Category Archives: Life & Style

Life & Style

I lost my sunglasses and became a victim to ‘creepy’ smartphone surveillance

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SHADE-Y PRACTICES: I LOST MY SUNGLASSES AND BECAME A VICTIM OF ‘CREEPY’ SMARTPHONE SURVEILLANCE 

A real-life story shared with the cybersecurity company NordVPN highlights the growing concern around eavesdropping devices and how much our phones might be listening to us. 

It comes following a leak involving one of Facebook’s marketing partners, which revealed how the social media giant allegedly listens in on conversations to tailor ads.

  • A Norfolk woman has told how she was bombarded with ‘creepy’ targeted ads online after she misplaced her favourite pair of sunglasses
  • Adverts promoting the same brand of shades appeared after speaking to friends and family in person and in private messages asking if they had seen them
  • As consumers become increasingly aware of these privacy concerns, NordVPN reminds consumers of the importance of understanding and managing smartphone permissions and settings

A Norfolk woman has told how she received ‘creepy’ targeted advertisements for the sunglasses she had just misplaced – despite only telling friends and family she had lost them.

Emily Thomson, 27, misplaced her Messy Weekend sunglasses at a family barbeque this summer but didn’t realise her search would reveal a disturbing truth about smartphone privacy.

Photo: Emily Thomson in her Messy Weekend sunglasses on holiday in Barcelona

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She said: “I know they are just sunglasses, but they were my favourite pair. So I was feeling really annoyed at myself for not being more careful with them.” 

Miss Thomson reached out to friends and family who had joined her at the beach. She talked to them in person, sent Whatsapp and Facebook messages, and made phone calls to see if anyone had spotted her lost shades. 

Most importantly, she never searched online for new sunglasses.

But within days, she noticed sunglasses advertisements for the exact brand appearing on her social media feeds.

Miss Thomson, of Norwich, said: “At first, I thought it was just a coincidence but then I realised I had never searched for these sunglasses online. I had only talked about them in person and in private messages.”

The experience led Miss Thomson to suspect that her smartphone was listening to her conversations and using that information to target her with ads. 

This practice, often referred to as “eavesdropping”, has been a subject of debate and concern among privacy advocates for years.

While tech companies have repeatedly denied using smartphone microphones to gather data for advertising purposes, many users remain sceptical. 

Miss Thomson’s experience highlights concerns about digital privacy and the extent to which our devices may be monitoring our daily lives.

She added: “It’s creepy and slightly annoying. It felt like my phone was mocking me, as if to say ‘we’ve heard you lost your sunglasses, why don’t you just buy another pair’.

“It’s like you can’t have a private conversation anymore without it being used to sell me something.”

Photo: Emily Thomson, centre, in her Messy Weekend sunglasses with friends

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As consumers become increasingly aware of these privacy concerns, the incident serves as a reminder of the importance of understanding and managing smartphone permissions and settings. 

Marijus Briedis, Chief Technology Officer at NordVPN, comments: “In today’s digital age, protecting your online privacy is more important than ever. 

“Emily’s experience highlights the need for vigilance in managing our digital footprint.

“To safeguard your privacy, make sure to review and limit app permissions on your devices. Be particularly cautious with microphone and location access. Remember, convenience often comes at the cost of privacy.

“Regularly audit your social media privacy settings and be mindful of the information you share online. Even seemingly innocent details can be used for targeted advertising or more nefarious purposes.

“You can also encrypt your online communications and sensitive data by using a VPN service, such as NordVPN, when connecting to public Wi-Fi networks to prevent eavesdropping.

“Be wary of phishing attempts and suspicious links. Always verify the sender’s identity before clicking on links or downloading attachments, even if they appear to come from known sources.

“Use strong, unique passwords for each of your online accounts and consider employing a password manager to keep track of them securely. Never use the same password for multiple accounts.

“By implementing these strategies, you can significantly increase your online privacy and security, ensuring that your digital life remains under your control — not in the hands of advertisers or potential cybercriminals”

Is It Time To Try Magnesium Water?

