Ok, so feeling good isn’t the first thing most of us mention at the moment yet it’s really important to focus on it. Feeling right – emotionally – is what keeps us going when times are tough. There are many ways we can influence how we feel about ourselves and help those around us. Our bodies work for us by supplying Oxytocin (aka, the bonding hormone) and Seratonin (the mood hormone). Both are naturally occurring but you can stimulate them by stroking a pet, holding hands, giving a compliment or getting outside into the sun to exercise, so don’t forget to take your dog for a daily walk. As if you would.  

You might have spotted a theme here as it’s time to introduce one of our two new team members. Luna Lovegood is our practice puppy; she has taken up residence downstairs and will soon be in training to become a therapy dog. With everything else that’s going on, pets of every kind have become vital for many including kids and those who live alone. They keep us company, lower our blood pressure and keep us on our feet. Our second new team member spends less time on her toes and more in the air. Christina Kerridge is an aerialist, one of those amazing people that can perform beautiful manoeuvres while suspended from a rope way above ground. She will be filling for Ros, Jan and Nell as needed.

And in Tynemouth –––>
Have you been into Green Ginger recently? It’s an Alladin’s Cave of small businesses, like The Dog Hoose, Luna’s favourite. There’s a full range of alternative dog foods (those not found in the main supermarkets) plus treats and toys for your furry-baby. The staff are lovely and very helpful, plus there’s an excellent click and collect service currently running.

At home –––>

Here’s an almost instant Feelgood Treat from Estelle, a mug cake…

In a small bowl, mix 5 tablespoons of almond (or chestnut) flour with half a teaspoon of baking powder. In a tall, heatproof mug, mix an egg, 2 tbs lemon juice, some lemon zest, and 1.5 tsp honey. Add the flour mixture to the egg mixture and combine, then gently fold in the 2 tbs blueberries. Microwave the mug cake on high for 90 seconds or pop in the oven for 20 mins at Gasmark 5-6.