Problem-solving is important to challenge the brain and maintain or even extend its neural pathways
One of the fastest-growing trends in the world today is brain training. Too many people don’t place enough emphasis on mental health and sharpness, instead preferring to focus on toning their abs and bulking up their shoulders. But it’s been proven by cognitive psychologists that our brains need just as much TLC and exercise as our bodies.
In fact, our minds are built to conserve energy and keep things as simple as possible. The biggest issue with this is that an unstimulated brain leads to fewer synapses between different parts of our brain and it doesn’t improve its resistance to degenerative brain conditions such as dementia - on the contrary, it makes us more susceptible to them.
Even as we enter middle age and towards our later years, our brains still have a plasticity that enables them to improve and be refined. Typically, as we begin to learn new skills, our brain builds new neural pathways and connections while also strengthening and breathing new life into existing pathways. Brain training can therefore help make your brain stronger, more durable and more adaptable to change. If you’re looking to alter your lifestyle for the better, consider the following exercises, hobbies and skills to sharpen the mind and bolster your intelligence in the process. From classic card games like poker to meditation, there is something for everyone.
Meditation is a healthy form of exercise for the brain
According to the EOC Institute, meditation exercises the brain in the same way that a gym class exercises the body. When you consider how an aerobic session helps to improve your body’s cardiovascular system, strengthening the heart and easing its workload to pump blood around your body, meditation can have a similar effect on the brain. By taking you into a meditative state, it helps to clear your mind, refocus and stay in control of your thoughts and feelings.
Regular meditation is more important to the brain than ad-hoc meditation. That’s because the brain has the capability to build upon the depths of the meditative state it has reached during previous sessions. The more sessions you partake in, the quicker and easier it will be for your brain to reach a deeper, more fulfilling meditative state. Meditation also requires the same deep breathing techniques that are necessary with physical exercise, helping to accelerate the flow of oxygen in our body to muscles and tissues – including the brain.
Yoga can create a sense of wellbeing and self-control
Kundalini yoga is proven to decelerate minor cognitive impairments
According to Jonathan Greenberg, a postdoctoral research fellow of the department of psychiatry at Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, yoga is good for the mind as well as the body. Greenberg says that yoga is increasingly used “in the treatment of anxiety conditions, depression, insomnia, eating disorders, and others.”
Furthermore, another study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease found that yoga could improve the brain’s communication, memory, attention and mood just as well as brain training programs. A group of 29-year-olds with minor cognitive impairments that could potentially lead to dementia were given a mix of brain training exercises and a form of yoga called Kundalini. This yoga technique focuses solely on breathing exercises, posture and meditation.
The case for poker: problem-solving card games lead to improved cognitive scores
Research undertaken by the Wisconsin Alzheimer’s Institute and the Wisconsin Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center saw 329 people aged 60 years on average followed, all of whom were considered to have a greater chance of developing Alzheimer’s in the future. Each participant within the group was given an MRI scan and a string of cognitive exams. They were also asked what hobbies and interests they had. Interestingly, those who played games such as poker, chess and puzzles recorded better cognitive scores and had higher brain volume across all key brain regions.
Card games such as Texas Hold’em poker offer a plethora of benefits to those with cognitive deficiencies. Not only do players have to worry about their own poker hands and identify potential winning hands they can make, they also have to strategize and work out what hands their opponents are holding. Problem-solving in poker can also improve concentration levels and attention spans. Put simply, if you read any poker strategy guide, most will tell you that to succeed in poker you need to master your mind first. In the case of poker, there are various different ways to play, with several variants such as Omaha, 7 Card Stud and the classic Texas Hold'em and even video poker and other similar one-player versions.
Learning a second language accentuates cognitive behavior
There are many benefits to learning a new language. It might be to make you more employable in an industry overseas or you’re thinking of travelling to a particular country on a regular basis. Alternatively, becoming bilingual can also be a great feather in your cap if you are simply striving for the cognitive benefits it brings. Many decades ago, some believed that children brought up in bilingual households would have their cognitive development stunted. Today, it’s been proven that this couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, learning a new language helps the brain to form fresh neural connections and generate new brain cells. All of which can aid an individual’s creativity, self-esteem and confidence.
Another study published in the journal Frontiers in Psychology, overseen by Dr. Thomas Bak, a lecturer at Edinburgh’s School of Philosophy, Psychology and Language Sciences also found that bilingual young adults improved their ability to ignore and filter out irrelevant stimuli. Dr. Bak believes that the main reason for this is that the brain’s ability to switch back and forth from one language to another - dubbed code-switching - makes it more in tune with auditory information, which is considered a measure of concentration.
