2 weeks agoUSA UpdateComments Off on One of the world’s best hotels is in a UK national park with lakeside cabin, woodland cottages and annual festival
THE world’s best hotels have been revealed – and one in the UK has been named.
Lime Wood is a sprawling hotel in a the New Forest National Park, which opened back in 2009 although the building dates back to 1750.
LimewoodhotelLime Wood is a sprawling hotel in a the New Forest National Park[/caption]
LimewoodhotelThe hotel first opened in 2009[/caption]
LimewoodhotelSome of the rooms even have bunk beds for kids[/caption]
They praised the country house hotel for its “utilising its surroundings to put nature, relaxation, and nourishment front and centre”. as well as its quaint rooms and spa.
They wrote: “The real star of the show is the New Forest, the venue for bike rides and guided forages among trees, heathland, and wild horses.
“Here, families, couples and women on girls’ trips take restorative country walks before kicking off their wellies for high-quality meals and spa treatments in lushly vegetated surroundings.
“[For kids,] Lime Wood provides bicycles for all ages for rides in the forest and wellies for walks and foraging expeditions while Hartnett Holder & Co restaurant offers a children’s menu, and the hotel provides cots, baby monitors and a babysitting service if required.”
A number of celebs have been spotted at the hotel over the years.
Noel Gallagher held his wedding to to then-wife Sara back in 2011, while Ewan McGregor was spotted there with his now-wife Mary Elizabeth Winstead.
The hotel, which underwent a huge £30million revamp in 2019, has 33 rooms, including 16 in the main house as well as a lakeside cabin and woodland cottages.
Each one comes with its own stocked pantry and super king-size beds, with some having roll top baths.
Families can choose the forest cabin, tucked away from the house with bunk beds and kitchenettes.
Or the lake cabin is like being on “your own private little island” with it floating over the water.
When it comes to food, the hotel has its Hartnett Holder & Co restaurant, with an Italian-inspired menu including risottos, gnocchi and fresh fish and meat dishes.
The Herb House was named spa of the year 2024 by The Times, with treatments, forest hydropool and even a sauna.
Instagram/limewoodhotelAdults can make the most of the spa[/caption]
LimewoodhotelAll the hotel rooms have king size beds[/caption]
LimewoodhotelThere are woodland and lakeside cabins too[/caption]
And every year it hosts the Smoked & Uncut festival, with food and music.
Celebrating it’s 10th anniversary in 2023, headliners have included Kelis, Sister Sledge and Razorlight, although it was suspended this year to allow for a break.
Its around 1hr30 by London, or 20 minutes from the coast.
2 weeks agoUSA UpdateComments Off on Watch moment brave Netflix reality star dances without her wig amid alopecia battle
DALLAS Cowboys Cheerleader Armani Latimer has shone the spotlight on her battle with alopecia, as she danced at Monday night’s opener against the Bengals.
The dancer proudly walked onto the pitch without her wig this weekInstagram/dccheerleadersInstagram/dccheerleadersThe Dallas Cowboys have been praised for their attitude of inclusivity[/caption]
The show follows ‘America’s Sweethearts,’ who are the National Football League cheerleading squad, for the Dallas Cowboys Team-through the rigorous selection process, to the training camp and then to the NFL season.
Footage of Armani Latimer preparing for the game and then her on pitch performance, was shared on the Dallas Cowboy social media pages and has since gone viral, as the dancer is praised for raising awareness of the hair loss condition.
In the video the 23-year-old is shown getting ready backstage- wearing the team’s trademark blue and white uniform and cowboy boots-with with her fellow cheerleaders, who are putting on a show of support.
One of them said, “You’ve got this.”
Another of the girls said: “We’re so proud that you’re doing this and you’re representing a lot of little girls out there.”
Meanwhile a number of fans praised her decision to bring visibility to the condition.
One person said: “For a team that very much values a specific look, I find this to be so refreshing, beautiful and inclusive. That gorgeous smile speaks louder than any hair ever could.”
Another person said: “This will never NOT bring me to tears!! You are incredibly beautiful, brave, and an inspiration to everyone around you! I’m so proud of you and all that you are! @ac_latimer YOU are the definition of America’s Sweetheart.”
And one of her team mates, Reece Christinee said: “It is truly one of the greatest honours to be your team mate.”
The dancer who was diagnosed with the autoimmune condition when she was 12 years old, opened up in an interview to Woman’s Health magazine.
