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The Grand Hotel Birmingham continues to celebrate its fifth birthday in style, joining forces with three independent brands to give their guests the perfect nights’ sleep
In aid of International Stress Awareness Week (2nd - 6th November), The Grand Hotel Birmingham has unveiled three new partnerships with independent brands, to craft the perfect night’s sleep for guests at the hotel to enjoy.
Organic skincare brand, Harvest, are the first to partner with the hotel, providing complimentary Sleep Mists for guests staying in suites over the weekend of International Stress Awareness Week. The sleep mists have botanical notes of Marjoram and Clary Sage to calm anxious thoughts and release tensions from the day. Made from a calming herbal water, guests are invited to spray the mist on their pillow to prepare for the perfect night sleep.
To further aid guests’ relaxation, artisan chocolatiers at The Chocolate Quarter have created an exclusive, gold-dusted dark chocolate embossed with the number 5 for the occasion. Dark chocolate which is rich in polyphenols and flavonoids, thought to induce stress-relieving properties*, will be accompanied with a pick and mix selection of The Chocolate Quarter’s best sellers for guests’ to enjoy during their stay.
After holding their meetings at The Grand Hotel since 1886, Birmingham Book Club has become a part of the perfect stay, as guests staying in Deluxe suites will have access to their curated selection of five much-loved books to curl up with. The selected books are from the likes of writers such as Raymond Chandler, Richard Holmes and literary powerhouse Guy de Maupassant and invite guests to slow down and savour the joy of reading within the storied surroundings of The Grand Hotel Birmingham.
Blending historic grandeur with modern luxury, each book choice ties into an aspect of the hotel, designed for the perfect read, allowing comfort and escapism over guests’ Autumnal staycations.
Following a £50 million restoration and nearly two decades of closure, The Grand Hotel Birmingham reopened its doors on May 18th 2021. Over the course of 2026, the hotel has marked their milestone fifth anniversary in style, unveiling five carefully curated collaborations spanning food, drink, art, culture and wellbeing.
The first partnership saw specially curated artworks from the Charles Pedone Art Collective adorning the walls of guest suites throughout April-June, offering visitors an intimate encounter with creativity during their stay. The second partnership involved students from University College Birmingham who collaborated with the bar team from Isaac’s, to craft a limited-edition anniversary cocktail, winning a place on the official bar menu.
Together, each of the five collaborations honour The Grand Hotel’s journey from a historic landmark, to modern cultural hub.
Johan Scheepers, General Manager of The Grand Hotel, comments, "It’s been a pleasure to see these collaborations transpire over the year, as they all reflect exactly what The Grand Hotel stands for today. They honour our heritage, whilst also embracing the energy and innovation of the city around us.
We’re always looking for new ways to celebrate local talent and creativity and we can’t wait to surprise our guests at The Grand with these innovative collaborations, in hopes to offer them the perfect night’s sleep.”
For more information, please visit: https://www.thegrandhotelbirmingham.co.uk/ or you can follow their fifth anniversary journey on instagram @grandhotelbirmingham
Luxury fitness has evolved far beyond beautifully equipped gyms and personal trainers. Today's discerning wellness enthusiasts are investing in sophisticated technology that delivers personalised insights, measurable results and greater convenience, transforming the way they train, recover and optimise their health.
For many affluent individuals, fitness is no longer simply about appearance. It is about longevity, performance and protecting one of life's greatest assets: good health. As technology continues to advance, the latest generation of luxury fitness equipment is helping users train smarter rather than simply harder.
One of the biggest changes in recent years has been the rise of connected fitness equipment.
Modern treadmills, strength systems and indoor bikes now do far more than track distance or calories burned. Intelligent software analyses performance over time, adapts workouts to suit progress and provides detailed insights that were once only available to professional athletes.
Rather than following generic training plans, users receive programmes tailored specifically to their goals, whether improving endurance, building strength or increasing mobility.
This level of personalisation helps maximise every workout while reducing unnecessary strain and minimising the risk of injury.
The demand for luxury home gyms continues to grow, with homeowners dedicating beautifully designed spaces to health and wellbeing.
Today's premium fitness equipment has been created with interiors in mind. Sleek finishes, minimalist design and premium materials allow machines to sit comfortably within contemporary homes, creating spaces that are as elegant as they are functional.
For busy professionals, the convenience is invaluable.
There is no travel time, no waiting for equipment and complete flexibility to train whenever schedules allow. A workout can take place before breakfast, between meetings or late in the evening, all without leaving home.
For many, that convenience alone justifies the investment.
Elite performance is no longer measured solely by how hard you train. Recovery has become an equally important part of modern fitness.
Luxury wellness technology now includes massage systems, compression therapy, heat treatments and advanced recovery devices designed to reduce muscle soreness and accelerate rehabilitation after exercise.
Many homeowners are also incorporating saunas, cold immersion experiences and dedicated recovery zones into their private wellness spaces, recognising that quality rest is fundamental to long-term health and consistent performance.
The result is a more balanced approach to fitness that prioritises resilience alongside strength.
Wearable technology has become increasingly sophisticated, offering far more than step counting or heart rate monitoring.
Today's premium devices provide detailed insights into sleep quality, stress levels, recovery, cardiovascular performance and overall wellbeing.
Rather than relying on guesswork, users can make informed decisions about when to push harder, when to recover and how lifestyle choices are influencing their health.
For those with demanding careers, this information can prove invaluable, allowing exercise, nutrition and recovery to be balanced around busy schedules.
Knowledge has become one of the most powerful tools in achieving consistent results.
Luxury purchases are often evaluated according to the value they deliver over time.
Fitness technology should be viewed through the same lens.
While premium equipment may require a greater initial investment, its long-term benefits often extend well beyond physical fitness. Better cardiovascular health, improved strength, enhanced mobility and reduced stress all contribute towards a higher quality of life.
For many successful individuals, maintaining peak physical condition supports every other aspect of life, from business performance to family life and travel.
Ultimately, good health is one of the few investments that influences every day.
