Inhoudsopgave van Issue 961 - Closer

Most of us want to improve an aspect of our lives (or even all of it), but the thought of huge lifestyle changes is really off-putting. However, a few small tweaks here and there can turn into habits that transform our wellbeing. That’s why we’ve launched The Boost! On Instagram, online and in the mag, we’ll be bringing you interesting ideas, unusual tips and inspiration for quick, practical things you can do right now for an instant pick-me-up… and long-term results. Whether you want to Boost your mood and happiness levels or pep up your finances and relationships we’ll help with recommendations for things that actually work from experts, celebs and real people. And best of all, it’s FUN! Turn to page 63 and scan the QR code to follow…

❛KIM KNOWS SHE’S GOING THROUGH HELL – HER SITUATION IS LIKE A JAIL SENTENCE❜ ● Britney Spears claims her family should be in ‘jail’ for their role in her controversial conservatorship ● Pal and trainee lawyer, Kim Kardashian, steps in to offer professional help ● Despite widespread support for Britney, a legal expert says Britney’s guardianship WON’T be terminated any time soon Celebrities and fans rallied to her defence last week as Britney Spears opened up for the first time about her controversial conservatorship and begged for it to be lifted as she lashed out at her “abusive” dad, pleading, “I just want my life back.” Speaking via phone link to the LA Superior Court where dozens of fans and “Free Britney” supporters gathered outside, the singer spoke out in…

Hayley Davis*, 36, works in event management and lives in Yorkshire with her husband, Steve*, 36, an engineer. Last month she admitted to him that she’d been having an affair – but rather than destroying her marriage, she says she’s never felt closer to her husband. They’ve acknowledged their problems and decided to try an open marriage. She says, “I love Steve and we both want to stay married, but our relationship had become more like siblings. “Three years ago I met a man through work and we had an emotional affair for four months. We didn’t have sex, but there was a real connection, lots of lingering looks and extremely flirtatious behaviour. I admitted it to Steve and ended it. He was really upset but I explained that it…

Closer’s psychological therapist, Emma Kenny, says, “Kerry has been through a lot over the years. She’s been in the public eye from a young age, and has had a career in the spotlight, which is bound to put a focus on her external appearance. She’s also faced rejection – in both her career, her family life and in her marriage breakdowns – and that can all contribute to her having a low self-worth and a pressure around how she looks. She’s had surgery and lost weight over the years and been praised for it – as well as people paying now to see her body via OnlyFans. So this all contributes towards Kerry placing a lot of her self-worth on how she looks. “But the only way Kerry will be…

1. Look at the bigger picture It’s so easy when you spend so much time together to sweat the small stuff. But it’s important to step back and look at your relationship as a whole. It can often be that the little things are trivial and you’re creating arguments for nothing. 2. Try to improve each other If there are issues in your relationship, it’s easy to blame your partner. Sometimes it’s warranted, and you can help them change, but often it can be helpful to think about how your own buttons are being pressed, and think about how you can work on yourself too. 3. Laugh about it Sometimes bickering can turn into a bigger problem when all you really need is to laugh about it. Humour can be…

Fitness, wellness guru and nutrition expert Penny Weston, who embarked on her own health journey after suffering from severe asthma and a collapsed lung, says, “Your fifties is a time of lots of changes for your body and your mind. A lot of women will be peri-menopausal or menopausal, and might feel like strangers in their own skin. But there is a way to gain back control and feel your best yet.” • FIND TIME TO RELAX It’s often easier said than done, especially at a time when you may be suffering from extra anxiety or depression due to the menopause, but whether it’s a walk or taking a few minutes out to breathe, allow yourself to relax. • MIX THINGS UP By the time we hit our fifties, women…

Last year, rumours were rife that Jennifer Aniston and Brad Pitt were back together after they were seen embracing at the SAG movie awards, and they later took part in a flirty, streamed table reading together. Now Jen has opened up about their firm friendship. She gushed, “Brad and I are buddies, we’re friends.” The Friends star – who wed Brad, 57, in 2000 and divorced him five years later – added, “We speak, and there’s no oddness at all, except for everyone that probably watched [the table reading] and was wanting there to be, or assumed there to be. We had fun.” It comes just weeks after Brad’s second wife Angelina Jolie – who confessed to “falling in love” with Brad when he was married to Jen – was…

