Mental health is just as essential as physical health, yet it is often overlooked. Recognising and managing our mental well-being can lead to a healthier, more balanced life. This article

Being a working mum is like starring in a Cirque du Soleil performance—except you’re the acrobat, the coordinator, and the one trying to stop everything from falling apart. One minute, you’re smashing deadlines at work, and the next, you’re negotiating with a toddler about why pants are, in fact, necessary. Let’s be real—balancing motherhood and career isn’t about achieving perfection. It’s about survival, laughter, and knowing which battles to fight (hint: let them wear the superhero cape to the supermarket). Here are some ways to keep the chaos manageable while keeping your sanity (mostly) intact. 1. The Myth of “Having It All” Whoever started the

VJ Salomone, a leader in pharmaceutical and healthcare distribution, has been a trusted name in Malta for years, ensuring access to high-quality health and wellness products. Their commitment goes beyond distribution—they are dedicated to empowering individuals with the resources and knowledge they need to lead healthier lives. This year, their involvement in the Women’s Health & Wellbeing Expo 2025 showcased their deep-rooted dedication to supporting women’s health initiatives. A Legacy of Trust & Innovation in Healthcare With a strong presence in Malta’s pharmaceutical industry, VJ Salomone has built a reputation for quality, reliability, and innovation. Representing several renowned multinational brands, they offer a vast portfolio

On February 22, 2025, the Women’s Health & Wellbeing Expo, the annual fundraising event organised by the Women for Women Foundation, brought together an incredible community of women at the beautiful Xara Lodge for a day of learning, networking, and empowerment. More than just a conference, the expo is a vital fundraiser—where every ticket purchased directly supports women in need across Malta. With inspiring talks, interactive stands, and a vibrant atmosphere, attendees left feeling informed and uplifted—knowing that their participation helped create real change in the lives of vulnerable women and families. Powerful Talks & Conversations The day was packed with insightful sessions led by

As we celebrate Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day, we honour the remarkable Maltese women who have paved the way for future generations. From politics and medicine to journalism, law, and sports, these women have left a lasting impact on our nation. Pioneers in Politics & Leadership Agatha Barbara (1923–2002) A trailblazer for women’s rights, Agatha Barbara was Malta’s first female President, serving from 1982 to 1987. She holds the record as the longest-serving woman Member of Parliament in Maltese political history, having been elected in ten consecutive elections from 1947 to 1981. As Minister of Education, she introduced compulsory full-time basic education for all

Gift-giving can be both a joy and a challenge. Whether it’s for a birthday, Christmas, or just because, finding the perfect gift can sometimes feel like a daunting task. But worry not; we’ve got you covered! Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you choose the ideal gift for your loved ones, tailored by age, recipients, and occasions. Gifts by Age For Kids (0-12 years) • Babies (0-2 years): At this age, it’s all about stimulating their senses. Soft toys, colourful board books, and sensory play items like rattles or textured blankets are perfect. Outside the box: A customised storybook featuring the baby’s name. • Toddlers

Breastfeeding—it’s one of those magical, messy, and utterly human experiences that many mums look forward to, and for good reason! It’s an incredible way to bond with your baby, offering comfort, connection, and nourishment. It’s like having superpowers, right? But let’s be honest, as beautiful as breastfeeding can be, it’s also a rollercoaster ride of emotions, late-night feedings, and some unexpected challenges. So, as we celebrate Breastfeeding Month, let’s dive into the beautiful, sometimes wobbly world of breastfeeding. The Beauty of Breastfeeding There’s no denying that breastfeeding has some incredible perks. For starters, it’s an intimate bonding experience between you and your baby. Those quiet

Let’s chat about something that’s at the heart of every strong relationship: communication. Whether with your partner, family, friends, or even colleagues, how we talk (and listen) can make or break our connections. So, let’s dive into some tips and techniques to boost your communication skills and build stronger bonds! Why Communication Matters Effective communication isn’t just about talking. It’s about understanding and being understood. When we communicate well, we can express our needs, share our thoughts, and connect on a deeper level. Misunderstandings, on the other hand, can lead to conflicts, hurt feelings, and a whole lot of frustration. Tips for Better Communication 1.

