From the Editors
Janelle Oswald
Award winning Journalist, Mumreporter & Ital Yoga/Meditation Coach
They say ‘life starts all over again when it gets crisp in the air,’ and that ‘trees show us how to let go of dead things’, hence why I treasure this time of year and view it to be sacred. A moment for reflection and unlike the demands of the summer season where most of us feel obliged to have the perfect ‘summer bod’, the autumn season simply demands that you have your ‘sweater body’ on point! If there is one good thing this never-ending world crisis has taught us, is to reconnect to nature and as Tottenhamites or Haringey residents we are blessed with some fabulous green pastures so, let’s use them. So, let’s go out and kick some crimson leaves letting go of all our Pandemic frustrations and woes – who said leaf kicking is only
reserved for toddlers? Fact: it is a very therapeutic activity and cost zilch. It’s free for all at any park or rec near you!
If you were unable to get out during the first phase of lockdown, make sure you get theopportunity this season. Autumn or as they say State’s side, ‘Fall’ is a wonderful time to adorn your temple with lots of warm layers of lush, fleecy, woolly fabrics. However, do not hibernate like our animal friends. Go out and enjoy your natural surroundings. This is the best antidote to beat Covid-19. Not only does the fresh air help to boosts your immune system; being in the elements simultaneously offers a wonderful way to increase your intake of negative ions. Walking among trees especially woodlands can boost your negative ions to 3,000 Ions. Nevertheless, if you are shielding opening your window and letting in that autumn air creating a well-vented house can increase your negative ions by 500 Ions.
If there is one good thing this never-ending world crisis has taught us, is to reconnect to nature and as Tottenhamites or Haringey residents we are blessed with some fabulous green pastures so, let’s use them.
Tips to be blessed outdoors as newly pledged eco-warriors is to dress for the occasion. Invest in some waterproof and windproof clothing so you are comfortable in the elements and ready for action. Especially for children and pet walkers noting that water-resistant clothing does not offer the same longevity ensuring you always purchase waterproof. Charity shops often have a great selection as does TK Max including a wide selection of ski pants. No! Ski clothing is not just reserved for steep slopes in the Alps. You can dress to impress keeping your loins warm wearing your thermals during a long trek through Tottenham Marsh Nature Reserve or Woodbury Down Wetland. The choice is yours. Or why not join one of Avril’s Tottenham Walks, www.avrilswalksandtalks.co.uk , which of course is Covid-19 friendly.
Another tip is to be mindful while walking out and about is your water intake. Despite being a huge advocator of water, due to the current public restrictions taking place on all if not most businesses, public lavatories are mainly closed even in coffee shops and café so, make sure you do not stress your bladder while trekking the hills of Ally Pally. Don’t get caught out.
While hiking , why not listen to local Black hero and icon Culture Mark’s new track I See You available for download at www.culturemarkmusic.com
Something for the mums, Markfield Park , www. markfield.org.uk offers a fabulous space and place for children with or without disabilities including a stay and play on Thursdays and Saturdays. Plus, good old Wheely Tots is back at Lordship Rec on Friday’s mornings www.wheelytots.com
Whatever you chose to do this season remember Judith Wardell’s 5 lessons to learn from trees in the Autumn, which serve as a great remedy for staying positive throughout life.
- Let go of last season’s leaves to see the blue sky above
- Keep your trunk and branches standing firm
- Celebrate the seasons past
- Use your past to provide the nutrients for growth
- Prepare new shoots and wait for spring