It’s a shift that Greenrock has long been pushing for and one it feels needs to happen if Bermuda is serious about mitigating its environmental footprint. 

“For years we have developed, we have innovated and all of these things are great, we have some amazing technology. The challenge is that a lot of these technologies have been built without considering social and environmental implications,” said Eugene Dean, the charity’s chairman. 

“And so now what we’re facing is a time period where we’re having to deal with, in many cases, catastrophic challenges that our development, industry and innovation created. If you want to get back to a place of sustainability, then that means we need to start to factor those things into our thinking.” 

While it is easier to incorporate energy savers into new builds and renovations there are also ways to improve efficiency in existing homes. 

“The challenge in Bermuda is when you’re looking at a leaky home where air is able to come in or go out, where we’re either letting hot or cold air in or allowing heat or cooling to escape,” Mr Dean said. 

“So when you’re building houses in Bermuda or renovating houses making sure the doors have proper seals, making sure the windows have proper seals, all that type of stuff is really critical.” 

Solar panels are big ticket items that will bring down electricity bills. Having windows that allow in a lot of natural light also helps. Mr Dean believes energy monitor plugs which measure the cost of running appliances are useful. 

“They will let you know how much power the device is using over time. Simple things like putting timers on your water heater also makes a huge difference. 

“And obviously people know now about using LED lights rather than incandescent lights and turning off appliances when they’re not using them.” 

Entertainment centres, sound systems and computers should all be unplugged when you leave home. 

“We’ve got into this thing where we leave TVs on all night and that’s considered normal. Back in the day we had shilling meters where you had to put money in and when the money ran out the power turned off. People were more mindful of what they were using.” 

Had Belco bills existed at that time, there would not have been any surprises, Mr Dean said. 

“With the shilling meter you leave something on, you wake up the next day and there’s no power. So you know right away that you need to change the behaviour.” 

For people interested in lessening their environmental impact, recycling and composting “significantly” reduce waste but most people don’t bother because garbage collectors make disposal convenient for them. 

“Some people will say it doesn’t really make a difference to their house but it makes a difference to the whole country when we’re reducing our waste and it makes a difference to the whole world if everyone is reducing their waste. 

“All this trash that we create, we just put it onto the road and somebody else has to deal with it. How many people are going down to the waste management department? How many people are going to the incinerator and seeing what’s happening? How many people are testing the quality of the air that’s coming out of the incinerator, and the harmful chemicals that are being pumped into the environment?” 

By now everyone should be used to walking around with a shopping bag rather than relying on a store to package their purchases; in restaurants it should be common practice for customers to present reusable containers for takeout. 

People once laid out their best dishes when they had guests for dinner. Today we’re more focused on the ease that plastic offers. 

Where we once gardened and took care of soil health we now rely on chemicals if we bother to garden at all. 

“A lot of these things people might say, ‘Oh that’s just a little thing, what difference does it make?’ Trust me, takeout containers have made a huge difference in the amount of trash that’s generated on the island. To get to a place where we avoid using all those single-use containers would have a huge impact. 

“But the main benefit of a healthy sustainable household is the fact that you’re producing individuals that then go out into the community and incorporate that type of mindset, that type of thinking into what they do every single day.” 

It’s up to us as a community to advocate for that to happen, Mr Dean said. 

At Greenrock’s Living Green Expo last month, a presenter warned of toxic loads – chemicals we ingest from our environment, food, water, household products and toiletries. If we want healthful things around us we need to exercise our spending power, Mr Dean said. 

“The business sector is driven by what we choose to consume. We may look at it as if we don’t have a lot to choose from the things that businesses make available but we dictate what businesses make available. People are not going to produce things that don’t sell.” 

It’s in that same vein that residents should champion renewable energy, he said. 

“At Greenrock we’ve embarked upon a feasibility study for offshore wind because we know the harms that are being caused by fossil fuels. Fossil fuels have allowed us to develop some amazing innovations and have transformed the way that we exist. However now we’re well beyond the point where we recognise the downside of the fuel we’re using. 

“We’re not saying that we want to get rid of planes or we want to get rid of cars or we want to get rid of electricity. What we’re saying is we’re now faced with the challenge of how we adopt this technology in a way that we can still utilise it without the harmful emissions. We need to move out of a mindset that’s focused on convenience and move into a mindset that has us focused on optimising our quality of life.” n 

The post A Greener Home Starts with a Mindset Shift appeared first on RG Magazines.

With help from YouTube, kitchens and bathrooms were given upgrades, garden beds were built, floors were laid and tons of furniture refinished.