We’re sure you’ve heard of the saying “use it or lose it”. Well, the same phrase is applicable to you and your brain. After the age of 25, our brain’s cognitive function is already on the decline. That might shock you. Obviously, for most of us, it won’t deteriorate severely overnight, but science shows that brain training exercises as well as thought-demanding hobbies such as learning languages or playing poker can be the difference between maintaining a fit and independent lifestyle and not. Try hard to push yourself and stay mentally active and you’ll certainly reap the rewards down the line. Keeping your brain challenged at all times helps it to operate at peak performance.
Top discounts on tech, beauty, home and essentials
Must-have offers include deals on Dyson, Nespresso, Oral-B, and more
Exclusive to Amazon Prime members (free trial available)
Amazon Prime Day 2025 is well underway, with this year’s event extended to a full 96 hours running from Tuesday 8 July to Friday 11 July. With thousands of products on offer across nearly every category, shoppers in the UK can enjoy steep discounts on everyday essentials, big-ticket tech, and top-rated beauty favourites.
We’ve sifted through the extensive listings to highlight 15 of the best value-for-money deals currently live, with savings of up to 60%. All prices are correct at the time of writing and exclusive to Prime members.
Save £81 Cordless, lightweight, and powerful, the Dyson V8 is one of the most sought-after vacuum models — and rarely goes on sale. Ideal for daily cleaning without the fuss of cords.
Save £20 The latest Kindle is Amazon’s lightest and most compact yet. With a high-resolution display and up to six weeks of battery life, it's a great entry point into e-readers.
Save £100 Includes a Vertuo Pop machine, milk frother, mugs, spoons and coffee pods. Excellent value for anyone looking to elevate their morning routine.
4. Samsung 50" Q60D QLED 4K TV – £325 (was £600)
Save £275 This 50-inch 4K QLED TV from Samsung is a solid choice for anyone seeking vivid visuals and reliable performance at nearly half the usual price.
5. Tefal Easy Fry Dual Zone digital air fryer – £131 (was £180)
Save £49 Featuring two drawers, multiple pre-set cooking options and a sync mode, this air fryer is well-reviewed for ease of use and excellent results.
6. Oral-B Pro 3 electric toothbrush – £62 (was £100)
Save £38 Recommended by hygienists and rated by shoppers, the Pro 3 offers up to 100% more plaque removal versus a manual toothbrush.
7. Olay Total Effects face cream set – £11.38 (was £24)
Save £12.62 Includes day and night creams suitable for all skin types. This tried-and-tested set is one of the best beauty buys under £15.
8. Shark FlexBreeze tableMate cordless fan – £89.99 (was £149.99)
Save £60 Perfect for summer, this quiet, portable fan comes with a 20-metre reach, five-speed settings, and a remote. Works indoors or outdoors.
9. Sony wireless noise cancelling headphones – £71 (was £99)
Save £28 Comfortable and feature-rich, these over-ear headphones deliver solid performance without breaking the bank.
Save £80 A high-capacity air fryer with two drawers, ideal for families or batch cooking. Philips’ Rapid Air Technology ensures even frying with less oil.
11. Narwey underseat cabin bag – £9.99 (was £15.99)
Save £6 A travel essential designed to fit under most airline seats. Comes in 14 colours and helps avoid costly baggage fees.
Save £27.68 A household staple — now better value than ever. The bulk pack should last months and saves over 50%.
15. Apple AirPods Pro 2 – £179 (was £229)
Save £50 If you’ve been eyeing Apple’s high-end earbuds, now’s a rare chance to get them discounted. Includes noise cancellation and spatial audio.
Tips to make the most of Prime Day:
Prime membership is essential – If you’re not yet a member, Amazon offers a 30-day free trial. After that, it’s £8.99/month.
Compare prices before checkout – Not all “deals” are as generous as they seem. Use tools like CamelCamelCamel to check historical prices.
Act fast – Some items, especially big tech or beauty discounts, may sell out quickly or go out of stock before Friday.
Whether you’re upgrading your kitchen appliances, refreshing your skincare shelf or just looking for practical home savings, Prime Day 2025 has something for nearly every shopper. But act quickly – the best offers won’t stick around long.
By clicking the 'Subscribe’, you agree to receive our newsletter, marketing communications and industry
partners/sponsors sharing promotional product information via email and print communication from Garavi Gujarat
Publications Ltd and subsidiaries. You have the right to withdraw your consent at any time by clicking the
unsubscribe link in our emails. We will use your email address to personalize our communications and send you
relevant offers. Your data will be stored up to 30 days after unsubscribing.
Contact us at data@amg.biz to see how we manage and store your data.
Discover hidden UK beaches with turquoise waters and golden sands
Ideal for summer staycations without the cost of long-haul travel
Includes lesser-known spots in Wales, Scotland, Cornwall, and more
Perfect for quiet escapes, coastal walks, and Instagram-worthy views
Escape to paradise – no passport required
Think you need to fly halfway across the world for clear blue water and white sand? Think again. The UK is home to a surprising number of secluded beaches that look straight out of the Caribbean – without the crowds or jet lag. From hidden coves in Cornwall to windswept bays in the Scottish Highlands, here are some of the most tropical-looking beaches on British soil.
