{"id":676251,"date":"2026-09-07T03:34:37","date_gmt":"2026-09-07T03:34:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/676251\/"},"modified":"2026-09-07T03:34:37","modified_gmt":"2026-09-07T03:34:37","slug":"im-a-professional-organiser-the-five-clutter-hotspots-i-always-tackle-first","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/676251\/","title":{"rendered":"I&#8217;m a professional organiser &#8211; the five clutter hotspots I always tackle first"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Maybe it\u2019s the lack of proper routine, maybe it\u2019s the weather <a class=\"post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/inews-lifestyle\/clutter-never-throw-away-4100726?ico=in-line_link\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">making tidying feel even less appealing<\/a>, maybe it\u2019s the children being off school and leaving a trail of carnage wherever they go, but there is nothing like <a class=\"post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/topic\/summer?ico=in-line_link\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">summer<\/a> to turn even the most orderly household into chaos. Which is why, <a class=\"post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/inews-lifestyle\/why-september-feel-overwhelming-what-do-about-it-4740976?srsltid=AfmBOor7UY1HVTj5bk67ktomS46cJ7W17-7s1ULGEZcgi5_qNSR9H8tF&amp;ico=in-line_link\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">come September<\/a>, wardrobes are in disarray, fridges are full of half-used ingredients that went off weeks ago, and available surfaces are piled with an assortment of things varied enough to rival a car boot sale.<\/p>\n<p>The problem is that this isn\u2019t just making your home untidy, but your day-to-day life harder.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cClutter creates so much mental and physical friction, even if you don\u2019t realise it,\u201d says professional organiser and decluttering expert <a href=\"https:\/\/www.helenconstantine.co.uk\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener nofollow\">Helen Constantine<\/a>. \u201cIt is so visual, that whether you are aware of it or not, when your eyes scan a room, it really affects your headspace. And practically, it slows you down each day \u2013 not least when you can\u2019t find your keys among the mess.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>\n\t\t\tShorts\n\t\t<\/p>\n<p>\t\t\tScroll to previous short<br \/>\n\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/wp-content\/themes\/inews-theme\/assets\/images\/chevron.svg\" alt=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\/><\/p>\n<p>\t\t\tScroll to next short<br \/>\n\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/wp-content\/themes\/inews-theme\/assets\/images\/chevron.svg\" alt=\"\" aria-hidden=\"true\"\/><\/p>\n<p>\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/wp-content\/themes\/inews-theme\/assets\/images\/chevron.svg\" alt=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752011_72_SEI_303858921_10c08d.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:5\/4;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p>How to be more grateful for daily life in five easy steps<\/p>\n<p>Gratitude<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\" style=\"position: relative;\">\n<p>The world feels like a difficult place at the moment, and it can feel very hard sometimes to find things to be thankful for; when we are overwhelmed, we have less capacity to notice and reflect on the good things. Yet, ironically, proactively cultivating gratitude is one of the things that can actually help us feel\u00a0less stressed.<\/p>\n<p>NHS GP dR RADHA<\/p><\/blockquote>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752013_638_SEI_303858685_f18234.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p>\nThe science\n<\/p>\n<p>Research has shown that feeling or expressing thanks can actually alter our brain.<\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The balance of neurotransmitters change; more serotonin and dopamine (feel good chemicals) are produced.<\/li>\n<li>This can be long lasting if we make gratitude a\u00a0regular habit.<\/li>\n<li>We also get a decrease in our cortisol (stress hormone) levels which helps\u00a0lower anxiety.<\/li>\n<li>Being grateful can strengthen the nerve pathways which triggers positive emotion.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>\nHow can we build gratitude?\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"   height=\"155\" width=\"155\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752013_351_SEI_296952225.jpg\" alt=\"Two adult brothers enjoy a warm embrace in a sunny park. They stand beside a decorative fence surrounded by lush greenery, showcasing a strong bond and happiness in the moment.\" class=\"wp-image-4421116\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"\/>Caption: Two adult brothers enjoy a warm embrace in a sunny park. They stand beside a decorative fence surrounded by lush greenery, showcasing a strong bond and happiness in the moment.<br \/>Photographer: Beatriz Herrera<br \/>Provider: Getty Images<br \/>Source: iStockphoto<br \/>Copyright: beatrizherreragonzalez@gmail.com<\/p>\n<p>Change your words<\/p>\n<p>Instead of seeing something as a problem, try to see the opportunities within it.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Journal<\/p>\n<p>Our brains are very receptive and what we read or write can alter our emotional system.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"   height=\"155\" width=\"155\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752014_953_GettyImages-1423167532.jpg\" alt=\"Caucasian mid adult patient writing a diary while recovering in the hospital ward - stock photo\" class=\"wp-image-4205787\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"\/>Caucasian mid adult patient writing a diary while recovering in the hospital ward \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n<p><img fetchpriority=\"high\" loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"   height=\"429\" width=\"644\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752015_296_SEI_300978957.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4472348\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"\/>\u2018One question is how to achieve such a longevity hack when most of us have relationships that unsettle us,\u2019 says Dr Amir Levine (Photo: Oliver Rossi\/Getty)<\/p>\n<p>Express it<\/p>\n<p>This will not only make you feel good, but you will also get a positive response from others.<\/p>\n<p>\nHow can we build gratitude?\n<\/p>\n<p>Notice more<\/p>\n<p>Throughout\u00a0your day, try to notice all the things that are going well; has someone opened a door for you, or smiled?<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"   height=\"960\" width=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752016_280_SEI_294466358.jpg\" alt=\"Happy woman spending leisure time with friends at sunny day. Multiracial females are talking with each other. They are wearing sports clothing.\" class=\"wp-image-4379031\" style=\"aspect-ratio:5\/4;object-fit:cover;width:204px\"\/>Exercise with people you love (Photographer: Morsa Images\/Getty\/Digital Vision\/Abel Mitj? Varela)<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"   height=\"1280\" width=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752016_619_SEI_303730059.jpg\" alt=\"Group of Happy Asian senior women friends shopping and having lunch at restaurant on summer holiday vacation. Healthy elderly woman enjoy outdoor lifestyle meeting and eating food together.\" class=\"wp-image-4622601\" style=\"aspect-ratio:9\/10;object-fit:cover;width:195px\"\/>Caption: Group of Happy Asian senior women friends shopping and having lunch at restaurant on summer holiday vacation. Healthy elderly woman enjoy outdoor lifestyle meeting and eating food together.<br \/>Photographer: CandyRetriever<br \/>Provider: Getty Images<br \/>Source: iStockphoto<\/p>\n<p>The basics<\/p>\n<p>By being thankful for the small things every day, we are far more likely to be and stay healthy\u00a0so that we can enjoy them.<\/p>\n<p>\nWhat to do\n<\/p>\n<p>Gratitude can lead to\u00a0feelings of optimism, lower our blood pressure, and improve sleep quality.\u00a0<\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Write down what potential good aspects there are to the things you don\u2019t feel like doing, or even what could be worse about it.<\/li>\n<li>Spend a few minutes writing down three things that you are looking forward to that day, or the good things that have happened to you that day.<\/li>\n<li>Say thank you to yourself for the things you have achieved, or managed to get through and changed that day.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Sales of battery<br \/>electric vehicles hit a record high last year.<\/p>\n<p>Leon Poultney, a writer who specialises in cars, gives his EV recommendations, and the ones that should be avoided.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752017_411_SEI_287009525.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:4\/3;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p>Renault 5 E-Tech<\/p>\n<p>Starts at \u00a322,995 for the smaller battery <\/p>\n<p>Available with either\u00a0a 40kWh battery or a larger 52kWh pack, that offers almost 255 miles, the latest, retro-inspired Renault 5 is both a joy to behold and a hoot to drive.