It’s ongoing at both Masters Home Centre and Baptiste Ltd.

Sacha Bearden, Baptiste’s chief executive officer and owner, said people often come into the Warwick store fired up with ideas of things they’ve seen online.

“The university of YouTube makes people pretty fearless – there’s so many things that you can get done,” she said.

“People are definitely becoming bolder with finishes; people are recognising that they can do lots of little things themselves to jazz up their space without having to do an entire renovation.”

It’s not unusual for someone to walk in searching for an item they’ve pulled up on their phone. If Baptiste doesn’t have exactly what they’re looking for there is likely to be something that’s “pretty darn close” in store, she said.

“It’s giving people lots more ideas. I think at one time we always did the same raised panel, off white kitchen over and over and over. And then it became the white shaker kitchen. And now the slab style contemporary kitchens are big.”

For anyone looking to personalise, it helps that inspiration is easy to find even in items many people consider mundane.

“Now you can find a million pictures online. There’s exotic hardware, manufacturers are starting to make more exciting stuff,” Ms Bearden said.

“Even the regular brands of locks, Kwikset, Weiser and Schlage – they all now make very contemporary styles. Everybody’s getting in on the action and it’s interesting, fun stuff as well.”

At Masters, the focus has always been on DIY, said Shawn Grant, the store’s vice president of retail merchandising.

“In this day and age you can YouTube or Google anything. Something such as cracks in a wall, you can fix yourself instead of calling someone – and we specifically target that type of customer.”

Shoppers have come into the Dundonald Street store excited by painting projects and improvements to their kitchens and bathrooms.

“Our buyers are constantly looking for new products, looking to get the best price so that we can pass them on to our customers,” Mr Grant said.

“More recently we’ve seen an increase in people who want to refurbish their apartments. They want to get them ready to be rented because we know that there is a shortage in apartments that are on the island.”

At Baptiste, Ms Bearden has also noticed that homeowners are investing in their apartments in a way they didn’t previously.

“People seem to be more willing to spend money on better quality products. The days of looking for the cheapest thing are thankfully behind us. I guess people recognise that the nicer they do the apartment the nicer tenant they’ll get because it is kind of competitive out there now.”

“Big construction” didn’t happen during the pandemic, she added. However, people spent funds normally used for vacation on home improvement.

Although such renovations kept business steady, sales were nowhere near those of the boom of 2007 when there was lots of residential construction taking place.

“Renovating a bathroom or renovating a kitchen or putting on a new coat of paint, that’s not a major project, that’s not building a house,” Ms Bearden said.

“While those little projects sustained a lot of companies during Covid, it doesn’t keep the business running on a day-to-day sort of thing. We’ve seen a lot of renovation projects but not a lot of unique hubs.”

The post Thanks to the pandemic, DIY became the ‘new normal’ appeared first on RG Magazines.

From juice cleanses to restrictive diets, these programmes claim to eliminate toxins, boost energy levels and kick-start weight loss. However, as the popularity of detoxes has increased, so has scepticism among health experts. 

The concept of detoxification 

Detoxes date back to around 2000 BCE when ancient Greek and Egyptian civilisations believed that the food they consumed contained toxins harmful to the body. In response to this perceived threat, fasting and days of self-denial became common practices. 

At its core, the concept of detoxification is based on the idea of eliminating harmful substances, or “toxins” from the body. Proponents argue that our modern lifestyles expose us to myriad pollutants, processed foods and environmental toxins that can accumulate in our bodies, leading to fatigue, digestive issues and a range of health problems. Detoxes have become a means to cleanse the system and restore balance. 

Arguments against detoxes 

The human body possesses remarkable natural detoxification mechanisms, primarily centred around the liver, kidneys and digestive system. These organs work tirelessly to neutralise and eliminate toxins, ensuring the body functions optimally. Critics of detox diets argue that the body does not need external interventions to detoxify, as it is well equipped to perform this function on its own. 

Types of detox programmes 

Detox programmes come in various forms, ranging from juice cleanses to fasting and specialised diets. Juice cleanses, for instance, involve consuming only fruit and vegetable juices for a designated period, while fasting may require abstaining from solid food altogether. Some detoxes incorporate supplements, herbs or even colon cleanses with the aim of enhancing the elimination of toxins. 

Potential benefits 

Advocates of detoxes often report feeling increased energy, improved digestion and even weight loss after completing a cleanse. Some studies suggest that certain components of detox diets, such as increased water intake and a focus on fruits and vegetables, can contribute positively to health. Additionally, the psychological impact of completing a detox may lead individuals to make healthier choices and adopt better lifestyle habits. 

