supplements are designed to improve focus, mood, memory and give a 100% natural energy boost. The fast-acting capsules are easily absorbed to help you achieve ‘flow state’, which allows you to work efficiently without becoming distracted or feeling under pressure. There are three products in the Brainzyme Focus ® range: Original, Pro and Elite. How do they differ? Focus Original™ helps you focus and feel calm. It combines Guarana and Choline nootropic components including L-Theanine, EGCG and Polyphenols with a Brainzyme® blend of B-vitamins and minerals to support your body and brain. In short, it may help you get more done! Focus Pro™ great for boosting motivation and giving additional memory support. 20 active ingredients include high levels of L-Theanine, EGCG and Polyphenols to help you focus on the task in hand, Guarana to keep fatigue at bay while allowing you to maintain alertness, Choline for brain function, Ginkgo Biloba to help support memory and increase blood flow to the brain while delivering vital oxygen to improve brain power. [note: after only a week of trying these supplements, my energy levels have increased and I do not tire as easily as before.] Focus Elite™ Enhances mood, helps memory, boosts focus levels whilst relieving stress. Jam packed with nutrients to support long-term brain health, it utilises Panax Ginseng to invigorate brain and body while supporting social functioning and mood. It also has Guarana, Ginkgo Biloba, Choline and Curcumin which has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. L. Acidophilus, a live culture, is included as scientists increasingly find more links between gut health and brain performance. Acetyl L-Carnitine, a mitochondrial energy optimiser,supports energy production at the cellular level. [note: when I take these Elite supplements, I find I am able to concentrate more easily without my mind racing off in several different directions at once which it normally tends to do!] Brainzyme® Focus supplements are available from www.brainzyme.com They cost £18 for a month's supply (60 capsules) of Original, £29 for Pro and £47 for Elite. Brainzyme® was launched in 2016 by Edinburgh company Better Nutritional Science Ltd. as the UK's first ‘natural nootropic’ to help support brain function. Brainzyme’s brain food supplements contain plant-powered ingredients, vitamins and minerals that have been scientifically proven to support concentration, cognition, memory, mental performance and reduce tiredness. Brainzyme® is based on ingredient research from leading neuro-cognitive and nutritional experts, including the 18-member panel at EFSA. Better Nutritional Science Ltd. was awarded Scottish Enterprise’s Wider Innovation grant in 2017, 2018 and 2019.  (promoted post)
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