She said: “When I was 11 years old—my mother unraveled my braid and noticed something shocking: a bald spot.”
“She was concerned that it had happened during the braiding process, but she also knew my father had struggled with hair loss, so she took me to see a dermatologist.”
“At age 12, I was officially diagnosed me with alopecia areata, a condition that causes my immune system to attack my hair follicles, resulting in occasional bald spots that seemed to become bigger with stress.”
The cheerleader told how throughout high school, she took great pains to hide her affliction, she said:
““I went through high school without telling anyone I even had alopecia. But once I got to college, stress caused more hair loss; loss that took much longer to grow back.”
The performer confesed that having the condition was “hard to navigate.” In her early cheer leading days, she’d wear sew in weaves, but then her hair completely fell out, so she was forced to switch to wigs.”
She admitted that her total hair loss, took a toll on her mental health and affected her performance.
“It was such a tumultuous time that I was only able to give about 50 percent of my effort. Some people picked up on the fact that I was more withdrawn and not my bubbly self, and having teammates that I could sit and cry with about what I was going through was healing.”
But Armani praised her teammates for their unwavering support.
She said: “Overall, my team and my family helped me maintain a positive mindset. I wouldn’t be anywhere without my support system.”
The star spoke out as part of the Dallas Cowboys: My Cause my boots campaign, which encourages cheerleaders to raise awareness of charity’s and causes that need greater visibility.
The docu-series has a been a runaway success for Netflix after it premiered last June, spending four weeks in the streaming giants top the English language series.
Now a second season has been commissioned, which will follow the squad through the 2024 to 2025 campaign, amid the trials and tribulations of the football team, the Dallas Cowboys.
Inside the hairloss condition, alopecia
Alopecia is a major cause of hair loss for women and men. There are different alopecia types which can cause anything from hair thinning to total hair loss.
Most people know alopecia to be a form of hair loss. However, what they don’t always know is that there are three main types of the condition – alopecia areata, alopecia totalis and alopecia universalis.
Alopecia areata is a common cause of non-scarring (does not cause scarring to the scalp) hair loss that can occur at any age. It usually causes small, coin-sized, round patches of baldness on the scalp, although hair elsewhere such as the beard, eyebrows, eyelashes, body and limbs can be affected. In some people larger areas are affected and occasionally it can involve the whole scalp (alopecia totalis) or even the entire body and scalp (alopecia universalis).
It is not possible to predict how much hair will be lost. Regrowth of hair in typical alopecia areata is usual over a period of months or sometimes years, but cannot be guaranteed. The chances of the hair regrowing are better if less hair is lost at the beginning. Most people, with only a few small patches get full regrowth within a year. If more than half the hair is lost then the chances of a full recovery are not good.
The hair sometimes regrows white, at least in the first instance. Most people get further attacks of alopecia areata. In alopecia totalis and alopecia universalis, the likelihood of total regrowth is less.
Instagram/dccheerleadersThis month the NFL are encouraging players and cheerleaders to speak openly about causes close to their hearts[/caption]
Instagram/ac_latimerA selection of some of the girls from this years squad, Armani praised her team members for their support[/caption]
GettyArmani Latimer as she would have been previously, dancing in her wig[/caption]
2 weeks agoUSA UpdateComments Off on How to hit 10,000 steps a day and lose weight WITHOUT leaving the house this Christmas
FOR years we’ve been used to the idea that walking 10,000 steps a day will help us stay fit and healthy.
But while the sunshine and long days of summer make it easy to stomp the pavements, the weather outside right now is truly frightful.
GettyLosing weight in winter can be difficult, but experts say there are some simple ways to make it easier[/caption]
The cold, dark and wet winter days mean many of us struggle to get out for daily walks.
The bad news? The blustery conditions aren’t going anywhere.
The good news? There is an easy solution to achieve those all-important steps and keep the weight off this Christmas.
Indoor walking workouts are the new big trend in fitness.
And with nearly a million videos to try on YouTube, thousands of examples on Instagram and TikTok, plus fitness apps offering fun, easy-to-follow indoor challenges, there is quite literally something for anyone who wants to get their steps in without having to put on 1,000 layers.
Not convinced that walking a few steps in your living room is going to transform your winter fitness?
There has been an influx of scientific research over the past few years proving the power of daily steps.
A study published in the British Journal of Sport Medicine in November found that increasing physical activity – for example, taking daily walks – can extend how long people live by up to 11 years.
