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Inspirational Women – Eleni Kazelas, Founder and Director of Let’s Make Cyprus Green

By MiC Carine 21/08/2019

With so few women holding key positions in business, power and politics not only in Cyprus but also worldwide, it is important for us to both learn from and celebrate the women who have made huge strides forwards in our local community.

Our Inspirational Women series puts the spotlight on these women among us: who they are and what they do; how they have dealt with challenges and what inspires them to move forward.

Today it is our pleasure to introduce Eleni Kazelas, Founder and Director of Let’s Make Cyprus Green – a fantastic local initiative making huge strides in spreading awareness to the public about the negative human impacts on the planet, particularly the harm done by excessive waste and the use of plastic. Let’s Make Cyprus Green (LMCG) is encouraging residents, as well as visitors of the island, to “go green” – a phrase that essentially means choosing to live an environmentally friendly lifestyle. This is done by through:

  • Action – they organize frequent cleanup events;
  • Education – in schools, offices, online, through various other awareness raising methods and;
  • Prevention – by providing affordable, environmentally friendly products via their online shop [link]. The products go hand-in-hand with their mission of combating waste and also help to support the organization.

 

Eleni, what inspired you to found Let’s Make Cyprus Green and what were the main challenges you faced?

Throughout my life, I’ve always been involved in social and environmental issues. What really gave me the push to move forward with Let’s Make Cyprus Green is seeing my favorite Limassol beach (Paramali Beach) become polluted with waste. This is the beach my husband and I got married on, which also happens to be a turtle breeding beach. It seemed that every time we visited the area became worse. I’ve never been the type to sit back and wait for change, so the decision was made to take it upon ourselves and clean it. After a few hours of cleaning the beach we managed to collect 12 big bags of trash. We were extremely disappointed with our findings, but at the same time it made us feel really good to have cleaned our favorite beach.

After that cleanup we decided to host another cleanup at a different location (Lady’s Mile Beach) where we invited the local community to join us. We wanted to get other people involved to not only raise awareness about the severity of marine debris, but to also be able to pick up much more than just 12 bags of trash. When that day came we were presently surprised to see that 70 people from all over Cyprus came to help, and together we collected over 100 bags of trash. It was a very satisfying feeling of accomplishment.

Since starting the initiative, the biggest challenges have always a mix between trying to change a person’s mentality, and of course, the language barrier. Knowing the native language of the country you’re operating in is always beneficial – if this is something you don’t know, you tend to run into a lot of closed doors, many of which are extremely difficult to open.

 

Can you tell us more about your role at Let’s Make Cyprus Green and what initiatives you have led that you are most proud of?

I make the main decisions and manage the overall operations and resources of the organization.

It’s hard to pick one just initiative that I’m proudest of, but I can say that my two favorite accomplishments are 1. having collected 15,000 kg of waste from our many cleanup initiatives in less than two years. 2. Providing the island with various eco-friendly alternatives to everyday plastic products. It’s one thing to tell people to reduce your waste and the use of plastic, and it’s another to actually say it and provide them with alternatives.

 

Being a Director means there are no mentors to learn from. Who do you go to for advice?

I’ve been independent from a very young age, so I’ve gone through most of my life learning from my own mistakes and the mistakes of others. However, as the Let’s Make Cyprus Green team grows, I enjoy getting the input from my team before making certain decisions. I love to see what we come up with when we start to brainstorm together.

 

What have you learned about yourself since starting LMCG?

That if I push myself and commit to something I believe in, changes will be made, and these changes will have long-term, positive effects on the local community.  But I’d have to say that working under Let’s Make Cyprus Green actually makes you learn more about other people rather than yourself.

 

If you could give one piece of advice to women aspiring to start their own initiative, what would it be?

You will face difficulties being a female founder – but don’t let it discourage you. Never be afraid of failure, or let someone come between you and your passion and what you believe in.

 

Can you talk about one woman who has impacted your life or inspired you on your journey?

My mother, she has always been a smart, strong, and independent woman. She is someone who worked tirelessly her entire life and always put other people’s needs before hers.

 

What are your future plans for LMCG?

To continue to push forward so big changes can be made. We want to see a shift in society – – people adopting new habits that will lead to environmentally friendly and ecologically responsible choices in their everyday lives.

My aim is to grow the NGO, Let’s Make Cyprus Green, and EkoNest, the company that supplies the organization with the products, so we can most importantly continue our actions, make a bigger impact, and to be able to employ and bring green jobs to Cyprus.

For more information on Let’s Make Cyprus Green, you can visit the website here.

Eleni Kazelas has been living in Cyprus since the age of 16.  She was born in Detroit, Michigan, USA to a Greek Cypriot father from Famagusta and a mother from northern Greece.  Eleni has a background in compliance and sustainability leadership, and although she has built a successful career working in the foreign exchange industry here in Cyprus, her true passion lies outside the corporate world and into the natural world as an environmental conservationist.  Her strong beliefs in protecting the environment have led to the creation of the NGO, “LET’S MAKE CYPRUS GREEN”.  The organization’s mission is to raise public awareness about the negative human impacts to the planet, with a focus on excessive waste and the use of plastic – – and the company, EKONEST, specializes in the development and distribution of eco-friendly products that help support the NGO activities.

Ask the Expert: Christiana Aristotelous – The benefits of the Gyrotonic method

By MiC Carine 07/06/2019

Most work absences in Cyprus are due to bone, joint and muscle problems involving the back or lower back (29.2%), the hips or lower extremities (15.2%), the neck, shoulders or upper extremities (14.6%)*. Yoga and Pilates are just a few of the wellness disciplines that can help, but one other method is quietly enjoying ever-growing popularity: the Gyrotonic Expansion System.

Even Tiger Woods, Madonna and Jennifer Aniston are fans, so to find out more for our #AskTheExpert interview of the month, we sit down with Christiana Aristotelous, one of the two certified Gyrotonic trainers in Cyprus.

 

Christiana, hi! What exactly is Gyrotonic?

It is a truly unique exercise and rehabilitation programme with circular motion movements that come from dance, yoga, gymnastics, t’ai chi and even swimming. The body trains on a very versatile, specially designed wooden frame with rotational discs and weighted pulleys. Sounds more complicated than it is, though!

How does it work?

It works by stretching and strengthening the body at the same time. The back goes through arch and curl movements, and specific exercises have circular and spiralling movement patterns that are combined with emphasis on breathing. As a result, energy pathways open up and the nervous system is stimulated.