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I hear about magnesium all the time. From muscle aches to better sleep, it is having it’s moment. I decided to try Magnesium Water from BetterYou. I’m now a firm fan. Not only are they refreshing and taste great, but they also make me feel healthier. From hydration, focus and energy, there is a drink for that. I will definitely be drinking these again.

Award-winning British wellbeing brand BetterYou has long been recognised as the market leader in magnesium innovation. Their latest launch BetterYou® MagnesiumWater™, is designed to refresh, hydrate, and optimise mental and physical performance and wellbeing needs through the power of magnesium. 

BetterYou magnesium drinks provide the optimal level of essential magnesium (180mg per serving) in a great-tasting recipe. The range includes:

Hydrate – A low-calorie citrus and botanical-flavoured Magnesium Water with added electrolytes to maximise magnesium absorption and rehydration. This drink can be enjoyed any time of the day.

Energy – Energising Magnesium Water with a B vitamin blend to support natural energy levels, flavoured with an uplifting blend of pomegranate and rhubarb. This drink is best enjoyed during the day to boost energy and help to optimise energy before or after a workout.

Focus – A functional magnesium drink with blueberry and mint extract, vitamin B blend and caffeine to support concentration. This drink works well for those looking to boost mental clarity and concentration throughout the day. It can also be helpful for those working long hours needing something to help refresh and support focus.

Added benefits:  Electrolyte-rich • Low calorie • Naturally low sugar • No artificial sweeteners • Zero additives

BetterYou Magnesium Water RRP:4-pack (mixed flavours) £5.9712-pack £19.99 24-pack £34.99

BetterYou Magnesium Water is available online at betteryou.com, in Holland & Barrett stores/online, on Amazon and in independent health foods store retailers nationwide. According to the NHS, the amount of magnesium you need per day is:300 mg a day for men (19 – 64 years) 270 mg a day for women (19 – 64 years)

Expert opinion “Magnesium is a naturally occurring mineral essential for various biochemical reactions, from nerve function and muscle contraction to bone development,” says Dr Naomi Newman-Beinart, PhD. “It plays a vital role in converting food into energy, repairing DNA, and ensuring the regular function of the heart and lungs. It can also help to promote sleep, boost mood, support healthy bones,  boost exercise performance, and relieve muscle tension.”

Clean Living Homeware Cashmere and Black Amber Home Fragance Collection

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Who doesn’t love a good candle? Clean Living have a stylish new range of Autumn Home Fragrances. Their Cashmere and Black Amber Home Fragrance collection both smells and looks gorgeous.

The range includes candles, room spray, incense and a reed diffuser, with prices starting at £11.99, available from www.cleanlivingint.com

Brilliant Face Masks For Self Care

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I love a face masks. People always notice when you have used one. It’s also great to take a few minutes out of the day. Nothing says self-care like a face mask. You feel the moisture locking in, you’re rewarded with instant hydration and can target specific skincare needs – dryness, acne, brightening etc, and you can just leave it on whilst getting on with other things! The post-summer, autumn/winter skin has been (if you’re lucky) exposed to UV rays, get togethers where you’ve had drinks or long nights, and really, for want of a better term our skin has taken a battering.  There’s a face mask out there for all, whether you prefer a sheet, cream or LED – we’ve rounded up some of our keepers…

RETINOL FACE MASK

Retinol Anti-Ageing Facial Sheet Mask, £6, BeautyPro.com / FacetheFuture, Boots, BeautyBay

This plant based formula uses Seaweed Kelp Complex, Organic Pine Oil and Wild Yam to help you to achieve skin that’s clear and youthful. A 15 minute Retinol treatment is a great choice for those looking to target acne or the signs of ageing due to it stimulating collagen production to help aid repair. This renewing formula will help to diminish fine lines, minimise inflammation, reduce pore size, even the skin tone and protect from free radicals.

KOMBUCHA

Kombucha Infusion Sheet Mask, £9, elementalherbology.com

Instantly brighten your complexion with this natural, plastic-free sheet mask infused with nourishing botanicals, probiotics, vitamins and enzymes to promote healthy skin and lift overall complexion for a radiant, luminous appearance. Rich in probiotics and antioxidants to plump the skin and fortify the skin barrier. 

