{"id":26731,"date":"2019-01-01T19:20:41","date_gmt":"2019-01-01T19:20:41","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/intouchrugby.com\/connacht\/?p=26731"},"modified":"2019-01-06T19:21:38","modified_gmt":"2019-01-06T19:21:38","slug":"feature-part-2-looking-back-on-what-was-a-lovely-spring-summer-and-giving-thanks-for-that-and-the-amazing-companies-and-services-who-contribute-so-much-to-human-progress-and-happiness","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/intouchrugby.com\/connacht\/feature-part-2-looking-back-on-what-was-a-lovely-spring-summer-and-giving-thanks-for-that-and-the-amazing-companies-and-services-who-contribute-so-much-to-human-progress-and-happiness\/","title":{"rendered":"Feature Part 2! Looking Back On what Was a Lovely Spring & Summer and giving thanks for that and the amazing companies and services who contribute so much to human progress and happiness!"},"content":{"rendered":"

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HICKIES! www.hickies.com<\/a>. Never tie laces!<\/h3>\n

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TWITTER<\/a> | FACEBOOK<\/a> | INSTAGRAM<\/a> | PINTEREST<\/a><\/p>\n

HICKIES are a shoelace replacement system that turns any pair of shoes into a tailor-fitted slip on, perfect for any run, workout or day on the move.<\/p>\n

Install it once and never tie your sneakers again.<\/p>\n

It is the perfect gift under $20, unexpected, useful, and fun. Make his sneakers look, feel and fit better.<\/p>\n

Welcome to the new era of shoelaces.<\/p>\n

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MERIDIAN GOES NUTS ABOUT SUPERFOODS WITH NEW PEANUT BUTTER & BAOBAB<\/h3>\n

www.meridianfoods.co.uk<\/a><\/h3>\n

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PINTEREST<\/a> | YOUTUBE<\/a> | TWITTER<\/a> | FACEBOOK<\/a> | INSTAGRAM<\/a><\/p>\n

Meridian Foods, leading producers of delicious nut butters and nut bars, have added an innovative new product offering to their current range by launching a new special edition Superfoods recipe \u2013 Peanut Butter & Baobab.<\/p>\n

As Britain continues to place a greater emphasis on health and wellbeing, consumers are increasingly looking for new and exciting, yet nutritious foods that are packed full of natural benefits and will help them to achieve their health, wellness & fitness goals. By combining three popular ingredients \u2013 peanuts, baobab and coconut oil, Meridian has developed an innovative new superfood nut butter.<\/p>\n

The new Peanut Butter & Baobab is available in a 170g jar (RRP \u00a32.49) and combines Meridian\u2019s popular peanut butter with the unique citrussy and sweet flavour of African Superfood baobab to create a deliciously creamy yet zesty nut butter with a smooth texture. It\u2019s perfect for adding into smoothies, shakes, cakes & bakes, generously stirred into porridge & ice cream, or just simply on spread on toast and crumpets.<\/p>\n

Baobab is a unique African \u2018superfruit\u2019 derived from trees mainly native to Africa and Madagascar and is harvested by hand by collecting the pods from the trees or off the ground.<\/p>\n

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It is classified as a Superfood and offers a range of health benefits to consumers, with six times more Vitamin C than oranges, twice the amount of calcium than milk and extremely high antioxidant levels \u2013 more than double those of its nearest competitor, the A\u00e7ai berry!<\/p>\n

The accompanying Peanut & Baobab bar (RRP \u00a31.19) is the ninth addition to Meridian\u2019s popular nut bar range. The 40g bar is made using Meridian\u2019s very own peanut butter, containing 6g of protein per bar and offering a tasty and convenient way for consumers to snack healthily on-the-go. By turning their nut butters into a snack format, Meridian are enabling consumers to enjoy nuts more and more in their daily lives, particularly in a delicious portable format.<\/p>\n

Sue McIntosh, Head of Marketing at Meridian Foods, said: \u201cShoppers are increasingly looking for new and exciting foods that are both delicious and contribute nutritional benefits, but with convenience at the forefront to fit in around our busy lives. With just three ingredients, our new Peanut & Baobab Nut Butter provides a great tasting healthy snack immediately to help those on a busy schedule.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cPeanuts already provide a rich source of protein, vitamins and minerals, however the addition of Baobab as a superfood is something unique to the nut butter category. The superfood trend shows no sign of going away with demand and production of superfood products soaring in recent years* and we hope people will be looking forward to trying something new!\u201d<\/p>\n