As artificial intelligence, biometric tracking and connected technology continue to evolve, the future of luxury fitness looks increasingly personalised.
Equipment will become even more intuitive, workouts more tailored and recovery more precisely guided by individual data. Home gyms will continue to evolve into complete wellness spaces where fitness, recovery and mental wellbeing work together as part of a single lifestyle.
For today's luxury consumer, the latest fitness technology is about far more than owning premium equipment. It is an investment in longevity, energy and performance.
After all, true luxury is not simply having the finest things. It is having the health and vitality to enjoy them for years to come.
Creating an exceptional gym starts with the right strategy. Grant Polson, founder of Unity Gym Consultancy, specialises in helping clients design high-performing fitness spaces and procure equipment that delivers long-term value, functionality and commercial success. Whether you're developing a private gym, health club or luxury fitness facility, expert guidance can make all the difference. Discover more at:
There are country house hotels that impress you with grandeur, and then there are those that make you feel as though you have discovered somewhere that has been quietly waiting for you. Mallory Court belongs firmly in the latter category.
Set within ten acres of beautifully landscaped gardens in the Warwickshire countryside, the ivy-clad Manor House combines historic character, exceptional dining, an indulgent spa and genuinely warm hospitality, creating a destination that feels both luxurious and wonderfully lived-in.
There is a sense of theatre to Mallory Court, but it never feels like a museum. Individually designed bedrooms sit alongside the Elan Spa, elegant dining spaces and gardens that are as much a part of the experience as the house itself. What makes the hotel particularly appealing is the way these elements connect. Produce travels from the kitchen garden to the plate, the spa sits peacefully among the trees and the Manor House retains the atmosphere of a much-loved private home.
It is a place where guests can dress for dinner, retreat into a spa robe by lunchtime or simply find a quiet bench in the rose garden. There is grandeur, certainly, but there is warmth too, allowing every guest to make their stay their own.
Mallory Court occupies something of a sweet spot. Surrounded by Warwickshire countryside, it is nevertheless within easy reach of Royal Leamington Spa, Warwick and Stratford-upon-Avon, making it equally suited to a restorative escape or a more adventurous break.
Guests can spend a morning exploring Warwick Castle, wander through Leamington's elegant Regency streets in the afternoon or enjoy a performance in Stratford-upon-Avon before returning to the tranquillity of the country house.
That sense of escape begins almost as soon as you turn into the grounds. Despite Birmingham Airport and the motorway network being easily accessible, the pace changes completely once you arrive. It is this contrast between convenience and seclusion that forms an important part of Mallory Court's appeal.
Although Mallory Court has the character of a much older country estate, the Manor House was actually built in 1916 for James Thomas Holt, a successful cotton producer who had retired to Warwickshire. Designed by architect P. Morley Horder in a romantic revival of Elizabethan vernacular architecture, the house was deliberately created to feel as though it had evolved over centuries.
In 1936, Captain Sir John Black, Managing Director of the Standard Motor Company, purchased Mallory and introduced several distinctive features, including the oak panelling in the dining rooms, an outdoor swimming pool and a squash court.
The property later became the family home of John Anthony Dunbar Lucas before being purchased by Alan Holland and Jeremy Mort in 1976, when its potential as a country house hotel began to emerge.
Since then, Mallory has evolved in thoughtful chapters rather than dramatic reinvention. A new bedroom wing was added in 1998, the Knight's Suite followed in 2004 and Elan Spa opened in 2017. More recently, nineteen bedrooms underwent a £1.5 million refurbishment, introducing richer colour, texture and contemporary comfort while retaining the architectural character of the original house.
It is an approach that feels considered rather than contrived. Existing furniture was restored by local craftspeople and reupholstered rather than discarded, while new wallpapers, velvet headboards and woven carpets brought a more contemporary finish. The result is a hotel where old and new do not compete, but form part of the same continuing story.
Mallory Court describes its atmosphere as romantic, expressive and beautifully relaxed, which feels an apt assessment. It is polished without being precious, with colour, creativity and a gentle sense of occasion balanced by the more relaxed pleasures of country house life.
There are muddy boots after a garden walk, spa robes at lunchtime and glasses being raised on the terrace. Guests are encouraged to enjoy the surroundings rather than feel intimidated by them.
It is, in many ways, a grown-up country house without any suggestion that guests need to whisper.
The dining experience is another significant part of Mallory Court's appeal.
The Warwick is the hotel's principal dining destination, offering confident, seasonal British cooking shaped around exceptional ingredients, including produce grown in the hotel's own kitchen garden. The setting retains the original oak panelling and period detail of the Manor House, while contemporary colour gives the restaurant a sense of energy.
The Warwick holds three AA Rosettes and was added to the Michelin Guide in December 2025, further establishing Mallory Court as a destination for those who take their dining seriously.
For something altogether more relaxed, Sencha sits within Elan Spa and offers an Asian-inspired menu featuring ramen, katsu, small plates and lighter lunches. It provides spa guests with somewhere vibrant and informal to dine without losing the feeling of retreat.
Elsewhere, guests can enjoy afternoon tea, Sunday lunch and private dining, while the lounges and terrace provide the perfect setting for a pre-dinner drink or an unhurried nightcap.
If the Manor House provides the sense of occasion, Elan Spa offers the opportunity to completely switch off.
The facilities include an indoor hydrotherapy pool, thermal experiences, an outdoor sauna and vitality pool overlooking the Warwickshire countryside, alongside treatments from GAIA and TEMPLESPA.
The spa is integrated naturally into the wider experience rather than feeling like a separate facility. Guests can move from the gardens to the spa, from the spa to Sencha and back into the tranquillity of the estate without ever feeling that they have left the retreat.
There is even a sensory walk through the rose and herb gardens, while the kitchen garden offers another reminder that much of Mallory's beauty is both decorative and productive.
Mallory Court is particularly adept at creating experiences around life's significant moments.