Is it suitable for mums?

This method is literally for everyone, no matter the age, physical condition or overall fitness. The trainer is there to explain and demonstrate every sequence, taking into consideration any pain points a person may have and accommodating their needs accordingly. The sessions are individual and highly personalised. Don’t worry if you have not seen the inside of a gym in years!

Does it classify as fitness training?

It is so much more than simple fitness training since it addresses the entire person and not just a group of muscles. The signature movements increase joint mobility and range of motion, while correcting posture and improving bone density. The Gyrotonic method works with the body’s own strength and so it is an extremely gentle type of training, designed to balance neuro-muscular coordination.

Can it be used for pain management?

Yes, because it is also a rehabilitation programme. The Gyrotonic method is used successfully in many types of lower back or cervical spine pain, including repetitive strain injuries, sciatica, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis and osteoporosis.

What other benefits does it have?

The fluid movements from continuous arching, curling, spiralling and breathing helps detoxify the body and get rid of excess lymph fluids and waste stagnating in our systems. The holistic approach leads to a healthier, more supple spine, stronger core muscles, improved agility and athletic performance, and a deep internal strength.

Can it help mentally too?

Totally! The proper breathing oxygenates the brain, leading to improved focus and a feeling of completed relaxation after the session. The Gyrotonic method has confidence boosting effects too, thanks to the improvement in proper posture that is achieved though the exercises.

Does it make you sweat and lose weight?

Everyone is different, some will break out in a sweat, others won’t at all. The overall focus of these sessions is on connecting the mind to the body and to become more motion aware. The lengthening and strengthening exercises lead to an overall power boost, which in turn help the body feel long term benefits and results from other activities too.

How soon can results be achieved?

This depends on the person’s body, everyone is different. Some people feel taller, more relaxed and connected to their bodies after the first session already, but in general it will take 2-3 Gyrotonic method workouts to feel the movements in the abdominal muscles, achieve the benefits and improve poor posture habits.

How many sessions are needed per week?

The recommendation is 1-2 sessions per week, as that consistency will help the mind and body connect better and become more familiarised with the movements. The Gyrotonic method should be seen as a long term part of a person’s wellness training routine, and can be used in conjunction with other fitness programmes.

Where are these Gyrotonic method sessions available in Cyprus?

It takes approximately a year to become a certified Gyrotonic trainer, and there are just two of us currently offering these sessions on the island. My studio is located in Limassol, and I am always happy to explain the equipment to anyone interested to find out more. As an exclusive offer for Mums in Cyprus members, it is my pleasure to provide one free introductory training session to any parent wishing to try the Gyrotonic method!

 

Christiana is a registered member of the Gyrotonic Trainers team and has completed the Teacher Training Program according to the industry standards applicable for Cyprus. Prior to moving to her new studio in order to offer the Gyrotonic Expansion System, Christiana spent 15 years in her previous gym in the center of Limassol, where she provided private and group fitness and TRX equipment training.

 

Email: christianatrx@gmail.com

Facebook

 

Amoroza Center

Samou 2

Yermasoyia

Limassol

Phone 99 570 393

 

Reference *https://www.eurofound.europa.eu/publications/report/2010/absence-from-work-cyprus

Activism is not a dirty word

By MiC Carine 29/05/2019

The jury is still out on whether activism divides a community or builds it.

In my opinion, activism is a very healthy way to exercise our right to free speech, draw attention to a cause that is dear to our heart and inspire others to question a status quo. By uniting our voices around a common cause, we build a strong togetherness that cannot be ignored.

As I wrote in my earlier post Stand Up, Speak Up, I was not always vocal, confident, engaged or even enraged enough to go out into the street and join a protest. For me to be stirred up, it took the heated debate about climate change, hours and hours of reading about the facts, and then truly realising that our children’s future is under threat.

>> You might also like We we are joining ‘Mothers Rise Up’

We are lucky enough to live in a democracy where we can express ourselves freely without the risk of being intimidated, threatened, abused or worse. We can say what we want, in the media of our choice and as frequently as we wish. We can praise, criticize, approve, oppose, inspire and protest, as long as we keep it legal of course.

Public opinion matters, politicians want to be popular, and everyone is on stage on social media. Let’s take advantage of this, get off our screens, take to the streets, listen to the scientists and speak the truth.

Governments and politicians are failing the climate goals they committed to in the 2015 Paris Climate Agreement. I believe there is nothing wrong with pointing the finger and reminding the current administration of their shortcomings. After all, our taxes pay their salaries.

The topic of climate change, crisis, emergency and climate fail requires more urgent attention. By increasing awareness, drawing attention to our movement and getting exposure in print and digital news media outlets, we increase the pressure. We blame and shame key decision makers into faster implementation.

Sadly, we can only prevent irreversible the damage done to our planet within the next 11 years, and the countdown has begun. We need action now, because politics is a slow-moving beast.

I have no hidden agenda, no desire to start a revolution or stir up trouble in any way. I simply hope to inspire other mothers just like me. We love our children. We want to be safe in the knowledge that they will have a healthy planet to live on.

By not becoming active, we are saying ‘I’m ok with what’s going on’. By not shaping the direction of our planet’s future, we are failing our children. By not contributing to the debate, we are endorsing the system. By staying silent, we are giving up our voice.

I often hear ‘what difference am I going to make?’. I always reply ‘a huge one!’. Greta sat by herself for months before the world was moved.

Get informed. Join Mothers Rise Up. Bring fathers, grandmothers, uncles and brothers. Aunties, sisters and grandpas, too.

Activism is not a dirty word and we should not feel awkward for advocating for change. Marching for our convictions does not need to be loud and shouty. Showing up is already enough.

We messed up. We need to fix it. It’s as simple as that.

Ask the Expert: Kirsten Levens-Spiliotou – Why we all need Happy Feet

By MiC Carine 06/05/2019

Did you know that the human foot is composed of 26 bones? Where you aware that, with every step we take, the heels of our feet hit the ground with a force equal to twice our body weight? That in our lifetime, we will walk up to 185,000 km? That’s roughly 5 times around the world! No wonder it’s so important to have happy feet! In our #AskTheExpert interview of the month we sit down with Kirsten Levens-Spiliotou of The Podiatry Centre.

 

Kirsten, hi! What does a Podiatrist do?