Whether you’re a yoga enthusiast, a running queen, or a strength-training superstar, what you eat can make a huge difference in how you feel and perform. Let’s dive into some practical nutritional strategies to help you get the most out of your workouts.  Pre-Workout Nutrition: Power Up! Think of your pre-workout snack as a little pep talk for your body. Here’s what to focus on: Carbs are Your Best Friend Carbohydrates are the quickest way to get that energy boost. They help you power through your workout without feeling like you’re dragging. Opt for complex carbs like whole grains, fruits, and veggies. A few yummy

Abuse manifests in various forms, and non-physical abuse can be equally damaging. Recognising the signs and understanding the impact of non-physical abuse is crucial for identifying and addressing abusive relationships. What is Non-Physical Abuse? Non-physical abuse, often termed coercive control, includes patterns of manipulation, intimidation, and threatening behaviour used to terrorise the other party. While physical abuse is more widely recognised, emotional abuse can be just as debilitating. Emotional abuse starts subtly, with small, infrequent incidents that may not initially seem abusive. Over time, these actions escalate, creating a state of constant fear and control. Common Forms of Non-Physical Abuse Recognising the Signs and Finding

Let’s explore something incredibly empowering today: the incredible mind-body connection and how holistic health practices can do wonders for our overall well-being. Ready? Let’s dive in! The Magic of the Mind-Body Connection First off, what exactly is the mind-body connection? Think of it like this: our thoughts and emotions can have a huge impact on our physical health. Ever notice how a stressful day can lead to a pounding headache or a tense neck? Or how a relaxing walk in nature can make you feel on top of the world? That’s the mind-body connection in action—everything is beautifully intertwined. Holistic Health Practices: Your Wellness Toolkit

Reaching sexual climax isn’t just about feeling good; it’s a well-coordinated dance that happens inside us, involving our whole selves. It all begins with a rush of blood to the genital area, which makes the erectile tissues there swell up. And yes, this happens for everyone, not just guys. This is a big reason why things feel so intense and why we’re all particularly responsive in those moments. As we get closer to the peak, it’s as if our body turns up the dial on everything. Our heart beats faster, our blood pressure rises, and we start breathing more quickly. Every part of us is

As the warm spring days roll into Malta, they bring vibrant blooms and longer sunshine. Unfortunately, many of us end up battling hay fever instead of enjoying the gorgeous weather. The season transforms landscapes beautifully but brings a host of sniffling and sneezing. Whether it’s the foggy days or the dusty gusts from the South, hay fever can really dampen our spirits. Not to worry, though! Here’s a friendly guide to natural remedies for hay fever that will help you manage those pesky symptoms with some easy and natural solutions. A Sticky Solution: Petroleum Jelly This common ointment, famous for healing chapped lips, is also excellent

Malta has welcomed its new president, Myriam Spiteri Debono, who brings a wealth of experience and a record of many firsts. As a seasoned politician and a longtime advocate for gender equality, she has made history as the 11th President of Malta and the first Gozitan woman to hold this prestigious position. Her journey marks a significant milestone in the ongoing narrative of women’s leadership on the island. From Victoria to Valletta: The Making of a President Born in the historic town of Victoria on the island of Gozo, Myriam Spiteri Debono’s journey to the presidency began at the University of Malta. There, she delved

‘Mum, do you remember me?’ ‘Dad, what are the names of my children?’  ‘No, my mum doesn’t understand us’. ‘You can order pizza for lunch; she does not like fish’. This scenario is seen and heard all too frequently within the community, in care homes, and even on social media. As a speech-language pathologist working with adults and the elderly, I am pained each time by the look of confusion and desperation in the individual with dementia, who is often unable to reciprocate or understand a conversation. ‘Why?’ one may ask. The answer is that we should preserve one’s dignity throughout the disease’s progression. One