Meridian\u2019s new Peanut & Baobab Range will be available to buy online at www.meridianfoods.co.uk<\/a> and from selected independent health food stores from June onwards.<\/p>\n

Visit www.meridianfoods.co.uk<\/a> for a selection of delicious recipe ideas using the new Peanut & Baobab Butter and to buy the full range online.<\/p>\n

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💡Searching for that perfect pendant or wonderful wall light for your room or space?<\/h3>\n

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Now you can create the light you’ve been looking for with the Made For You lighting service from Yorkshire-based lighting company, Urban Cottage Industries – the first and only next day bespoke lighting service.<\/p>\n

Simply ‘Pick ‘n ‘Mix your shade, bulb, cable and fittings using the easy to use online configurator. Your perfect light will then be made up and tested in their factory, and with you the next working day! 💡<\/p>\n

Prices start at \u00a322.57 for a Simple Plug In Light<\/p>\n

FREE Next Day Delivery<\/p>\n

www.urbancottageindustries.com<\/p>\n

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“I have used this substance so many times, it is very stable and in its resealable package with the option to buy different bag sizes, is important because i, depending on what is happening may decide to consume more or less of the product, as i balance my lifestyle demands, and push through my performance goals, within my family and within my commercial enterprises!<\/p>\n

Knowing that it comes from Indigo Herbs who are Glastonbury based means that I am buying from a company from the location of the sacred sites but who have a proven and consistent track record of producing extremely reliable high quality products!<\/p>\n

Please act responsibly and browse the very wide range of products available from Indigo in this sector and in so many other sectors, their ranges of Vegan and nutritional products cover so many needs of clients and they are constantly improving their existing products and their research and development team are always widening that range of products to cover more and more needs of customers! 10\/10! Super company with a great range of products!”<\/p>\n

InTouch Rugby Lifestyle and Biology Editor.<\/p>\n

www.indigo-herbs.co.uk<\/a><\/h3>\n

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FACEBOOK<\/a> | TWITTER<\/a> | INSTAGRAM<\/a> | GOOGLE+<\/a>\u00a0| PINTEREST<\/a>\u00a0| LINKEDIN<\/a><\/p>\n

Organic Vegan Protein Powder (Super Protein)
\n4.8 stars 15 verified reviews
\nCertified Organic
\n65% overall protein content
\nHigh in the Leucine amino acid, B Vitamins and Magnesium
\nGives high endurance with an abundant energy release
\nFantastic source of Vegan protein
\nGreat for Athletes and Body Builders
\nResealable air tight, foil pouch
\n100% pure botanical ingredients, absolutely nothing added<\/p>\n

Vegan Protein Powder – Organic Vegan Protein Powder (Super Protein) from Indigo Herbs is a natural Organic Vegan Protein Powder that is a combination of Pea proteins, Pumpkin seed proteins, Rice protein, Hemp protein and Chia Seed protein. Vegan Protein Powder meets all requirements for athletes and bodybuilders wishing to build muscle and take advantage of long sustained vital natural energy. High in Vitamins and Minerals and the muscle building amino acid Leucine; Vegan Protein Powder is also a great organic Super Protein containing very high amounts of all 9 of the essential amino acids. Let Super Protein be your one stop protein powder for you pre-gym protein shake.<\/p>\n

At Indigo Herbs we are passionate about premium quality botanicals. Explore the tabs on this page to find out more about the health benefits, quality, manufacture and suggested use of this Super blend powder. At Indigo Herbs we are committed to empowering optimum health and nutrition and assisting you to take responsibility for your own health and wellbeing, by having access to many of nature\u2019s healing botanicals.<\/p>\n

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Make your own organic vegan chocolates with this kit which makes 45 small bars – the perfect gift for a chocolate-loving dad this Father’s Day. The kit contains everything you need to make your own chocolates:<\/h3>\n

www.indigo-herbs.co.uk<\/a><\/h3>\n

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FACEBOOK<\/a> | TWITTER<\/a> | INSTAGRAM<\/a> | GOOGLE+<\/a>\u00a0| PINTEREST<\/a>\u00a0| LINKEDIN<\/a><\/p>\n

