Health & Wellbeing Magazine Dec-20 Back Issue

In the words of Charlie Mackesy: “What do you
think brought us so close together?” “The
storm.” And, that’s exactly how I’ve been
thinking about this year. 2020 has rocked
us and changed us, but despite all the trials,
disappointments and heartbreak, we have seen the
absolute best in people too. Kindness and gratitude
have shone through the darkest of days and I hope
this is something we all take with us into the new year.
For me, 2020 will be the year I lost my mum to ovarian
cancer and, while grief can feel incredibly isolating at times, especially
during a pandemic, I have witnessed the biggest outpouring of kindness
this year. From meals left on my doorstep and letters in the post, to phone
calls and socially distanced walks, I will forever be grateful for the support
I’ve received. To quote Sally Rooney in Normal People: “Life offers up these
moments of joy despite everything.”
And joy is exactly what the H&W team have been reflecting on this month
too. We’ve shared what we all feel thankful for this year – from gardening and
good health, to time spent with pets and closer bonds built with family. Plus,
our columnists have been telling us what’s on their Christmas wish lists this
year, and it will come as no surprise to most,
that hugs with loved ones topped the list.
Turn to page 11 to discover how you can
reframe your achievements from 2020
and, as our experts tell us, “We can
find light in the darkness, but we
just have to look a little harder
when things are tough.”
From all the team at H&W,
I wish you a happy and healthy
Christmas and we can’t wait
to see you in the new year.