After their idyllic garden wedding in March 2018, Jae Harvey was looking forward to a relaxing honeymoon with her groom. But it was during their five-day break at Centre Parcs that Jae’s new husband revealed that he was transgender. Remarkably, Jae supported her partner, and that night Jae and her now-wife, Rayna, went out for dinner, with Rayna dressed as a woman. Now, three years on, the pair plan to have another wedding – this time, as bride and bride. Jae, 30, says, “When my husband told me he was a woman on our honeymoon, I just wanted her to be happy. I love who she is, not just what she looks like. Our first wedding was wonderful – but Rayna, as she is now, wasn’t there. I want her…

Fill this toy with clean water and freeze it to keep your dog cool. Made from neoprene, this bottle cover for rabbits and small animals is designed to keep water cooler for longer. Paler animals are more vulnerable to sunburn and skin cancer. Apply a pet-friendly sun cream, especially on less furry areas like ears and stomachs. Pet paddling pools keep dogs happy in the heat and are typically made from scratch-proof materials.…

• 2019 GBBO winner David says, “If you’re looking for a quick, no-faff, healthy baked treat, these could be your answer.” SUMMER SALAD LOW-CARB PAD THAI SERVES 2 • 1 tsp sesame oil • 1 egg, beaten • 1 large garlic clove, crushed • 2cm fresh ginger, peeled and grated • 1 chilli, deseeded and sliced • 2 carrots, spiralised • 2 courgettes, spiralised • 40g beansprouts • 200g raw peeled prawns • Juice of 1 lime • 1 tbsp fish sauce • Thai basil or fresh coriander, torn • 1 tbsp chopped cashew nuts STEP 1 Place a wok over a high heat. When hot, add the oil. Quickly stir-fry the egg, garlic, ginger and chilli, constantly keeping things moving until the egg is scrambled (this will take a…

Hallelujah, Love Island has been resurrected! Whatever your opinion of the show, and the Islanders-turned-influencers who star in it, it’s a microcosm of modern dating and relationships. When you look past the plumped-up lips, six packs and egos, it’s simply people going through the mating and dating rituals. It is often such an accurate reflection of dating in the real world, I relive all of my old trauma – and I know my single mates do, too! Yes, there are people who mock the stars and some of it is ridiculous, but seeing someone experience heartache on-screen is no laughing matter. Casa Amour is always a shift in the show – when the couples are physically separated and an influx of hot new singletons arrive – and loyalty is tested.…

LISTEN TO THIS PODCAST The weekly Cash Chats podcast with Andy Webb features a conversation with a money expert. Andy has worked on shows like The Money Programme and written for MoneySavingExpert.com and The Money Advice Service, so knows his stuff. He chats about everything from how and where to start saving to spotting scams, and regularly dedicates episodes to listeners’ questions. RECEIVE WEEKLY ALERTS You’ve heard of Money Saving Expert, but if you haven’t signed up to receive the email newsletter, you’re missing out. It tells you everything you need to know that week, whether it be deals you could benefit from, financial help you may not know you’re entitled to, or scams to be aware of. It’s not too wordy or dull – just very useful. FILL IN…

JESSICA ALBA Whether it’s a smart office-ready ensemble or an off-duty denim outfit, the actress, 40, shows off her fashion know-how on a daily basis. Recreate her wardrobe with these brilliant buys… GET HER LOOK An oversized tote bag is great for busy mums on the go. H&M £14.99 COMES WITH A WAISTCINCHING BELT These cotton trousers will match nicely with a slouchy tee for a laid back vibe. NEW LOOK £25.99EW Brighter pastel hues like this zingy green top will look chic with neutrals. ZARA £19.99 PETITE RANGE! A pencil dress will be great for the office. Don a shirt on top on chilly days. DOROTHY PERKINS £30 Look like a celeb and introduce some bold colour with a pair of punchy-hued heels. ASOS £30 Colourful blooms are always…

SMALL CHANGES MAKE A BIG DIFFERENCE WAKE-UP YOUR EYES I could never understand why mascara would be anyone’s desert island luxury item – two children later, it’s my wake-me-up weapon of choice! Does it cure sleep deprivation? No, but it cheats a wide-awake look. I’ve just switched to this new mascara, which keeps lashes touchably soft but volumised in one swift swoop, plus it holds out well in the humid weather. Go for the waterproof option if you suffer from hay fever. MAX FACTOR DIVINE LASHES WATERPROOF MASCARA £11.99 GET A FUSS-FREE GLOW Applying a touch of make-up is always a mood booster but sometimes there’s neither the time nor the will. Instead, try adding tanning drops into your moisturiser every other day and you’ll feel more confident about the…