<\/p>\n<p>The interior has been lavished with a\u00a0level of detail that\u2019s typically reserved for more expensive cars.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752018_593_SEI_287009519.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p>\t<a class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_thumbnail post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/inews-lifestyle\/test-electric-cars-fastest-charging-under-50k-4484912?ico=in-line_link\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\"><br \/>\n\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752019_933_SEI_303504633.jpg\" width=\"110\" height=\"110\" alt=\"\"\/><br \/>\n\t<\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_min-read\">4 min read<\/p>\n<p>\nMercedes-Benz CLA\n<\/p>\n<p>A champion of EV efficiency<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752020_848_SEI_287009391.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p>It offers a remarkable 491 mile range on a single charge from the 85kWh battery.<\/p>\n<p>It is a technological masterclass inside with the ability to option screens that span the entire width of the dashboard, including an optional display for the front passenger. <\/p>\n<p>Priced from \u00a337,400<\/p>\n<p>\t<a class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_thumbnail post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/news\/politics\/why-electric-cars-might-more-expensive-4477239?ico=in-line_link\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\"><br \/>\n\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752021_404_SEI_301399199.jpg\" width=\"110\" height=\"110\" alt=\"\"\/><br \/>\n\t<\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_min-read\">2 min read<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752022_636_SEI_287009411.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p>Porsche Macan GTS<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\" style=\"position: relative;\">\n<p>It\u2019s a lot of money to part with, but this is arguably all the car you will ever need.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<p>The \u00a389,000 Macan is a premium SUV that somehow manages to blend Porsche\u2019s reputation for dynamics and sporty driving with everyday practicality.<\/p>\n<p>The 95kWh batteries can go from 10 to 80 per cent in as little as 21 minutes from the fastest public charging outlets.<\/p>\n<p>\nKia EV  9\n<\/p>\n<p>With the business class-style six seat configuration costing a staggering \u00a376,995, it is by far the most expensive Kia ever made, but it backs up its financial demands with a suite of genuinely useful and impressive onboard technology.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752024_610_SEI_287009386.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:5\/4;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752025_936_SEI_287026671.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:9\/10;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p><strong>MG IM6<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s fast, goes a long way between stops and charges relatively quickly\u00a0but the interior is bland, the onboard technology is infuriating and the experience is devoid of emotion.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>\nBYD Dolphin Surf\n<\/p>\n<p>All of its gadgetry can\u2019t disguise the fact that performance is weak, even for a typically zippy EV, the\u00a0ride is fussy at slower speeds and it\u2019s not in the least bit enjoyable to drive on a country road.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752027_320_SEI_287009298.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list inews--shorts-card--list--tick\">\n<li>While good value (prices start at \u00a317,935) for the 200-mile max range, there are more interesting\u00a0options from Hyundai, Citroen and Renault for similar money.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Leapmotor T03<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752028_421_SEI_287009397.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>It attempts to wow with tech, much of which hinders, rather than helps.\u00a0<\/li>\n<li>There\u2019s no tangible benefit over mounting your phone to the dash.<\/li>\n<li>Simply an average driving experience, adequate range and slow charging speeds.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>\t<a class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_thumbnail post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/opinion\/thing-no-one-tells-you-about-electric-cars-4387496?ico=in-line_link\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\"><br \/>\n\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752029_590_SEI_292315602.jpg\" width=\"110\" height=\"110\" alt=\"\"\/><br \/>\n\t<\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_min-read\">2 min read<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752029_973_SEI_300750759.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:5\/4;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p>The kitchen gadgets and products a food editor swears by, all under \u00a325<\/p>\n<p>\nThe kitchen gadgets under \u00a325\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"   height=\"227\" width=\"644\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752030_242_SEI_300645420-e1781085725547.jpg\" alt=\"best kitchen gadgets\" class=\"wp-image-4465689\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"\/>Caption: best kitchen gadgets<\/p>\n<p>Victorinox paring knife<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s comfortable to hold, with a point sharp enough for scoring pastry.<\/p>\n<p>ProCook cast iron pan<\/p>\n<p>For unbeatable\u00a0searing and heat-retention, cast iron is the top choice.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752032_682_SEI_300645432-e1781086082175.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752033_216_SEI_300645653-e1781087257589.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p>Tesco chopping board<\/p>\n<p>Priced at just \u00a322, I\u2019ve yet to find another board that matches it for sheer value and quality.<\/p>\n<p>\nThe kitchen gadgets under \u00a325\n<\/p>\n<p><strong>Pyrex jug<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>It is the perfect vessel for blending smooth sauces, melting butter, or warming stock. It won\u2019t stain like plastic and the red measurements never fade.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752034_212_SEI_300645660-e1781087310650.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:5\/4;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752036_469_SEI_300645403.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:9\/10;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p><strong>Salter scales<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>\u201cI\u2019ve had my slim little set of Salter Disc Scales for over a decade, and I\u2019m delighted to see they are still made to exactly the same reliable design today.\u201d<\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--bulletted-heading\">Microplane grater<\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--bulletted-sub\">It uses photo-etched stainless steel teeth that stay razor-sharp for a decade, something the lookalike\u00a0copycats simply can\u2019t match.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--bulletted-heading\">Braun hand-held blender<\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--bulletted-sub\">It\u2019s an essential for everything from making velvety soup to getting the lumps out of white sauce.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--bulletted-heading\">Bodum cafetiere<\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--bulletted-sub\">As well as delivering great results, cafetieres are easy to clean and there\u2019s no ongoing filter paper costs or pod recycling to deal with.<\/p>\n<p>\t<a class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_thumbnail post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/inews-lifestyle\/gene-coffee-bad-heart-half-public-4398605?ico=in-line_link\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\"><br \/>\n\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752036_772_SEI_293049226.jpg\" width=\"110\" height=\"110\" alt=\"\"\/><br \/>\n\t<\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_min-read\">5 min read<\/p>\n<p>\nThe kitchen gadgets under \u00a325\n<\/p>\n<p><strong>Oxo peeler<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>What truly sets it apart is the chunky, rubberised handle that absorbs pressure and stays completely non-slip, even if your hands are wet. It is inexpensive and incredibly durable.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752038_990_SEI_300850577-e1781099064140.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:5\/4;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752039_331_SEI_300645406-e1781087376135.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:9\/10;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p><strong>Falcon pie dish<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Made by fusing porcelain onto heavy-gauge steel for smooth durability, it is dishwasher, freezer, hob, air-fryer and oven-safe.