The hotel can host everything from intimate ceremonies for two to classic country house weddings, marquee celebrations and exclusive-use occasions. It is licensed for civil ceremonies, with wedding breakfasts for up to 150 guests and evening celebrations for up to 200 guests.
The Knight's Suite can accommodate up to 160 dining guests, while the Manor House offers smaller spaces for more intimate occasions.
Beyond weddings, the hotel hosts proposals, private dinners, anniversaries, graduations, Christmas parties, meetings and team days, alongside seasonal stays, spa days and overnight spa breaks.
The attention to detail extends to the smaller moments too. One particularly memorable celebration saw a wedding arranged as a complete surprise for guests who believed they were attending a birthday lunch. Private proposals can be accompanied by Champagne, dinner and an overnight stay, while flowers, meaningful gifts and personal touches can all be arranged within the rooms.
For younger guests, the Mallory Scavenger Hunt transforms the gardens, orchard and vegetable patch into an adventure. Even four-legged guests are given their own welcome, complete with a bed, bowl, welcome letter, waste bags and a treat.
Perhaps the greatest luxury at Mallory Court is not something you can photograph or put on a menu. It is the feeling that someone genuinely cares about how your stay unfolds.
The hotel's philosophy is that exceptional service begins before a guest even reaches the front door. Understanding why somebody is visiting allows the team to anticipate the details, from selecting the right bedroom and restaurant table to arranging spa time, accommodating dietary requirements or suggesting ways to explore Warwickshire.
Once guests arrive, the objective is to be attentive without interrupting their sense of escape. It is knowing when to offer a recommendation, when to notice an unspoken need and when to allow someone to sit quietly in the garden without interruption.
That distinction is important. Luxury is not simply what is placed in a room. It is the feeling that the people looking after you genuinely care.
For those who know the hotel well, the kitchen garden is perhaps the perfect expression of what makes Mallory Court special.
Early in the morning, it is possible to see the Manor House through the greenery, hear the gardeners beginning their day and look at ingredients that may appear on a plate that evening.
It is not the grandest part of the estate, but it feels like its heart. Beauty at Mallory Court is not simply decorative. The gardens are alive, productive and woven directly into the guest experience.
The accolades certainly support Mallory Court's credentials. The hotel holds four AA Red Stars, while its dining holds three AA Rosettes. The Warwick joined the Michelin Guide in December 2025, and Elan Spa received a five-bubble rating from the Good Spa Guide in 2025.
Most notably, Mallory Court was named Large Hotel of the Year at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2025, taking the national Gold award. The hotel also holds Green Meetings Gold and has received recognition for its sustainability work.
Yet, awards are perhaps most meaningful when they reflect something guests can actually feel.
4 Years In The Mailbox, 15 Years Of Medical Aesthetic Excellence
For four years, DERMOPERFECTION has been part of the Mailbox, establishing itself as one of Birmingham’s most trusted destinations for advanced medical aesthetics, skin health and regenerative treatments. But while the clinic may have been a familiar presence in the iconic Mailbox Building for the past four years, its expertise is anything but new.
With more than 15 years of industry experience and over 50,000 treatments performed, DERMOPERFECTION has built its reputation on clinical expertise, exceptional standards and, above all, a commitment to delivering natural-looking results. Recognised as Birmingham’s Best Medical Aesthetics Clinic provider and as one of the region’s most experienced and trusted providers of advanced aesthetic, skin and regenerative treatments, this is a clinic where experience genuinely matters.
At the heart of DERMOPERFECTION is an expert multidisciplinary clinical team comprising Advanced Clinical Specialist Nurse Practitioners, Doctors and Graduate Aesthetic Practitioners. Combining medical expertise with the latest evidence-based techniques, the team delivers highly personalised treatment plans designed around the individual, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. And that distinction is important.
As a CQC-registered and rated clinic, DERMOPERFECTION places patient safety, clinical excellence and exceptional outcomes at the centre of everything it does. Every treatment begins with understanding the individual, their concerns, their skin, their goals and the results they hope to achieve.
WHERE EXPERIENCE MEETS INNOVATION
Step inside DERMOPERFECTION and it quickly becomes apparent that this is far more than a traditional aesthetics clinic. The purpose-built premium medical skin clinic combines sophisticated clinical treatment rooms with state-of-the-art technology, a medical skincare retail offering and a dedicated education facility.
Its approach is equally comprehensive. DERMOPERFECTION is Birmingham's most advanced devices clinic having made a significant investment in some of the world’s most advanced aesthetic technologies. These include BTL’s award-winning EMFACE, EMSCULPT NEO and EXION platforms. EMFACE combines synchronised radiofrequency with HIFES™ muscle stimulation for non-invasive facial lifting and contouring, while EMSCULPT NEO combines radiofrequency and high-intensity electromagnetic energy for advanced body sculpting. EXION represents a new generation of intelligent aesthetic technology, including AI-guided fractional RF microneedling for precision skin remodelling, alongside advanced face and body applications. The portfolio also includes EMFEMME 360, offering advanced women’s health technology, and ULTRAcel Q+, a high-speed HIFU platform for non-surgical lifting and tightening. An extensive laser portfolio, including advanced fractional CO2 resurfacing, further strengthens an exceptional collection of face, skin, body and women’s health technologies under one roof.
DERMOPERFECTION is also the West Midlands’ leading clinic to offer AURA Reality 3D facial scanning and skin analysis, allowing practitioners to take a highly detailed, data-led approach to understanding facial structure, skin health and treatment requirements.
For patients looking for injectable treatments, the clinic offers an extensive portfolio of advanced products and protocols, including Juläine, Relfydess, Celora Vita and Plinest.
RESULTS BUILT AROUND YOU
What stands out about DERMOPERFECTION is its belief that great aesthetics should never mean looking like you have had work done.
The clinic’s philosophy is centred around achieving the “best version of you”, with treatments carefully selected to create natural-looking results that make a genuine difference. With experience across all skin types, tones, concerns and goals, the clinical team takes time to understand each patient before recommending an appropriate treatment pathway.
