Sleep more to boast mental health

Not only do you feel more refreshed after a good night’s sleep, but it will boost your mental health too.

A study conducted by Silentnight and the University of Leeds, England, warns that less than six hours shut eye a night could lead to higher risks of depression or anxiety. More worryingly, the experts found that more than a quarter of British people are surviving on just five hours sleep a night.

Dr. Anna Weighall, who conducted the study, stressed the link between rest and emotional wellbeing as the research monitored various postcodes across the nation.

From the findings, Dr. Weighall discovered a bi-directional relationship which showed a correlation between mental welfare and sleep.

“Firstly, we see the relationship between where people live vs how much they sleep, with this the second observation from the research shows the link between sleepless nights and the rise in mental health,” she explained.

“Areas where we see a drop in the number of hours people sleep are more inclined to struggle with mental health problems.”

Not only is mental health affected by lack of sleep, but health issues are worsened too. Dr. Weighall continued to share that the links between sleep and psychical health are also clearly shown though the survey, backing up former research that has linked it to cardiovascular problems and metabolic disorders like obesity and diabetes.

“Our research, conducted in collaboration with Silentnight, showed how from a survey of 1000 UK adults we found a strong relationship between poor sleep and reduced health related quality of life,” she stressed.

For anyone who is battling mental health problems and wishes to get more shut eye at night, Dr. Weighall recommends trying to set a regular bed time and rising time in the morning. Anxiety and stress can see sleep routines compromised, but when suffering such problems this is when people need more sleep, preferably six to eight hours.

Silentnight’s sleep expert, Dr. Nerina Ramlakhan, also shared her words of advice.

“Sleep is vital for healing the body on every level and not just physical,” she said. “When we don’t get deep restorative sleep, over a period of time we can start to feel symptoms of anxiety and depression…

“Good sleep heals mind, body and spirit. When we get the right amount of deep sleep, this rebalances every cell, tissue and organ system in the body. Levels of hormones and neurotransmitters are restored and rebalanced and we wake up with good energy.”

She further advises to avoid checking the time during the night and to leave technology out of the bedroom.

© Cover Media

The Jackson's to perform in SA at #DStvDelicious2016

The Jacksons are set to be the headline act at the 2016 DStv Delicious International Food and Music Festival in October.

This yeas festival is set to take place over two days, from 8-9 October and will mark the first ever performance by the famed 'original' Jackson brothers as a group in South Africa.

The “King of Pop” Michael Jackson, who died seven years ago, performed in South Africa during the ‘HIStory Tour’ at King’s Park Stadium, Durban, nineteen years ago.

“October 9th 2016 will be historic: in our 50th anniversary year, it is the first time The Jacksons will unite to perform in South Africa. We couldn’t be more excited to close out the amazing DStv Delicious International Food and Music Festival. South Africans are a great musical people and we can’t wait to see Johannesburg come out and rock with us!” said Jackie Jackson in a statement.

Local acts billed to tune it up at the festival include Mi Casa, Lira and Judith Sephuma.

Ohhhhhhhh shaaaaaaaame! I will be there.

South Africa expresses solidarity with Turkey

The South African Government has sent its condolences to the families of those who died after a terror attack at Turkey’s Ataturk Airport on Tuesday night.

Following a gun and bomb attack at the Istanbul airport, 41 people were killed – 13 of them foreign nationals – while 230 more were injured. Early indications are that this was an attack by the so-called Islamic State, but there is still not absolute clarity on who conducted the attacks.

“On behalf of the Government and the people of Republic of South Africa, His Excellency President Jacob Zuma has extended his heartfelt condolences to the Government and the people of the Republic of Turkey,” said President Jacob Zuma, in the aftermath of the attacks.

“South Africa shares in the grief of the Turkish people and the international community following the substantial loss of life and wishes the injured survivors a speedy recovery. Terrorism in any form and from whichever quarter cannot be condoned,” added Zuma.

The South African government has condemned the attacks, and expressed solidarity with Turkey.

“South Africa stands firmly with the international community in condemning all forms of terrorism and stands in solidarity with the Government of the Republic of Turkey and all countries affected as they mourn the death of their citizens,” added Zuma.

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation has revealed that it has been in contact with the Consular Services and South African Embassy in Ankara. At this juncture, no South African casualties have been reported but the investigations are still ongoing in this regard.

“Consular Services is currently dealing with enquiries from members of the public and will render the required consular assistance. South Africans in Turkey or family members in South Africa requiring assistance are requested to contact the South African Embassy in Ankara or the Department at   27 12 351 1000,” read a statement released by Dirco spokesperson Clayson Monyela.

Cape Town City FC officially launched #IamCityFC

Cape Town Stadium (and the ever loud Twitter) was abuzz with activity on Wednesday as Cape Town City FC was officially launched by new club boss John Comitis.

Cape Town City FC was born after Comitis concluded the purchase of Absa PSL mid table specialists Mpumalanga Black Aces from the Morfou brothers recently.

The big boss was on hand to address invited guests, dignitaries and members of the media, where he showed off the new-look PSL outfit, with players and members of the technical team present.

