The CEO of Laura Ashley has confirmed that some jobs will be lost but has said that she is hopeful that buyer for the company will be found and that the brand will see a turnaround in the future so that it can continue on as a beloved British brand.

Nationwide Laure Ashley has 2,700 employees and first filed for administration in March after it could not secure £15 million in emergency funding to stay afloat.

The retailer is among many British fashion brands suffering in the wake of closures due to the pandemic. British retailer Burberry has announced a 30 percent in sales and has closed more than half of its outlets in Europe whilst retailers like Browns and MATCHESFASHIon have also shut down their stores for an unspecified amount of time.

Retailers were already struggling, with increasing online shopping forcing many to close over recent years and it is likely that many fashion brands will be forced into administration similar to Laura Ashley over the coming years.

For now the brand is hoping for a buyer as a lifeline to the brand and their staff.

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The fashion industry is being critisised for ignoring the impacts of faux alternative and synthetic materials. Clothing made out artificial fibres such as polyester are reliant on emission heavy manufacturing processes. It has also been pointed out that taking clothes to a charity shop is rarely as sustainable a method of recycling clothes as people seem to think as many clothes remain unsold.

At the moment faux fur garments are on-trend and highly sought after, many celebrities have been seen wearing fake fur over the past year and consumers are adopting the trend. A number of new brands specialising in fake fur have also cropped up as a result of the popularity of the look.

Critics say that consumers should be made more aware of the potential environmental impacts of their fashion choices and that the culture of fast fashion and disposability should be questioned. Consumers should focus on searching for vintage fashions and making longer lasting, more sustainable fashion choices. Education of sustainability and ethical clothing choices is key to seeing industry wide change and the reduction of environmental impacts.

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The Black Lives Matter movement saw Chrissy Rutherford and Danielle Prescod of Harper’s Bazaar and Elle magazine call their followers to action over the issue of systemic racism.

Since then they have united to start and agency called 2BG (2 Black Girls) which is a consultancy for fashion brands and businesses in the beauty space for crisis management and guidance on diversity issues.

The pair plans to work with influencers and will offer seminars covering racism issues in the workplace. The seminars will discuss real life examples of brands that handled situations correctly and incorrectly in the past and will suggest ways for influencers to become allies to the black lives matter cause, suggesting ways for influencers to take action. They will also discuss the intersection of racism and fashion throughout history.

Prescod has pointed out that there is a greater willingness for people to listen to issues on racism and diversity than has existed in the past with more people willing to receive training and advice on behaviour change and improvement going forward.

The pair want to help to trigger change within the fashion industry and plan to hold brands accountable for problematic behaviour and subtle forms of racism such as saying models of different colours or ethnicities are ‘not on brand’. The pair hope to encourage brands to see the power they have in shifting the attitudes and perceptions of the public. The fashion industry has an important role to play in furthering the black lives matter cause since fashion is often the dictator of style and desirability. Better representation of diverse people will help to challenge racist attitudes not just in the industry but in the world at large.

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The store closures will result in a sharp decline in the brands yearly revenue and they have reported that they expect to see a 30 per cent loss on their fourth quarter revenue.

The brand which is headquartered in London has already shut down more than 85 per cent of their stored in the United States and expects to shut more in the coming months.

The luxury design market has been hard hit by this year’s event, many shoppers are out of work or unable to spend and stores are suffering from having to shut their doors. Burberry has chosen to shut down its stores as a mitigation tactic to prevent worse financial damage and to try to keep the company afloat.

Other retail brands are taking similar measures throughout the US and closing stores. Online shopping on the other hand is doing much better with many people taking their shopping to the web. The UK has pledged more than £350 billion to help businesses through the crisis, the funding is in addition to the support package from the government which gives struggling businesses access to loans and a year long break from business rates.

Some have said the measures do little for vulnerable workers and with some many large retailers shutting their doors more needs to be done to save people’s jobs and help stores to stay open. Hopefully British fashion brands like Burberry will be able to access the support they need to stay open.