CORONATION STREET MARRY ME, BILLY! Paul (aka Billy’s ex) takes Summer to her diabetes appointment and, later on, she mentions to Billy how much she misses having him around. Todd (aka Billy’s current squeeze) reacts as any panicking, green-eyed monster might: rushing home and asking Billy to marry him. After some words of warning from Paul, Billy does actually say yes. There’s barely time to uncork the prosecco, however, before a mysterious note finds its way onto Todd and Billy’s porch, reading, “Don’t get too comfortable - your lies will come out.” Yikes! Elsewhere, Alya frets that Daisy might be making the moves on Ryan… HOLLYOAKS LOOK WHO IT IS! Diane is struggling with her OCD, but she has new pal Becky to confide in - step forward Katie McGlynn,…

MUST READ Hostage (CLARE MACKINTOSH) The atmosphere on board the first non-stop flight from London to Sydney is electric. Flight attendant Mina is trying to focus on the passengers, instead of her troubled five-year-old daughter back at home - or the problems in her marriage. But soon after the plane takes off, Mina receives a chilling anonymous note. Someone wants to make sure the plane never reaches its destination and they know exactly how to get her co-operation. This is a chilling read that you won’t be able to put down. BEST DAY OUT Cancer Research UK Race For Life After months of waiting due to Coronavirus restrictions, Race For Life events will finally be back this autumn. There are over 400 events to sign up for, including 5k, 10k…

29 JUNE - 5 JULY IF IT’S YOUR BIRTHDAY THIS WEEK If you use the year ahead to work on your self worth, you’ll get the most out of the next 12 months. Concentrate on what is great about you and show the world what you have to offer. Refuse to be intimidated. Doing this could translate into financial success. THIS WEEK’S CELEB STAR SIGN CANCER 21 JUN-22 JUL Money issues? There’s a simple solution. You need to appease Saturn. To do this, make sure you are grown up when it comes to cash. Take a long view - set up an auto-savings plan and don’t spend more than you can afford. Easy! Find out your Rising Sign for free at moonmessages.com/freechart. LEO 23 JUL-22 AUG The skies are quite…

With Wimbledon fever in full flow, Alexa struts onto centre court in THAT outfit – she surely cannot be serious?! Oh, Jac! We’ve all had those mornings where the kids get lippy – but this is taking it too literally! Well Reese, without consulting Google or asking a vet, we’d say a fox looks more like a dog than a cat… does that help? That would depend who you’re in bed with at 8.15pm, Tamz. If it’s anyone like our ex, then we’d say it’s a definite case of LOSING! INSPIGRAM Khloé, we’ve never won anything, ever. So we’re not going to stop our ego if it manages to take first place! Due to a slight cut to her right foot, nervous Gisele was too scared to put it in…

BEING THE ‘PEOPLE’S PRINCESS’ Diana first captured the hearts of the people during her six-week tour of Australia and New Zealand with Prince Charles in 1983, thanks to the kindness and warmth she showed to those she met. Crowds swarmed around her, and in biographer Sarah Bradford’s book, Diana, she quotes a bodyguard saying that Diana’s reception in Australia was akin to Beatlemania. In her Panorama interview, Diana said she wanted to be a queen of people’s hearts – and Paul says, “She really loved people and interacting with them. It was something in who she was – she was magic.” On the day of her death, Diana was dubbed the “people’s princess” by then- Prime Minister Tony Blair, who said, “She was a wonderful, and a warm, human being.…

Despite her mum Amy and fiancé Carl Woods urging her not to have any more surgery, last week Jordan jetted to Turkey for yet another set of treatments, including liposuction, a face lift and new teeth. The mum of five – aka Katie Price – was accompanied by Carl, 32, for the trip, which sparked a backlash among fans as Turkey is listed as a “red” country in government travel rules, meaning it has high Covid-19 risk and only essential travel is allowed. Jordan, 43, argued her travel was essential as it was for work – and went to amber-list country Spain after being in Turkey to reduce quarantine time upon her return to the UK. She filmed the procedures for her YouTube channel, with her rep arguing, “Katie is…