Risks and limitations 

The body’s natural detoxification processes may be disrupted and the immune system could be compromised. Moreover, the weight loss observed during a cleanse is often water weight and may not be sustainable in the long term. 

Individual variability 

According to experts, one critical factor in the effectiveness of detoxes is individual variability. Each person’s body responds differently to dietary changes and detox programmes. What works for one individual may not yield the same results for another. Factors such as age, overall health and pre-existing conditions all play a role. 

Overall, detoxes and cleanses have been picked up on by many people seeking a quick fix for health concerns. While there may be anecdotal evidence supporting the benefits, scientific backing is limited and potential risks exist. 

If it’s the route you choose, consulting with a healthcare professional before you start ensures a safer approach, however many doctors insist that nothing beats a balanced and varied diet, regular exercise and lifestyle habits that support the body’s natural detoxification processes. 

The post The Detox Dilemma appeared first on RG Magazines.

Most of us are taught from a young age just how important good nutrition is to fitness. Less attention is paid to the impact it has on our emotional state. 

Fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, fish, beans and whole grains provide energy for staying active and nutrients for growth and repair and general health. They also reduce anxiety and depression, improve concentration and help with mood swings. 

Meanwhile, if you fill your plate with processed meats and refined sugars and consume drinks with no nutritional value, you’re setting yourself up for problems: fatigue, stress, mood disorders and impaired brain function are among them. 

It’s a connection that went unchecked by the medical field for many years. Today however there is a better understanding, particularly of how the health of the gastrointestinal tract directly affects the brain chemistry and mood. 

As explained by the American Psychological Association, microbes in the GI tract do more than just block harmful microbes and defend against pathogens. 

“Gut bacteria produce hundreds of neurochemicals that the brain uses to regulate basic physiological processes as well as mental processes such as learning, memory and mood. For example, gut bacteria manufacture about 95 per cent of the body’s supply of serotonin, which influences both mood and GI activity.” 

If you’re unsure of what to eat to achieve the greatest benefit below are some tips: 

Foods to improve mood 

For a sunnier disposition, Betty Doyling, a fitness columnist for The Royal Gazette, recommends that everyone include the following in their diet: 

1. Green vegetables Leafy green vegetables such as spinach, kale and collard greens are high in potassium and calcium which are said to be able to help regulate stress hormones and improve sleep cycles. 

2. Fatty fish Salmon, tuna and halibut are rich in two types of omega-3 acids which are linked to lower levels of depression. A 3.5oz serving of salmon provides 2,260mg of eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid – experts say most adults need 250mg to 500mg of combined EPA and DHA per day. 

3. Beans and lentils Beans and lentils are great sources of B vitamins, which increase the level of our happy hormones – serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine and gamma aminobutyric acid. These neurotransmitters are chemical messengers; the signals they carry to cells help regulate mood and stave off clinical depression and anxiety. 

4. Dark chocolate Like beans and lentils, the flavonoids in cocoa help modulate the production of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine which leads to feelings of happiness and wellbeing. 

5. Nuts and seeds Nuts help you stay fuller, longer, which keeps irritability at bay. They also pack a big punch of tryptophan, which is said to improve mood. 

6. Berries Berries are also rich in flavonoid, which helps regulate mood, improve memory and reduces inflammation. Berries are also packed with antioxidants that can help support brain function and promote positive energy. 

The impact of processed foods 

People whose diets are high in processed foods, refined sugars, and unhealthy fats are said to have increased risk of depression and anxiety. 

Such foods not only lack the nutrients needed for optimal brain function but also promote inflammation and disrupt gut microbial balance, contributing to mood imbalances and decreased wellbeing. 

Sugary drinks, frozen meals, deli meats and most breakfast cereals are among the things to avoid if a happy state of mind is what you’re after. 

What makes it tough to walk away is that processed foods sometimes have added salt, sugar and fat which make their flavour more appealing than healthy options. 

If you eat them regularly however, the outcome is certain. According to the British Heart Foundation, research has proven that a poor diet will actually shorten your life as overconsumption of salt, fat and sugar increases the risk of serious illnesses such as obesity, high blood pressure and diabetes. 

“It showed that those who ate the most ultra-processed food were 24 per cent more likely to experience serious heart and circulatory events including heart attacks, strokes and angina,” the BHF reported. 

