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Photo: Maggie Hoffman / Flickr

This recipe is inspired by the Continental cream of asparagus soup. It is a delicate tasting soup made with fresh asparagus and can be served with crispy bread and butter. Ingredients include fresh asparagus spears, onion, vegetable stock, butter, flour, cream, and egg yolks. Allow for a preparation time of half an hour and a cooking time of 40 minutes. Use tinned asparagus if fresh asparagus is out of season. Serve with a swirl of cream and a grating of nutmeg. (more…)

Photo: Stock.Xchng

Yoga has been helping people achieve deep physical and mental relaxation for thousands of years. It originated in India around 5,000 years ago and has been embraced by the West in recent years, where hatha yoga is mostly practiced. Hatha yoga focuses mostly on posture which involves stretching and aligning the body. It also works with the breath and may include meditation to calm the mind. The half lotus position and the sun salutation sequence are discussed below. (more…)

Photo: Gabriela Camerotti / Flickr

Caring for your feet goes so much further than buying the perfect pair of high heels or running shoes.We pay so much attention to our face, hair and hands but we hardly ever notice our feet. Our feet are what support us most of the day and they need attention and care to keep them healthy and strong. Avoid fungal infections by looking after your feet and keeping your toenails in good condition. (more…)

Photo: Luciano Consolini / Flickr

After piling on your layers of thermals, coats and boots the last thing you feel like doing on a cold winter’s day is fussing with your hair. Luckily there are loads of cute hair accessories out there that make styling a simple process. Look elegant and put together with a clip or hairband or cover frizzy locks with a stunning hat. Dressing up this winter has never been easier with these hot hair accessories. (more…)

Photo: Stock.Xchng

Natural wood is one of the most versatile materials. Not only is it easily shaped but it is also available in many different textures, grains and colours. Add to this that every piece of wood is unique, even if it is from the same tree. Besides the warm appearance of wood, there is the soft feel of it. ‘Who can resist sliding their hands over the surface of a polished oak tabletop?’ ask Alan and Gill Bridgewater in their book Encyclopedia of Woodworking. (more…)

Photo: Wendy Copley / Flickr

Whether it is your child’s lunchbox or your work lunch you’re packing you need to include energy giving foods. Is it better to pack one big sandwich or a couple of little snacks and treats? Often the last thing you feel like doing in the evening is making lunch for the next day so next time you are at the supermarket be sure to pick up some easy, ready-to-go lunchtime snacks that are not only nutritious but are also delicious. (more…)

Photo: Food Stories / Flickr

Cabbage is often looked upon as a rather uninspiring vegetable. But grate it up and add some mayonnaise and it can make for a delicious instant salad. Here we share a recipe for a cabbage and onion coleslaw using a nut mayonnaise, for those who prefer a dairy-free diet. You can replace the nut mayo with any mayonnaise of your choice though. We’ll also tell you how to liven up a coleslaw by adding grated carrots and a seriously spicy sauce. (more…)

Photo: JodiWomack / Flickr

It’s essential that a woman’s financial standing is sound, whether single or married. Certain money matters should be considered, regardless — for example, a budget is imperative. This should include an admin system and regular updating of income and expenditure. Investment, protection, retirement, tax and estate planning are also fundamental considerations. (more…)

Photo: ianimmortal / Flickr

If you’ve clashed with a friend, a family member, work colleague or your partner, you may feel that it’s difficult if not impossible to reconcile. As challenging as it is, making amends can open up a world of self-discovery. But first, one must discover one’s own personal role in the conflict. Secondly, accept that the other person may not be able to make amends, which will make reconciliation that much harder. Whatever the outcome, your attempts will give you the opportunity of deeper self-knowledge. (more…)

Photo: shosady / Flickr

Satay refers to spicy marinated meat or seafood that is grilled and served on skewers. Peanut sauce often accompanies satays, as influenced by South East Asian cooking. This prawn satay recipe requires eight skewers, 24 shelled prawns as well as coriander, cumin, turmeric and chilli powders, amongst other ingredients like lemon grass, shrimp paste, tamarind paste and ground peanuts. Allow for a preparation time of 35 minutes and a cooking time of four minutes per skewer and seven minutes for the sauce. (more…)