‘I finally love myself – flaws and all’ Sarah-Jane Clark, 49, lives in Swindon with her children, Chloe, 23, and Jack, 22. She says, “At 49, after losing 11st, I feel fabulous. I love my body now, but it hasn’t always been that way. “As a teenager, I was overweight. After I left school, I worked as a hairdresser, and spent nine hours a day on my feet. Being busy meant I’d always opt for convenience food and snack on chocolate or crisps. “After meeting my husband, we wanted to start a family, but after a year of trying, my periods stopped. I made an appointment with the GP, who asked me to stand on the scales. I weighed 21st, and was mortified. I was wearing a size 28 and…

She’s made no secret of feeling broody ever since becoming a mum to her now eight-year-old son Angelo, telling fans at a concert in 2016, “my womb is starting to ache a little bit”. And after snapping up the £8 million mansion next to her current home in LA that had belonged to her friend, Nicole Richie, pals say Adele’s latest purchase has been ear-marked for her mum, Penny, amid her plans to have another baby. Last month, insiders told Closer how the 33-year-old star – who chose not to hire a nanny after having Angelo – had found love again with a childhood friend. A source says, “Adele’s longing to give Angelo a sibling and now her boyfriend is planning to move over to LA with her, she feels…

After a year and a half away, ITV2’s Love Island returned to our screens this week with a bang and the new contestants are set to be the raunchiest yet. The sexy singletons, who have been quarantined in Spain for the past two weeks, will undoubtedly be feeling frustrated and flirty after lockdown – and as Closer went to press, it seemed this year’s show could be the sexiest to date, with an OnlyFans star and former glamour model set to enter the villa. Love Island has made a name for itself over its 16 years running as one of TV’s most X-rated shows – and the contestants aren’t strangers to controversy. Series 1 saw stars Hannah Elizabeth and Jon Clarke get hot under the covers, but in series 2,…

Everyone seems to be in dating overdrive now that restrictions have eased a bit. I’m talking to a guy at the moment who is nice – I met him through mutual friends, which seems to be the way to go. When I date someone, I always tell them I want to keep things private – their response always shows me whether they’re in it for the right reasons, as some are just fame hungry. I’m not on dating apps, but some of my friends are. I read recently that some apps are offering a Covid-19 vaccination badge on people’s profiles, to show whether or not they’ve had the jab. To me, that’s mad! Why are dating apps asking about Covid jabs? Where do you draw the line? Do they want…

● If you think a rabbit is being neglected by its owner, you can send an anonymous letter with helpful information. For a template, visit rabbitwelfare.co.uk/dear-rabbit-owner. ● To learn more about Rabbit Awareness week, and chat to other owners, visit facebook.com/RabbitAwarenessWeek. ● To report an abused animal, contact the RSPCA at rspca.org.uk. ● If you see a dog left alone in a car showing heatstroke symptoms (heavy panting, excessive drooling, drowsiness), dial 999. If police are unable to attend and you break into the car, take photos or videos of the dog and witnesses’ contact details. Be aware that, without justification, this could be criminal damage and you may need to defend your actions in court. For information on how to help an animal with heatstroke, visit rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/dogs/health/heatstroke. ● For…

Last year, Alexandra posted a 15-minute video online discussing her experiences of racism in the music industry. In it, she shockingly revealed how she was told she’d have to work 10 times harder than a white person and was encouraged to bleach her skin to “look whiter”. She tells Closer, “One day I was writing a song about the Black Lives Matter movement and this voice in my head said, ‘Go and speak up about your experience’. I wanted to get it off my chest, to no longer have the burden I’d been carrying for so long. It came from the heart. Since releasing it, I’ve never felt more comfortable with myself. It’s like I changed overnight and it made me realise that for so long I’d been afraid to…