“Each ten per cent rise in daily intake of ultra-processed food was linked with a six per cent increase in heart disease risk.” 

Food and length of life 

Research has long proven that a healthy diet of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and healthy fats will reduce the risk of chronic diseases. 

That’s not the only benefit. Eating well can also extend life expectancy. Health professionals say that people who switch from typical western eating and follow a Mediterranean-style diet instead, can add as many as ten years to their time on earth. 

Rooted in the traditional eating habits of countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea, Mediterranean diets emphasise consumption of nutrient-dense, whole foods. 

Especially important for cardiovascular health are heart-healthy fats in olive oil and omega-3 fatty acids in fish such as salmon. Both reduce the risk of heart disease, the leading cause of death. 

Diet and productivity 

The quality of food we consume plays an important role in energy and brain function, both of which have tremendous influence over productivity in the workplace. 

A steady supply of nutrients is vital for the brain to function at its best – fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and complex carbohydrates are all essential. 

Particularly important are omega-3 fatty acids, walnuts and flaxseeds for cognitive function. A steady supply can improve concentration, problem-solving and memory. 

The post What you eat does matter appeared first on RG Magazines.

The short answer is “not really”, according to Sandra Dill of Mirrors.

“US colleges and Canadian colleges give students visas upon acceptance so it’s pretty straightforward once they are admitted. In the UK, of course, Bermudians don’t need a visa if they have a British passport but is it easier to go one way or the other? Not necessarily.”

Mirrors’ goal is to “empower young people to reach their potential through personal transformation”.

As the programme’s Peer Forward manager, Ms Dill provides resources and guidance for students at The Berkeley Institute and CedarBridge Academy as they transition from high school to college and employment.

For anyone considering the UK, she lets them know upfront that getting into university there is more challenging if they haven’t already completed a UK-type programme.

“If a student has done A-levels, if they’ve done [the International Baccalaureate] programme or anything like that, they can possibly get right into a UK business degree programme. But, if they have not gotten A-levels or IB, or extended type work, they will likely have to start off with a foundation year programme.”

While most students still head to the US and Canada for university, more are headed across the pond than in past years. Tuition is one of the drivers.

“The UK universities, the majority of them, because they’re all government-run universities, are $12,000 for the year,” Ms Dill said. In the US, community colleges begin at around $25,000, while universities can run as high as $60,000.

“And then there’s a difference whether it’s a public or private institution. So there’s a bigger variation in price range in the US, but there’s still quite a few students who go to the US because we’re used to travelling to the US for vacations. It’s close, we have family there and so forth.

“In Canada they really differentiate a lot between colleges and universities. Colleges offer diplomas and some undergraduate degrees and basically start at around $17,000, whereas universities like Western University and University of Toronto, they are $40,000 and up.”

Most of the children she sees through the Mirrors programme leave high school and head straight into university. “Some will work and go to the Bermuda College because the Bermuda College is around $3,000 for the year. So it’s a great way to start. They can go to the Bermuda College, earn transferable credits while there for a year or two. When they’re ready to go to university in the US – if that’s where they choose to go – they can transfer those credits and only do two years as opposed to four.”

During February, Mirrors hosted a programme called Finding Funds for College. As the name implies, the idea is to let people know about all the options there are. Many students apply for scholarships; some parents take out a loan.

“Many people have savings,” Ms Dill said. “They may have a Heritage savings plan or something like that and that probably would help fund [costs].”

Most important to remember is that tuition is only part of the cost of education.

“I’m not talking about accommodation, I’m not talking about the airfare to get there, I’m not talking about books, I’m not talking about laptops, iPads and subscriptions. There are lots of fees attached,” Ms Dill added.

But, there’s more than cost to consider when deciding which country to study in.

“For some it’s just a matter of what they’re comfortable with. Some people don’t want to go all the way to England to go to school. Some have family in the US or Canada, some have siblings who have gone before them so they continue that legacy. There are multiple reasons that one would choose to go to the US or Canada instead.”

Although it depends on the school, getting into a North American university can be “a bit easier”.

“They look more holistically at the individual whereas in the UK, their focus is mainly your grades and your personal statement. And your personal statement is very focused on how prepared you are for the programme that you’re applying to.

“In the UK, you are not applying to the college per se, you’re applying to the programme at the college. In the US you can apply to, say Georgia State University, and go into any programme. When you’re applying to the UK, you’re applying directly to the programme and the entry requirements for the programme are what get you in.”