What Causes Droopy Eyelids and How to Address Them?

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‘What causes droopy eyelids?’ is at breakout on Google Trends (up by a staggering 5,000%) and so we tapped Britain Todd, Founder of Contours Rx for her expert insights on the subject.

“Droopy eyelids, or ptosis, is a condition that affects many of us as we age, but there can also be other underlying factors that lead to this. By understanding factors that contribute to droopy eyelids we can help in managing and preventing the condition effectively” says Britain.
Causes of Droopy Eyelids
“Droopy eyelids, or ptosis, is primarily result from the natural ageing process which weakens the skin and muscles around the eyes. This weakening is largely due to a decline in collagen and elastin, essential proteins that maintain skin firmness, coupled with the deterioration of the levator palpebrae superioris muscle, responsible for lifting the eyelid. Additionally, genetic factors can predispose individuals to ptosis if it is prevalent in their family. Various medical conditions, including Horner’s syndrome, myasthenia gravis, and nerve damage, can also contribute to this condition. Furthermore, lifestyle factors such as excessive sun exposure, smoking, and inadequate sleep can accelerate the ageing of skin and muscle around the eyes, exacerbating the droopiness.”

Preventing and Addressing Droopy Eyelids
While some causes are unavoidable, there are preventive measures and exercises that can help manage and potentially delay the onset of droopy eyelids, says Britain:
“Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and antioxidants helps to support skin health. Always avoid smoking, excessive sun exposure, and ensure you’re getting sufficient sleep. In addition to this, regular eye exercises can help strengthen the muscles around your eyes. Here are a few exercises to consider”: Eyebrow Lift: Place your fingers just above your eyebrows and gently push down while lifting your eyebrows. Hold for a few seconds and then relax. Repeat 10 times. This exercise helps strengthen the muscles that support the eyelids. Eye Squeeze: Close your eyes tightly and then open them wide. Repeat this 10-15 times. This exercise can help improve muscle tone and reduce sagging. Blinking Exercise: Blink rapidly for 30 seconds, then close your eyes and relax for 30 seconds. This exercise can help keep the eyelid muscles active and engaged. Eye Rolling: Look up and roll your eyes in a circular motion. Repeat this in both clockwise and counterclockwise directions. This exercise can help with muscle flexibility and strength.”For those seeking a non-surgical approach to address drooping eyelids like myself, I developed Lids by Design as an innovative solution to offer both aesthetic and practical benefits without the need for surgery.”

Contours Rx Lids by Design: A Quick-Fix Solution“I designed Contours Rx Lids by Design to offer a quick and effective non-surgical alternative to blepharoplasty, delivering an immediate lift and definition for a youthful look that lasts all day. With 24-hour wear, these eyelid strips are ideal for both daily use and special occasions.Crafted from high-quality organic and medical-grade materials, dermatologist-tested, hypoallergenic, and latex-free, I wanted to ensure Lids by Design is suitable for even the most sensitive skin. Their ease of application makes them a straightforward solution for enhancing appearance without the complexities of surgery” says Britain.

7 Packing & Moving Hacks to Simplify Your Next Move

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Moving to a new house can be both exciting and challenging, but with the right approach, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a little planning and organization, you can make the process much smoother. From packing up your belongings to settling into your new home, the key is to take things step by step.

If you’re getting ready to move, using some practical hacks can help reduce stress and save time. Moving in West Palm Beach, Florida, offers a unique experience with its vibrant coastal lifestyle, warm weather, and beautiful surroundings. Whether you’re relocating within the city or coming from afar, the process can feel more manageable with some thoughtful planning. 

Being organized can help you settle into your new home and enjoy everything West Palm Beach has to offer. Here are some simple and effective tips to help simplify your next move and make the transition as easy as possible:

  1. Hire Professional Movers

Moving is a big task and sometimes it’s worth investing in professional movers to make the process easier. When hiring movers, it’s important to do your research. Look for reputable moving companies, read reviews, and request quotes from several options. This will help you find the right team to fit your needs and budget. Whether you’re moving across town or to a new city, professional movers can take a lot of the stress out of your moving day.