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>The golden rules for a happy, secure relationship<\/p>\n<p>Psychiatrist and neuroscientist\u00a0Dr Amir Levine, author of bestselling book Attached, explains why we behave the way we do in love.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"   height=\"900\" width=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752040_78_SEI_298019912.jpg\" alt=\"Happy woman walking with male partner in vineyard during sunset. Elderly couple are touring in field against sky. They are enjoying during weekend.\" class=\"wp-image-4427446\" style=\"aspect-ratio:4\/3;object-fit:cover\"\/>Caption: Happy woman walking with male partner in vineyard during sunset. Elderly couple are touring in field against sky. They are enjoying during weekend.<br \/>Photographer: Morsa Images<br \/>Provider: Getty Images<br \/>Source: Digital Vision<\/p>\n<p>\nGolden rules for happy relationships\n<\/p>\n<p><strong>Start with your own behaviours<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>The foundation of a secure, connected life is being what I call CARRP: that means being consistent, available, responsive, reliable and predictable. All of these qualities can be enacted in small gestures every day.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"   height=\"512\" width=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752040_785_GettyImages-1210358933.jpg\" alt=\"Side view of affectionate happy couple sitting in the cozy cafe. - stock photo\" class=\"wp-image-4334680\" style=\"aspect-ratio:5\/4;object-fit:cover;width:204px\"\/>Side view of affectionate happy couple sitting in the cozy cafe. \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"   height=\"711\" width=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752041_488_SEI_296026112.jpg\" alt=\"Happy young couple spending quality time together at home\" class=\"wp-image-4404171\" style=\"aspect-ratio:9\/10;object-fit:cover;width:195px\"\/>Son\u2019t assume your partner knows how you think (Photo: ljubaphoto\/Getty\/E+)<\/p>\n<p><strong>Express your needs<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>People need consistency and connection to feel safe. This is not, \u2018You hurt my feelings by never replying to me\u2019, it\u2019s more \u2018this is the kind of contact that helps me feel secure\u2019.<\/p>\n<p>\nGolden rules for happy relationships\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"   height=\"155\" width=\"155\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752041_495_GettyImages-2249028853.jpg\" alt=\"Unhappy married couple facing away from each other in a quiet home, concept of emotional distance, loneliness in relationship and family problems - stock photo\" class=\"wp-image-4330148\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"\/>Unhappy married couple facing away from each other in a quiet home, concept of emotional distance, loneliness in relationship and family problems \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n<p>The appendix \u2018inflammation\u2019 rule<\/p>\n<p>If a relationship repeatedly inflames your nervous system, you need to disengage and deprioritise it.<\/p>\n<p>Lean on community<\/p>\n<p>You don\u2019t need hundreds of friends. You need people and places that regularly remind you that you belong.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"   height=\"155\" width=\"155\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752042_852_SEI_292416547.jpg\" alt=\"Happy couples talking while walking embraced during spring day in a meadow.\" class=\"wp-image-4346557\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"\/>Caption: Happy couples talking while walking embraced during spring day in a meadow.<br \/>Photographer: skynesher<br \/>Provider: Getty Images<br \/>Source: E+<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"   height=\"155\" width=\"155\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752042_868_GettyImages-1333528362.jpg\" alt=\"Candid shot happiness and togetherness Asian mother supporting daughter try to standing and walking first time and positive emotion - stock photo\" class=\"wp-image-4314259\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"\/>Candid shot happiness and togetherness Asian mother supporting daughter try to standing and walking first time and positive emotion \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n<p>Stop blaming childhood<\/p>\n<p>Humans are much more complicated than: \u2018this happened to you, therefore you are doomed to be anxious\u2019.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"   height=\"429\" width=\"644\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752044_544_SEI_300021232.jpg\" alt=\"Financial problems. Worried middle-aged woman holding utility bills, managing monthly household budget, sitting on bed feeling anxious. Cost of living concept\" class=\"wp-image-4456656\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/>Caption: Financial problems. Worried middle-aged woman holding utility bills, managing monthly household budget, sitting on bed feeling anxious. Cost of living concept<br \/>Photographer: MementoJpeg<br \/>Provider: Getty Images<br \/>Source: Moment RF<\/p>\n<p>Reach for a<br \/>secure script<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\" style=\"position: relative;\">\n<p>When something unsettles you in a relationship, your first reaction is not always the most accurate one.\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<p>If you\u2019re anxious, your brain may jump very quickly to: \u2018this is the beginning of the end\u2019. If you\u2019re avoidant, your brain may say: \u2018this person wants too much from me, I need to get\u00a0away\u2019. So one very practical thing you can always do is pause and ask: \u2018What would a secure person do here?\u2019<\/p>\n<p>Loneliness elsewhere<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\" style=\"position: relative;\">\n<p>When people talk about\u00a0loneliness, they often assume it means you don\u2019t have enough people in your life. But you can be surrounded by people and still feel lonely if those relationships leave you feeling excluded, ignored or disconnected.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"   height=\"675\" width=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752045_435_GettyImages-1128717637.jpg\" alt=\"Frustrated lonely shy guy sitting apart of others teenagers - stock photo\" class=\"wp-image-4194620\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/>Frustrated lonely shy guy sitting apart of others teenagers \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n<p>\nWhat to do\n<\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Build a community that works for your temperament and gives you regular, reliable moments of connection.<\/li>\n<li>You can still be kind to people while not treating them as someone who belongs in your inner circle.\u00a0<\/li>\n<li>Explain what you need. Sometimes people simply don\u2019t realise how\u00a0you are experiencing them.<\/li>\n<li>Check in with people: does this person actually feel that I\u2019m reliable? Do they experience me as predictable?\u00a0That\u2019s the only way that you can start to become more secure.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752045_312_SEI_300641210.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:5\/4;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p>Do some foods leave<br \/>you feeling hungry rather than satiated? Experts say there are\u2026<\/p>\n<p>\nFoods that leave you hungrier\n<\/p>\n<p><strong>A bowl of cereal and glass of orange juice<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>More refined cereals are digested quickly, and fruit juice, whilst one of your five-a-day, contains less fibre than whole fruit. This might mean you find yourself hungry again within 1-2 hours of eating this breakfast.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"   height=\"512\" width=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752046_966_orange-juice-569064_1920.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-36113\" style=\"aspect-ratio:5\/4;object-fit:cover;width:204px\"\/>No more orange juice. (Photo via pixaby)<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"   height=\"711\" width=\"640\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752046_187_SEI_275631128.jpg\" alt=\"Woman eating colored breakfast cereal in front of laptop, workplace breakfast, quick healthy breakfast in office in the morning.\" class=\"wp-image-4065085\" style=\"aspect-ratio:9\/10;object-fit:cover;width:195px\"\/>It\u2019s estimated ultra processed foods make up at least half of the average UK diet (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n<p>Swap the\u00a0orange juice\u00a0for a whole orange, the cereal for oats and milk or serve it with Greek yoghurt or a boiled egg. This would increase the fibre and protein content; two nutrients strongly linked with fullness.<\/p>\n<p>\nFoods that leave you hungrier\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"   height=\"155\" width=\"155\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752047_405_SEI_294884730.jpg\" alt=\"Gail's croissant Image taken from https:\/\/gails.com\/collections\/breakfast\/products\/croissant\" class=\"wp-image-4383037\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"\/>Caption: Gail\u2019s croissant<br \/>Image taken from https:\/\/gails.com\/collections\/breakfast\/products\/croissant<\/p>\n<p>Croissants<\/p>\n<p>These pastries are made primarily from refined flour and butter, and are relatively low in protein and fibre.