Whether the objective is to soften the signs of ageing, improve skin quality, restore lost volume, address pigmentation, refine facial contours or support long-term skin health, every treatment plan is bespoke.
That same philosophy extends to the products DERMOPERFECTION uses. The clinic works exclusively with some of the most reputable and clinically proven brands in medical aesthetics and skincare, including Profhilo, Juvéderm, Mesoestetic and Obagi. Products are sourced directly from UK pharmaceutical suppliers, ensuring authenticity, quality and safety.
DERMOPERFECTION has also been awarded ambassador status by Obagi Medical, PCA Skin and Mesoestetic for multiple years, further demonstrating its position at the forefront of professional medical skincare.
Its credentials continue with PCA Skin Clinic of the Year in both '24 and '25, the GHP Global Excellence Award for Best Aesthetic Clinic in Birmingham, the WhatClinic Patient Service Award in both '24 and '25 and in 2026, safety in beauty best clinic Midlands silver status and GHP: Medical aesthetics clinic of the year - Birmingham.
The clinic also holds Black Diamond status for Hydrafacial, placing it among the UK’s most recognised Hydrafacial providers.
THE SCIENCE OF SKIN HEALTH
While advanced technology and sophisticated treatments are a significant part of the DERMOPERFECTION offering, the clinic’s real strength lies in knowing when and how to use them.
Its expertise spans anti-ageing treatments, facial rejuvenation, injectables, cosmetic dermatology, regenerative skin health, body contouring and long-term skincare. Treatments range from anti-wrinkle injections, dermal fillers and polynucleotides to fractional lasers, microneedling, chemical peels and advanced regenerative treatments. The emphasis is always on evidence-based treatment and individualised care.
For patients, this means access to a highly experienced clinical team capable of navigating an increasingly complex aesthetics landscape, helping them understand which treatments may be appropriate and, importantly, which may not be.
It is this combination of clinical knowledge, technology and personalised care that has helped DERMOPERFECTION become a trusted destination for patients looking for more than a quick aesthetic fix.
A DIFFERENT STANDARD OF MEDICAL AESTHETICS
After more than 15 years in the industry and over 50,000 treatments, DERMOPERFECTION has earned its reputation through consistency, clinical experience and an unwavering focus on the individual patient.
Four years in the Mailbox may have established the clinic as a familiar Birmingham destination, but its expertise has been built over much longer. Today, DERMOPERFECTION represents a new generation of medical aesthetics, where advanced technology meets experienced clinicians, premium products and genuinely personalised care.
For anyone considering aesthetic treatment, skin rejuvenation or a longer-term approach to skin health, the most important question is not simply what treatment is available. It is who you trust to deliver it. At DERMOPERFECTION, you are placing that trust in an experienced multidisciplinary team, working within a CQC-registered clinical environment, with access to some of the world's most advanced technologies and a philosophy grounded in safety, expertise and natural-looking results.
Award-winning medical skin & advanced aesthetic clinic
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The Grand Hotel Birmingham is now offering in-room treatments, for guests to enjoy even more luxury during their stay.
This issue, we turn our attention to wellness, exploring the books shaping conversations around mental clarity, emotional resilience, mindfulness and modern wellbeing.
From psychology and longevity to mindfulness and digital balance, each title offers a thoughtful perspective on how we navigate increasingly demanding lifestyles. Leading this month’s selection at number one is Why Has Nobody Told Me This Before? by Dr Julie Smith, a standout guide that combines clinical expertise with accessible, practical advice for everyday life.
Across the collection, these are not simply books designed to motivate, but titles that genuinely challenge perspectives, encourage reflection and offer meaningful tools for living with greater intention and self-awareness in a constantly distracted world.
Why Has Nobody Told Me This Before? - Dr Julie Smith
Dr Julie Smith’s Why Has Nobody Told Me This Before? feels less like a traditional self-help book and more like a calm, intelligent conversation with someone who genuinely understands modern emotional pressure. Drawing on her experience as a clinical psychologist, Smith breaks down complex topics such as anxiety, confidence, stress and low mood into practical, manageable advice that feels realistic rather than overwhelming. What stood out to me most was the accessibility of the book. The techniques are simple enough to apply immediately, yet grounded in genuine psychological expertise. It is easy to understand why the book became such a phenomenon. Thoughtful, reassuring and highly practical, it is a book I found myself returning to repeatedly.
£20
Why We Sleep - Matthew Walker
Matthew Walker’s Why We Sleep completely changed the way I think about rest, recovery and long-term health. Drawing on decades of scientific research, Walker explains the extraordinary role sleep plays in everything from cognitive performance and emotional wellbeing to disease prevention and longevity. What makes the book particularly compelling is how clearly the science is communicated without losing depth or authority. Topics such as REM sleep, dreaming, caffeine and changing sleep patterns are explored in a way that feels both fascinating and slightly alarming. After reading it, it becomes difficult to view sleep as optional or negotiable. Informative, persuasive and deeply researched, it is one of the most impactful health books I have read.
£13
Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art - James Nestor
James Nestor’s Breath takes something we do instinctively every day and reveals just how much we have been getting wrong. Blending scientific research with ancient breathing practices, the book explores how breathing patterns can influence everything from stress and sleep to athletic performance and immunity. What I enjoyed most was Nestor’s investigative style. He travels extensively, tests methods himself and presents complex ideas in a highly engaging way. Some of the findings are genuinely surprising, particularly around mouth breathing and modern lifestyle habits. Breath is one of those rare books that immediately changes your awareness of your own body. Long after finishing it, I found myself thinking differently about something as basic as inhaling and exhaling.