INSIDE JESS’ FRIDGE • Eggs • Cheddar cheese • Halloumi cheese • Grated Cheddar • Dark chocolate • Strawberries • Courgetti • Brie • Butter • Greek yoghurt • Avocado • King prawns • Salmon fillets • Chicken breasts • Spring onions • Lettuce • Cauliflower • Kale • Mushrooms • Salad leaves • Prosecco • Almond milk JESS How much do you spend per week? Around £60-£100. I do most of the weekly shop online, but do lots of top-up trips during the week. Describe your daily diet... I’m currently following a keto lifestyle [based on high-fat, low-carb foods] in the lead up to my wedding [to former TOWIE co-star William Lee-Kemp] later this year. For breakfast I have a SlimFast Keto Fuel Shake with berries and yoghurt. Lunch tends to be a…

YOUR GUIDE TO EMOTIONAL ISSUES AND FAMILY LIFE WITH PSYCHOLOGICAL THERAPIST EMMA KENNY Hot weather and extra daylight mean your kids will not only be less keen on bedtime, but will also find it harder to fall asleep. Lighter and hotter nights make them restless, but you can help them settle more easily by letting them play outside for the last two hours before bed, this will burn off excess energy and help regulate the hormones in their brain responsible for restful sleep. As it begins to get darker, we release the chemical melatonin, often referred to as the sleep hormone, which helps us get ready for bed. A blackout blind can make a big difference as it blocks out the daylight and ensures a dark room, this affects the…

TV STAR JESS IMPIAZZI, 31, ON HOW SHE LOOKS AFTER HER HEALTH AND MIND CARING FOR THE PLANET IS IMPORTANT TO ME... I use refillable washing up liquid, and eco-dishwasher tablets, which aren’t wrapped in plastic. I’m also obsessed with saving the bees – I’ll put sugary water on a spoon and leave it out if I see one struggling. I’VE BEEN TAKING ICE BATHS AND SHOWERS FOR FOUR YEARS... They make me feel as though I can tackle anything. It’s been gradual, but I can last 20 minutes in a cold shower and two minutes in an ice bath. I USE THE HEADSPACE APP TO CLEAR MY MIND... I used to lay on my bed and think, but my thoughts would spiral without realising. Meditation gives you a focus.…

1 SWAP YOUR SHAMPOO Avoid shampoos with sulphates and silicones, as they harm the curl pattern. You only need to wash hair once every 6-10 days, depending on your hair type. Focus on the roots, massaging your scalp to remove any product build-up. 2 MOISTURISE, MOISTURISE, MOISTURISE Curly hair tends to be drier, because the natural oils don’t travel down the hair shaft as easily as with straight hair. Use nourishing conditioners and masks – apply through ends, and comb through with a wide tooth comb. Never brush curly hair when it’s dry, because it’s more prone to damage – make sure it’s coated in conditioner, then comb it through. 3 STYLE WHEN IT’S WET Apply oils and your styling creams and gels when hair is soaking wet – this…

FANCY MUG Make your morning cuppa feel like a luxe treat with this stylish buy. It’s available in two other colourways, and is ideal for fancy hot chocolates or hot toddies in the winter. ZARA £7.99 ON-TREND TUMBLERS Embrace the boho trend with these pastel tumblers. The high-ball design means they’re ideal for cocktails like mojitos, but will work equally well for your morning juice fix. WILKO £10 FOR FOUR PRINT FUN Little motifs make simple shapes instantly fun. These cute crustaceans will look lovely on your picnic table. They’re also available in a shell and floral print, so you can mix and match. JOHN LEWIS £5 DREAMY DECANTER Take your barbecue to the next level by prepping drinks beforehand in this rattan decanter. Think Pimm’s, a rum punch, or…

1 HIGH: CONFESSIONS OF AN IBIZA DRUG MULE STORY OF THE ‘PERU TWO’ SUN 4 JULY, FROM 6 AM, BBC THREE / IPLAYER “At the age of 19, I became one half of the ‘Peru Two’. How did I wind up in a maximum-security prison in South America?” These are the words of Michaella McCollum, who was arrested in 2013 along with Melissa Reid on suspicion of drug smuggling. This absorbing five-part series takes us from the day she boarded a plane to Ibiza for the holiday of a lifetime, to the terrifying arrest following a “dumb decision” to be a drug mule, for a mere £5,000 payment. You won’t be able to stop watching. Turn to page 20 to read Closer’s interview with Michaella. ALSO AVAILABLE ON BBC1 MON…