Hiring movers can save you time and energy, especially when it comes to heavy or bulky items. Professional movers also have the experience to handle your belongings with care, reducing the risk of damage during the move. For instance, Solomon & Sons Relocation, a West Palm Beach moving company, provides reliable and efficient moving services, ensuring a smooth and stress-free experience for customers. Their team handles everything from packing to transportation with care and precision, making your move seamless from start to finish.

  1. Label Everything

Labeling your boxes is one of the simplest ways to keep your move organized. When you label your boxes clearly, you’ll know exactly where everything goes in your new home. One easy way to do this is by labeling boxes based on the rooms they belong in. This helps both you and the movers know where each box should go.

You can also consider color-coding your boxes by using colored tape or markers to represent each room. Another good tip is to make sure fragile items are clearly labeled so they are handled with care. Proper labeling saves time during unpacking and prevents unnecessary confusion.

  1. Create a Moving Checklist

When you start packing, one of the most important things you can do is create a packing list. Having a list of tasks helps you stay on track and makes sure nothing gets missed. Break down the tasks into categories such as packing, scheduling movers, and setting up utilities at your new home. Writing everything down helps you see what needs to be done and keeps you from feeling overwhelmed.

Your checklist should also include deadlines. Give yourself a timeline for when each task should be completed, starting well before your moving day. This way, you’re not rushing to finish everything at the last minute. Planning ahead makes the entire process more manageable.

  1. Purge Before Packing

Moving is the perfect time to go through your belongings and decide what you no longer need. Decluttering when you start packing will help you avoid bringing unnecessary items to your new home. Go through each room and set aside items to donate, sell, or throw away. The fewer items you have to pack, the faster and easier your move will be.

This approach is particularly beneficial if you’re moving to a smaller space or downsizing. Letting go of unnecessary or unused items not only streamlines the packing process but also allows you to begin life in your new home with just the essentials you truly need.

  1. Wrap Fragile Items Carefully

Packing fragile items like dishes, glassware, or vases can be stressful. Instead of buying bubble wrap or packing paper, you can use your own clothes to protect these items. Not only does this save money, but it also reduces waste and helps you pack boxes for moving more efficiently.

Simply wrap fragile items in soft clothing like t-shirts, sweaters, or even socks. You’ll protect your breakables while packing two things at once: your fragile items and your clothes. This method is especially useful for saving space, as you won’t need to pack bulky protective materials separately.

  1. Use Garbage Bags for Clothes

Moving hanging clothes from your closet can be a hassle if you try to pack them in boxes or take them off the hangers. A great way to move them quickly and easily is to use garbage bags. By keeping the clothes on the hangers and covering them with a large garbage bag, you can transport them without the need to fold or rehang everything later.

To do this, grab a group of hanging clothes, slide a garbage bag over them (with the hangers still on), and tie the bottom of the bag to keep the clothes in place. This method is quick, protects your clothes during the move, and makes unpacking a breeze.

  1. Pack Room by Room

One of the most efficient ways to tackle packing is to do it room by room. Instead of trying to pack everything at once, focus on one room at a time. This method helps keep things organized and allows you to clearly label which boxes belong in each room of your new home.

By packing room by room, you can avoid mixing up items from different spaces, which makes unpacking much easier. Start with rooms that you use less frequently, like guest bedrooms or storage areas, and leave everyday essentials for last. 

Moving doesn’t have to be as stressful as it seems. By using some of these simple hacks, you can make the process more organized, efficient, and less overwhelming. Planning ahead, staying organized, and finding creative ways to pack your belongings can help you save time and energy during your move. This approach also gives you a sense of accomplishment as you finish each room, making the entire process feel more manageable.

Collaborative post with our brand partner

Here’s How a Bathroom Remodel Can Add Value & Comfort to Your Home

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Home improvements are a great way to boost both the comfort and value of your property. While many homeowners focus on areas like the kitchen or living room, the bathroom is often overlooked. Yet, upgrading your bathroom can have a significant impact on your day-to-day life.