£11
Mindfulness: A Practical Guide to Finding Peace in a Frantic World - Professor Mark Williams and Dr Danny Penman
This is one of the most practical and accessible introductions to mindfulness I have read. Rather than approaching mindfulness as something abstract or overly spiritual, Williams and Penman present it as a realistic tool for navigating stress, anxiety and the constant pace of modern life. Rooted in mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, the book combines scientific credibility with genuinely useful exercises that can be integrated into everyday routines. What stood out to me was its calm, compassionate tone. Nothing feels forced or unrealistic. Instead, it encourages small, sustainable shifts in awareness and perspective. Quietly powerful and highly readable, it is a book that feels increasingly relevant in a permanently distracted world.
£17
The Body Keeps the Score - Bessel van der Kolk
The Body Keeps the Score is one of the most insightful and thought-provoking books I have read on trauma and emotional healing. Bessel van der Kolk explores how trauma affects not only the mind, but also the brain and body, challenging many traditional approaches to treatment. What makes the book so powerful is its balance between scientific research, patient stories and practical understanding. Rather than focusing solely on medication or talking therapies, van der Kolk examines alternative healing approaches that reconnect people with their physical and emotional selves. It is an emotionally intense read at times, but also an incredibly important one that completely reshaped my understanding of trauma and long-term wellbeing.
£15
The Power of Now - Eckhart Tolle
Tolle’s The Power of Now is a book that demands patience and reflection, but ultimately rewards both. Centred around the idea of living fully in the present moment, Tolle challenges the constant mental noise and anxiety that often dominate modern life. What struck me most was the simplicity of many of his ideas, despite the profound impact they can have when genuinely applied. The conversational structure makes complex spiritual concepts feel surprisingly accessible. While it is certainly a deeply philosophical book, I found it grounding rather than abstract. More than anything, The Power of Now encourages a quieter, calmer way of living that feels increasingly relevant in a constantly distracted world.
£13
Outlive: The Science and Art of Longevity - Peter Attia with Bill Gifford
Outlive is one of the most comprehensive books I have read on health, ageing and longevity. Attia challenges conventional healthcare approaches by focusing not simply on extending lifespan, but on improving quality of life across every decade. Covering nutrition, exercise, sleep and emotional health, the book presents longevity as something proactive rather than reactive. What impressed me most was Attia’s ability to balance scientific depth with practical application. The advice feels strategic and evidence-based without drifting into trends or biohacking culture. It is an ambitious book, but an incredibly valuable one that reframes how we think about health, prevention and long-term wellbeing in modern life.
£25
Best Self: Be You, Only Better - Mike Bayer
Bayer’s Best Self approaches personal development in a direct and highly actionable way. Built around the idea of identifying both your “best self” and “anti-self”, the book encourages honest reflection on habits, relationships and daily choices. What makes it effective is its accessibility. Bayer avoids overly complicated theory and instead focuses on practical exercises that encourage meaningful behavioural change. Throughout the book, there is a strong emphasis on authenticity and alignment, particularly around building a life that genuinely reflects personal values rather than outside expectations. I found it motivating without feeling unrealistic or overly polished. It is a straightforward, engaging read that offers practical tools for personal growth and self-awareness.
£13
Set Boundaries, Find Peace - Nedra Glover Tawwab
Tawwab’s Set Boundaries, Find Peace is one of the clearest and most practical books I have read on relationships, communication and self-respect. Tawwab removes much of the confusion around what healthy boundaries actually look like and explains how a lack of boundaries often contributes to stress, burnout and resentment. What I appreciated most was the book’s straightforward tone. The advice is direct, realistic and immediately applicable across work, friendships and family dynamics. Rooted in therapeutic practice and cognitive behavioural techniques, it offers practical frameworks without becoming clinical or overwhelming. It is an empowering read that encourages clarity, confidence and healthier relationships in every aspect of life.
£17
Digital Minimalism - Cal Newport
Newport’s Digital Minimalism offers a compelling argument for reclaiming focus and intentionality in an increasingly distracted world. Rather than rejecting technology entirely, Newport encourages a more selective and conscious relationship with digital tools, particularly social media and constant online connectivity. What makes the book effective is its practicality. The “digital declutter” approach feels achievable rather than extreme, while the broader message around attention, solitude and meaningful interaction feels increasingly important. I found the sections on prioritising deeper conversations and rediscovering offline activities particularly insightful. Calm, intelligent and highly relevant, Digital Minimalism is ultimately about creating more space for clarity, presence and genuine quality of life.
£11
Dermoperfection - Award-winning medical skin & advanced aesthetic clinic
PRECISION ANALYSIS: THE AURA REALITY CONSULTATION
At Dermoperfection, we believe that the most rewarding results begin with a deep understanding of your unique skin health. To ensure you are investing in feeling and looking your most confident, we have integrated Aura Reality into our consultation process. Powered by advanced Artificial Intelligence, this world-leading 3D imaging technology allows us to move beyond the surface, providing a scientific foundation for a truly bespoke treatment plan tailored specifically to your goals.
THE POWER OF AI-DRIVEN PRECISION
Your consultation is an informative and collaborative experience where we use Aura Reality to create a photorealistic 3D digital twin of your face and neck. This high-definition capture, enhanced by AI analysis, allows our expert clinicians to rotate and examine your features from every angle with surgical accuracy, ensuring no detail is overlooked. By revealing what is happening beneath the skin, such as deep seated pigmentation, vascular patterns and early signs of structural changes, we can address concerns before they even surface, giving you peace of mind that your skin is in the best possible hands.
VISUALISING YOUR CONFIDENT SELF
One of the most valuable capabilities of Aura Reality is the ability to visualise your aesthetic goals with total clarity. The AI-powered system allows us to perform sophisticated 3D simulations, providing a visual language to discuss potential outcomes and ensuring we are perfectly aligned with your expectations. For those focusing on lifting and contouring, the technology measures exact volume changes and lifting vectors, guaranteeing that every enhancement remains balanced, symmetrical, and authentically you.
QUANTIFIABLE SUCCESS
Aesthetic improvements can often be subtle, but with Aura Reality, your progress is never in doubt. Every scan is saved to your profile, providing an objective scientific baseline. This allows us to track your skin’s evolution over months or years with side by side 3D comparisons, offering quantifiable proof of your skin’s improvement and the absolute efficacy of your personalised protocol. Seeing these tangible changes, validated by AI data, provides that extra boost of confidence as you see your skin’s health restored.