In the US, students embark on a four-year undergraduate programme versus three years in Britain. “Your first year of university in the US you are doing courses that will prepare you for your degree. In the UK you go in prepared for your degree. That’s what makes it a little bit more challenging, because if you want to study finance and you’ve not taken any finance courses in high school, then you will need to take those courses in what they call their foundation year to be able to enter into the degree.

“So, when you’re going to the UK, one of the most important things is to be pretty clear about the degree you want to study. And that’s what the essays are about: what it is you want to study and why you are a good fit for that programme.”

A big bonus to Bermudian students in the UK is that they can get to work in their profession as soon as they graduate. “You don’t need a work visa because you’re a British citizen whereas in the US, in Canada, you will have to apply for a visa and there’s no guarantee you’re going to get it.”

The post Costs and Requirements of International Study appeared first on RG Magazines.

In order to be considered, applicants must be full-time undergraduate students at an accredited college or university overseas. “They must have completed their first year of studies. One of the prerequisites is that you’re ineligible if you haven’t already met the minimum criteria as specified in the actual scholarship guidelines,” said Stephen Todd, the chief executive officer of the BHA. “The maximum value of the annual scholarship is $25,000 and we try to award as much as we can to as many of the students that qualify.”

The scholarship has been in place for several decades but was renamed five years ago to honour Adrian Hassell, a former recipient who died in a boating accident in 2019 at the age of 24. Adrian was awarded the scholarship in 2015, while a student at Brock University in Canada. He returned home and, for a short while worked with the Bermuda Tourism Authority before joining the Hamilton Princess & Beach Club.

“He was doing extremely well and making excellent progress in his chosen career,” Mr Todd said. “He was really well respected among his peers and had an excellent relationship with the guests that he worked directly with. We were anticipating that he was going to have a very promising career in the hotel industry. His untimely passing was a shock to everyone and my board of directors felt it was more than appropriate to ask his parents if they would allow us to rename the scholarship in his honour, and they very graciously agreed to allow us to do that.”

The Covid-19 pandemic put the scholarship on hold until last year when it was awarded to Shaqcoy Fox, a student at Humber College in Canada, and the BHA would love to see a rise in applicants. The deadline is May 15.

“What we have done in the past is split the award. In the past we’ve also looked to reward any student that was pursuing their studies at the Bermuda College as well, but unfortunately, we’re not seeing the uptake that we would like. We were hoping that there’d be more individuals that were interested but we’re going to continue to try to get the message out there that the hospitality industry and the hotel industry specifically, is a worthy career path for an individual to pursue.”

Award recipients are determined by a scholarship committee made up of members of the Human Resources department at the BHA office. There is a need for waiters, servers, housekeepers, bartenders and front desk receptionists but there are many other opportunities hospitality offers, Mr Todd said.

“There are a number of career paths that you can pursue. Administratively you could go into hotel management, which takes several years of study. There are accounting and actuarial positions, there are trades – HVAC or air conditioning, plumbing, electrical engineering. So, what we want is to get that message out that the hotel industry is a very important industry and one that is not just specific to customer service; however, if you enjoy working with people then you should seriously consider a career in the hotel industry.”

As far as the Adrian Hassell Memorial Scholarship there are no age restrictions other than the person must have completed high school and at least their first year of college.“Once they’ve been awarded there’s nothing stopping them from reapplying in any subsequent year. They’re not restricted in being able to reapply if they have a financial need.

“The scholarship is available and if you are genuinely interested in pursuing a hotel industry career and you require financial assistance we welcome any and everyone to apply. We’re happy that we’ve been able to award the scholarship in 2023 and we look forward to doing so this year and in the future.”

For more details on the BHA Adrian Hassell Memorial Scholarship visit bermudascholarships.com.

The post Interested in hospitality? BHA offers $25,000 scholarship appeared first on RG Magazines.

Considered one of the world’s most prestigious international scholarship programmes, the Rhodes Scholarship covers full tuition, accommodation and living expenses for postgraduate studies at the University of Oxford. Thousands of students apply each year. Fewer than one percent are accepted.

Tierrai Tull knew there was a good chance things might not go her way, but was encouraged by professors who “highlighted it as something for [her] to consider” and the 23-year-old will now head to Oxford in October as Bermuda’s 2024 Rhodes Scholar.

What likely helped, is her work as a member of the Gender Affairs Council, a group that addresses disparities and discrimination between men and women. She’s also cofounder of Bermuda Youth Connect, an organisation created to foster civic engagement and political participation in young people.