<\/p>\n<p>Toast and jam<\/p>\n<p>It is mostly carbohydrate and without protein or fibre, it is digested quickly, leaving you feeling hungry.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"   height=\"155\" width=\"155\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752047_968_SEI_292389839.jpg\" alt=\"Toasted bread and white background\" class=\"wp-image-4342358\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"\/>Caption: Toasted bread and white background<br \/>Photographer: Daniel Tamas Mehes<br \/>Provider: Getty Images<br \/>Source: iStockphoto<br \/>Copyright: Minden jog fenntartva!<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"   height=\"155\" width=\"155\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752048_747_PRI_165170416.jpg\" alt=\"FILE PHOTO: Pufferfish sushi line is seen on a display window at a market in Shimonoseki, Japan February 7, 2020. Picture taken on February 7, 2020. REUTERS\/Sakura Murakami\/File Photo\" class=\"wp-image-699572\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"\/>Yakitori\u2019s on the menu at the Japanese restaurant \u2013 but what exactly is it? (Photo: Reuters)<\/p>\n<p>Sushi<\/p>\n<p>Shop-bought packs can contain a lot of white rice, which is digested quickly, and the protein content is often modest.<\/p>\n<p>\nFoods that leave you hungrier\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"   height=\"155\" width=\"155\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752048_709_SEI_275641909.jpg\" alt=\"Sarawak laksa is one of many varieties of this noodle soup (Photo: Tham Kee Chuan\/Getty)\" class=\"wp-image-4065378\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"\/>Sarawak laksa is one of many varieties of this noodle soup (Photo: Tham Kee Chuan\/Getty)<\/p>\n<p>Vegetable soup<\/p>\n<p>On its own, it is often very low in protein and calories, so hunger can return quickly.<\/p>\n<p>Pizza<\/p>\n<p>Unless it\u2019s loaded with veggies, it\u2019s probably pretty low in fibre.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"   height=\"155\" width=\"155\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752049_504_best-pizza-in-b-1504111.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4241298\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"\/>Best pizza in Britain named \u2013 and owner reveals the secret to its success (Photo: James Linsell Clark\/SWNS)<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"   height=\"429\" width=\"644\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752050_256_SEI_249218873.jpg\" alt=\"WASHINGTON, DC - AUGUST 12: Chocolate Milkshake Smoothies photographed for Food in Washington, DC on August 12, 2024 (Photo by Scott Suchman for The Washington Post via Getty Images; food styling by Lisa Cherkasky for The Washington Post via Getty Images)\" class=\"wp-image-3664632\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"\/>The Government has announced that the sugar tax will be extended to milkshakes (Photo: Scott Suchman)<\/p>\n<p>Smoothies<\/p>\n<p>Liquids are generally less filling as they require little chewing  which may not trigger satiety signals.<\/p>\n<p>\nFoods that leave you hungrier\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"   height=\"155\" width=\"155\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752050_52_SEI_96461189.jpg\" alt=\"London, convenience store, snacks and sweets. (Photo by: Jeffrey Greenberg\/Education Images\/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)\" class=\"wp-image-1550125\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"\/>\u2018Aged 14, I started what I considered to be my own little business selling confectionary,\u2019 writes Beauty Dhlamini  (Photo: Getty) <\/p>\n<p>Snack bars<\/p>\n<p>They are ideal\u00a0for a quick pick-me-up, but if reducing hunger is what you\u2019re after, it\u2019d be better to swap it out. <\/p>\n<p>Low-fat yoghurt<\/p>\n<p>A full-fat plain Greek yoghurt with berries and seeds tends to be much more filling due to the protein, fat and fibre.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"   height=\"155\" width=\"155\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752051_307_rawpixel-799536-unsplash.jpg\" alt=\"Which yoghurts are the best options? (Unsplash)\" class=\"wp-image-199292\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"\/>Which yoghurts are the best options? (Unsplash)<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"   height=\"155\" width=\"155\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752051_937_PRI_205409689.jpg\" alt=\"BANGKOK, THAILAND - OCTOBER 17: A &quot;KT Herbalist&quot;, a Kratom cocktail made from Kratom, coffee and siamese herbs is seen at Teens of Thailand, a bar in Bangkok's Chinatown on October 17, 2021 in Bangkok, Thailand. In April 2021, the start of Thailand's third and most deadly wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Thai government banned the sale of alcohol in restaurants and bars, crippling the already suffering food and beverage industry. With a lack of government aid and support, some bars have shuttered their doors in hopes of reopening post-lockdown, while others shuttered their doors for good. But six months into Thailand's most recent lockdown, Niks Anuman-Rajadhon, owner of Teens of Thailand, a gin bar located in a renovated shophouse in Bangkok's Chinatown, decided that instead of waiting for the government to allow the sale of alcohol again, they would take advantage of Thailand's recent legalization of Kratom. Kratom is a locally grown herbal drug with mild opioid and stimulant effects and was reclassified from a type-5 narcotic to a legal-to-grow herb in August 2021. While Thailand prepares for a tentative reopening on November 1st, the alcohol ban and curfew are set to continue, leaving business owners questioning if the country can revive its suffering tourism industry. (Photo by Lauren DeCicca\/Getty Images)\" class=\"wp-image-1265411\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"\/>Caption: BANGKOK, THAILAND \u2013 OCTOBER 17: A \u201cKT Herbalist\u201d, a Kratom cocktail made from Kratom, coffee and siamese herbs is seen at Teens of Thailand, a bar in Bangkok\u2019s Chinatown on October 17, 2021 in Bangkok, Thailand. In April 2021, the start of Thailand\u2019s third and most deadly wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Thai government banned the sale of alcohol in restaurants and bars, crippling the already suffering food and beverage industry. With a lack of government aid and support, some bars have shuttered their doors in hopes of reopening post-lockdown, while others shuttered their doors for good. But six months into Thailand\u2019s most recent lockdown, Niks Anuman-Rajadhon, owner of Teens of Thailand, a gin bar located in a renovated shophouse in Bangkok\u2019s Chinatown, decided that instead of waiting for the government to allow the sale of alcohol again, they would take advantage of Thailand\u2019s recent legalization of Kratom.  Kratom is a locally grown herbal drug with mild opioid and stimulant effects and was reclassified from a type-5 narcotic to a legal-to-grow herb in August 2021. While Thailand prepares for a tentative reopening on November 1st, the alcohol ban and curfew are set to continue, leaving business owners questioning if the country can revive its suffering tourism industry.  (Photo by Lauren DeCicca\/Getty Images)<br \/>Photographer: Lauren DeCicca<br \/>Provider: Getty Images<br \/>Source: Getty Images AsiaPac<\/p>\n<p>Alcohol<\/p>\n<p>On an empty stomach, it can actually increase your appetite.<\/p>\n<p>\nWhat to eat instead\n<\/p>\n<p>Instead of thinking about avoiding foods, think about what you can add to them.<\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Add beans, lentils or shredded chicken to your vegetable soup and pasta.<\/li>\n<li>Thicken your smoothies with Greek yoghurt, chia seeds and oats.<\/li>\n<li>Apple slices with peanut butter, yogurt with berries and hummus with oat biscuits\u00a0are better snack options than a pre-made snack bar.<\/li>\n<li>Have alcohol alongside a balanced meal containing protein and fibre.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>How to age well<br \/>without pain<\/p>\n<p>Will Harlow, a physiotherapist<br \/>for the over-50s and author of Independence for Life, shares<br \/>the key signs you\u2019re ageing <br \/>badly \u2013  and what to do about it.<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752053_125_SEI_299921130-e1780483319527.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:4\/3;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p>How to know <\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\" style=\"position: relative;\">\n<p>Ageing well is maintaining the ability to do what you want you want for as long as you want without needing help. Everyone is talking about\u00a0longevity but what\u2019s the point in living longer if the last decade is painful and you\u2019re [totally] reliant on people?\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752054_573_SEI_299921237.