INFORMED CONFIDENCE
By choosing the best technology available on the market, Dermoperfection removes the guesswork from aesthetics. Aura Reality acts as the intelligent, AI-driven foundation for our entire suite of treatments, ensuring that our clinical expertise is always backed by data. This is the new standard of aesthetic consultation, designed to give you total confidence that your treatment plan is as unique as you are.
Instagram: @dermoperfectionuk
Email: info@dermoperfection.co.uk
Telephone: 0121 439 4350
Cow & Sow is launching a new menu in time for summer featuring fresh, organic produce delivered straight from their Kitchen Farm and English Wagyu beef sourced directly from Yorkshire.
Cow & Sow, the B Corp certified, premium steakhouse group located in Birmingham’s Paradise development, has launched a brand new menu with the freshest of ingredients and the finest cuts of meat, including English Wagyu, Black Angus beef and Hampshire x Landrace pork.
Working with UK farmers to bring some of the country’s finest beef and pork cuts to the Cow & Sow grills, the new menu will see the meat take centre stage on the new menu. The restaurant will offer grass-fed Black Angus beef, Hampshire x Landrace pork and is also introducing Olive-fed English Wagyu for the first time.
Hailed for its intense marbling and flavour and primarily sourced from suppliers in Japan or Australia, Cow & Sow will be serving English Wagyu from Scurf Dyke Farm in Yorkshire. Customers will be able to choose from Angus or Wagyu beef on single cuts including Sirloin and Ribeye, or indulgent bigger cuts to share, such as Picanha and Chateaubriand.
Grass-fed Angus beef from family farms in Wiltshire is also available in Fillet and Flat Iron single cuts, or Tomahawk and Porterhouse sharing cuts.
Pork dishes on the menu include Roast Porchetta with burnt apple sauce or Slow cooked pork belly served with fondant potato, celeriac puree and greens. These dishes are made with Hampshire X Landrace pork sourced from Cameron Naughton and the team from West End Farm in Devizes.
Following the recent opening of the Cow & Sow Kitchen Farm, the restaurant is delivering the ultimate grassland to grill experience, with the new menu also featuring produce grown on the farm. Mouthwatering dishes made with their own produce will include Cow & Sow’s iconic Crispy onion blossom with black garlic mayo, Miso and chipotle glazed Hispi cabbage and Grilled baby Caesar lettuce served with bacon bits and parmesan.
Cow & Sow became a certified B Corporation in 2024, a huge milestone for what started as a small family business. Built on three main pillars, their daily commitment involves making a positive impact on the Planet, People and Community which is clearly championed throughout their carefully curated new menu featuring the freshest, locally sourced ingredients.
Mark Warburton, Founder of Cow & Sow, said: “We have always worked with the very best farmers to source our meat and we’re thrilled to be partnering with Roy and his family from Scurf Dyke farm, to be introducing English Wagyu to our menu too.
“This is a really exciting time for Cow & Sow. We’ve just announced our Kitchen Farm, which our Head Grower Amanda has been working hard on since January. After some amazing growing conditions over the last few months, we are ready to start supplying our restaurants with our own fresh produce, which customers can now spot on the menu by looking for the tractor icon. We know diners are becoming more discerning and want to know exactly where their food is coming from, we’re proud to be delivering the very best grassland to grill experience and can’t wait for everyone to come and try the new menu!”
To book a table at Cow & Sow Birmingham, visit: https://thecowandsow.co.uk/
Expanding Access to Breakthrough Preventive Health Scans to the West Midlands.
With extraordinary demand for preventive health checks in the UK, Neko Health opens its first Health Centre in Birmingham—accelerating its mission to shift healthcare from reactive treatment to prevention and early detection.
Neko Health, the preventive healthcare technology company co-founded by Hjalmar Nilsonne and Daniel Ek, continues its UK momentum with the opening of its first Health Centre in the West Midlands, officially launching today in Birmingham. Building on a period of rapid national growth, the company is now widening access to preventive healthcare beyond major capitals and has delivered six times more scans in 2025 than in 2024, with global signups now exceeding 300,000 people.
The Birmingham Health Centre opens just three months after Manchester and marks another important step in Neko Health’s regional rollout. Conveniently located at 10 Livery Street, steps from Snow Hill Station, the new location is designed to be easily accessible for people across the city and surrounding areas. At full capacity, it will be able to deliver up to 25,000 full-body scans per year.
At the heart of Neko’s offering is the Neko Body Scan. It is a 60 minute, comprehensive, non-invasive and radiation free health assessment that captures millions of health data points and is priced at £299. Using proprietary sensors alongside blood analysis, the scan assesses skin health including moles and marks, blood sugar levels to identify pre-diabetes risk, blood abnormalities, and risk factors linked to metabolic syndrome, stroke and heart attack. Results are delivered on site within minutes and discussed during an in-person consultation with a medical professional, providing members with personalised and actionable health findings.
The entire experience is completed in under an hour, and nearly 80% of members choose to rebook and prepay for their next scan the following year.
Hjalmar Nilsonne, CEO and Co-Founder of Neko Health, said:
“At Neko, we’re building a completely new healthcare experience — one that puts prevention first. We’ve been blown away by the response across the UK, and especially in Birmingham, where thousands of people have already joined our waitlist. That’s why I'm thrilled that our first new location opening in 2026 will be in this great city.”
Dr Nikita Kanani, Global Medical Director at Neko Health, said:
“In clinical practice, we see the consequences of late diagnosis every day. The ability to assess metabolic, cardiovascular, and dermatological risks in a single, non-invasive visit represents an important step forward in preventive healthcare. What makes the Neko Body Scan unique is that we bring multiple assessments together in one streamlined pathway, giving members a clearer picture of their health earlier and allowing clinicians to intervene sooner when needed.”