The same journal also published that just 11 minutes of walking significantly reduces your risk of premature death and your chances of developing heart disease, some cancers and other diseases.
Not only that, but there is a wealth of evidence to show that daily walking can significantly improve your mood, strengthen your muscles and bones, reduce stress, improve concentration, burn fat and boost your cardiovascular system.
OK, now you’re listening.
But how do you get these daily steps in when Storm Darragh is blowing away outside?
Here are three ways to walk your way to winter wellness and weight loss.
1. Indoor walking challenges
GettyTry searching ‘indoor walking challenge’ on YouTube[/caption]
We’ve probably all tried home workouts, throwing ourselves around our living rooms, sweat covering the TV, and carpet burns on our knees from burpees.
But what if home workouts didn’t have to mean crazy HIIT sessions and beetroot-red faces?
Searches for “indoor walking challenge” are currently up 200 per cent on Google searches.
Why? Because they offer the everyday person the perfect solution to consistent fitness – without exhaustion and without going outside.
Jason Kashoumeri, walking workout expert and trainer for fitness app RWL, says: “There is no question that indoor walking challenges are attracting thousands of followers because of their unreal list of benefits.
“But the real reason they are becoming so huge is that they are totally unintimidating.
“Most people can walk; most people do it every day.
“So the fact that people already know they are capable and they can do it without leaving the house means it’s immediately interesting and doable.”
Winter can be a testing time for many, but this offers an escape from daily lives, allowing people to focus on self-improvement
Mark HarrisCoach
So what does an indoor walking workout look like?
“Walking workouts are basically a follow-along class that you can do anywhere,” explains Jason, who’s ‘walk to the beat’ challenge has attracted thousands of followers.
“Most have music to make it more fun, and you essentially march on the spot then add in extra movements like side steps, arm movements and choreography to make it fun and interesting.
“It’s a bit like a step party in your front room.”
YouTube is home to many different versions to try, with the likes of GrowWithJo amassing a huge female following of her walking workouts and the UK’s Lucy Wyndham-Read gaining 2.5million subscribers to her walking home workouts.
The easy cleaning tweaks that can help you burn 500 calories with little extra effort
FITTING in both a workout and cleaning the house isn't always possible, or very desirable. But there are ways to get both jobs done at the same time.
Scientists refer to exercise like this as NEAT, which stands for non-exercise activity thermogenesis.
Chasing your kids around the playground or taking the stairs instead of the lift are ways you could already be incorporating this form of movement in your day-to-day life.
Tidying your home can be a very effective NEAT session – if done right.
Personal trainer Stephanie Thomas, from Maryland, US, explains why a top-to-bottom house clean can be so demanding on the body.
Everything from changing the bedsheets to scrubbing the toilet bowl burns calories and works muscles.
And you can ramp these things up by adding lunges and squats.
But even without doing this, when doing the following chores you can expect to burn:
Dusting – 80 calories
Cleaning the bathroom – 125 calories
Cleaning the kitchen – 165 calories
Doing laundry – 100 calories
Mopping the floor – 80 calories
2. Walking pads
GettyYou can install a walking pad under your desk for easy daily steps[/caption]
Winter hits and it’s freezing, dark and raining, and suddenly it feels near impossible to get those steps in.
So you head to the gym… where the treadmills are packed and memberships are expensive enough to bankrupt you.
But wait, there is a new kid on the block and it’s about to solve your step conundrum.
Walking pads – like treadmills but without the bulk.
Google searches for the products have increased 170 per cent in recent months, and it’s easy to see why.
They can be stored under your sofa or desk and are way cheaper than buying a full-on treadmill because they don’t cater for runners (they are designed for walking, and walking only).
You can buy an under-desk walking pad for as little as £119.99 from Debenhams or £139.999 from HomeFitnessCode, whereas treadmills can cost thousands of pounds.
What are the benefits of indoor walking workouts?
They are cheap. Unlike gym classes, indoor walking workouts are a fraction of the cost – or free.
They are convenient. No need to leave the house, change into your gym kit or fit into a class schedule – all walking workouts can be done from the comfort of your own home.
They are time effective. From 15 to 30 minutes, indoor walking workouts use your time effectively to help you up those daily steps.
They are for all abilities. From beginner to intermediate, you can go slow or fast to suit your needs.
They are low-impact. Unlike running or HIIT workouts, walking takes the high impact movements out of your workouts and is kinder on the joints.