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p>The signs to look out for<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"   height=\"675\" width=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752055_143_GettyImages-2214331182.jpg\" alt=\"Senior woman on sofa feeling and suffering from back pain. - stock photo\" class=\"wp-image-4304669\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/>Senior woman on sofa feeling and suffering from back pain. \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The most obvious early warning sign of bad ageing is pain says Harlow.\u00a0<\/li>\n<li>Another is losing confidence in doing daily tasks, which can quickly lead to a lack of independence.<\/li>\n<li>One call Harlow often receives is people calling after having a fall and struggling to get up.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>\t<a class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_thumbnail post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/inews-lifestyle\/walking-analysed-discovered-how-fast-ageing-4443358?ico=in-line_link\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\"><br \/>\n\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752056_798_SEI_299831590.jpg\" width=\"110\" height=\"110\" alt=\"\"\/><br \/>\n\t<\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_min-read\">4 min read<\/p>\n<p>\nHow to age without pain\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"   height=\"155\" width=\"155\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752056_357_SEI_296272194.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-4455615\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"\/>Many will worry about not saving enough for retirement (Photo: Alex Tihonov\/Getty\/Moment RF)<\/p>\n<p>Not just stopping<\/p>\n<p>When people retire, they often put their feet up and stop. Your body really is use it or lose it.<\/p>\n<p>Sleep<\/p>\n<p>Throughout our entire lives, Harlow says we need between seven and nine hours of sleep.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"   height=\"437\" width=\"644\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752058_102_SEI_239727024.jpg\" alt=\"Tired mature woman taking a nap on the sofa in the living room\" class=\"wp-image-3533510\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"\/>Naps before 1pm can lead to better cognitive performance in the following hours (Photo: Lord Henri Voton\/Getty Images)<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"   height=\"155\" width=\"155\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752058_655_SEI_294853474.jpg\" alt=\"Maribel Ezcurra, 77, a retired milling machine mechanic, practices tai chi with fellow seniors in a park in the Playa neighborhood of Havana, Cuba, Wednesday, April 15, 2026. (AP Photo\/Ramon Espinosa)\" class=\"wp-image-4382802\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"\/>Caption: Maribel Ezcurra, 77, a retired milling machine mechanic, practices tai chi with fellow seniors in a park in the Playa neighborhood of Havana, Cuba, Wednesday, April 15, 2026. (AP Photo\/Ramon Espinosa)<br \/>Photographer: Ramon Espinosa<br \/>Provider: AP<br \/>Source: AP<\/p>\n<p>Social isolation<\/p>\n<p>The lack of connection can increase the risk of premature death by<br \/>as much as 29 per cent.<\/p>\n<p>Strength training<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote inews--shorts-card--quote-cited is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\" style=\"position: relative;\">\n<p>It really is the proxy for<br \/>overall independence.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<p>The more muscle mass you have, the less chance of heart disease, diabetes, falls and even anxiety,\u00a0depression and\u00a0dementia.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"   height=\"675\" width=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752059_775_SEI_245107406.jpg\" alt=\"This is a photo of a senior man helping his wife lift weights. See PA Feature HEALTH Physio. WARNING: This picture must only be used to accompany PA feature HEALTH Physio. PA Photo.Picture credit should read: Alamy\/PA. NOTE TO EDITORS: This picture must only be used to accompany PA Feature HEALTH Physio.\" class=\"wp-image-3616349\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/>Caption: This is a photo of a senior man helping his wife lift weights. See PA Feature HEALTH Physio. WARNING: This picture must only be used to accompany PA feature HEALTH Physio. PA Photo.Picture credit should read: Alamy\/PA. <\/p>\n<p>NOTE TO EDITORS: This picture must only be used to accompany PA Feature HEALTH Physio. <\/p>\n<p>Photographer: Alamy<br \/>Provider: Alamy\/PA<br \/>Source: PA<\/p>\n<p>The brain can be linked to muscle mass too, Harlow says. It\u2019s not just about being able to lift things. It gives you more energy, better sleep and you\u2019ll look and feel better.<\/p>\n<p>\nHow to age without pain\n<\/p>\n<p>Daily habits<\/p>\n<p>Do short bursts of exercise, between 30 and 60 seconds, in otherwise dead time during the day.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"   height=\"155\" width=\"155\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752059_875_SEI_299364202-e1783941736712.jpg\" alt=\"Elderly woman exercising in a public park\" class=\"wp-image-4447428\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"\/>Fit more walking into your day (Photo: andreswd\/Getty\/E+)<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"   height=\"430\" width=\"644\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752061_808_SEI_293534656.jpg\" alt=\"A mature man rouses in the early morning light, stretching as he wakes.\" class=\"wp-image-4364389\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"\/>Sleep can affect your heart health (Photo: Flashpop\/Getty\/Digital Vision)<\/p>\n<p>Stretch in bed<\/p>\n<p>Take joints through a full range of motion for five minutes to loosen it before getting up.<\/p>\n<p>Don\u2019t crash diet<\/p>\n<p>It can increase the decline of muscle mass and bone density, which needs to be avoided.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"   height=\"430\" width=\"644\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752062_803_SEI_285823952.jpg\" alt=\"A woman adds up food calorie counts in her kitchen\" class=\"wp-image-4246668\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"\/>Calorie counting every day can be a pain (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n<p>\nHow to age without pain\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"   height=\"155\" width=\"155\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752063_873_SEI_257827367.jpg\" alt=\"Protein shake and chocolate protein powder in a scoop, Sports nutrition.\" class=\"wp-image-3787845\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"\/>(Photo: Inga Erhan\/ Gingagi\/ Getty).<\/p>\n<p>Protein<\/p>\n<p>Harlow advises 1.6 grams per kilogram of body weight to stop muscle loss alongside resistance training.<\/p>\n<p>Don\u2019t wait<\/p>\n<p>Harlow finds that many patients put off making a change to their lifestyle until their lives are consumed by pain.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"   height=\"155\" width=\"155\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752063_921_GettyImages-1496128899.jpg\" alt=\"Menstrual pain, woman with stomachache suffering from pms at home, endometriosis, cystitis and other diseases of the urinary system - stock photo\" class=\"wp-image-4328589\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"\/>Menstrual pain, woman with stomachache suffering from pms at home, endometriosis, cystitis and other diseases of the urinary system \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"   height=\"155\" width=\"155\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752064_760_SEI_299096889.jpg\" alt=\"Close-up view of female jogger tying laces of her sport shoes before running exercise routine. Motivation, healthy lifestyle and fitness concept.\" class=\"wp-image-4441391\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"\/>Caption: Close-up view of female jogger tying laces of her sport shoes before running exercise routine. Motivation, healthy lifestyle and fitness concept.<br \/>Photographer: Xavier Lorenzo<br \/>Provider: Getty Images<br \/>Source: Moment RF<\/p>\n<p>Recovery<\/p>\n<p>For most people, it\u2019s\u00a0about reducing the number of times per week you\u2019re exercising, not reducing intensity.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>\nThe three ageing tests to do\n<\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list inews--shorts-card--list--zebra\">\n<li>Lie completely flat on the floor and get back up to a standing position using any technique. This should take less than 10 seconds.<\/li>\n<li>See how many times you can sit on the chair and stand back up again in 30 seconds. Men should be aiming for more than 14 times and women\u00a012.\u00a0<\/li>\n<li>The single-leg stand, which involves standing on one leg and balancing for 10 seconds. Everyone should be able to do that and for those under 65, Harlow asks them to do it with their eyes closed.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Despite the job market hiring fewer entry-level roles, employers are still looking for grads\u2026<\/p>\n<p>But you should be prepared to keep an open mind. <\/p>\n<p>We\u2019ve compiled the sectors hiring graduate roles, what degree is required, and what they pay.