1. Barafundle Bay, Pembrokeshire, Wales
Often dubbed the UK’s answer to the Caribbean, this National Trust-owned gem boasts golden sand, crystal-clear waters, and dramatic cliffs. Accessed by a half-mile walk from Stackpole Quay, it remains blissfully untouched by development.
Best for: Picnics, photography, and a peaceful swim Nearest parking: Stackpole Quay car park
2. Achmelvich Bay, Sutherland, Scotland
Many of these beaches are tidal and best enjoyed at low tideiStock
With white sands and dazzling turquoise water, this beach in the remote northwest Highlands rivals beaches anywhere in the world. The journey is long, but the views – and near-solitude – make it worth every mile.
Tucked beneath rugged cliffs near Porthcurno, this tidal beach is often reached via a steep cliff path – but rewards visitors with stunning sandbars and glassy water at low tide. It’s also unofficially clothing-optional.
Best for: Adventurous walkers, secluded sunbathing Access: Steep footpath from Treen
4. Luskentyre Beach, Isle of Harris, Outer Hebrides
Framed by the turquoise seaiStock
Arguably one of Britain’s most spectacular beaches, Luskentyre’s vast white sands stretch for miles, framed by the turquoise sea and Harris’s dramatic hills. When the sun shines, it’s hard to believe you’re still in Scotland.
Best for: Landscape lovers, long coastal walks How to get there: Ferry from Skye to Tarbert, then a 25-minute drive
5. Kynance Cove, Cornwall
It’s best visited early or late in the dayiStock
With its striking serpentine rock formations, teal-coloured waters, and hidden caves, Kynance is a postcard-perfect Cornish cove. Its popularity means it’s best visited early or late in the day.
Best for: Exploring caves, paddling Nearby: Kynance Cove Café (seasonal)
Keep ReadingShow less
The chain had also gained a following for its themed brunches
Chinese dim sum restaurant Ping Pong has closed all its UK locations
The chain made the announcement via social media
Founded in 2005, the brand thanked customers and staff for their support
Loyal diners shared memories and disappointment in the comments
All branches are permanently closed
Chinese restaurant chain Ping Pong has permanently closed all its branches in the UK, the company confirmed in a social media announcement.
Founded in 2005 by restaurateur Kurt Zdesar, the dim sum chain had become popular for its stylish interiors, creative menus, and Asian-inspired cocktails. The company did not provide prior notice of the closure but said the decision marked the end of an “unforgettable” 20-year journey.
Social media announcement thanks customers and staff
In a post shared on Instagram, the company wrote: “It’s a wrap. After 20 unforgettable years, all Ping Pong locations are now permanently closed.
“We’re incredibly proud of what we built, an independent hospitality brand full of creativity, flavour and soul.
“To everyone who joined us over the years, for dim sum dates, happy hours, bottomless brunches, and just-because catch-ups – thank you.
“You shared your moments with us, passed around little parcels of deliciousness, and helped make Ping Pong what it was.
“To our collaborators, suppliers, and the incredible team who kept the steam going, thank you. It’s been sum-thing truly special.”
Customers express sadness over sudden closure
Regular customers responded to the announcement with disappointment and nostalgia. Many expressed shock over the sudden news and the lack of notice.
One Instagram user commented: “Noooo, we’ve made some amazing memories there, birthdays, anniversaries, you name it. The food was always so amazing.”
Another said: “WHAT?? WE HAD NO CHANCE TO SAY GOODBYE! NO WARNING.”
Others fondly recalled the restaurant’s atmosphere and signature dishes, with one writing: “The food and the lychee cocktails will be sorely missed.”
Ping Pong had multiple locations across London and was known for its contemporary take on traditional Chinese dim sum. The chain had also gained a following for its themed brunches, casual dining experience, and cocktail offerings.
No further information has been shared regarding the reason behind the closure or whether the brand will return in a new format.
Keep ReadingShow less
Experts have raised concerns about the immune-evasive nature of the Stratus strain
A new Covid strain known as Stratus is spreading across the UK
The variant is marked by a distinctive symptom: a hoarse or raspy voice
Sub-variants XFG and XFG.3 now account for 30% of cases in England
Experts say there is no evidence of more severe disease
Lower immunity levels may make more people vulnerable to infection
Covid variant Stratus on the rise in the UK
A new strain of Covid-19, known as Stratus, is spreading across the UK and drawing attention for its unusual symptom — a hoarse or raspy voice. According to data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), Stratus and its two sub-variants, XFG and XFG.3, are responsible for around 30 per cent of Covid cases in England.