In podiatry we aim to prevent deformity in the foot and maintain normal function and mobility. If abnormalities are observed, we provide an initial diagnosis and suggest ways to manage the condition. We also treat infections and skin issues, and provide nail care.

What kind of abnormalities can occur in children’s feet?

Because a child’s foot is constantly changing, it is at risk from a variety of problems at different ages as the feet and lower limbs develop. These issues can be associated with growth or with activities that the children are involved in, such as dance, gymnastics, martial arts etc. In the case of growth, the main cause of trouble is often a badly fitting shoe, or even an outgrown shoe. In the case of activities, excessive unaccustomed exercise can lead to painful foot and lower limb issues. Weight gain and postural changes also affect the feet.

How can these problems be addressed?

Some foot changes can look like serious problems to the untrained eye but may just be appearing during the period of developmental change. Often these will not require any major correctional measures and can be solved with footwear advice alone. More serious conditions can be helped with the provision of orthoses, which are special tailor-made insoles that address the positioning of the foot.

What about skin and nail issues?

These are common and not a cause for serious concern, but they need to be appropriately cared for. Proper hygiene goes a long way towards preventing most issues such as sweaty feet (very prevalent in puberty), smelly feet, athlete’s foot (the fungus that affects the skin and nails) and infected blisters.

When should a baby get their first pair of shoes?

Ideally not until they can actually walk outdoors. The child should be barefoot for as long as possible in the first year for the feet to develop naturally and normally. Remember that the age at which a baby starts to walk unaided varies from child to child.

Is there a trick to knowing the perfect shoe size and fit?

Yes, you can have your child stand on a piece of paper and trace around the shape of their foot. Measure the distance between the longest toe and the heel. A newly fitted shoe will need to be approximately 12-16 mm longer than that distance in order to allow for growth and the foot elongating when walking. This can help guide you in the shoe shop, where you can then measure the inside of the shoe you are considering buying.

Should children wear the same shoes every day?

In the best-case scenario, different shoes should be worn on alternate days in order to allow the shoe to dry out, as children’s feet can get very sweaty. Damp shoes and socks make our skin more prone to athlete’s foot and verrucae.

What about trainers as a daily shoe? Are they unhealthy for children’s and teenagers’ feet?

As long as hygiene and good foot health is followed, sports and running shoes are fine. Allow for adequate room, depth and width in the toe area, ensure the fastening is tight and the heel is well fitting and firm, with shock absorbing heel and sole. Fashion trends should not take priority over the sensible choice, especially as some trainers are designed for a particular sporting activity. Either way, here too, it’s best to take shoes off inside the house to allow for the foot to breathe and the show to dry out.

Is there anything to look out for in socks?

The importance of proper socks is often underestimated. It should be the same size as the shoe and made from 100% cotton, especially if the child has skin problems. Avoid nylon socks, as that material will make the foot sweat and it does not absorb moisture.

How often should children’s toe nails be cut, and what is the best way to do this?

The rate of nail growth varies from child to child, but it’s best to do a weekly check. If they are left too long, they can split and become ingrown. Use proper nail clippers instead of scissors, as they are safer. Always follow the shape of the nail, keep the corners free, and leave approximately 1 mm of growing nail.

What is a ‘gaitscan’ and would you recommend every child has one?

A gaitscan system records the timing sequence as a person stands and walks across a pressure plate. This plate is linked to a software programme that produces data, which allows the podiatrist to accurately detect abnormal foot function and suggest appropriate measures to correct any developmental problem. It’s an amazing technology, and you know what they say: a picture is worth a thousand words!

Not every child has to have one. Check their feet regularly and ask your podiatrist for advice if any foot problems occur. Don’t rely on your child telling you if they have a problem. Take an interest in your child’s foot health especially if they are involved in activities that may damage the feet. My children are teenagers now and I still inspect their feet every now and then, it’s never too late to get involved.

Most issues can be addressed with special custom-made orthotic insoles, which the child will need to wear for about two years. While children will not feel pain in legs and feet at this stage due to the softness of their bones, any posture problems caused by the foot deformities will become more apparent in later life.

Here at The Podiatry Centre we can help you identify and correct any issues early on. Come and see us for a no-obligation evaluation of your child’s feet. We are delighted to provide a 15% discount on the consultation fee as an exclusive offer for Mums in Cyprus members !

 

Kirsten is a member of both the Cyprus society of chiropodists & podiatrists, the UK society of chiropodists and podiatrists, and is also a registered member of the health professions council, UK. After graduating from Brighton university Kirsten worked for 7 years in the UK for the NHS ‘National Health Service’ in both hospitals, health centres and the community settings. She then worked 1 year in the private sector before moving to Cyprus in 2002 where she established her own private practice comprising of all elements of podiatry.

 e: kirsten@thepodiatrycentre.com

fb:@thepodiatrycentre

The Podiatry Centre

Gropious 43

Evangelos Court 205

Limassol 3076

Tel 25 878708

 

 

Mental health: how to stop stigma and take action

By MiC Carine

Here at Mums in Cyprus, we spend large parts of the morning online and as a consequence, come across countless of websites every day. We see rubbish websites (loads of them!), out of date websites (how hard can it be!?) and even websites where we seriously wonder why anyone even bothered to put them up…

But once in a while there is one that stands out. The Perfect Find.

Professional, transparent, factual and supportive, yesterday’s discovery is one of these gems: childmind.org

The Child Mind Institute is dedicated to transforming the lives of children and families struggling with mental health and learning disorders. As an independent, non-profit organisation based in the United States, their teams ‘work every day to deliver the highest standards of care, advance the science of the developing brain and empower parents, professionals and policymakers to support children when and where they need it most.’

Ok, so Cyprus is not the US, but mental health is an issue on our island, too.

The website has a wealth of information, articles and tools for families. There are symptom checkers and parent guides, tips for teenagers and children.

Teachers can find resources for recognising learning disorders in the classroom, dealing with anxiety and ADHD in students, and browse though recommended strategies to address these.

One of the biggest obstacles to tackling mental health is the stigma attached to it, and this is where The Childmind Institute’s anti-stigma campaign #MyYoungerSelf comes in. That’s what got us to their website in the first place, as it was mentioned by Time Magazine.