Ms Tull will graduate in June from the University of Toronto, where she is studying culture and public policy on full scholarship. Prior to that she studied at United World College in Armenia, where she enjoyed the focus on service. The Rhodes Scholarship presented a similar opportunity.

“It just seemed like a community that I wanted to be a part of,” she said. “The values really resonated with me [and] at Oxford they have a specific genders programme that I was interested in. I was drawn to the community aspect, but also the academics.”

The Rhodes Scholarship was first awarded in 1902. A single scholarship is available to a Bermudian student each year and nearly 100 have been selected to date. Applications must be submitted online –https://www.rhodeshouse.ox.ac.uk/scholarships/applications/bermuda/ – by October 2.

Applicants must be Bermudian, have a permanent residency certificate or have a parent with one. They must also be between the ages of 18 and 23 on October 1 of the year they apply. The Scholarship will accept applications from candidates who complete their first degree later than is typical if they are under the age of 27 by the application deadline.

Students must have been educated in Bermuda for a minimum of five years and have completed their first degree with first class honours or a GPA of at least 3.7. Scholarship applications must be submitted by students before they apply for a course at Oxford. Five references are essential as is “an authentic statement of who you are” in 750 words.

Ms Tull advised starting the process early. “It can feel overwhelming because there’s just so much information. It’s easy to get lost in the noise.” Help for her came through the Rhodes Outreach Ambassador Programme, created in 2020 to make people more aware of the Rhodes Scholarship opportunity.

Ms Tull began writing her personal statement in August and went through about 20 edits before she felt it was good enough. “I think more than trying to write a perfect essay just make sure it’s authentic to you and of course, well written,” she said. “I spoke about how the places that I’ve lived have shaped my identity and a lot of my dreams were shaped because I’ve been all over the place during school. And I spoke about wanting to connect them to service and wanting to do that a little bit more at Oxford.”

Another strong recommendation from the Rhodes Scholar: give yourself time. “That’s the best thing you can do for yourself and [then] you can be confident that you put your best foot forward and it’s not some sloppy job that you put together two hours before the deadline. Also, you need a lot of recommendations and you have to factor that in. Are your professors writing their recommendations for you? Do you have recommendations? Do you have all your official transcripts? There’s a lot of administrative attention that needs to be paid to the Rhodes Scholarship, but I think more importantly than that admission stuff, you just want to make sure that you are confident in your application; that you can say I have done the best I can and I will accept any outcome.”

For anyone bold enough to follow through, Ms Tull gives the following advice: “centre your why. It’s a shot in the dark for everyone. There are tons of brilliant people who don’t get Rhodes Scholarships. So I would say just do it, don’t self-disqualify. Reflect on the reasons that you’re applying and let that be your guide. If things work out you can continue and have beautiful experiences. If it doesn’t work out you can reapply or you can go to Oxford another way or you can go to another school. But I think centring your why would be the most important thing. And whatever that why is, let that be your guiding light for the application process.”

At a meeting of all the candidates Ms Tull considered them “open and kind and brilliant. I don’t know what stood out about me,” she said. “I don’t think I’m the person to answer that question. I knew that I had worked really hard but everybody works hard. I wasn’t exceptional in that way.”

What likely helped is the hours she gave to her various communities and her belief that everyone should always strive for excellence. “Take pride in all the things that you do. Question yourself, question your motivations. Be excellent, work hard, prepare, do as much as you can but also submit to the process of life which is just full of uncertainties.

“I had a more honest perception of myself after coming out of the Rhodes application process because it’s just so demanding. It forces you to think about the world, your place in the world and your place in relation to others in ways that I had never done outside of my nightly journal.”

For more information on the Rhodes Scholarship, contact Christie Hunter-Arscott, the National Rhodes Secretary for Bermuda: [email protected]

The post The Rhode to Success appeared first on RG Magazines.

If you don’t like working out and would prefer not to have a personal trainer standing over you, there are tons of ways that you can optimise your wellbeing as long as you stick with them every day. Below are some tips on how to stay fit:

1. Move your feet whenever you can

Every moment that you are not sleeping is an opportunity to be active. Walk up the stairs instead of taking the elevator, park your car or bike as far away from your destination as possible so you are forced to walk farther; stand and stretch while talking on the phone. Even a tiny change can lead to a significant increase in physical activity over the course of a day.

2. Change your daily travel

Leave your car or motorbike at home and use a pedal bike instead. Or, if the distance is manageable, walk. Take the bus or the ferry and get off a stop or two before your actual destination.

