Imagine standing in front of a mirror, but instead of harsh criticism, your gaze is one of gentle understanding. You see the lines etched around your eyes, not as wrinkles of regret, but as maps of laughter and tears, testaments to a life beautifully lived. You notice the slight curve of your belly, not as a flaw, but as a vessel that has nourished, a reminder of strength and resilience. This, my friend, is the essence of self-compassion, the radical act of embracing your imperfections with the same kindness you’d offer a treasured friend. In a world obsessed with perfection, the quest for fla ..read more

Dealing with change can be difficult. One moment we are going through our daily activities, thinking that we have found our groove – comfortable with the rhythm of life. The next moment we are on the floor because the rug was pulled out from beneath us. We quickly get up from the ground and try to find our balance as we try to make sense of what just happened; determined to find the culprit. During times of change and transition this is what it could feel like; as if you’re stumbling, falling and out of sync. Life is ever-changing. Some transitions are gradual, like growing older and having to ..read more

Nestled an hour and a half away from Cape Town’s bustling city, Tulbagh awaits as a hidden gem eager to be discovered. The name “valley of abundance” perfectly suits this town, celebrated for its flourishing wine industry and captivating landscapes. With its charm, Tulbagh becomes an ideal destination for an unforgettable getaway. Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventurer, or an art enthusiast, Tulbagh offers a diverse array of activities that promise to make your visit truly memorable. Here, we present 12 enticing experiences to enjoy in Tulbagh and its surrounding areas. Hiking Put on you ..read more

Here are the 2023 SA Olive Award Winners The 2023 SA Olive Awards took place at the picturesque Grande Roche Hotel in Paarl on Friday, 8th of September. All Extra Virgin Olive Oils (EVOOs) that entered – 82 entries from 32 producers – have been thoroughly judged by a panel of local and international judges. Winners were selected in Delicate, Medium and Intense style categories and the winners are as follows: GOLD AWARDS PRODUCER EVOO STYLE Anysbos Olywe CC Anysbos Olywe Extra Virgin Olive Oil Delicate Delicate De Rustica Estate (Pty) Ltd De Rustica Estate Collection Arbe ..read more

Embrace the Chilly Season with a Strong Immune System Winter is in full swing, and we still have a few more cold snaps to endure before warmer days arrive. But fear not, it’s the perfect time to explore your winter pantry and give your immune system the boost it needs to combat flu and colds. Including certain foods in your diet can work wonders for your health and well-being, especially during the colder months. Garlic – Your Powerful Kitchen Ally Get ready to discover the magic of garlic! Not only does it add a delicious kick to your dishes, but it also fights off winter invaders with its n ..read more

Everyone gets snacky from time to time, with the space between meals seeming to stretch on endlessly. While snacking is by no means a problem, too often foods that are marketed as snacks are really unhealthy and don’t provide the right nutritional support. In the quest to improve the health of South Africans, Laager Rooibos has called on partner dietitian, Mbali Mapholi to share her guide on healthy – yet delicious – snacking! “To perform at our best, we all need proper nourishment throughout the day, with the need for snacks often arising,” explained Mbali Mapholi, Laager Rooibos partner diet ..read more

Cover artwork: Woodstock & Devil’s Peak by Jenny Parsons The eagerly anticipated ‘Solo Studios – Intimate Art Encounters’ returns to the Riebeek Valley in August with what promises to be another highlight on the cultural calendar.  Seventeen artists’ studios will be open to the public over the weekend of 18 to 20 August, with seven of these artists having invited external collaborators to co-exhibit in their personal spaces.   A further seven group exhibitions will be held at various galleries and venues, including two private art collections in exclusive guest houses. Spen ..read more

Have you been feeling depressed, angry, anxious or irritable and unable to pinpoint the reason for feeling this way? Are you tossing and turning at night unable to sleep with your thoughts spinning around in your mind? Experiencing stomach cramps, headaches and a racing heartbeat? If you have had any of these symptoms, then emotional suppression could be the cause of it. It is crucial that you do not ignore your emotions and feelings for the sake of your well-being. Working through your difficulties is necessary in order to prevent a mental and physical health crisis. What does it mean to supp ..read more

Located off the southwest coast of Vietnam alongside a UNESCO-designated World Biosphere Reserve, the all-suites-and-villas resort is a stone’s throw from the water’s edge along Long Beach. This summer Regent Phu Quoc is introducing a curated retreat at the pearl island with a number of exclusive privileges that will complement the experience. Luxurious family sanctuaries The artfully-designed pool villas at Regent Phu Quoc are personal havens where families can stay together in complete comfort and privacy. With between one and seven bedrooms, open-plan indoor and outdoor living spaces ..read more

Building your jewellery wardrobe is a fun and versatile way to elevate any outfit. Whether you’re dressing up for a special occasion or adding a touch of elegance to your everyday look, having a well-curated jewellery wardrobe is essential. But what are the must-have pieces that every jewellery enthusiast should own? In this article, we’ll explore the most important jewellery items, discuss how to choose the right jewellery for different occasions, delve into the significance of jewellery, and provide guidance on the ideal size of a jewellery collection. The Significance and Need for Jewellery ..read more