‘This May actors, athletes, social influencers, businesspeople and more send a message of hope about their experience growing up with a mental health or learning disorder: Help us stop the shame and stigma. This is #MyYoungerSelf, the Child Mind Institute’s campaign to counter the stigma for the 1 in 5 children struggling with these disorders.’

We can ALL do our bit to stop the shame and stigma.

 

 

How To… reduce your plastic use, Step 02: Plastic Bags

By MiC Team 04/06/2018

In How To… reduce your plastic use, step 01: Plastic Bottles, we looked at the huge plastic bottle problem globally and what we can do locally to lower the amount of plastic bottles we buy and discard each day.

By recycling plastic, we can decrease the massive amount of plastic that is produced annually, while also saving the natural resources (oil, water and energy) that would be needed to produce new plastic.

However, RECYCLING IS NO LONGER ENOUGH! We use SO much plastic that we cannot keep up with the collection, storage, sorting and processing of our plastic waste! Only about 10% of the 400 million tonnes of plastic produced annually is recycled, with the rest ending up in landfills and the sea… There has to be another way to tackle this problem!

  • There are more than 50 different types of plastics, making it extremely difficult to sort and process
  • Not all plastics can be recycled
  • Not all areas have all the available technology needed to recycle plastic waste
  • The collection, storage, sorting and processing of plastic for recycling uses additional resources
  • A lot of recycling is shipped off to developing countries to be processed
  • The plastic that ends up in landfills leads to greenhouse gases being released as they break down and we have touched upon what happens to the plastic that ends up in our seas!

So rather than talking about recycling, we now understand that we need to be talking about… Reducing, Refusing and Reusing (or Re-purposing) our plastic use.

What other types of plastics can we refuse or reduce our use of?

For each step of this series, we are going to choose a different source of plastic present in our everyday lives and suggest an alternative.

You could even implement it as an educational home project with your kids and see how much plastic you can get rid of out of your weekly shop. By making a diary, you’ll be astounded by how much plastic you will have eliminated within a month or two just by taking some or all of these tiny steps!

Step 02: Plastic Bags!

Plastic Bags: A World Survey by www.reusethisbag.com

We are increasingly seeing pictures of land and marine animals entangled in plastic bags; animals often mistake plastic bags for food and nesting material leading to death by poisoning, asphyxiation and starvation dues to their stomachs filled with plastic. An article this week highlighted this problem, with the story of a whale off the coast of Thailand who died with 80 plastic bags in its stomach!

Apart from the growing danger that plastic bags pose to land and marine wildlife, the lightweight nature of plastic bags mean they easily blow out of trash and landfills, where among other things, they can clog up waterways and provide an ideal breeding ground for mosquitoes.

Plastic bags are also made of petroleum – a non-renewable resource and a polluting one at that!

So, what can I do?

Reducing your use of plastic bags is a pretty simple step to implement and is one of the first things being tackled Worldwide with country-level bans on plastic bags or ‘bag taxes’ being enforced in all shops. A new law came in to effect in Cyprus in January this year, banning free plastic bags in supermarkets with the introduction of a 0.05 cent levy on plastic bags at the checkout.  However, while most shops offer customers the chance to buy a “bag for life”, many shops have ignored the ban by continuing to give out free plastic bags.

Elsewhere, Worldwide, the introduction of a ‘bag tax’ has seen drastic reductions in waste, with some countries seeing up to a 90% reduction in plastic bag use.

However, you don’t need to wait for these laws to come in to force in Cyprus before you take the plunge and invest in some reusable bags yourself! Start off small and notice the difference each week!

There are a great number of different “bags for life” that you can buy and take everywhere with you. Get your kids involved and don’t be surprised when they start reminding you to take them with you when you go shopping! We suggest buying fabric ones that can fold up neatly and fit in your handbag so that they are always with you and you can never forget them!

For food produce, net bags are fantastic – you can buy them in some shops locally and online – they last for absolutely ages, pack down small, are super strong and expand to fit a huge amount of items in them! We’ve had some for ten years now and they are still going strong – definitely worth the initial extra cost! Plus, they come in a variety of stylish, naturally dyed colours so your fashion sense as well as your wallet, won’t suffer!

For clothes and other shopping, reuse old paper bags or invest in some foldable fabric bags that you can wash and reuse easily –  or perhaps make your own! There are so many different types available, in all colours and designs… they also great for presenting gifts in – if you buy the plain canvas ones, the kids can get creative and personalise them for you!

This website is a great resource for looking at the facts & figures about plastic bag waste and to use with your family as a talking point on the subject: https://www.reusethisbag.com/articles/plastic-bag-bans-worldwide/

 

 

Please use these social media tags when sharing posts about reducing plastic use and help spread the word that change is needed.

It starts from home!

#BeTheChange #UseLessPlastic #LessOceanPlastic #BreakFreeFromPlastic #PassOnPlastic

#SayNoToPlastic #Reduce #Refuse #Reuse #Repurpose #Recycle

 

 

Skin Cancer… what precautions can we take?

By MiC Carine

Summer is here and so is the sun. Here to stay, way up high in the sky, all day, every day, for the next six months (at least in Cyprus :-). This translates into a LOT of harmful rays, and we need to take appropriate measures to stay healthy and not burn our skin.

In our quest to always bring you relevant, up to date advice and information, we scoured the web for the latest expert recommendations and found out that, sadly, Europe has a skin cancer problem.

Did you know that skin cancer is the most common cancer?

It doesn’t need to be a growing problem. Skin cancer can be treated if caught early.

Always be sunsafe

Avoid unnecessary exposure

Seek shade where possible, and avoid the summer sun during the middle of the day.

Wear protective clothing 

Include dark colours, long sleeves, a wide-brimmed hat and UV-rated sunglasses. For children, look for clothing with inbuilt sun protection.

Apply sunscreen

Check that yours has a high protection factor against both UVA and UVB rays. Remember that sunscreen takes effect around half an hour after its application and only lasts for two to three hours.

 

Children are at the greatest risk of long-term health issues related to unsafe sun exposure.

Outside play is important, but you should never let a child get sunburnt.

 

WHO IS AT RISK OF SKIN CANCER?

Skin cancer can affect anybody at any age.
It is most common in people over 50, or people who have had prolonged exposure to the sun.