They boost cardiovascular health and fitness.
They help achieve weight loss, thanks to the calories you burn while moving.
They improve sleep at night and concentration during the day.
They improve your mood, reduce depression and seasonal affective disorder (SAD), and reduce stress.
They build strength and tone your muscles.
They are pregnancy and postnatal friendly, so you can enjoy the benefits on your motherhood journey.
Pads are designed for walking and walking only and people are going wild for them.
The idea? Whenever you have a few minutes, you jump on, and start walking.
Got a meeting to join on Zoom? Why not walk for the duration?
Putting on your favourite Netflix show? Set up your walking treadmill and get your steps in while you watch.
Need to listen to your best pal’s 25-minute voice note about her recent breakup? Jump on the walking pad and listen while you step.
Mark Harris, coach and fitness expert at home equipment store Mirafit, says: “Aside from the various physical health benefits, it’s safe to say indoor walking can do wonders for people’s mental health too.
“Winter can be a testing time for many, but this offers an escape from daily lives, allowing people to focus on self-improvement.
“It’s the perfect trend for winter, with people able to take part from the comfort and warmth of their home.
“But it can also help maintain motivation, prevent weight gain and be an accessible workout for all ages and abilities.”
3. Kitchen discos
GettyKitchen discos are a great way to get steps in without going outside[/caption]
Remember the days when you’d go out clubbing all night, dancing your way across various dance floors, not stopping to think about all the exercise you were doing as you did it?
When the winter months creep in and we all favour a night in front of the telly than one out on the town, a little boogie to some of your favourite songs could be the answer to your fitness fatigue.
The idea? When it’s cold outside and you can’t face a Joe Wicks workout full of squat jumps and high knees, you simply pick your favourite floor-fillers, crank up the volume and dance like no one is watching.
Walking workouts are perfect for people who just want to fit in some exercise to improve their health and prevent weight gain
Jason KashoumeriTrainer
Trainer Jason says: “Unlike walking workouts where you follow along with an instructor, kitchen discos are about just letting go, moving your body and getting steps in as a result.
“Everyone underestimates the power of music as a motivator to move.
“I guarantee that if you put on your favourite tunes you will be burning more calories than you could imagine as you throw those shapes.”
As well as dancing solo, many fans of kitchen discos join forces with friends and set up ‘Friday night disco Zooms’ – all logging on together and picking songs to dance along to while streaming to one another’s laptops.
“Dancing around your kitchen might not replace HIIT or strength training for achieving certain fitness goals, but for most people who just want to fit in some exercise to improve their health and prevent weight gain, they are perfect,” Jason says.
“You will get all the physical and mental benefits of exercise while enjoying burning calories. What more could you want?”
How to lose weight safely
Losing weight should be a long-term commitment to healthier living, rather than any drastic measures.
The NHS tips – which can be adopted slowly – include:
Get active for 150 minutes a week – you can break this up into shorter sessions
Aim to get your 5 A Day – 80g of fresh, canned or frozen fruit or vegetables count as 1 portion
Aim to lose 1 to 2lbs, or 0.5 to 1kg, a week
Read food labels – products with more green colour coding than amber and red are often a healthier option
Swap sugary drinks for water – if you do not like the taste, add slices of lemon or lime for flavour
Cut down on food that’s high in sugar and fat – start by swapping sugary cereal for wholegrain alternatives
Share your weight loss plan with someone you trust – they can help motivate you when you have a bad day
2 weeks agoUSA UpdateComments Off on Who is Mark Webster and why is the Welsh former professional darts player & Sky Sports commentator known as The Spider?
MARK Webster is a former darts world champion who has taken to the mike as a commentator during his lengthy break from playing professionally.
Here we take a look at his life and careers as both player and pundit — and the meaning behind his creepy-crawly nickname “The Spider”.
PA:Press AssociationMark Webster competed as a professional darts player in both the BDO and PDC[/caption]
RexSince taking a break from the pro circuit in 2020, he has worked as a commentator[/caption]
He is a former professional darts player who currently works as a commentator and pundit.
Mark has enjoyed a successful career playing in both the British Darts Organisation (BDO) and the Professional Darts Corporation (PDC).
In October 2022, he told Monarch Water — a company he represents as a brand ambassador — that he started playing darts at a relatively late age for a pro.
Leaving uni to play darts
His career began at the age of 18, when he started entering competitions while studying business administration at the University of Liverpool — but his success led him to leave the course in 2004.