They’d vowed to keep their son, Bear, out of the spotlight, but last week Liam Payne gave fans a rare glimpse of life with his and ex Cheryl’s child. As the three celebrated Father’s Day together at Cheryl’s Buckinghamshire home, Liam, 27, proudly filmed the homemade cookies the four year old had made him, with Bear’s sweet Geordie accent heard in the background. After pals recently told Closer a reunion could be on the cards for Cheryl and Liam – after his split with ex-fiancée Maya Henry, 21 – their weekend together further fuelled fan speculation over their relationship status. One said, “Wouldn’t surprise me if he’s secretly back with Cheryl”, while another posted, “Baby number two on the way.” And now the Strip That Down singer no longer feels…

Therapist Rhian Kivits says, “Communicate – talk through problems that arise, resolve conflict swiftly, release resentments and don’t be afraid to voice your needs. “Remember what attracted you to your partner in the first place and keep noticing the things about them that you love. Those physical characteristics and personality traits are still there, you just have to notice them! “Maintain rock-solid boundaries when it comes to other people – don’t entertain flirting or respond to cheeky texts. “Understand that an affair won’t make you happier or fix your insecurities. Get help with the real issues – seek counselling, not the distraction of an affair.” • For help and more information, go to rhiankivits.com…

They exchanged vows in front of friends and family a decade ago and are now proud parents of four kids and more loved-up than ever – but it hasn’t all been bliss for model Abbey Clancy and footballer Peter Crouch. The couple, who began dating in 2006, have weathered their fair share of storms, including cheating allegations, drug scandals and public rows. But through forgiveness, patience, resilience and, most importantly, humour, they’re stronger than ever, and are even rumoured to be in talks to front their own family-based reality TV series. The pair met in a bar in Abbey’s native Liverpool just before the 2006 World Cup. At the time, Abbey was 18 and a contestant on Britain’s Next Top Model – which she then went on to host in…

SARAH’S BOOSTING TIPS • Keeping hydrated affects your mind, mood and thought processes, so drink lots of water. • Get outside. Going on walks can make a difference to your mental and physical wellbeing. • Make your health a priority – I worked full-time and was a single mum, so I had to get in shape for my kids. • If you’re struggling to start a healthier routine, start writing it down in your diary or calendar. • Get a fitness buddy. On cold winter nights, I’d arrange to meet a friend to keep me in a routine.…

She continued to soak up the sunshine on her family holiday in Italy last week, wowing onlookers in a purple swimsuit during a day at the beach alongside fiancé Orlando Bloom and their 10-month-old daughter, Daisy Dove. And pals say Katy Perry, 36, has been secretly scouting wedding venues with British actor Orlando, 44, during their European break. A source says, “Katy and Orlando both love the history and romanticism Italy has to offer, so they took the opportunity to tour some potential options and particularly loved the Baglioni Hotel Luna, which is just steps away from Venice’s famous landmark, St Mark’s Square.” The pair – who have both been married previously – got engaged on Valentine’s Day in 2019 after first meeting at the Golden Globes in 2016. Despite…

He’s had a difficult 12 months – after working on the frontline during the coronavirus pandemic, going through a break-up and tragically losing his younger brother Llyr to suicide last summer. But now Dr Alex George has found love again – and gone Instagram official with barristers’ clerk Ellie Hecht. The former Love Island star – who has been dating Ellie for six months – posted a photo of himself with his new love during a romantic getaway to Cornwall. In the caption, he fondly referred to her as “the apple of my eye”. Ellie then shared the same photo, simply captioning the image, “My love”. Alex split from ex-girlfriend Amelia Bath last summer after being separated from her during lockdown while he worked as an A&E doctor.…

Shannon: ‘I can have sex up to eight times a day’ As a glamour model and OnlyFans star, Shannon Singh will no doubt be comfortable in her bikini on TV. And the 22 year old has also revealed she has a high sex drive. Shannon – who’s from Fife in Scotland – confessed, “I can have sex up to eight times a day. When I am in love with someone, I do have a lot of sex. And I think that’s normal and it’s healthy in a relationship.” Brad: ‘There’s going to be sexual chemistry and tension!’ Labourer Brad McClelland has admitted he hasn’t had sex since 2019 – but isn’t ruling out getting frisky in the villa. The 26 year old, from Northumberland, revealed, “If you’re in there from…