3. Don’t socialise over food

Ditch the drinks and dinners and go for a walk or a bike ride with friends instead. Organise a game of tennis or pickleball; join a recreational sports league. It is possible to achieve fitness while doing something that is also fun.

4. Get busy in your backyard

Mow the lawn, weed the garden, trim the bushes – keeping a backyard in good shape is hard work, great for physical activity and a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature.

5. Watch your posture

Good posture is important to overall health as it engages various muscle groups. Proper posture while standing and seated can help prevent muscle tension and contribute to core strength. It also maintains the balance of the muscles and the skeleton, which minimises strain on the human body.

6. Don’t get sucked in by TV

Choose active hobbies over television. Practise yoga, play an instrument, take up ballet, jazz or hip-hop classes. It’s a choice that will contribute to your mental wellbeing as well as your physical fitness

7. Watch your diet

A well-balanced diet and proper hydration are essential components of a healthy lifestyle. Nutrient-dense foods such as salmon, nuts and berries will provide sustained energy throughout the day. Meanwhile, drink plenty of water to support overall bodily functions.

8. Prioritise sleep

Quality sleep is crucial for overall health and fitness. Establish a consistent routine, creating an environment that promotes restful sleep. A well-rested body is more likely to engage in spontaneous physical activities throughout the day.

9. Get rid of stress

Chronic stress increases hunger, which can lead to weight gain. Meditation and yoga can help.

10. Play with your kids

Jumping rope, hula-hooping, hopscotch and tag are all great ways of moving which don’t involve “exercise”. You’ll burn calories and increase agility all while having fun.

Incorporating simple lifestyle adjustments such as these can lead to a more active and fit life without the need for structured exercise. The key is to make mindful choices that prioritise movement – and stick with them.

The post Hate exercising? Fitness is still possible appeared first on RG Magazines.

Digital health refers to using technology such as apps, remote monitoring, electronic records and telemedicine to improve healthcare. It includes tools that make healthcare more accessible, efficient and personalised, providing greater benefit to both patients and healthcare providers. 

In Bermuda, the landscape of healthcare is undergoing a digital revolution, reshaping the way we are envisioning our future care. 

Kim Wilson, the Minister of Health, last year outlined “a digitally integrated and sustainable healthcare ecosystem” for Bermuda as the way forward to help “improve patient experiences and health outcomes and, ultimately, reduce the economic burden of our health system”. 

“With technology, we can, for example, improve information sharing among healthcare providers with electronic health records and enable remote monitoring of a patient’s health status. These can lead to better health outcomes, increased patient satisfaction, and more efficient healthcare services,” she said. 

“Patient empowerment and engagement are benefits, too. Patient portals, mobile health applications, and other digital tools can provide patients with easier access to their health information, enable self- monitoring of health conditions, and aid communication with healthcare providers. This can lead to more patient engagement and more consistent treatment plan adherence.” 

Claire McDevitt, chief executive of Healthcare Solutions, a consulting firm, is excited about the impact it will have on our island population. 

She is passionate about the profound impact digital health can wield within a community. She believes that by harnessing digital innovations to enhance population health, it will become far easier to proactively reach individuals and integrate collected data into government plans, health-centered programmes and innovative initiatives. 

Mrs McDevitt’s journey from a nurse to overseeing accreditation compliance at Bermuda Hospitals Board led to the creation of Healthcare Solutions. Her venture stemmed from identifying gaps in healthcare services and striving to improve patient access to quality care. 

“It evolved from there,” she said. 

The Covid-19 pandemic spurred the rapid uptake of telemedicine, remote monitoring tools and health apps. 

“It showed the value of digital health by expanding access to care, enabling remote consultations and fostering better data sharing among healthcare providers,” the CEO said. 

“We were the first digital platform offering certified antigen testing, allowing people to travel to and from Bermuda and return to work and school, essentially helping the community get back to normal with instant results and no delays.” 

The prevalence of chronic kidney disease in Bermuda, often diagnosed in later stages, prompted Healthcare Solutions to collaborate with Carna Health, a Boston-based digital health company. This partnership, backed by the Ministry of Health with funding from the Bermuda Health Council’s Chronic Disease Innovation Plan, aimed to provide free kidney screening to Bermuda in 2023 and 2024. 

Mrs McDevitt’s team aspires to present a solution, reduce healthcare costs and unravel the genetic components contributing to what is a prevalent issue in Bermuda. 