He said: “I remember going to South Wales with my dad to darts competitions and receiving £700 prize money.
“When I started playing in tournaments abroad for ranking points, the prize money was considerably more.
“I broke into the top-level darts scene in 2006 when I won the European Cup.”
Learning a trade
Even though he was earning good money at the oche, Mark still wanted to learn a trade, so followed friends of his into the plumbing and heating industry.
He explained: “Tony Kelly, a one-man-band operation, took me on and organised my apprenticeship with Llandrillo College, where I studied one day a week for four years and gained my level two and three gas certificates.”
“Tony was a fantastic boss. He got me a job with a bigger company called GGS Heating and even managed to get me sponsorship to play darts.
“GGS gave me the freedom to have time off whenever I needed to play darts or even practice, which was a great help.”
At first I was a little bitter that I couldn’t play, but now I love it, being able to be with friends and watch the sport
Mark WebsterMonarch Water
After breaking into the elite world top 16 players in 2011, Mark was selected to play in that year’s Premier League, leading him to reduce his plumbing commitments.
He said: “I was making decent money from playing darts, so I decided to leave GGS and focus on the game.
“Since then I have been working part-time as a plumber, which fits in around playing darts.
“After I had won the World Darts Championship, my first plumbing job when I got back was at a school.
“They wanted me to come in and meet the children and take photos, so I ended up plumbing and making a personal appearance.”
Steve Welsh - The Sun GlasgowMark left uni to play darts, before then learning a trade as a plumber[/caption]
Darts record
Mark’s career really took off in 2006, winning the WDF Europe Cup and reaching the semi-finals of the Winmau World Masters.
This victory made him the third Welshman to win a World Championship in either organisation.
In 2009, Mark made the switch to the PDC, where he continued to compete at a high level.
He made an impressive run in the 2011 PDC World Darts Championship, reaching his second successive semi-final.
Mark achieved the remarkable feat of defeating the then 15-time — he went on to win one more — and defending world champion Phil Taylor in the quarter-finals, winning five sets to two.
In the semi-finals, he faced Adrian Lewis, ultimately losing 6-4 and continuing a trend of players who beat The Power going on to lose their next match.
RexMark commentates for broadcasters including ITV and Sky Sports[/caption]
The performance not only earned Mark £50,000, it also propelled him into the top 16 of the PDC rankings for the first time.
Commentary career
After announcing he was taking a break from from professional darts in January 2020, Mark seamlessly transitioned into a career as an analyst and commentator.
Working for broadcasters including Sky Sports and ITV, he provides expert insights and commentary at major darts events.
Mark is known for providing balanced and thoughtful analysis, often weighing in on player performances and tournament predictions.
He said: “I really enjoy commentating as it keeps me involved in the sport and I see some great talent coming through.
“At first I was a little bitter that I couldn’t play, but now I love it, being able to be with friends and watch the sport.”
He added: “However, I hope to be playing very soon.”
‘The Spider’
While there hasn’t been anything reported concretely confirming why Mark is known as “The Spider”, his other nickname ‘Webby” may provide a clue.
His surname is Webster, i.e. Webby, i.e The Spider.
I’ve entered several races over the years, from 5km runs to half marathons.
But hands down my favourite one is the London 10k.
It goes right through the centre of the capital, taking in all of the major sights.
And because the roads are closed, it’s one of the only chances you’ll get to run through the city without having to worry about cars, buses and cyclists!
More than 17,000 people took part in 2024, and the atmosphere was amazing.
There are choirs, drummers, DJs and dancers along the course, and so many spectators turn out to support their friends and family.
It’s also in July, so you should get decent weather!
MAY
Hackney Half Marathon
AlamyRunners in the Hackney Half Marathon in London[/caption]
After a similar atmosphere up north? Give the Great Manchester Run a go.
“Offering both a 10km and a half marathon, it’s party vibes from start to finish, with a high-energy soundtrack, live music and entertainment zones at every turn,” the organisers say.
Edinburgh Marathon
AlamyEdinburgh Marathon runners heading down the Royal Mile towards Holyrood[/caption]
The Edinburgh Marathon starts by the university and passes many of the city’s iconic sights, including Greyfriars Kirkyard, the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle.
With a descent of almost 90 metres to near sea level, this flat course is up there with one of the fastest marathon routes in the world.