Buy Indigo Chocolate Making Kit (Small) 300g
\nIndigo Chocolate Making Kit (Full Ingredients & Recipe)
\n4.8 stars 8 verified reviews
\nIncludes: 100% Pure Chocolate Ingredients.
\nEverything you could possibly need to make your own Chocolates.
\nIncluding our own delicious recipe & instructions.
\nThe freshly made chocolates are healthy and delicious.
\nMakes a fantastic gift, simple & easy to use instructions.
\n100% pure botanical ingredients, absolutely nothing added.
\nSmall kit 300g makes about 20 small bars
\nLarge kit 750g makes about 45 small bars.<\/p>\n

Chocolate Kit from Indigo Herbs is a fantastic kit comprising of premium quality ingredients for those who want to make their own Natural Organic Chocolate. These chocolate ingredients are 100% pure resulting in the final chocolates being both nutritious and delicious. Enjoy hand crafting your own organic chocolates at home with this simple and easy kit. Our delectable Chocolate Kits come in 2 sizes, small 300g and large 750g. The kit contains: Organic Cacao Powder, Organic Cacao Butter, Organic Raw Agave Nectar, and Pure Organic Raw Vanilla Powder. We also include our secret recipe on how to make Indigo Herbs Pure Natural Chocolate.<\/p>\n

At Indigo Herbs we are passionate about premium quality botanicals. Explore the tabs on this page to find out more about the quality and suggested use of this fantastic Chocolate Kit. At Indigo Herbs we are committed to empowering optimum health and nutrition and assisting you to take responsibility for your own health and well being, by having access to many of natures healing botanicals.<\/p>\n

Buy now at :-\u00a0www.indigo-herbs.co.uk\/shop\/buy\/indigo-chocolate-making-kits-product<\/a><\/p>\n

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WORLD FIRST SUPPLEMENT LAUNCHED TO REDUCE STRESS<\/h3>\n

www.precisionbiotics.com<\/a><\/p>\n

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TWITTER<\/a> |FACEBOOK<\/a><\/p>\n

Scientists identify the bacteria in the gut, which can reduce stress for the first time
\nZenflore, the world\u2019s first food supplement harnessing the unique culture 1714-Serenitas now launched in Ireland by Irish company
\nSupplement bolsters the proliferation of \u2018good\u2019 gut bacteria to counter stress.
\nLaunch supported by research performed by scientists at the forefront of research on the \u2018gut brain axis\u2019
\nSupported by research performed by scientists at the forefront of research on the \u2018gut brain axis\u2019<\/p>\n

GUT FEELING<\/strong><\/p>\n

616,000 people between 30 and 55 suffered stress in the last 12 months in Ireland. Mild to moderate stress is pervasive, with feelings of worry the most common manifestation reported by 37% of those surveyed. 23% had headaches and 17% sleep disruption, whilst others testified to fatigue, upset stomach and aching muscles.<\/p>\n

While short bursts of stress will pump enough cortisol, also called the stress hormone, round the body to meet work deadlines; get children to school on time; or survive the daily commute, however stress in excess or over a protracted period can impact our health.<\/p>\n

Now scientists have discovered a good bacteria which can reduce the level of our stress hormone, cortisol. The scientists at PrecisionBiotics\u00ae \u2013 who discovered this natural 1714-Serenitas bacterial culture \u2013 have now harnessed it to create Zenflore\u00ae to support the mind and body during demanding times. This culture has been shown to increase the activity in the areas of the brain associated with emotions, learning and memory. It does this by becoming part of the gut microbiota that plays a role in the dialogue between the brain and the gut.<\/p>\n

Gut brain axis<\/strong><\/p>\n

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The scientists at PrecisionBiotics have been working with two leading researchers, Professor Ted Dinan and Professor John Cryan at a world renowned research institute – APC Microbiome Ireland, based at the University College Cork (UCC) \u2013 where the primary focus is the gut brain axis. Ted Dinan is also Professor of Psychiatry at UCC. His primary research focus is on the role of the gut microbiota in influencing brain function and development. John Cryan is Professor & Chair, at the Department of Anatomy & Neuroscience at UCC.<\/p>\n

John Cryan’s research is focused on understanding the interaction between brain, gut and microbiome and how it applies to stress, mood and immune-related disorders. He has edited three books including \u201cMicrobial Endocrinology: The Microbiota-Gut-Brain Axis in Health and Disease\u201d and has also presented a TED talk on the subject.<\/p>\n