In its second year of operation in Stockholm in 2024, the data showed the following findings:
Neko Health is registered with the CQC (Care Quality Commission), ensuring the centres meet the national standards for healthcare quality and safety.
Introducing the SWEALTHY BOOK CLUB, a new regular feature where our book gurus curate the top ten titles from each edition’s genre.
SWEALTHY BOOK CLUB
A new year brings a clean slate and with it, a subtle pull toward something more considered. As resolutions soften into reflection, the right ideas have the power to reshape how we think, work and live. Introducing the SWEALTHY BOOK CLUB, a new regular feature where our book gurus curate the top ten titles from each edition’s genre. And just to add to the joy, you can purchase the books via our website at an exclusive price.
For our February/March edition, the focus is self-help and personal development. Ten stand out reads that cut through the noise, offering fresh perspective, intelligent insight, and the kind of motivation that inspires lasting change.
Mel Robbins
In The Let Them Theory, Mel Robbins distils a powerful mindset shift into two deceptively simple words. The premise is clear: much of our stress, frustration and self-doubt stems from trying to control people and outcomes beyond our reach. Robbins argues that learning to “let them” frees energy for what truly matters... Your goals, values and well-being.
Drawing on behavioural science, psychology and personal anecdote, she applies the theory across work, relationships, confidence, and ambition. Practical, direct and highly accessible, this is a book designed to challenge people-pleasing tendencies and restore a sense of personal agency with clarity and conviction.
£22.99 (hardback)
Hal Elrod
The Miracle Morning centres on the idea that how you start your day shapes everything that follows. Hal Elrod’s S.A.V.E.R.S. method; Silence, Affirmations, Visualization, Exercise, Reading and Scribing offers a structured yet flexible morning routine designed to improve focus, mindset and productivity.
Updated editions expand the concept to include evening habits and long-term fulfilment, reinforcing that change is less about doing more and more about becoming more. Practical and motivational, the book appeals to readers seeking routine, discipline and intention, positioning small daily rituals as the foundation for sustained personal transformation.
£12.99
Mark Manson
Mark Manson’s The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck is a blunt antidote to relentless positivity culture. With sharp humour and refreshing honesty, Manson argues that happiness comes not from avoiding discomfort, but from choosing what genuinely deserves our care and attention.
Drawing on psychology, philosophy, and personal experience, he encourages readers to confront limitations, accept uncertainty and take responsibility for their values. Beneath the irreverent tone lies a thoughtful meditation on meaning, resilience and emotional maturity, one that resonates with readers seeking realism over platitudes and substance over superficial motivation.
£18.99 (hardback)
Prof Steve Peters
The Chimp Paradox presents a practical framework for understanding and managing the emotional brain. Prof Steve Peters introduces the “Chimp Mind”; the impulsive, emotional part of our psyche and explains how it can sabotage happiness, confidence and success if left unchecked.
Using accessible language grounded in neuroscience, Peters offers tools to manage thoughts, emotions and behaviour more effectively. The book combines explanation with exercises, making it as practical as it is illuminating. Widely adopted in elite sport and business, it’s a valuable guide for anyone seeking greater emotional control and mental clarity.
£14.99
Robert T Kiyosaki
Robert Kiyosaki’s Rich Dad Poor Dad remains a cornerstone of personal finance literature. Framed around lessons learned from two father figures; one financially conservative, the other entrepreneurial, the book challenges traditional beliefs about money, work and education.
Kiyosaki emphasises financial literacy, asset-building and the importance of making money work for you rather than the reverse. While opinions on its advice vary, its core message about mindset and long-term thinking continues to resonate across generations. Decades after publication, its influence endures as a gateway text for financial independence.
£13.99
Robin Sharma
In The 5 AM Club, Robin Sharma champions early rising as a gateway to productivity, creativity and inner calm. Delivered through a fictional narrative, the book outlines a structured morning routine designed to protect focus and maximise personal growth before the demands of the day take over.
Sharma blends neuroscience, leadership principles and motivational philosophy to argue that consistent early mornings create long-term advantages. While the storytelling approach may divide readers, the underlying message is clear: discipline, intentionality and ownership of time are essential tools for high performance in a distracted world.
£16.99
James Clear
Atomic Habits explores how small, consistent changes can lead to remarkable results over time. James Clear breaks down habit formation into a clear, actionable framework rooted in behavioural science, making complex psychology easy to apply.
Concepts such as habit stacking, the two-minute rule, and environment design are presented with clarity and supported by real-world examples. Rather than focusing on goals, Clear emphasises systems; arguing that identity-based habits create lasting change. Practical, evidence-led and highly readable, this is a definitive guide for anyone seeking sustainable improvement across work, health and relationships.
£18.99
Steven Bartlett
Despite its title, The Diary of a CEO is less about business tactics and more about enduring principles for success and fulfilment. Steven Bartlett draws on insights from his entrepreneurial journey and thousands of podcast interviews to explore themes such as self-belief, discipline, resilience and purpose.
Rooted in psychology and behavioural science, the book examines what consistently underpins excellence across industries and backgrounds. Thoughtful and reflective, it speaks to readers interested in personal growth as much as professional achievement, positioning mindset as the true foundation of long-term success.
£20.00 (hardback)
Vex King
Good Vibes, Good Life blends personal storytelling with spiritual guidance, centred on self-love, mindfulness and emotional healing. Vex King draws on his own experiences of adversity to offer accessible practices for improving mindset and wellbeing.
Topics include meditation, energy, manifestation and re-framing limiting beliefs, all delivered in an encouraging, conversational tone. While firmly rooted in spiritual self-help, the book’s emphasis on compassion, positivity and intentional living has resonated widely. It’s best suited to readers seeking gentle motivation and a more intuitive approach to personal development.
£19.99 (hardback)
Ichiro Kishimi and Fumitake Koga
Presented as a dialogue between a philosopher and a student, The Courage To Be Disliked introduces Adlerian psychology in a clear and engaging way. Its central message; that happiness comes from self-acceptance, personal responsibility, and freedom from people-pleasing, is both challenging and liberating.