The club also took the opportunity to unveil its new logo as well as their signature kit as Comitis explained the importance of including Cape Town’s community in the club’s future.

“It was always going to be about Cape Town, it was always going to be about how we can put a club out here that people are going to feel like this is their club, it’s a sense that they feel a part of it, something that they feel either through the history of their football in this city or otherwise from their aspirations in the future, they’ll feel like this club can fill that gap. There’s no doubt that there was that gap,’’ Comitis said.

Its a great thing that the number of football clubs from the Cape plying in the top tier are increasing. Well, winning the title will be another huddle. All the best lads!

Black Coffee confirms collaboration with Alicia Keys

There is just no stopping Black Coffee this year!

Just as the rest of the world is beginning to know and fall in love with his music after he became the first South African artist to win a BET award, the sensational music maestro has dropped another bombshell.

Black Coffee has confirmed that he will be working with renowned American singer-songwriter, Alicia Keys.

The much loved DJ announced the news of them working together, but said he won’t be giving too much away concerning the collaboration saying, “Can’t keep telling people everything I’m doing, as it may bore people.” Black Coffee has been quiet about his hustle, but his success is making all the noise.

The songstress’ husband, Swizz Beats is a huge Black Coffee fan as well. Swizz shared a video to his Instagram which shows him listening to the SA DJ’s album. He captioned the video, “This Black Coffee album is Fire! My boy is Backkkkkkkk.  Snap Bronxbasquiat”

Besides getting the chance to work with Keys, Black Coffee is already working on new material with hip hop mogul, P Diddy.

The DJ has been making waves in America with a sold-out tour and a spot at popular US music event, Coachella. It is without a doubt that Black Coffee is a global hit and is definitely making SA proud.

What a year he is having!!!!!!

5 reasons an employer hasnt called back after a job interview

Waiting for a response is stressful and it’s easy to let your mind run wild when coming up with reasons the employer hasn’t called. Was it your hair? Should you have answered a certain question differently? Put the kabosh on your what-if thought process; usually an employer hasn’t called back due to one of these five reasons.


1. Your Contact Info Was Wrong or Lost

A cover-letter must always include your contact information, even though you already put it on your resume. Prepare for the possibility that your papers might get separated so the hiring manager isn’t left without a way to contact you. Also, be sure to triple check your email address and phone number that you provide — there are few things more careless than providing incorrect contact information

2. They’re Taking Their Time

If your position is a newly created role the employer may not be in a rush to fill it; they’ll want to see a range of applicants before selecting one. Pay attention to the date the position was first listed — if you applied soon after it was posted, the employer may be holding out on making a decision until the job has been open for a certain amount of time.

3. There Aren’t Enough Hours in the Day

Keep in mind that your employment isn’t the only thing the hiring manager has on her plate, not to mention there are several people involved in hiring decisions. If it’s a particularly busy time in the industry then hiring could be a lower priority than usual.

4. An Offer Has Already Been Extended . . .

. . . to someone else. If the position has already been offered to another candidate and is waiting for that person to accept the offer, they’ll withhold from making contact with other applicants in the running. This process can take longer than you’d think — the preferred candidate could be on vacation or trying to negotiate salary. An employer won’t let you know a position has been filled until it’s been formalized.

5. The Position No Longer Exists

Shake-ups can occur that reorganize departments and eliminate the position you interviewed for. This kind of change can cause higher-ups to be distracted and they might not get around to announcing the news to candidates as soon as you’d hope.

W&RSETA Good Practice Awards are on tonite #GPA16

The W&RSETA Good Practice Awards taking place on the 28 June, 2016 is proving to be the only awards in South African history that truly showcase innovation and acknowledge good practice in education and training in the Wholesale and Retail Sector. The various categories highlight excellence form individual, entrepreneurship and business. Nominees in various categories include:

Category: Training Providers

– Gordon Institute of Business Science;
– Durban University of Technology;
– Cape Peninsula University of Technology;
– Braune Training;
– Boxer Superstores;
– The Smollan Group;
– Edutel;

The prestigious Woman in Leadership award nominees include:

– Charis van der Merwe (GP Retail)
– Venessa Chetty (JD Group)
– Sibongile Antoni (Woolworths)
– Lisa Tremeer (Molly & Mason)

The most coveted award of the evening is in the Companies Category, with the following big names competing in the Non -Levy paying Companies, Small Companies, Medium Companies, Large Companies and Super-Large Companies sub-categories

– Molebela Roadway Tuckshop
– Molly & Mason
– Mdaka Spaza Shop
– Africa General Dealer
– Mica Nelspruit
– Jabatha Paper & Stationery
– Process Sales
– Pick ‘n Pay Lenasia
– Dis-chem Pharmacies
– Bibi Cash & Carry
– Checkout
– Woolworths
– Boxer Superstores

Beneficiaries of the W&RSETA’s programmes including bursary students and Learnership graduates will also be awarded under various categories.

The W&RSETA and its Public Relations partner decided to target the broader South Africa market with this year’s awards by incorporation strategic interventions that would ensure the awards are highlighted in the mass media rather than a celebration that includes the Sector peers only. The Good Practice Awards are endorsed by the Deputy Minister of Higher Education: Mr Mduduzi Manana who is also the Awards Ambassador.