JUNE
Jungle Ultra
Jungle UltraThe 230km Jungle Ultra is one of the toughest races in the world[/caption]
If you’ve always wanted to go on safari and enter a marathon, why not combine the two?
You can complete a 21km or 42km distance through the South African Savannah – the habitat of the famous Big Five: elephant, rhino, buffalo, lion and leopard.
JULY
Love Trails Festival
Love TrailsLove Trails is a four-day festival that combines music and running[/caption]
Another boozy offering is the Prosecco Run in Dorking, Surrey.
In short, you run as far as you can around Denbies Wine Estate within a seven-hour time limit – then enjoy a glass of prosecco (or three) at the finish line.
We tested 10 of the best running trainers
By Alice Fuller and Lucy Gornall
KEEN to get out and complete your first 5km run?
Whether you’re a seasoned walker, following the NHS‘s Couch to 5km or eager to try parkrun, you’ll need a good pair of trainers.
We love running, and between us, we’ve tried endless pairs in a bid to suss out the best on the market.
It can be a bit of a minefield trying to work out which ones are most suitable for you, so we’ve put together a list of our winners and losers.
It’s important to remember that everyone is different, and getting your running style (or gait) analysed in a specialist shop is always a good idea.
But if you want a bit more guidance before you head to your nearest store, here are our ratings for 10 of the most popular styles.
The world’s biggest half marathon returns to the North East on September 7, 2025.
More 65,000 people are due to take on the famous 13.1-mile course from Newcastle to South Shields.
Renowned for its incredible atmosphere and roaring crowd support, which also boasts a world class elite race, the Great North Run raises millions of pounds for charity each year and is televised live on the BBC.
Loch Ness Marathon
AlamyThe Baxters Loch Ness Marathon in Inverness[/caption]
There aren’t as many running events in December, particularly in the UK.
But if you’re after a shorter, “totally flat” event in the winter, look no further than Chase the Moon in London’s Battersea Park.
“Starting and finishing at the park’s bandstand, this course laps the park making it easy to follow and great for any spectators to catch you flying around the course,” the organisers say.
2 weeks agoUSA UpdateComments Off on Grand National-winning jockey suffers serious injuries after his car was hit by falling tree during Storm Darragh
DUAL Grand National winning jockey Leighton Aspell had a lucky escape after a falling tree hit his car during Storm Darragh.
The Irishman suffered several nasty injuries, including a broken arm and internal bleeding, in the terrifying ordeal last Saturday.
PA:Press AssociationLeighton Aspell rode Many Clouds to win the Grand National in 2015[/caption]
Getty Images - GettyThe jockey was injured when a falling tree hit his car during Storm Darragh[/caption]
Aspell, 48, was discharged late last week and is now recovering at home in Ireland with his family after the terrifying ordeal.
His former boss Oliver Sherwood, who is himself now in New Zealand, has been in touch with his old pal and reported he was in good spirits.
Sherwood said: “Thankfully he is back home now and doing fine.
“He has a broken arm and some internal bleeding but it could have been much worse.”
Aspell, who won the Grand National in back-to-back years on Pineau De Re and Sherwood’s fan favourite Many Clouds, retired in February 2020 after a long and successful career.
He had initially hung up his boots in 2007 but returned to the saddle two years later and went on to win the world’s most famous jumps race in successive seasons in 2014 and 2015.
He moved back to Ireland in 2021 with his wife, Nicola, and three daughters.
Two people were killed by falling trees when Storm Darragh wreaked havoc in Britain and Ireland last weekend.
Aintree were forced to abandon their big Becher Chase meeting as the course was battered by high winds and torrential rain.
2 weeks agoUSA UpdateComments Off on Only the top 1% of geniuses can find the hidden dog in this rocky optical illusion in just five seconds – can you?
WANT to put your mind to the test? This tricky optical illusion might just leave you scratching your head.
There are plenty of different types of optical illusions and brain teasers out there, some force us to see things from a new perspective and others are like a workout for your brain.
Jargon JoshCan you spot the hidden dog in this rocky illusion?[/caption]
To solve this optical illusion all you have to do is find the hidden dog in the image – but be warned, it’s not as easy as it might look.
The illustration, shared by Jargon Josh, shows a rocky landscape and some old tree stumps in the background, and it might look like there’s no dog to be seen at first glance.
The puzzle is so tricky few can solve it in under five seconds.
So, click play on the video above to start the timer and see if you’re the true champion.
Brain teaser are more than just a fun challenge – they’re great for your mind too.