The book encourages readers to set boundaries, let go of external validation, and choose their own path. Thought-provoking rather than prescriptive, it invites reflection on how beliefs shape behaviour. Calm, philosophical, and quietly radical, it offers a compelling framework for lasting emotional independence.
£10.99
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Sometimes you need to relax and recharge, and we can think of no better way to do that than with a little spa visit. Here are a handful of our favourite wellness destinations across the Midlands.
Nottinghamshire
Set in the middle of a Center Parcs holiday village in Sherwood Forest, Aqua Sana is the ultimate getaway. This spa makes the most of its surroundings to bring natural bliss to your soul. With 25 immersive spa experiences, wellbeing sessions and a full list of decadent treatments, you should keep this on your spa bucket list!
Leicestershire
Not many spas are set in Victorian buildings, but Ragdale Hall offers more than just a history lesson. With six different pools including a rooftop infinity pool, a thermal spa and a whirlpool, this venue offers wellness on another level. There’s even a volcanic salt bath! They also offer yoga, meditation and fitness. Prepare to feel fantastic!
Derbyshire
Nestled in the woods you’ll find Ringwood Hall Spa, a real get-back-to-nature retreat. There’s a blossom steam room, a herbal sauna and a vitality pool with experience showers and ice fountains. A great choice for couples, it has dual treatment rooms and a private couple’s suite. You can even take your dog for a pamper!
www.ringwoodhallhotel.com/garden-secret-spa
Nottinghamshire
Lots of things make this spa stand out from the rest. It’s the first to offer HaloIR™ breathe and detox spa treatment and it has a StoneBath steam room, one of only three in the country. There’s a SnowStorm shower and herbal laconium too. You’ll also find more traditional luxury treatments and experiences, making this a must-visit spa.
Bedfordshire
For hot and cold treatments, the Y Spa at Wyboston Lakes is incredible. Wam up with a roaring log fire, steam rooms and saunas and then bring your temperature right back down with the frost wall. The hydrotherapy pool is amazing too. Go for a spa day or a whole weekend and enjoy all the relaxing treatments.
Cotswolds
Head south to the Cotswolds and you’ll find this treasure. With Scandinavian influences, you can enjoy a candle-lit hydrotherapy hot tub, a beautifully lit thermal suite and pool and a wonderful range of treatments. With indoor and outdoor experiences, this is a spa that insists on making you feel incredible. But which treatments will you choose?
Worcestershire
Nestled in the historic spa town of Malvern, this is a serene haven for those seeking total relaxation and rejuvenation. The unique indoor-outdoor heated hydrotherapy pool creates an inviting ambience for every season, offering the ultimate setting to unwind. To enhance your experience, they offer a range of spa packages for day visits and overnight stays. Their highly experienced therapists provide deeply relaxing Elemis treatments, ensuring an exceptional journey of tranquillity and renewal.
Birmingham
A modern spa experience in a medieval setting, New Hall Spa caters for one-off treatments, spa days and full-on spa weekends! This spa is less about unique treatments and more about doing the classics well. From facials to massages, you’ll have the most relaxing, effective treatments here. And there’s a lovely quiet pool and sauna and steam room too.
www.handpickedhotels.co.uk/newhall/spa
Warwickshire
Get ready to unwind in luxury. There are saunas, steam rooms and relaxation lounges to help melt away all your worries, plus pools and some gorgeous treatments. The fire and ice experience takes you through a variety of biothermal rooms to enhance your senses. From ice showers and igloos to salt caves and crystal steam rooms, you’ll feel truly alive after your visit.
Walsall
From the hot tub garden to the thermal suite, there’s a lot to enjoy at Fairlawns. Relax with a range of Elemis treatments, including those tailored for two, take a refreshing dip in the pool or get sweaty in the gym. There are tennis courts and yoga sessions too, if that kind of activity takes your fancy.
This is an important day in the global calendar that helps mark the contribution that men and boys make to society, creating positive conversations about men, manhood and masculinity.
This is an important day in the global calendar that helps mark the contribution that men and boys make to society, creating positive conversations about men, manhood and masculinity.
This annual event helps to raise awareness about some of the biggest issues facing men in the world right now, such as the rising rates of male suicide, male health and a lack of positive male role models. The issues may differ depending on the country the men are in, but the importance of improving male wellbeing is the same.
In the past, there have been parliamentary debates, community events and charity fundraisers. Look out for lectures, book launches, student events and comedy nights in your area too – there really is no limit to the ways you can celebrate the day.
Every event is intended to entertain, while highlighting the biggest issues facing men in society today.
Whether you have your own business or you are an individual wanting to mark the occasion, there are lots of ways you can get involved,
If you have your own business, you might arrange to get an influential speaker to talk to your employees about masculine wellbeing or any of the issues facing them in the workplace. You might also like to spread the messages of International Men’s Day via your company social media channels, allowing you to reach more people and showing your support for your customers.
Why not sign up to volunteer for charities like the ManKind Initiative, DadsMatter or Andy’s Man Club? That way you can help to keep the important messages alive long after International Men’s Day is over.
On a more personal level, you might want to send a card or a message to a man you admire or one that you thin needs your support. And if you decide to hold a community event, make sure you get in touch with the team at International Men’s Day UK via their email address: contact@ukmensday.org.uk so they can list it in their event section and help to make it a success.
For more information, head to ukmensday.org.uk
MINDFULNESS FOR THE MODERN MAN
Guys, it’s time to hit the pause button and find that elusive balance in life.
Zenergy Wellness would like to invite you to join our first online Men-ditation™ on 22/10/24 & to our community event “How to be a Happy (Hu)man” at Bayley’s of Bromsgrove for International Men’s Day on 19/11/24. Both events are free to attend, offering practical wellness techniques for the real world and will be hosted by Dave James. Further details below.
For more information about the Men-ditation ™ and the free events we are hosting please contact info@zenergywellness.co.uk or head to the website:
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