You are at higher risk if you:

  • Have fair skin or are prone to sunburn
  • Were sunburnt during childhood
  • Have spent a lot of time in the sun (for work or leisure)
  • Have periodical exposure periods (e.g. on holidays)
  • Use sunbeds
  • Have more than 50 moles
  • Have a family history of skin cancer
  • Are over the age of 50
  • Have undergone an organ transplant

Whether you’re in a high-risk group or not, there are simple things you can do now to protect you and your family from skin cancer.

By knowing the signs, and checking yourself regularly, you can stop any suspicious skin lesions before they become something more serious.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Check your skin for spots that:

  • Change size, colour and/or shape
  • Appear different to the rest (the ‘Ugly Duckling’ sign)
  • Are asymmetric or have uneven borders
  • Feel rough or scaly (sometimes you can feel lesions before you can see them)
  • Are multi-coloured
  • Are itchy
  • Are bleeding or oozing
  • Look pearly
  • Look like a wound but do not heal
  • If you see two or more of these warning signs, don’t delay. Visit your doctor immediately.

WHAT TO DO NEXT

Skin cancer can be treated, and early diagnosis makes the chances of a full recovery very high.

If you spot a suspicious lesion, it is vital that you have it checked by a doctor or preferably a dermatologist as soon as possible. Where treatment is delayed, the condition worsens, and in some instances, can lead to disfigurement, complications and even death. Don’t let delay reduce your chances of a positive outcome.

The golden rules are:

  • Don’t ignore it, hoping it will go away
  • Don’t wait to see how it develops, or manage it yourself
  • Don’t assume it’s nothing serious
  • Don’t think it isn’t a priority to get it sorted
  • And above all, don’t be afraid to see your doctor or dermatologist

Skin cancer is treatable if it’s caught early.
If you have a spot that looks suspicious, go and see your doctor.

 

Check the following pages for more details on skin cancer and how you can gain knowledge that will help you stay safe:

4 MAIN TYPES OF SUSPICIOUS SKIN LESION
SIGNS OF MELANOMA
HOW AND WHERE TO LOOK

 

For more information about skin cancer, and how to prevent and detect it, visit www.euromelanoma.org.

Article available in its original form on the Euromelanoma.org webpage.

 

HOW TO… ensure the water you are drinking is safe

By MiC Team 25/04/2018

It seems to be that today, as parents, we spend a great deal of time worrying about what we are feeding our children (is it local, organic, fair trade?); what toys they are playing with; what books they are reading; whether they are getting enough sunshine – whether they are getting too much sunshine; whether there are parabens in their shampoo… the list is endless – and exhausting!

One thing that we often forget to think about is the quality of the water that we are drinking, cooking and bathing with! Living in a developed country, we take it for granted that the water coming out of our taps is considered safe – at least to cook, brush our teeth or wash produce with. We also have access to and the means to buy bottled water. However, buying bottled water raises some questions such as: how are the plastic bottles stored and transported? Are they leaching chemicals in to the water? And at what cost to our health, budget and the environment?

Our natural water resources are under ever growing demands, especially in a country like Cyprus, and the government has been making great headway in tackling the water shortage problems over recent years – recycled water for agricultural use; desalination plants and efforts to curb water overuse to compensate for lack of rain during the summer. However, chemicals such as chlorine, which are used in the water disinfection process, are present in our drinking water along with other contaminants such as heavy metals; pesticides; bacteria; inorganic and organic compounds (that may grow in your home’s pipes due to them being old or irregularly maintained/disinfected).

Rainwater flushes airborne pollution (through industry, traffic congestion and dust storms) from the skies, before being washed over the land (that may contain chemical contamination from industry and agricultural pesticides) into our rivers and dams that then become our drinking water.

The good news is that the drinking water in Cyprus is considered to be of good quality and the water boards in each city continually monitor the safety of our drinking water. Still, the question is: while our drinking water is generally ‘safe’… how ‘pure’ is it and are we sure that it is actually optimal for better health?

So, what is in our tap water?

  1. Chlorine – chlorine is added to water to make sure it is safe because its toxicity kills bacteria and other microbes that would otherwise make us ill. Chlorine is therefore essential to prevent the spread of water-borne diseases and is a necessary component of the water purification process. However, this doesn’t mean that we want to be drinking it! High levels of chlorine consumption have been linked to cancer and other morbidities. It is therefore advisable to remove chlorine from our water before we drink it.
  2. Lead – old, broken and corroded pipes (anyone who lives in the old town of any city may be particularly at risk of this) mean that drinking water could contain lead.
  3. Nitrate – particularly common in the drinking water in rural areas worldwide, it is a natural by-product found in water and also as a waste product from agriculture and industry. High levels of nitrate are particularly unsafe for pregnant women and children.
  4. Water-borne viruses such as e-coli, salmonella, hepatitis A, norovirus and rotavirus can all be transmitted through water, particularly from groundwater sources and wells. These viruses can also be present in the pipes, creating a ‘biofilm’ that can be transferred in to the drinking water. Should unsafe levels be detected when tested by local authorities, more chemicals such as chlorine are needed to clean the water.

But it’s not all bad news, because we can actually take steps ourselves to improve our drinking water.

What are the benefits of a water filtration system?

Water filtration systems can provide clean and healthy tap water by filtering out all of the harmful contaminants mentioned above, as well as improving the taste of our water and removing the odours that come from chemicals such as chlorine.

While leaving the beneficial minerals in the water that are good for us, they can remove or reduce:

  • Bad taste and odours
  • Dirt, sediment and rust
  • Chemicals (such as chlorine)
  • Contaminants (such as protozoa, bacteria, viruses and heavy metals)
Water filtration systems also:
  1. Eliminate the use of plastic, which protects the environment and our health. In Cyprus, we get through an enormous amount of bottled water and only a small amount of this plastic ends up being recycled. There are also concerns about the way that plastic water bottles are transported and stored before being sold – with the potential for harmful chemicals being leached in to the water we are buying.
  2. Save money. Contrary to what we all think, buying a year of bottled water for an average family is much higher than the cost of installing a home water filter (including the cost of replacement water filters).
  3. Protect in the event of a water contamination crisis. Burst sewer lines or pipes can introduce viruses and bacteria in to the water system.
  4. Improve our skin and hair. The water in Cyprus is quite hard and contains a lot of lime scale. Filtered water is softer: better for skin, hair and electrical appliances. This also means purchasing less soap and cleaning products – saving us even more money and making our household more environmentally friendly.
  5. Ensure we never run out of safe water!

What is the best type of water filtration system?