The decision to adopt the Celebrity Presenter component was not taken lightly, as each celebrity needed to represent excellence in the brand they have showcased to the South Africa and African market.

The celebrities chosen to attend the awards include:

– Sophie Ndaba
– Minnie Dlamini
– ProVerb
– Mrs Norma Gigaba
– Liesl Laurie
– Jason Goliath
– Bokang Mantjane
– Chris Jaftha
– Natasha Thahane
– Natasha Thorp
– Nakhane Touré
– Pearl Modiadie
– Refilwe Modiselle
– Zakeeya Patel
– Roxy Burger
– Clint Brink

In the spirit of celebrating individual excellence, the team has chosen two artists to perform on the evening. Rising star, 25 year old talent, Taslyn Prinsloo and Brian Themba.

We have taken a different approach this year to give our stakeholders with a truly befitting and glittering event worthy of their contribution in making skills development a reality in the Wholesale and Retail Sector which in turn contribute to the growth of our country and making a difference in the lives of South Africans. It was important to us to ensure that we created an unforgettable evening for all those in attendance. – Martha Shingange – Marketing and Communications Manager, W&RSETA

The awards are set to take place from 18H00 on 28 June 2016 at the Sandton Convention Centre. Follow all the activities on the night by searching #GPA16 on all social media networks

How to whiten yellow teeth

Teeth are an important part of your appearance. The first thing people notice about teeth is their colour. Genetics, food, drinks and oral hygiene can cause your teeth to turn yellow. Try the following remedies to whiten them:


BAKING SODA
One of the most effective ways to remove unwanted stains is using baking soda. But limit this to once a month, as doing it too often will also remove some enamel.

How to use it:
In a small cup, mix half a teaspoon of baking soda with a few drops of water or lemon to form a paste. Apply the paste to your teeth using a toothbrush or your fingers.


COCONUT OIL RINSE
You can also rinse your mouth with coconut oil. The acid in coconut oil will help whiten your teeth.

How to use it:
In the morning, before you brush your teeth, take a tablespoon of coconut oil and put it in your mouth. Move the oil around your teeth for 10 to 15 minutes. Spit it out, rinse with water, and brush your teeth.

New Xhosa drama on the cards #MzansiMagic

A new Xhosa drama debuts on Mzansi Magic in early July and it’s tackling one of the world’s most taboo topics. Something no-one talks about mommy’s boys who love their mother “too much”.



It’s called Isikizi which means “disgrace” in Xhosa and centres round the honourable but impulsive Sizwe, played Phila Madlingozi.



According to Reneilwe Sema, M-Net’s Head of Drama for Local Entertainment Channels, “This is essentially a love story, but a demented love story that is going to get people talking about things that are seen as taboo in our society. We want viewers to be conflicted about who the hero of this story is…”



Isikizi will feature some of class South African talent actors, from Tina Jaxa, Timmy Kwebulana, Zandile Msutwana, Phila Madlingozi, Chris Gxalaba, Bongo Mbutuma, Ayanda Dlamini, Andrea Dondolo, Vicky Kente to Khayakazi Kula.



Catch Isikizi on DStv channel 161, Monday, 11 July 2016 at 20:00.

Coffee linked to improving liver health

Coffee can help the liver fight off disease, new research has discovered.

The World Health Organization recently went back on its previous findings that coffee affects bladder cancer by commending the drink for helping protect against certain cancers which attack the liver and womb.

To add to this, the British Liver Trust has published an 83-page report on all the existing research on the health benefits of coffee, such as warding off fatal health problems like liver disease and liver fibrosis. Even more impressive, it’s been found that those who have already been diagnosed with liver disease can slow the progression by sipping the hot beverage.

“At last, physicians have found a lifestyle habit that is good for your liver,” Professor Graeme Alexander, a liver expert at Cambridge University Hospitals, said.

“The evidence in this report shows that drinking coffee can protect you from developing liver disease and, in addition, reduces the risk of progressive disease for those already affected. We have an epidemic of liver disease in the U.K. and the numbers affected are growing at an alarming rate.”

The World Health Organization’s new report, published in the Lancet Oncology medical journal, saw the risk of liver cancer decrease by 15 per cent for each cup of coffee consumed a day. While it’s still unclear how this is possible, experts suspect it’s to do with the molecule found it caffeine – paraxanthine, which may slow the growth of tissues that harm the liver. Furthermore, the substances kahweol and cafestol – also found in coffee – are believed to play a role too.

While coffee isn’t a cure, Andrew Langford, chief executive of the British Liver Trust, insists prevention is better than nothing.

“‘Although the liver is remarkably resilient and can regenerate if given time to recover, by the time most people have signs and symptoms of liver damage it is often irreversible,” he added.

“It’s known as a silent killer because it has few symptoms. Three-quarters of people already have late-stage liver disease when they are first diagnosed – by this time, for many, it is too late.”

However it’s important to take note of the European Food Safety Authority’s recommendation of 400mg a day, the same found in five espressos.

© Cover Media