From increasing property value to making your space more comfortable, the benefits are clear. Austin, Texas, is known for its unique blend of modern city living and traditional charm, making it a prime location for home improvements. Remodeling your bathroom in Austin not only enhances your home’s comfort but also boosts its value in a competitive housing market. 

With local trends leaning toward energy-efficient upgrades and sleek designs, a bathroom remodel in Austin can bring a fresh, updated look to your home while improving functionality. Let’s highlight a few key ways that remodeling your bathroom can add value and comfort to your home:

Increases Property Value

One of the biggest advantages of remodeling your bathroom is the boost in property value. Potential buyers often look for homes that have modern and updated bathrooms. Even if you’re not planning to sell your home anytime soon, knowing that a remodel can increase its value is a great incentive. A freshly remodeled bathroom with new fixtures, tiles, and a modern layout can be a major selling point. Buyers appreciate the work that has been done, and it can give your home a competitive edge in the market.

For instance, in Austin shower replacement cost can vary depending on materials, labor, and the installation process you choose. However, rest assured that it will be significantly less than the return on investment (ROI), making it a cost-effective upgrade that adds significant value to your home. Acquiring professional services, such as the ones provided by ZINTEX Remodeling Group, is key to ensuring the job is done right. They offer expert remodeling services, providing high-quality, durable installations tailored to your needs. Their team ensures a hassle-free remodeling experience with custom designs and professional craftsmanship to enhance the look and functionality of your bathroom.

Improves Energy Efficiency

Another important benefit of remodeling your bathroom is the opportunity to improve energy efficiency. Older bathrooms often have outdated fixtures and appliances that use more water and energy than necessary. By upgrading to energy-efficient models, you can save on utility bills while also helping the environment.

Low-flow toilets, faucets, and showerheads are great examples of energy-saving fixtures. You can also install LED lighting, which uses less electricity than traditional bulbs. These upgrades not only lower your monthly expenses but also make your home more environmentally friendly. Over time, these changes can significantly reduce your energy consumption.

Enhances Aesthetic Appeal

A bathroom remodel is a perfect chance to improve the overall look of your space. Whether your current bathroom feels outdated or you simply want to change its style, remodeling gives you the opportunity to create a fresh, modern design. From choosing new tiles to selecting updated countertops, you can design a bathroom that fits your taste and enhances the look of your home.

Today’s design trends offer a variety of options, from minimalist styles to more luxurious finishes. Whether you prefer a sleek, modern look or a more classic, timeless feel, remodeling allows you to create a bathroom that you love. A visually appealing bathroom also adds to the overall aesthetic value of your home, making it more attractive and enjoyable for both you and your guests.

Boosts Storage Space

Remodeling your bathroom can also help you make better use of the available space. Many older bathrooms lack sufficient storage, leading to clutter and disorganization. By adding cabinets, shelves, or built-in storage, you can increase the functionality of your bathroom and keep it tidy.

Modern bathroom designs often include smart storage solutions that maximize the use of small spaces. For example, floating shelves or vanity cabinets can provide extra storage without taking up too much room. By incorporating these features into your remodel, you can create a bathroom that is both practical and stylish, with everything you need neatly organized and easily accessible.

Increases Home Comfort

One of the main reasons people choose to remodel their bathrooms is to increase comfort. A bathroom should be a relaxing space where you can unwind, and upgrading it can make a big difference in how comfortable it feels. Simple changes, like installing a new shower or bathtub, can enhance your daily routine and provide a more enjoyable experience.

Upgrades such as heated floors, towel warmers, or a rain showerhead can turn your bathroom into a personal oasis. These small changes can significantly improve your overall comfort, making your bathroom a place where you can relax and recharge after a long day. Whether you’re looking for a more luxurious experience or just a more functional space, remodeling can make your bathroom much more comfortable.