There are many different types of home water filtration systems from a filter installed at the water source, to under the sink and counter-top filters and water dispensers. There is no best product as such, and a choice should always be made on the needs of your family and budget.

Great advice can be given by an experienced vendor, who can help in the decision making.

Here at MiC we are impressed with Karma WaterShop – a nationwide family-business based here in Cyprus with premises in Limassol, Nicosia and Paphos. On our visit to the Limassol Karma WaterShop we were able to test the water from a filtration system (it actually felt smooth as silk on the tongue and tasted super!) and learn all about the science of filtering water. What we liked most was the fact that they follow strict guidelines and controls in this successful family business. They are on a mission to bring safer water to our homes, and we wholeheartedly recommend their services:

  1. Expert advice (gained from years of providing quality water filtration systems in Cyprus and with an impressive portfolio of clients from the residential and commercial sectors – local companies, including hospitals, schools, hotels and government departments).
  2. Quality control (they stock a wide range of filters from the UK, Europe and USA – for both under and over the counter and at point of entry in to your house: taps; ultra, UV and reverse-osmosis water systems; water dispensers (hot & cold) that don’t use plastic bottles; shower filters; and they are the only authorised importers of the famous Doulton Ceramic filters).
  3. Legionella control and prevention
  4. Installations in homes, offices or schools
  5. Quality testing including microbiological and chemical analyses through recognized and approved laboratories, ensuring compliance with water quality regulations and laws.

Why we like DOULTON® Ceramic Filters

These little counter-top filters are great – they are discreet and low-cost, making them an ideal solution for your home.

Doulton® water filters have now been manufactured continuously in the UK for more than 185 years. All Doulton® ceramic water filter products are manufactured in FICL’s factory based in North Staffordshire, UK, the traditional home of the ceramic industry in England.

The HCP & HCS counter top filters are extremely easy to install and uninstall, making them portable and, therefore, the ideal solution for people who move house every now and then – like many of us Mums in Cyprus members!

Their Supercarb® ceramic is fitted with an activated carbon block. Among other things, we were told that activated carbon is very effective at removing chlorine, parasites and contaminants from water. Who knew?!

The Doulton® ceramic filter candles have an anti-bacterial matrix integrated, which inhibits bacterial growth on the filter. Unique to Doulton® filter elements, a micro-biological sealing mechanism gives unrivalled protection.

We left the Karma WaterShop feeling rather educated and ‘in the know’, and more than happy to recommend their great water filtration systems.

You can find these Doulton® ceramic filters in all of the Karma WaterShop stores (branches) across Cyprus. Stay tuned for a #WednesdayWin competition, coming soon, to win one of these Doulton® ceramic filters for yourselves!

You can find out more about Karma Water on their website (readable in Greek, English and Russian); their Facebook and Twitter pages.

They also have a useful blog with articles in all three languages: https://www.karmawatercy.com/blog

 

 

Dust Storms… what precautions can we take?

By MiC Team 26/03/2018

Dust. Just when the weather improves with the start of Spring and you want to get outdoors – that’s when the dust comes. You know it’s coming when you get that tickle in the back of your throat; you can’t seem to stop coughing even though you don’t have a cold; your eyes are watering and your head is throbbing… Then you go outside and look up and you realise that you can’t see the sun… Or a patch of blue sky. Just a thick layer of heavy, suffocating dust.

For those of us who have lived here a while, it feels like every year it is getting worse. Some of you will remember the particularly bad dust storm we had back in 2015 when you couldn’t see more than a few feet in front of you. Seasonal air quality is a topic that is causing a lot of concern for those of us in Cyprus, Israel, Greece and other parts of the Med and wider regions affected by these dust storms. I can only imagine how much worse it is for the people living in the regions where the dust storms are originating. For those of you who have a member of your family with asthma, allergies or respiratory problems, it must be even more concerning.

To try to put it in to perspective though, however alarming these dust storms may seem and just how bad they can be when we are living literally in the thick of it, they are nothing compared to the conditions that people live in daily in heavily industrialised and overpopulated cities in some parts of Africa and Asia, where the pollutant levels are consistently bad throughout the year and have far worse health effects because they are due to harmful vehicle, fuel and industrial emissions. Apart from those few weeks of dust storms each year, Cyprus is considered to be one of the safest and cleanest places to live – our beaches are among the best in Europe; the air quality is generally much better than most urbanised areas and the prevailing coastal winds blow away much of the worse pollutants that we ourselves create.

So, are the dust storms actually getting worse?

The short answer is: yes.

Sand and Dust Storms are “the result of several inter-dependent factors, which span across several regional countries. Years of inappropriate farming practices, mismanagement of water resources and climate change continue to contribute to reduced vegetation coverage, desertification and droughts, which directly contribute to the growing regional dust-storm problem” source.

In plain speak – climate change, along with human activities such as overcultivation; overgrazing; deforestation and poor irrigation practices, made worse by the effects of unstable political conditions in many regions (war and population movements leading to lack of farming and further degradation of the soil) has lead to once fertile soils now being turned in to barren and unproductive patches of land. The ensuing drought and desertification in sub-Saharan Africa and the Middle East mean that these problems will only get worse.

Couple this with increasing levels (worldwide, not just in Cyprus) of air pollution from industry and fuel combustion (household uses, traffic etc) and the picture can feel a little bleak.

The Governments and Academic circles of the affected countries are carrying out research on what materials these dust and sand storms are made up of – and how and to what extent they can negatively impact upon our health. Without pretending that I understand this in depth, it appears that there are different weights of particles in these storms and not all of them are inhalable. “Inhalable particulates” are those with a diameter of less than 10mm (PM10) and these are the ones that we are most concerned about – the Air Quality Department monitor them continually and warn us when they go over the recommended safe limit of 50 mg/m3 (micrograms per cubic metre). That is, the maximum concentration of airborne particulates that can be present outdoors without being deemed a risk to public health.

source: http://english.cyprustimes.com/2018/03/22/dust-continues-to-suffocate-cyprus/

 

The last week has seen levels between PM10: 200 – 400 in certain areas of Cyprus. That is: four to eight times the recommended safe limit of inhalable particles in the air. However, the extent of the risk on our health is still being researched and while the coughing, sneezing and headaches associated with dust storms can seem alarming, they are generally short-lived and are of most concern to vulnerable population groups.