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"   height=\"429\" width=\"644\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752065_171_SEI_294335645.jpg\" alt=\"Young adults in graduation gowns joyfully tossing caps into the sky, celebrating achievement and new beginnings against a clear backdrop\" class=\"wp-image-4376868\" style=\"aspect-ratio:4\/3;object-fit:cover\"\/>Plan 5 applies to students who began university courses on or after August 2023<br \/>(Photo: Abraham Gonzalez Fernandez\/Getty Images\/<br \/>Source: Moment RF)<\/p>\n<p>\nThe degrees to choose for a career\n<\/p>\n<p>Hiring in the UK could<br \/>finally be on the up<\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--statistic\">47%<\/p>\n<p>of employers offered entry-level<br \/>positions from July.<\/p>\n<p>That is up nearly 15 per cent from the same period last year.<\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--statistic\">700,000<\/p>\n<p>But graduate unemployment\u00a0rose to six per cent in 2025 and 700,000 jobless graduates were\u00a0claiming benefits.<\/p>\n<p>\nFinance and insurance\n<\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list inews--shorts-card--list--tick\">\n<li>Around 42 per cent of UK finance and insurance employers say they will be open to graduate roles this summer.<\/li>\n<li>Business loan company Portman Finance\u00a0Group has taken on 50 graduates over the past four years.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"   height=\"436\" width=\"644\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752066_704_SEI_300187971.jpg\" alt=\"A lot of thought needs to be put into transferring a DB pension to a DC pot\" class=\"wp-image-4460947\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/>A lot of thought needs to be put into transferring a DB pension to a DC pot (Photo: Getty Images)<\/p>\n<p>Portman graduates start on \u00a336,000 for the two-year programme and the education you need to apply is a minimum \u201cABB\u201d of A-levels, and a 2:1 or above university degree. But not in a specific subject.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"   height=\"675\" width=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752067_470_SEI_302072318.jpg\" alt=\"Mature businesswoman wearing casual, commuting to work in the city of Vienna. Female commuter leaving the subway train while commuting to work\" class=\"wp-image-4490300\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/>Loose, natural fabrics are the best clothing option when the temperature rises (Photo: Kate Wieser\/Getty)<\/p>\n<p>Trade and logistics<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\" style=\"position: relative;\">\n<p>What makes it particularly rewarding is that there\u2019s always something to learn.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<p>Nearly half (47 per cent) of trade and logistics companies will be giving graduates a go this year.<\/p>\n<p>Salaries start at \u00a330,000 with an uncapped bonus, rising to \u00a350,000 plus a company car as a senior account partner.<\/p>\n<p>Technology and IT<\/p>\n<p>More than half (52 per cent) of UK tech and IT firms are actively looking for graduates.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Successful entry-level candidates can earn a basic salary of up to \u00a335,000, with the opportunity to triple that within their first three years of working.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"   height=\"675\" width=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752068_335_SEI_299210766.jpg\" alt=\"Young business woman searching for job online. Woman writing resume on laptop.\" class=\"wp-image-4443333\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/>Caption: Young business woman searching for job online. Woman writing resume on laptop.<br \/>Photographer: Maria Korneeva<br \/>Provider: Getty Images<br \/>Source: Moment RF<\/p>\n<p>\t<a class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_thumbnail post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/inews-lifestyle\/stopped-hiring-graduates-older-workers-ai-4293473?ico=in-line_link\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\"><br \/>\n\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752068_121_SEI_289172034.jpg\" width=\"110\" height=\"110\" alt=\"\"\/><br \/>\n\t<\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"inews--shorts-card--article_min-read\">4 min read<\/p>\n<p>\nPublic sector, health<br \/>and social services\u00a0\n<\/p>\n<p>46 per cent of public sector, health and social services organisations are also\u00a0ready to take graduates, according to a survey by Manpower.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"   height=\"675\" width=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752069_785_GettyImages-2149131222.jpg\" alt=\"A policeman walking away from an elderly person's home. - stock photo\" class=\"wp-image-4256573\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/>A policeman walking away from an elderly person\u2019s home. \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list inews--shorts-card--list--tick\">\n<li>For example, Police Now runs a graduate\u00a0programme into policing. They\u00a0recruit graduates from any degree field, as long as they achieve a 2:2 or above. Starting salaries range from \u00a331,164 to \u00a342,210 depending\u00a0on location and rising each year.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Can we treat guests without blowing our budget?<\/p>\n<p>According to Waitrose, a dinner party revival is underway led by younger people trying to reduce the cost of getting together.<\/p>\n<p>The i Paper food writer Sophie Morris [below] asks chefs for their best ideas for hosting at home. <\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752069_842_SEI_201137628.jpg\" alt=\"\" style=\"aspect-ratio:4\/3;object-fit:cover\"\/> <\/p>\n<p>Always have bread<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\" style=\"position: relative;\">\n<p>People will feast on the<br \/>bread, and then need less fish\/steak\/expensive whatever. All small plates restaurants know this: this is why the first thing on the menu is always artisan bread and butter. <\/p>\n<p>ELLA RISBRIDGER, AUTHOR OF THE KITCHEN BOOK \u2013 GOOD FOOD FOR EVERY DAY<\/p><\/blockquote>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"   height=\"675\" width=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752070_603_GettyImages-1397717568.jpg\" alt=\"Female Hands cutting bread. - stock photo\" class=\"wp-image-4256791\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/>Female Hands cutting bread. \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n<p>\nUse vegetables as centrepieces\n<\/p>\n<p>Chef and food writer Helen Graham turns vegetables into centrepieces to cut down on meat and fish expenses.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1200\" height=\"800\"   src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752071_196_GettyImages-1457478408.jpg\" alt=\"Variety Fresh of organic fruits and vegetables and healthy vegan meal ingredients in reusable eco cotton bags on beige background . Zero waste shopping concept. Healthy food, clean eating, eco friendly, no plastic. Flat lay, top view - stock photo\" class=\"wp-image-4246102\" style=\"aspect-ratio:5\/4;object-fit:cover;width:204px\"\/>Variety Fresh of organic fruits and vegetables and healthy vegan meal ingredients in reusable eco cotton bags on beige background . Zero waste shopping concept. Healthy food, clean eating, eco friendly, no plastic. Flat lay, top view \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"   height=\"1280\" width=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752071_713_GettyImages-1320869112.jpg\" alt=\"Beautiful woman unpacks a full fabric bag with fruits and vegetables on the kitchen. - stock photo\" class=\"wp-image-4311358\" style=\"aspect-ratio:9\/10;object-fit:cover;width:195px\"\/>Beautiful woman unpacks a full fabric bag with fruits and vegetables on the kitchen. \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n<p>Add pantry items<\/p>\n<p>Graham\u2019s recipes include a braised cabbage with a preserved lemon sauce, a roast cauliflower with saffron, and harrisa roast carrots with mango labneh.<\/p>\n<p>\nHow to host on a budget\n<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"   height=\"155\" width=\"155\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752072_781_SEI_247734407.jpg\" alt=\"Table top view of Indian food.\" class=\"wp-image-3644279\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"\/>Many of the dishes we take for granted in British curry joints are entirely unlike anything you might find to eat in the subcontinent (Photo: Getty\/E+)<\/p>\n<p>Improve the everyday<\/p>\n<p>Guests will\u00a0always appreciate a stellar interpretation of the ordinary. Think lasagna or curry. <\/p>\n<p>Generosity<\/p>\n<p>Cooking dinner for your guests is spoiling them \u2013 you\u2019re being generous with your time, your effort, and your home. So don\u2019t feel the need to go overboard elsewhere.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"   height=\"155\" width=\"155\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752072_183_SEI_276886729.jpg\" alt=\"A group of friends is toasting together during a dinner party. They are smiling, celebrating together.