In our fast-paced lives, the noise of the mundane often drowns out the beauty of the world around us. Dacher Keltner’s research gently reminds us to pause and soak in the awe of our surroundings, highlighting the benefits of awe. His recent discussions on HuffPost and in-depth exploration shared by the University of California highlight a simple yet profound action we can all take. To enrich our lives, we should seek out awe in our everyday experiences. Who is Dacher Keltner?  Dacher Keltner is a psychology professor at the University of California, Berkeley, and the director of the Greater Good Science Center. He has spent

Let’s explore the world of online dating, a realm where Cupid has traded in his arrows for algorithms and where the quest for love is just a swipe away. Whether you’re a seasoned swiper or new to the digital dating scene, our essential online dating tips will guide you through navigating these modern waters of romance. The Digital Meet-Cute: Finding Love in a Swipe Remember the days when meeting someone meant accidentally bumping into them at a bookstore or locking eyes across a crowded room? Well, welcome to 2024, where finding a date can be as easy as ordering a pizza – convenient, but with

Featuring brave women’s #metoomalta experiences to raise awareness about the extensive psychological damage that sexual assault causes to its victims. Trigger warning: sexual assault, rape. When Francesca Fenech Conti, administrator of the group Women for Women (Malta) on Facebook shared a personal disclosure of sexual assault, she wasn’t prepared for what happened next-message after message flooded her inbox with real, raw experiences from women who have experienced sexual assault and rape in their lifetimes. Many women finally found the courage to open up anonymously about their own painful experiences from the past, some of which were childhood sexual traumas, with some of the women speaking up about

Each and every one of us harbours a series of thought patterns that shape our reactions to life’s circumstances. This internal dialogue, also known as personal commentary, influences our view of the world and emotions. A valuable approach to nurturing optimism, hope, and joy is by intentionally embracing positive self-affirmations on a daily basis. As we grow older, many of us may become aware of these ingrained negative self-talk patterns. We often recall criticising remarks from our upbringing, whether from parents, siblings, or teachers. Additionally, negative interactions with peers may have further lowered our self-esteem. These negative messages echo in our minds over time, fostering

In contrast to the majority of European countries that have liberalised their abortion laws, allowing terminations within the first 12-14 weeks of pregnancy, Malta maintains exceptionally strict legislation. Abortions are only permitted in cases where the mother’s life is at grave risk, as outlined in the 2023 amendment. Global Context: A Comparative Overview Meanwhile, countries like France have taken proactive steps to safeguard reproductive rights, recently embedding the right to abortion in their constitution as a response to the erosion of such rights in the United States, particularly following the overturning of Roe v. Wade. This has sent a strong message across the world and

Today, we’re delving into a topic that’s on the minds of many parents: the adventure of raising pre-teens. Ah, the tween years! It’s a time of growth, change, and a fair share of emotional rollercoasters—both for kids and parents. Let’s unpack this exciting and challenging phase together in this tween-parent guide. The Tween Transformation: What’s Happening? Pre-teens, typically between the ages of 9 and 12, are in a fascinating phase. It’s like one foot is still in childhood while the other steps towards adolescence. They’re growing quite fast, both physically and emotionally. This period is marked by significant changes: Navigating New Waters: Conversations on Sexuality

I recently had the pleasure of meeting up with Ms. Elaine Borg, a General Surgeon with a sub-speciality in Oncoplastic Breast Surgery. She is highly qualified and experienced surgeon who has spent the last few years working both in Malta and in the UK. A lovely, very down-to-earth person. We chatted about women’s health issues, travel, food, cooking, children, COVID, her PhD, and the inevitable guilt of motherhood. I thoroughly enjoyed meeting her in person because, although Ms. Borg is very busy, she tells me, “I appreciate face-to-face contact even more since COVID!” I had a lot of questions for Ms. Borg because I’m always