 

source: Air Quality in Cyprus department’s homepage this morning, 26-03-18.

Who is at risk?

While we all are affected by particularly bad episodes of dust, the most vulnerable population groups are: children, the elderly and people with poor respiratory health.

So, what can we do?

We still have to live everyday lives – go to work, our children still need to be schooled… How do we protect ourselves in a dust storm?

If you or any of your family fall into one of the above “vulnerable” population groups, you should be more vigilant about carrying out the following measures. In fact, you’d probably be best advised to stay indoors until the dust levels fall below the 50 µg/m3 threshold:

  • Download the Air Quality Department’s extremely useful mobile application that warns you when levels of dust are high.
  • Stay indoors (with windows and doors closed) or limit outdoor activity during particularly bad episodes of dust. This especially means no outdoor exercise, as you will be putting yourself more at risk.
  • Make sure to keep your windows and doors closed during the days of high dust levels.
  • If you need to go outdoors during a particularly bad episode, you can choose to wear a mask, or protect your nose and mouth with a wet cloth.
  • In the car, keep windows closed and make sure the air/air conditioning is being circulated from the inside, not outside air source.
  • Take extra measures for the very young and old – and for those with respiratory health issues. Possibly consider installing an air filter in your home, like these ones here from Karma WaterShop Cyprus.
  • It’s encouraging to see that the Ministry of Education has now started recommending restrictions on outdoor activities/field-trips for children on days when the limits are over the recommended safe levels. A lot of schools have recently been keeping their pupils indoors during particularly bad dust storms, or at least restricting athletic activity during those days. If your school has not been taking any of these measures, make sure to talk to the Director of your school about your concerns.

Not enough research has yet been done and while it is being undertaken at the moment, it might be a while before updated recommendations and regulations around dust storms have been issued.

We would advise you to use your common sense… if you feel that the dust is affecting you or members of your family particularly badly, stay indoors and wear a mask if you need to go outside. If you have concerns, it is best to speak to a respiratory health specialist and to the Air Quality Department directly.

Most importantly, try not to panic!

We’ll update this article as and when we have further information.

How to…Target Ovarian Cancer

By MiC Carine 19/03/2018

March is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month

Women are more likely to cut out foods than go to their GP if they experience persistent bloating

The symptoms of ovarian cancer
Women in the UK are more likely to consider changing their diet than visiting their GP when confronted with bloating, a major symptom of ovarian cancer.

New research from Target Ovarian Cancer shows that, when faced with the prospect of persistent bloating, women may unknowingly put themselves at risk by opting to do things like eat more probiotic yoghurts or cut out gluten, rather than visiting their GP.

Half (50 per cent) of UK women said they would do something with their diet, whereas one in three (34 per cent) said they would see a doctor if they were concerned about bloating.1 Previous research by Target Ovarian Cancer has shown that just 1 in 5 women can name persistent bloating as a symptom of ovarian cancer – an alarmingly low rate of awareness.2

It's time to TAKE OVAR

Join us to TAKE OVAR and raise awareness of the symptoms of ovarian cancer in the lead up to Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. Two thirds of women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer once the cancer has already spread, making it harder to treat.3 Enough is enough. It’s time to TAKE OVAR. Together we can transform the lives of women with ovarian cancer.

Target Ovarian Cancer’s research also showed that women over 55 – who are most likely to develop ovarian cancer – are least likely to google their symptoms, leaving them at risk of a delayed diagnosis. Just one in three women over 55 (34 per cent) would do this, compared to almost two thirds of 18-24 year olds (64 per cent).4

Raising awareness is the first critical step, ensuring women know the potential significance of continued bloating and seek medical advice. This awareness gap means that women are not visiting their GP promptly, not being sent for the correct ovarian cancer tests quickly, and risk missing out on a crucial early diagnosis.

Annwen Jones, Chief Executive of Target Ovarian Cancer, said: “A probiotic yoghurt should not be preventing a woman from visiting the GP promptly if something is worrying her. Women should not be risking their lives because of the enduring awareness gap around the symptoms of ovarian cancer. If women know ovarian cancer symptoms such as persistent bloating and are able to link them to ovarian cancer early on, lives will be saved.”

Laura and her son Harry

Laura Everley, 38, from Crawley, was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2014. She said: “Before I was diagnosed I was experiencing all of the symptoms of ovarian cancer, including bloating. I thought that maybe I might have irritable bowel syndrome because there are similar symptoms. I’d even tried going gluten free, but it had made no difference. The idea of cancer hadn’t even entered my head. You just never dream this is going to happen to you.”

11 women die every day from ovarian cancer, and ovarian cancer faces chronic underfunding compared with other cancers. Together we can transform the lives of women with ovarian cancer. Join our TAKE OVAR campaign to raise awareness, fund research and save lives. Target Ovarian Cancer will hold an inquiry into diagnosing ovarian cancer sooner at the APPG on ovarian cancer in Parliament today.

Find out more

  • Learn more about the symptoms of ovarian cancer
  • Donate today to raise awareness, fund research and save lives

POSTED BY TARGET OVARIAN CANCER ON MONDAY 19 FEBRUARY 2018

References

Reference 1

For the following questions, by “bloated regularly” we mean any unusual swelling/increase in the stomach areas that doesn’t go away. Please imagine you had started to feel bloated regularly… Which, if any, of the following actions would you take? (please select all that apply)

Buy an over the counter medicine (eg antacids etc)

  • Count – 264
  • Percent – 23%

Make an appointment with my GP

  • Count – 392
  • Percent – 34%

Cut out certain foods (eg gluten/dairy); start eating/drinking certain foods (eg probiotic yoghurts, cereals with fibre, peppermint tea); go on a diet.