Their work has shown that there is a direct connection between our brain and our gut. In scientific terms, the gut-brain axis is the two-way dialogue between the brain and the gut. Its main job is coordinating brain and gut functions, by transmitting information from the gut to the brain, and the brain to the gut. The vagus nerve is a key physical link that relays the information between the two, it is the largest nerve in the body, outside of the spinal cord, and 80-90% of the nerve fibres in the vagus nerve go from the gut to the brain.<\/p>\n

Together Professor Cryan and Professor Dinan have recently published \u2018The Psychobiotic Revolution\u2019 \u2013 to critical acclaim. This ground-breaking book looks at the discovery that a person\u2019s state of mind is intimately connected to their gut:<\/p>\n

The gut produces 90% of the serotonin found in the body and scientists have found that bacteria can influence its production in the gut- this neuro-transmitter in the brain can affect a person\u2019s mood and feelings of happiness and pleasure – It was discoveries like this that led to the research, that ultimately resulted in the development of Zenflore\u00ae.<\/p>\n

Stressing the benefits<\/strong><\/p>\n

Sleep disturbance was the main way stress affected marketing consultant Gemma Kennedy. She has been taking a single Zenflore\u00ae capsule every day for two months and says she is \u201csuper impressed\u201d with the results. She explains: \u201cI feel I\u2019m coping better with stress, I\u2019m less tense and so I\u2019ve slept through the night, without waking to stressful thoughts for the past three weeks, which is almost unheard of for me. I fall asleep with ease and, when I wake in the morning, I feel well rested and don\u2019t struggle to get out of bed.\u201d<\/p>\n

She also has an inflammatory reaction to stress and added \u201cMost interestingly, my skin is the best it\u2019s been without being on antibiotics [for rosacea and acne]. I\u2019ve had hardly any breakouts and the redness has reduced significantly. I\u2019ve never experienced such results with a supplement.\u201d<\/p>\n

Zenflore\u00ae was developed by PrecisionBiotics\u00ae, the company which also developed Alflorex\u00ae. The 35624\u00ae culture in Alflorex\u00ae is the only bacterial culture to have shown reduction of digestive issues in two well-controlled clinical trials led by scientists and gastroenterologists in the UK and Europe. As a result, it is the number one recommended culture by US gastroenterologists3 and was winner at the Irish Pharmacy News OTC Awards of Best Natural Product 2018 and Best GI Product in for 2016-17.<\/p>\n

Just one easily swallowed Zenflore\u00ae capsule is taken daily with or without food and at any time of the day, and no refrigeration required. \u2013 With added B vitamins included in each capsule, Zenflore provides a complete support. It costs approx. \u20ac1 per day (\u20ac32.95 for a month\u2019s supply) and is available from all good pharmacies and selected health food stores. To find out more, visit www.precisionbiotics.com<\/a><\/p>\n

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Coach Rugby in Africa<\/h3>\n

OUR MISSION<\/h3>\n

Bhubesi Pride Foundation (BPF) assembles qualified and dedicated teams of volunteers (\u2018Pride members\u2019) to carry out annual coaching expeditions, supporting rugby and community development in schools and community centres in nine countries across east and southern Africa.<\/p>\n

www.rugbyinafrica.org<\/a><\/p>\n

FACEBOOK<\/a> | TWITTER<\/a><\/p>\n

Taking place between January and September every year, we align project activities alongside relevant partners \u2013 G4S being an instrumental partner for the Foundation \u2013 NGOs, national rugby unions, government departments, international schools and local businesses, bringing added value to relationship and capacity building.<\/p>\n

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Working in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Malawi, Zambia, Botswana, Namibia, South Africa and Mozambique, our objectives are as follows:<\/p>\n

UNITE communities through rugby, promoting the sport\u2019s values and life skills
\nEMPOWER and up-skill local staff, nurturing community leaders, male and female, maximising sustainability
\nINSPIRE long-term developmental outcomes through tangible legacy projects, alongside international and in-country partners<\/p>\n

WE NEED YOU!<\/p>\n

WHAT YOU WILL DO AS A PRIDE MEMBER<\/p>\n

Prepare and deliver rugby sessions, from grassroots to national level, developing your coaching and leadership skills
\nEmpower local teaching staff and run coach education seminars
\nWork together with our extensive network of stakeholders to prepare and manage rugby festivals and tournament days
\nExperience Africa first-hand as we travel from country to country; its people, landscapes, culture and history<\/p>\n

What\u2019s it like to coach with BPF?<\/p>\n

Meet Pride members and hear them talk about their recent experiences volunteering in Africa:<\/p>\n