Of the two, XFG.3 is currently the more dominant. The UKHSA confirmed that monitoring of all circulating Covid-19 variants is ongoing as part of regular surveillance.
Mutations help Stratus spread despite immunity
Experts have raised concerns about the immune-evasive nature of the Stratus strain. Dr Kaywaan Khan, a Harley Street GP and founder of Hannah London Clinic, noted that certain mutations in the spike protein could help the virus bypass antibodies generated by previous infection or vaccination.
“Unlike other variants, Stratus has certain mutations in the spike protein which could help it evade antibodies developed from prior infections or vaccinations,” said Dr Khan. However, the symptoms tend to remain mild to moderate, with hoarseness being one of the most noticeable.
Dr Alex Allen, Consultant Epidemiologist at the UKHSA, said, “It is normal for viruses to mutate and change over time,” adding that there is currently no evidence that the XFG or XFG.3 variants cause more severe disease than previous strains.
Waning immunity raises infection risk
According to Professor Lawrence Young, a virologist at the University of Warwick, the reduction in Covid-19 infections in recent months, along with lower booster jab uptake, could increase the risk of infection.
“Given that immunity to Covid is waning in the population due to a decline in uptake of the spring booster jab and the reduction of Covid infections in recent months, more people will be susceptible to infection with XFG and XFG.3,” he told MailOnline.
He warned that this could lead to a new wave of infections, though the scale remains uncertain.
Global monitoring of the strain
Globally, Stratus accounted for 22.7 per cent of Covid cases as of 22 June, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO). The strain has been designated as a “variant under monitoring”, with WHO currently assessing its public health impact as low risk.
The emergence of Stratus follows the spread of another recent variant called Nimbus (NB.1.8.1), first detected in China and Hong Kong in January and now present in parts of the US and Australia. Nimbus has been associated with more severe sore throat symptoms.
Reduced testing levels since the pandemic’s peak make it difficult to track the true spread of these new variants, health officials have noted.
Keep ReadingShow less
Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, who grew up in Brenchley
Day one of the Kent County Show begins at Detling Showground near Maidstone
The Duchess of Edinburgh visits the event for the first time in 16 years
Organisers expect up to 70,000 visitors over the weekend
Farming and rural life are at the centre of the three-day programme
Highlights include live camel racing, equine sports, livestock displays and more
Kent County Show opens with royal visit
The Kent County Show returned to Detling near Maidstone on Friday, marking the start of a major three-day celebration of farming, food, and rural living. The event opened with a special visit from the Duchess of Edinburgh, who is attending for the first time in 16 years.
Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, who grew up in Brenchley near Tunbridge Wells and serves as patron of the Association of Show and Agricultural Organisations (ASAO), met with farmers, equine exhibitors, and local businesses on her tour of the showground.
Spotlight on farming and rural life
Organised by the Kent County Agricultural Society, the show brings together people from across the county to highlight the importance of agriculture and rural industries. Chairman Matthew Cullen said there was a "real buzz in the air" and called the royal visit a “great achievement”.
“There’s lots on offer,” he said. “From the livestock section with all the animals, young farmers, equine sports and food halls. We’ve also got something a little unusual this year – live camel racing. It isn’t what you’d normally get to see.”
Mr Cullen added that the event offers an opportunity for farmers to network and for the public to better understand how food is produced. “We all know Kent as the Garden of England, so for the rural and farming sector, it's a proud moment to come together and show off to the general public.”
Boost in interest following farming TV series
According to Mr Cullen, the farming sector has seen a noticeable spike in public interest, partly due to the popularity of the Amazon Prime series Clarkson’s Farm. “It has brought farming to the forefront of people’s minds,” he said, noting a broader uptick in engagement at agricultural shows across the UK.
— (@)
Friday highlights at the showground
The opening day features a packed programme of events across multiple rings. Highlights include:
09:30 – Kent Youth Trials (Heritage Ring)
10:00 – Joseph’s Amazing Racing Pigs (Countryside Ring)
11:15 – Camel Racing (John D Wood & Co Astor Ring)
11:45 – Sheep Dog Display (Countryside Ring)
12:15 – Hypo Hounds Diabetic Assistance Dog Display (Countryside Ring)
13:15 – Heritage Parade (John D Wood & Co Astor Ring)
15:05 – British Novice Showjumping with 90cm Open (Standen Ring)
17:30 – Donkey In Hand Championship (Pam Nesfield Ring)
Performances from Rock Choir and various vehicle and dog displays are also scheduled throughout the day.
Visitor information and tickets
Attendance for the weekend is expected to range between 60,000 to 70,000 people, depending on the weather. Tickets are still available to book online or can be purchased at the gate.
Adult tickets: £22 (in advance)
Child tickets: £3 (in advance)
Under 5s: Free entry
The Kent County Show continues through the weekend with a wide range of attractions, from local produce to equestrian competitions and entertainment for all ages.