  • Count – 571
  • Percent – 50%

Start doing/do more exercise

  • Count – 251
  • Percent – 22%

Google the symptoms

  • Count – 487
  • Percent – 43%

Reference 2

Target Ovarian Cancer Pathfinder: Transforming futures for women with ovarian cancer (2016). Available at https://www.targetovariancancer.org.uk/our-campaigns/pathfinder/pathfinder-transforming-futures-women-ovarian-cancer/pathfinder-2016

Reference 3

Office for National Statistics (2016) One–year net cancer survival for Bladder, Breast, Colorectal, Kidney, Lung, Melanoma, Ovary, Prostate and Uterus, by stage at diagnosis. Available at: www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/healthandsocialcare/conditio…

Reference 4

For the following questions, by “bloated regularly” we mean any unusual swelling/increase in the stomach areas that doesn’t go away. Please imagine you had started to feel bloated regularly… Which, if any, of the following actions would you take? (please select all that apply)

  Age
18-24 25-34 35-44 45-54 55+
Google the symptoms 64% 52% 41% 42% 34%

 

Mother’s Day Edition – Essential Health and Fitness Tips for Busy Moms

By IslaWright 12/04/2017

Every year, the second Sunday of May is reserved for raising awareness of incredible achievements of moms around the world. Some families even commemorate the occasion by giving gifts to their moms and mother figures, or collecting donations for research in the fields of female-related illnesses like breast cancer. And although this day represents wonderful appreciation of everything motherhood involves and stands for, every mom deserves to take excellent care of herself any day of the week. Being a mom will always be an integral part of your identity, but including self-care as an essential segment of your life will contribute to your family life and help you become an even more nurturing, caring woman. Here are a few ideas on how you can take better care of yourself, stay in good shape and safeguard your health. 

Every sip matters

Since parenthood never allows for a day off, you most likely don’t pay attention to how much water you drink every day. Keep a bottle full of water close by, so that you don’t forget to take a sip every now and then. Dehydration can lead to headaches and low energy levels, and it can impact your immune system, so it’s crucial to always drink plenty of water.

Plan your nutrition

Just like you spend hours preparing healthy home-cooked meals for your family and reminding everyone to eat their fruits and veggies, don’t forget to include all the essential vitamins and minerals in your own diet. If you do not have enough time for daily meal prepping, you can use weekends to spend a few extra hours making several days’ worth of nutritious lunches and shopping at your local market for fresh fruit and vegetables to ensure a versatile diet.

Practice mindfulness

It might seem like you already have enough on your plate, and that another activity can only disrupt your life, but even as little as ten minutes a day of mindful meditation or simple breathing exercises can soothe your mind. In time, you will become able to calm your rushing thoughts, increase your focus and productivity, and it will help you have a balanced, positive outlook on life.

Ditch the processed sugar

In addition to lean protein and healthy fats, carbs are the third macronutrient essential to your diet, and the single most important source of energy for your body. Our meals need to contain plenty of healthy carbs to sustain daily physical and mental challenges. However, reaching for a candy bar full of processed sugars will make your blood sugar levels skyrocket and quickly plummet, giving you a boost of short-lived energy and wreaking havoc on your health. Instead, grab an orange, a banana or a few carrot sticks, and your body will greatly appreciate it.

Get moving

Just like you encourage your kids to stay active and practice sports, why not lead by example? If you don’t have the time to go to a gym, a practical way to incorporate regular exercise into your routine is to work out at home. available exercise machines online, you can take your pick and ensure several powerful cardio sessions that will keep you fit, increase your strength and help you stay resilient to illness and injury. And don’t be surprised if your kids follow your lead and start exercising with you from time to time!

Get regular check-ups

You might feel incredibly healthy, follow all of the abovementioned advice and handle your responsibilities masterfully, but your body can still suffer due to all the physical and psychological stress. As a mom, you probably take your kids to the dentist all the time and have their blood work done at least once a year. Your body needs the same amount of care, so make sure to follow through with those yearly visits to your gynecologist, dentist and your family doctor. If you can’t keep track of all those appointments, it’s high time you got that planner and posted reminders on the fridge every now and then.

Supplement with care

Moms that spend most of their days with their kids, working and taking care of their homes sometimes forget to stick to their diet plan. In those situations, it’s useful to have a prepared protein shake or a multivitamin smoothie to replenish your body. While regular workouts and a healthy nutrition plan will likely be more than enough to keep your body strong and vital, you can sometimes benefit from a vitamin or a mineral supplement that you find difficult to include in your regular diet. Of course, it’s best to consult a professional before you make that decision on your own.

As simple as it may seem, self-care is an acquired set of skills and habits that every mom should nurture and cherish. Tend to your own needs, love yourself, take good care of your health, and you will become an even better role model to your kids, and a shining example of why we celebrate Mother’s Day with so much pride and joy.

Time to get fit!

By Emma 07/11/2011

I’ve never been a fan of sports or going to the gym, from my school days until only recent years I would go out of my way to avoid doing even the smallest amount of exercise,  I was the big kid in the class, the one always picked last in games and I used to dread every PE lesson. This stayed with me as I grew up and would miss out on lots of things with my friends, on summer Sundays we’d all go to the park and while they played rounders or volleyball I’d sit in the sun making jokes about how that was too much like hard work and I was busy getting a tan or drinking a beer but really I didn’t have the confidence to join in and was worried they’d laugh as I got too out of breath running around.

Only as I lost weight did I discover that I could actually exercise and not die…. although MY GOD did it kill me at the time I was stunned to see how much easier it all became as the pounds dropped off and I got stronger. For about  year I regularly did exercise DVDs at home and later pilates classes at my local gym but I never felt like I really got to a ‘good’ level of fitness, I usually took the easier option and was worried about hurting myself (as I frequently did) and thought if I kept at it I’d eventually be able to do the advanced workouts. 
But I stopped doing it, and fell back into my old thinking that I don’t ‘do’ exercise and I’m not at all fit!  But last week a new studio – MG Health & Fitness opened in Protaras and I was invited for a fitness assessment. 
To be honest, I was not really looking forward to it, but I was excited about trying out the large range of classes and thought it was probably a good place to start.   I’m pleased to report I survived….even the run up the hill to test my heart rate with ex-army instructor Mike! Overall the assessment went well, but I clearly need to work on my cardio activity as my heart rate is worse than my Dads!  
Claire and Mike who run the studio were very thorough with my assessment and also went to great lengths to explain that their aim is to advise on your fitness goals but not to try and sell you their classes. They told me what types of exercise I should aim for to improve my general fitness and achieve the goals I set myself and explain how I could do that with or without them.  I do however seem to have agreed to try at least one of every class they run….. including Boot Camp!   (this is not one of my better ideas…. did I mention that Mike is an ex-army instructor!!)
Joking aside, I am looking forward to getting stuck into some regular exercise and I love the community feel of the studio, they have a friendly facebook group and I think will be very successful.  I am aiming to not just lose a few pounds.. although am looking forward to getting into my best jeans, but also to get stronger and healthier.   I’ll let you know how I get on!

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