They help keep your brain sharp by encouraging critical thinking and problem-solving, which boosts cognitive function.
They’re also a great way to improve memory, both short-term and long-term, as you work on remembering and processing information.
Regularly tackling these puzzles can also improve your concentration and mental agility, keeping your brain active and engaged.
Plus, they can help delay cognitive decline as we age, making them a great way to look after your mental health.
With Christmas just around the corner, brain teasers are also perfect for sharpening your attention to detail – just in time for all those thoughtful gift ideas.
How can optical illusions and brainteasers help me?
Engaging in activities like solving optical illusions and brainteasers can have many cognitive benefits as it can stimulate various brain regions.
Some benefits include:
Cognitive stimulation: Engaging in these activities challenges the brain, promoting mental agility and flexibility.
Problem-solving skills: Regular practice enhances analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
Memory improvement: These challenges often require memory recall and can contribute to better memory function.
Creativity: They encourage thinking outside the box, fostering creativity and innovative thought processes.
Focus and attention: Working on optical illusions and brainteasers requires concentration, contributing to improved focus.
Stress relief: The enjoyable nature of these puzzles can act as a form of relaxation and stress relief.
Feeling stumped? Scroll down to see the answer below.
ANSWERS
The hidden dog can be found towards the right of the image.
The pooch is especially hard to find since he’s made up from the same rocks which form the rest of the sorroundings.
Why not challenge your friends and family to see who the true winner is.
Jargon JoshHow long did it take you to spot the hidden pooch?[/caption]
2 weeks agoUSA UpdateComments Off on Alan Halsall reunites with Corrie co-star as he reveals his Christmas decorations following I’m A Celebrity stint
I’M A CELEBRITY’S Alan Halsall enjoyed a happy reunion with a Corrie co-star after landing back on home turf following his jungle stint.
The actor, 42, who plays mechanic Tyrone Dobbs in the long-running ITV soap, gave a glimpse of his stunning Christmas decorations too as he welcomed Andy Whyment, 43, into his plush pad.
InstagramI’m A Celeb star Alan Halsall has reunited with his Corrie colleague Andy Whyment following his time Down Under[/caption]
RexThe duo star together on the long-running ITV soap[/caption]
RexAlan was seventh to be booted out of the Aussie jungle this year[/caption]
Andy – known as Corrie‘s Kirk Sutherland – is also no stranger to the I’m A Celeb camp in Australia after having starred in the 2019 series.
He popped round to his ITV co-star’s pad for a natter and a selfie in front of his huge Christmas tree.
The fir is adorned with gold baubles, red poinsettia, stylish tinsel and even an Elf On The Shelf perched on the branches.
Clearly eager for cosy catch up, Andy popped over in a black hoodie and jeans while Alan donned a matching grey tracksuit and bright white trainers.
Alan re-posted Andy’s picture to his Instagram Stories with the words: “Big brother came to see me,” and a red Emoji love heart.
Meanwhile, Andy added the caption: “Reunited with @alanhalsall.”
One fan was quick to joke underneath his grid post: “You should have both been in your jungle outfits ha!”
A second put: “Aw well done Al. You done a great job xxx” as a third then gushed: “Love your friendship.”
One added: “The boys back home, Andy’s happy congratulations Alan great job.”
Alan was seventh to leave the ITV reality series this year.
Here's every star who has been crowned King or Queen of the Jungle to date:
2024: Danny Jones, McFly star
2023: Sam Thompson, Made in Chelsea star
2022: Jill Scott, England footballer
2021: Danny Miller, Emmerdale star
2020: Giovanna Fletcher, actress and podcaster
2019: Jacqueline Jossa, EastEnders star
2018: Harry Redknapp, England legend
2017: Georgia Toffolo, Made In Chelsea star
2016: Scarlett Moffatt, Gogglebox star
2015: Vicky Pattison, Geordie Shore star
2014: Carl Fogarty, famed racer
2013: Kian Egan, Westlife star
2012: Charlie Brooks, EastEnders actor
2011: Dougie Poynter, McFly star
2010: Stacey Solomon, X Factor star now TV personality
2009: Gino D’ACampo, TV Chef
2008: Joe Swash, TV personality
2007: Christopher Biggins, actor
2006: Matt Willis, Busted star
2005: Carol Thatcher, author and broadcaster
2004 (second series): Joe Pasquale, comedian
2004: Kerry Katona, Atomic Kitten star and reality star
2003: Phil Tufnell, England Cricketer
2002: Tony Blackburn, Radio DJ
There was also an All Star series in South Africa in 2023, which was won by Myleene Klass.