\" class=\"wp-image-4089663\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"\/>(Photo: FilippoBacci\/Getty Images\/E+)<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"   height=\"155\" width=\"155\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752073_372_GettyImages-1221462515.jpg\" alt=\"Man serving friends salad at backyard dinner party - stock photo\" class=\"wp-image-4249370\" style=\"aspect-ratio:1\/1;object-fit:cover;width:100px\"\/>Man serving friends salad at backyard dinner party \u2013 stock photo. (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n<p>Ask for help<\/p>\n<p>Ask friends to bring a contribution, be it a nibble or a pudding.<\/p>\n<p>Big platter energy<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote inews--shorts-card--quote-cited is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\" style=\"position: relative;\">\n<p>[Presentation] can be the key to elevating something\u00a0. Spaghetti and tomato sauce suddenly looks like a feast when tumbled\u00a0on a lovely big plate, dressed with olive oil and parmesan and placed in the middle of the table.<\/p>\n<p>Food writer and editor Eleanor Steafel\u00a0<\/p><\/blockquote>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"   height=\"675\" width=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752074_197_SEI_207578745.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-3095192\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/>Entertaining doesn\u2019t have to be stressful (Photo: The Good Brigade\/Getty\/Digital Vision)<\/p>\n<p>\nHow to host on a budget\n<\/p>\n<p>Taco party<\/p>\n<p>Have one expensive filling, like shredded chicken, and two cheaper options, like refried beans, says Ella Risbridger.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"960\" height=\"640\"   src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752074_748_Ice-cream-shop.jpg\" alt=\"Traditional ice cream parlours are still going strong (Shutterstock)\" class=\"wp-image-61748\" style=\"aspect-ratio:5\/4;object-fit:cover;width:204px\"\/>Traditional ice cream parlours are still going strong (Shutterstock)<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"   height=\"1333\" width=\"1200\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/1788752075_947_SEI_174889872.jpg\" alt=\"Tacos are a popular dish throughout the country (Photo: Daniela White Images\/Getty)\" class=\"wp-image-2668979\" style=\"aspect-ratio:9\/10;object-fit:cover;width:195px\"\/>Tacos are a popular dish throughout the country (Photo: Daniela White Images\/Getty) <\/p>\n<p>Sundaes<\/p>\n<p>Shop-bought ice cream is so easily zhuzhed up with the help of handy toppings, says Eleanor Steafel.<\/p>\n<p>\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/wp-content\/themes\/inews-theme\/assets\/images\/chevron.svg\" alt=\"\"\/><\/p>\n<p>The good news is that the turn of the season provides a natural opportunity to reset \u2013 and you do not need to sacrifice an entire bank holiday weekend to tackling the whole house. \u201cIt\u2019s about progress, not perfection,\u201d says Constantine. \u201cIf you have five or 10 minutes, pick one small zone and focus on that.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Choose one of these five high-impact <a class=\"post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/inews-lifestyle\/household-clutter-breakdown-how-turned-things-around-4497567?ico=in-line_link\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">clutter hotspots<\/a>, she says, and your home could feel considerably calmer and your daily life easier as <a class=\"post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/topic\/autumn?ico=in-line_link\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">autumn<\/a> begins\u2026<\/p>\n<p>1. Your hallway<\/p>\n<p>No area of the home has to work quite as hard as the hallway. It is where we arrive laden with bags, coats, post and shopping, and where we scramble to find everything again when trying to get out of the door.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThe majority of time you spend in the hallway is when you\u2019re in a rush to get in or out the house,\u201d says Constantine. \u201cThey also tend to be <a class=\"post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/shorts\/two-minute-habits-declutter-home?ico=in-line_link\" type=\"short\" id=\"4463359\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">quite small spaces<\/a>, so mess accumulates quickly. If you don\u2019t have systems in place, things just end up in piles, on the floor or thrown over overflowing coat hooks. And unfortunately, an untidy hallway is the first thing you or guests see, and you carry that impression with you into the home.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>How to fix it<\/p>\n<p>First decide what deserves its place in your hallway. \u201cIf hooks and shoe racks are overflowing, it\u2019s often because you\u2019ve mixed up several seasons,\u201d says Constantine. \u201cIt should contain only the few coats and bags currently in rotation.\u201d So pack away thick winter coats you will not yet need, say goodbye to the flip-flops, and weed out anything you no longer wear.<\/p>\n<p>Then make the remaining space work harder. \u201cA compact coat rack or slim shoe cabinet are a good place to start \u2013 I like the clever shoe storage from Ikea that folds in on itself,\u201d Constantine says. \u201cBut most importantly, make sure you have dedicated <a class=\"post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/shorts\/two-minute-habits-declutter-home?ico=in-line_link\" type=\"short\" id=\"4463359\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">\u201cdrop zones\u201d<\/a> for anything you tend to have in your hands when you come in \u2013 keys, post, your work pass, umbrellas. And I would always suggest having a mirror in the hallway, as that will create the sensation of more space and light.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>2. Your wardrobe<\/p>\n<p>Few cluttered spaces cause quite as much daily irritation as an overstuffed wardrobe.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cWe have to get dressed and undressed every single day, and that involves making endless decisions,\u201d says Constantine. \u201cWhat are you going to wear? Is it too creased? Where is that particular top? Can you be bothered to hang something up at the end of the day? Is it dirty? Does it go on your \u2018chair-drobe?\u2019\u201d<\/p>\n<p>At night, you simply want to get into bed. In the morning, you may be racing to get ready, pulling out several outfits before finding one that works. When there is already too much crammed into the space, clothes inevitably end up creased, buried or scattered elsewhere around the bedroom.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"   height=\"438\" width=\"644\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/SEI_310552007.jpg\" alt=\"Woman folding clothes\" class=\"wp-image-4748633\"\/>It is time to organise your clothes (Photo: Orbon Alija\/Getty)<\/p>\n<p>How to fix it<\/p>\n<p>The seasonal change makes now an especially <a class=\"post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/inews-lifestyle\/25-years-decluttering-homes-seven-golden-rules-4314782?ico=in-line_link\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">good time to tackle your wardrobe<\/a>. Begin with a ruthless edit. \u201cTake everything out piece by piece, because you need to have it in your hand,\u201d says Constantine. \u201cIt\u2019s too easy to flick through your wardrobe and think, \u2018Yeah, yeah, I wear that.\u2019 When you have to decide whether to rehang it or put it in the donation pile, it really helps your brain to be honest with itself.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>For any items you really aren\u2019t sure about, give them a chance by putting them back in your wardrobe \u2013 but on a hanger the wrong way round. \u201cThen the next time you do a declutter, you know you haven\u2019t worn anything that is still that way \u2013 which means it\u2019s time for it to go.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Once you have reduced the volume, organise what remains so everything is easy to see and return. \u201cA nice, easy win is to have <a class=\"post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/inews-lifestyle\/professional-declutterer-eight-easy-tricks-end-constant-tidying-4715428?ico=in-line_link\" type=\"post\" id=\"4715428\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">matching hangers<\/a> \u2013 I like the slim velvet ones \u2013 because everything then hangs neatly together and it instantly improves the aesthetics,\u201d says Constantine. \u201cI also always organise by type, colour and sleeve length, so I always know exactly where things are in the morning.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>In drawers, Constantine recommends drawer dividers to keep smaller items such as socks and pants in their own sections, as well as \u201cfile-folding\u201d clothes. \u201cSo instead of putting things like tops and jumpers in piles on top of each other, where things then get lost, you fold and slot them in upright, like a file. That way you can see where everything is, because you are viewing it from above.