‘BE PROUD OF WHO YOU ARE’ The champ has revealed it was tough when she entered the “all white” sport, saying, “It definitely wasn’t easy, looking back. I was also very young, and I just adapted. I wasn’t there to be besties with anybody, I was just there to play tennis.” Serena adds she’s proud of the colour of her skin, “I just feel like I wouldn’t be who I am, I wouldn’t be as strong as I am, I wouldn’t be able to be as amazing as I have been so far in my career – and I wouldn’t be me – if I wasn’t black.” ‘SPEND MONEY WISELY’ Born in Michigan in 1981, Serena was the youngest of five girls. Her family moved to Compton, California, where Serena,…

Replace just one word to feel happier Many psychological studies have found there is a link between gratitude and your overall levels of happiness. To feel more grateful, psychotherapist Anna Mathur suggests reframing your day-to-day life and replacing the word “got” with “get”. “‘I’ve got to do the washing’ becomes ‘I get to do the washing’,” explains Anna, author of Know Your Worth. “With that one word change comes so many things I have to be grateful for: having a washing machine in my warm home, having clothes to wash, and being able to wash clothes for people I love. If I can see the privilege in my day-to-day life, then I enjoy those things more. The happier we are, the better our immune system functions, the less likely we…

DR CHRISTIAN GIVES HIS TAKE ON THE HOT HEALTH TOPICS OF THE WEEK We’re all thrilled the hot weather is finally here, but it brings with it some unwelcome seasonal hazards. Thankfully, with a bit of forward planning and the right items in your first aid kit, you can enjoy a well-deserved bit of sunshine. LOOK OUT FOR TICKS There’s been an increase in the number of ticks in the UK, and their bites can be nasty. That’s why if you’re heading to the UK countryside or the seaside on holiday, it’s a good idea to look up what the area is like, so you’re aware if ticks are likely to be a problem. They particularly like woodlands, heathland, moors, long grasses and bracken. Think about the wildlife where you’re…

Whenever I feel annoyed, I call my sister to have a rant. There is something wonderful about releasing that stress with someone who fully accepts me and who allows me the space to vent without judgement. She does the same after a bad day, and we inevitably end up laughing about something totally unrelated. AVOID NEGATIVITY In the past 15 months, many of us have felt anxious, frustrated and angry, and with social media at our fingertips, sharing these emotions has become common, but it can be counterproductive. Social media can often be an echo chamber, where you have your negative feelings reinforced, as opposed to resolved. This means that instead of working through what is going on at a deeper level, you find yourself stuck in a loop, meaning…

HELPING YOU SPEND WISELY, SAVE MORE AND EARN BETTER The last year has brought economic hardship and confusion to many. A new study by financial coaching app Claro found that a fifth of 18 to 40 year olds in the UK had huge concerns about their cash flow and, worryingly, understood little about it – resulting in poor emotional and general health. “Finances can be a major cause of anxiety and fear, but we’re more likely to talk about our sex lives than our finances,” says Simonne Gnessen, founder of Wise Monkey Coaching and co-author of money advice book Sheconomics. And after it was revealed that women had been hit harder by the pandemic and are less confident than men when it comes to money, it has never been more…

FROM JUST £2.49! 1 SHOP SHAPES THAT FLATTER Loose-fit midi dresses are seriously big news right now – they’re an easy way to fast-track your wardrobe into trend-ticking territory. Look for belted waists, busy prints and fluted details, and finish with shiny gold jewels. F&F £22 2 GO ALL OUT WITH JEWELS When it comes to accessories, don’t hold back! Getting glamorous feels more exciting than ever, so go all out every day! Adding rainbow hues with glittery gems is guaranteed to pep up even the simplest of looks – with minimal spend, you can reboot old summer pieces easily. SHEIN £2.49 3 INVEST IN A ONE-PIECE A jumpsuit in a loud colour or print is a must for summer and will quickly become your go-to for last-minute plans. A…

This is series 11 – you must be proud of LLF’s enduring success? Davina, 53: It’s interesting, because I thought Covid would make this series hard to film. But actually, it made it all the more poignant and pertinent. Nicky and I are so proud to be part of it. The reason it’s still going is because even though the theme of people looking for each other is still the same, every episode is different, because we’re all so different. Congratulations on your BAFTA win for Born Without Trace! Davina: It was very unexpected, so even more lovely! Our contributors trust us with their life stories, and we take that responsibility very, very seriously. It’s just really lovely for all of our team to get this recognition because they so…