Fixes Existing Plumbing Issues

A bathroom remodel is the perfect time to address any plumbing problems that might have been causing issues in your home. Older bathrooms often have outdated pipes, fixtures, or drainage systems that can lead to leaks, blockages, or water damage. During the remodel, you have the opportunity to inspect the plumbing thoroughly and fix any problems before they become more serious.

Repairing or upgrading plumbing can prevent long-term damage to your home. Leaky faucets or pipes not only waste water but can also cause mold, mildew, or structural damage if left unattended. By tackling these issues during the remodeling process, you’re not just improving the look of your bathroom, but also ensuring it functions properly for years to come.

Enhances Safety & Accessibility

Safety is another key benefit of remodeling your bathroom, especially if you have small children, elderly family members, or someone with mobility challenges in your household. Modern bathrooms can be equipped with features that improve safety, such as grab bars, anti-slip flooring, and walk-in showers.

These additions can make your bathroom more accessible and reduce the risk of accidents. For instance, walk-in showers and bathtubs with low thresholds are easier to use and safer for people with limited mobility. Installing these features can help create a bathroom that is safer and more comfortable for everyone in your home.

A bathroom remodel is a smart investment that can bring both value and comfort to your home. From increasing property value to improving energy efficiency and safety, the benefits of remodeling your bathroom are clear. It also provides an opportunity to fix existing plumbing problems, enhance air quality, and make the space easier to maintain. Whether you’re planning to sell your home in the near future or simply want to improve your quality of life, a bathroom remodel is a worthwhile project that can have lasting benefits.

Collaborative post with our brand partner.

FESTIVAL OF THE GIRL AWARDS 2024

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INSPIRE HER FUTURE

·        A pioneering, awards-driven campaign launched by Festival of The Girl for young girls to celebrate each other and aspire to be future leaders

·        Builds girls’ self-esteem and confidence to use their voices

·        A great summer holiday activity for girls to nominate a special girl in their lives

The team behind the ground-breaking Festival of the Girl have launched their inaugural awards-driven campaign which will shine a light on the importance of girls supporting girls and celebrating each other’s achievements.

Why are these awards important, why do we still need to be building girls’ self-esteem and confidence, and why do we want to encourage girls to use their voices and support one another?

1.        In a time when society still reinforce gender stereotypes and female rivalry (think Swift vs Beyonce narratives), when ‘mean girl’ behaviour is normalised with responses like ‘girls will be girls’, these awards aim to help build self-esteem and confidence with the next generation of girls

2.        Just 15% of UK girls believe politicians act in their best interest with almost half of UK girls (47%) having lost trust in them over the last three years. Now with the largest (40%) proportion of female MPs in the UK government and a potential female US president, we need to change this trajectory and see girls celebrating each other, and the leadership and change girls and women can create

3.        In the lead up to the 2024 General Election 20% of women didn’t feel inspired to vote or believe they had a voice in the election, so we need to build the agency and confidence in our future women voters

The awards campaign invites girls aged 7-11, with the help of their parents and carers, to nominate a special girl in their life for one of the following awards:

INSPIRING GIRL 2024 AWARD

Who has inspired you recently? Who do you know that did something brave?
Maybe they stood up for someone else, maybe they’ve had to overcome something really difficult, or maybe they’ve simply worked incredibly hard at something and it has felt inspiring to you.

LOYALTY AND FRIENDSHIP 2024 AWARD

Who is your very best friend, or has shown amazing friendship to someone else you know?
Maybe they’ve spent loads of time helping their friends, or supporting them in some way. Or they might have been thoughtful about how to cheer someone up when they’ve been having a hard time.



LEADER AND CHANGEMAKER 2024 AWARD

Who has made a difference in your school or community? Who has created a change that really mattered?
Maybe they campaigned for something they believed in, and got the decision makers to really listen. Maybe they got lots of other people interested in a problem they wanted to solve and you all worked together on it, joining in with their idea and making things happen. 


The Awards Ceremony, sponsored by V2 Studios, will take place at the Festival of The Girl 2024 on Saturday 5th October at the Business Design Centre, Islington, London. With an incredible panel of judges, beautiful awards and exciting presenters, it will be a truly inspiring event.

http://www.festivalofthegirl.com/