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>3. Your kitchen cupboards<\/p>\n<p>A cluttered <a class=\"post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/topic\/kitchen?ico=in-line_link\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">kitchen<\/a> cupboard makes itself known every time you cook: the pan you need is beneath six others, mugs are crammed on their shelf so tightly you cannot put away the clean ones, and ingredients disappear in the chaos.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cPots and pans cupboards are often low down and in that annoying corner space, where things get lost and you can\u2019t reach them,\u201d says Constantine. \u201cAnd we all have those cupboards where it\u2019s dark and you can\u2019t see what\u2019s what, so you end up buying another packet of spaghetti when you actually have three open back there somewhere.\u201d<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"   height=\"429\" width=\"644\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/SEI_310552009.jpg\" alt=\"Stylish hanger for keys on white wall in hallway\" class=\"wp-image-4748634\"\/>Organisation can go a long way to making your life calmer (Photo: Liudmila Chernetska\/Getty)<\/p>\n<p>How to fix it<\/p>\n<p>Start with the cookware. Constantine has a useful test for deciding how much you genuinely need: \u201cThink of the biggest meal that you\u2019re <a class=\"post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/inews-lifestyle\/seven-easy-family-recipes-midweek-dinners-4343729?ico=in-line_link\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">going to cook<\/a> in the year \u2013 usually Christmas Day. Would you use all of that cookware? If there are pans you\u2019re not going to use then, you probably don\u2019t need them.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Apply the same logic to towers of mugs, glasses and serving dishes. Your cupboards should have enough spare room for things to be put away without a shove.<\/p>\n<p>Only once you have decluttered, you should organise. \u201cTreat yourself to a pan or lid organiser,\u201d says Constantine. \u201cThey\u2019re inexpensive but I find especially useful for lids, because they\u2019re always in the way.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Next, turn to food. \u201cPurging yourself of out-of-date foods is an easy decluttering task, because there are usually no sentiments attached to it,\u201d she says. \u201cBut even if, say, a dried item you\u2019ve had for a while hasn\u2019t gone off, ask yourself: how long have I had it? Am I actually going to use it? Because remember that unopened, in-date food will be far more welcome at your local <a class=\"post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/topic\/food-banks?ico=in-line_link\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">food bank<\/a> than it is continuing to occupy valuable cupboard space.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Once edited, organise ingredients into categories that reflect the way you cook: breakfast foods together, tins and pulses together, pasta and grains together, baking ingredients together. \u201cI like to label shelves so you don\u2019t even <a class=\"post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/inews-lifestyle\/professional-declutterer-10-things-throw-away-today-4612522?ico=in-line_link\" type=\"post\" id=\"4612522\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">have to think<\/a> \u2013 and it makes you more likely to put things back in the correct place.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>4. Your fridge and freezer<\/p>\n<p>The dips and sauces that have lurked in the shelves for years \u2013 gone off, half-used ingredients from recipes you never repeated and optimistic healthy purchases slowly wilting at the back. The chances are your freezer is cluttered with food which needs throwing out. Then there is the freezer, which becomes crammed with miscellaneous leftovers you never eat, and squashed half-loaves.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cA cluttered fridge and freezer doesn\u2019t just waste food,\u201d says Constantine. \u201cWhen you can\u2019t see what you have, you are more likely to buy duplicates and less likely to use ingredients before they spoil.\u201d<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\"   height=\"429\" width=\"644\" src=\"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/SEI_310552228.jpg\" alt=\"Close-up view of a woman placing a glass food container with fresh salad into a refrigerator.\" class=\"wp-image-4748635\"\/>Your fridge might need some attention (Photo: Getty)<\/p>\n<p>How to fix it<\/p>\n<p>After clearing anything out of date from the fridge, Constantine says, get comfortable with seeing empty space. \u201cGive yourself permission to have a slightly empty fridge, without the urge to fill it with a supermarket shop,\u201d she says. \u201cTurn it into a use-up challenge for the week ahead. Those random slices of frozen bread become sandwiches or toasties; the handful of frozen peas goes into dinner; the half-used jar gets incorporated <a class=\"post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/inews-lifestyle\/three-easy-recipes-cut-food-waste-lagom-chef-4688006?ico=in-line_link\" type=\"post\" id=\"4688006\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">into a meal<\/a>.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Then divide your fridge into clear categories. \u201cIt isn\u2019t just about using the drawers for vegetables or lower shelf for meat. Get yourself some containers to group things such as condiments or cheeses,\u201d she says. \u201cThat way you always know where everything is and spend less time rooting around.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Do the same in the freezer, but add one crucial step: label homemade food before it goes in. \u201cYou can use tape that you can write on and put what it is and the date that you cooked it,\u201d she says.<\/p>\n<p>5. Your inadvertent dump zone<\/p>\n<p>Almost every home has one: the surface where objects land when nobody can be bothered to decide where they belong. It might be the kitchen table, a worktop, a sideboard or an island \u2013 but wherever it is, it gets cluttered with everything from parcels to children\u2019s artwork and miscellaneous objects destined to be \u201cdealt with later\u201d.<\/p>\n<p>The problem is that this is usually a surface you actually need. Before you can eat dinner or prepare food, you have to perform the same clearing ritual all over again.<\/p>\n<p>How to fix it<\/p>\n<p>Rather than simply clearing the surface for the hundredth time, investigate why those particular objects keep ending up there.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cQuestion what it is you\u2019re putting on there regularly, then designate a new place for each of them to live,\u201d says Constantine.<\/p>\n<p>If post always lands on the table, <a class=\"post_in-line_link\" href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/inews-lifestyle\/seven-things-making-house-hotter-how-fix-4671467?ico=in-line_link\" type=\"post\" id=\"4671467\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">install a letter rack.<\/a> If it is your everyday handbag, give it an accessible hook. If children\u2019s papers accumulate there, create one tray or folder for them.<\/p>\n<p>Then make the surface look deliberately inviting. \u201cAdd a few intentional pieces like a vase or a framed photo, keeping the rest empty,\u201d she says. \u201cIt is much easier to resist the urge of dumping things on a beautiful, aesthetically pleasing space than one that is already messy.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>The same could be said for all decluttering jobs \u2013 do it once and your home life should feel a calmer place to maintain.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Maybe it\u2019s the lack of proper routine, maybe it\u2019s the weather making tidying feel even less appealing, maybe&hellip;\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":676252,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":"","_share_on_mastodon":"0"},"categories":[41],"tags":[9,10,286083,56617,13,14,28951,6,35713,541,11,12,15,16,5,7,8,65,66,67],"class_list":["post-676251","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-world","tag-breaking-news","tag-breakingnews","tag-cleaners","tag-cleaning","tag-featured-news","tag-featurednews","tag-happiness","tag-headlines","tag-homes-and-gardens","tag-iweekend","tag-latest-news","tag-latestnews","tag-main-news","tag-mainnews","tag-news","tag-top-stories","tag-topstories","tag-world","tag-world-news","tag-worldnews"],"share_on_mastodon":{"url":"https:\/\/pubeurope.com\/@ie\/117227670857783545","error":""},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/676251","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=676251"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/676251\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/676252"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=676251"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=676251"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.europesays.com\/ie\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=676251"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}