The Manchester-based actor – all too familiar with the trials and tribulations of the Aussie outback – gushed over “great man” Alan after he locked horns with the BBC Radio 1, 32.
The misunderstanding centred on Alan waking up Dean to ask him to help with a task.
Alan – who was camp leader at the time – needed Dean to help Jane Moore with the firewood, unable to do it himself due to the rules laid out by the show, which also prevented Jane from going alone.
However, Dean wasn’t impressed at being woken up, and appeared disorientated before Alan gently said: “You don’t fancy it? No?”
While Dean did eventually rise and go and help Jane, he found Alan already making a start to help her.
Alan explained he was trying to wake Dean up as softly as he could, Dean abruptly told him:“Listen to me. If you’re gonna wake me up, you need to give me a minute, alright?
“It takes a couple of minutes for my contact lenses to get back working again, alright, so you don’t need to turn around to me and say ‘do you not fancy it?’ ok? And then turn around and walk away.”
Andy – a long time pal of Alan – praised his “fantastic” attitude to the spat.
He spoke directly from Corrie’s Rovers Return set and said to anchor Lorraine Kelly: “It was the fact that when Alan was on the floor Dean’s basically on top of him, hand on his shoulder, pointing in his face saying ‘no you listen to me.’
“The reason that got me is when he was in the Bush Telegraph and said ‘I was asleep with wee Tyrone from Coronation Street standing over me.
“I just thought that was a bit disrespectful – I mean Alan’s a 42-year-old man – the way Dean was speaking to him was like he was speaking to him like a child.
“I just thought it was a bit disrespectful.”
RexManchester lad Alan was a fan-favourite in this year’s jungle instalment[/caption]
instagramAndy stuck up for his pal as he spoke out on Alan’s feud with campmate Dean[/caption]
Alan is best-known for playing Corrie mechanic Tyrone Dobbs
2 weeks agoUSA UpdateComments Off on Bill Belichick ‘inquired about job’ with Patriots rival before making shock decision to join UNC in $50m deal
BILL BELICHICK reportedly inquired about the head coach role at the New York Jets.
The Jets had been without a head coach since Robert Saleh was fired on October 7.
GettyBill Belichick reportedly inquired over the head coach role at the New York Jets[/caption]
GettyRobert Saleh was fired by the team in October[/caption]
Jeff Ulbrich has been in interim charge since the axing of Saleh.
Belichick, 72, previously coached at the team between 1997 and 1999 before leaving for the New England Patriots in 2000.
He went on to enjoy great success at the side until he left in 2023 with six Super Bowl rings.
After his departure from the Jets, he did not hold back on his critical view of the team, meaning it was never likely he would return.
It is believed that he left the Jets because he did not want to work under owner Woody Johnson.
He sued to get out of his contract at the Jets which paved the way for him to join the Patriots.
However, reports have emerged that he made a personal inquiry over there vacant role.
The Athletic have added that despite the inquiry, there were “no formal discussions”.
A source close to Belichick is said to have “serious doubt” over the interest from him and whether or not it was actually “genuine”.
The move sees him make his first step into college football in his career.
A statement from the University of North Carolina read: “Eight-time Super Bowl champion Bill Belichick, architect of one of the greatest sports dynasties of all time and renowned as one of the top leaders ever to coach the game, is the University of North Carolina’s new head football coach.
“Belichick, the second-winningest coach in NFL history, agreed to a five-year deal pending approval by the University’s Board of Trustees and Board of Governors.”
Former NFL general manager Michael Lombardi will join Belichick as part of his coaching team.
The duo worked together with the Patriots and now both appear on The Pat McAfee show.
Lombardi also hosts The GM Shuffle podcast and The Lombardi Line on VSiN, a TV streaming channel.
This record sees them currently top the NFC South.
Bowles’ team is set to be boosted by two returns from injury.
ESPN insider Adam Schefter wrote on social media, “Buccaneers RB Bucky Irving, listed as questionable for Sunday due to back and hip injuries, is expected to play vs. the Chargers, per source.”
He then went on to add further good news.
“Buccaneers WR Sterling Shepard, listed as questionable for Sunday due to a foot injury, is expected to play vs. the Chargers, per source,” Schefter added.