This initiative stands to revolutionise healthcare by placing the patient at the heart of the process. Patients receive immediate access to their screening results via an app or secure link which grants them control over their information sharing. Mrs McDevitt envisions this digital platform extending beyond chronic kidney disease to encompass more point-of-care testing. With the potential to transform healthcare delivery, immediate access to results via an app empowers patients, and could expand to streamline more testing, reducing wait times and enhancing care. 

Bermuda serves as a launchpad for this groundbreaking technology, with future aspirations to expand its reach into regions where access to medical care is limited. Mrs McDevitt envisions a global impact, imagining how this technology could streamline healthcare access in regions with dense populations and limited resources. 

Her latest venture with partner Jennifer Burland Adams is the digital health space, Epic Is Life. This venture collaborates with Muhdo, a UK-based company, offering at-home tests that empower individuals to understand their genetic risks and make informed health decisions. Combining this information with our health data from apps or devices allows us to learn more about how our behaviours and surroundings affect our genes. This helps us personalise healthcare and track how our choices impact our health in the long run. 

“I want to feel 60 when I am 80, and this test and tools provide me the road map to do so. It highlights the risks and gifts of my DNA, giving me my own personalised and precise health plan,” Mrs McDevitt said, explaining how its true beauty was that it empowers people to make informed decisions about their health by understanding how their genes interact with their lifestyle and the environment they are in. 

Excited by the possibilities at the forefront of medicine, Mrs McDevitt’s overarching ambition is crystal clear: using digital health technology to help empower communities to reverse the escalating costs linked to chronic diseases by proactively slowing disease progression through early identification. This proactive approach holds the promise of substantial healthcare cost reductions in the foreseeable future, reshaping the landscape of healthcare delivery. 

Contact claire@healthcaresolutions. bm. For more information visit: www. healthccaresolutions.bm, www.carna.health/bermuda, www.epicislife. com 

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“The programme helps young Bermudians aged 17 to 24 years old who are at a crossroads and are at risk of not reaching their full potential, by providing them with a year-long personal development programme through coaching, local training camps and the opportunity of a ten-week overseas expedition,” said Dany Pen de Rodriguez, the executive director of Raleigh Bermuda.

Venturers focuses specifically on helping young people navigate harmful “day-to-day risks” such as “gangs, depression, drugs, abuse, alcohol, negative peer pressure and crime”.

According to organisers, it is an opportunity to gain “real life survival skills” and is in keeping with the aim of Michael Spurling, who founded the charity in 2004, with a mission of “using overseas expeditions, local training and continued coaching [to] challenge young Bermudians to harness their full potential and develop skills for life”.

As described on the Raleigh Bermuda website: “The programme structure and philosophy of the Bermuda organisation are based on internationally recognised principles of experiential learning and are designed to help young people develop skills and self-confidence in a fun yet challenging environment beyond the classroom and workplace.

“Our goal is to empower young Bermudians to set positive goals and take control of their lives. By helping them to see that they are stronger than they thought possible, they are able to realise their full potential and effectively manage the day-to-day risks they face including drugs, alcohol, crime, bullying, loss of motivation, low self-esteem, and lack of self-confidence.”

Participants also discover how to survive outdoors with instructions on trekking, bonfire making, shelter set up, foraging, hunting and cooking.

“One of my favourite survival skills that we teach our young Bermudians is how to hunt and fish,” Ms Pen de Rodriguez said. “I always love watching our young people catch their first fish and then teaching them how to scale it, gut it and then cook it. Sharing a meal around the bonfire at night really allows our young people to have a space to reflect upon their capabilities and achievements. It’s moments like these that become part of their personal development and concretes their relationship with the Raleigh family.”

The programme costs roughly $12,000 per person to run. Expedition fees, travel expenses, an expedition kit and equipment, training, vaccinations and programme support are included in the price.

Training takes place at camps overseas and here in Bermuda under the guidance of coaches, mentors and project managers, Justin Cann, Che Durham, Cole Durham, Eric Wallace, Jigena Furgan, Kyasia Fishenden and Kristamaria Looby, all of whom are alumni of the programme. As programme coordinator, Keri Pacheco also plays an instrumental role.

Once an application is submitted candidates go through an interview process. If successful, they then embark on a year-long programme that requires a full commitment to all of the training camps in order to be considered eligible for the overseas expedition.

“Raleigh Bermuda’s vision is of a Bermuda where young people work together, regardless of social background and culture. They are challenged to raise their aspirations, supported to believe in themselves and inspired to be part of a global community active in making their world a better place,” Ms Pen de Rodriguez added.

For information on how to apply for the 2023 Venturers’ Scholarship, telephone 333-5678 or e-mail [email protected]

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