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The independent review by the brands lawyers is being managed by Alison Levitt QC who said that results of the investigation would be finalised by September and will include recommendations for Boohoo to assess. The finalization of the report is ahead of the originally expected schedule which would have seen results a full four months later. Boohoo has promised to provide updates on the report along with their half year results at the end of September.

The independent review aims to examine the fashion brands obligations and duties to their workforce in Leicester and will involve public calls for evidence. The review will try to determine if the allegations of underpayment are true and will also try to work out whether or not Boohoo was aware, or should have been aware of the issues at their Leicester supply chain if underpayment was occurring. The review will also look at whether Boohoo has been properly complying with laws in the UK. A number of clear and actionable recommendations are expected to come out of the report. Boohoo has grown exponentially in just fifteen years, going from being a small three person business to be a huge operation with more than 5,000 workers. The retailers share price has taken a considerable hits since the allegations were made after an undercover reporter revealed that factory workers were allegedly being paid well below minimum wage.

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Yet many question whether or not the cost of sustainable fashion is the result of more ethical practices or opportunistic companies trying to cash in on the ‘sustainable’ catch phrase. So how much should fashion really cost?

Sustainable designers say that there needs to be a change in the way we view ‘affordability’ when it comes to fashion.

With the cost of living rising many people are reluctant to pay more for clothing but vulnerable workers are pointing out that disposable fashion is not essential or a right. The harsh reality is that keeping fashion affordable for lower socioeconomic groups in developed nations like the UK means sacrificing overseas workers. In all likelihood the people who genuinely cannot afford sustainable fashion in nations like the UK is probably much smaller than the group of people who have been conditioned to expect smaller prices.

That being said, there is no doubt that many sustainable brands attract higher prices due to an element of hype and fashion snobbery – people like to wear brands. There are however a number of affordable sustainable brands out there with price points that would be in budget for most people. Sustainable fashion brand Sancho has recently begun a transparent approach which allows customers to actively choose from three different prices for their products. The company decided to be upfront about how they make on each item with the hope that people will want to invest more to keep the company going, higher price tag choices for instance can help with marketing and business development.

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Stress Relief and Mental Clarity

One of the most celebrated benefits of Thai massage is its ability to reduce stress. The combination of gentle pressure and rhythmic movements calms the nervous system, encouraging deep relaxation. As the therapist applies pressure along energy lines (known as “Sen”), the body releases endorphins, the natural mood elevators, which help alleviate stress and promote mental clarity.

Many people find that Thai massage not only helps them unwind but also sharpens their focus and concentration. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with demanding jobs or busy lifestyles, where mental fatigue and stress are common challenges.

Improved Flexibility and Mobility

Thai massage is unique in its use of assisted yoga-like stretches. These stretches are designed to increase flexibility, improve range of motion, and enhance joint mobility. Whether you’re an athlete or someone who spends long hours at a desk, these guided movements help release tension in tight muscles, leaving you feeling more agile and balanced.

Regular Thai massage sessions can also prevent injuries by maintaining muscle elasticity and improving overall posture. For those recovering from physical exertion or injuries, the stretching component of Thai massage can support rehabilitation and enhance physical performance.

Relief from Chronic Pain

For individuals dealing with chronic pain, such as lower back discomfort, neck stiffness, or migraines, Thai massage offers a natural and effective solution. The deep tissue techniques used in Thai massage target specific pain points, breaking down muscle knots and improving blood flow to affected areas.

Studies have shown that Thai massage can significantly reduce pain levels in people with conditions like osteoarthritis and fibromyalgia. By alleviating muscle tension and improving circulation, it promotes healing and long-term relief.

Enhanced Circulation and Energy Flow

Thai massage is rooted in the concept of energy lines running throughout the body. By applying pressure along these energy pathways, therapists stimulate blood flow and lymphatic drainage, which helps detoxify the body and boost the immune system. Improved circulation also ensures that oxygen and nutrients are effectively delivered to tissues and organs, promoting overall health.

This energy-focused approach not only revitalises the body but also restores balance, leaving you feeling re-energised and rejuvenated after each session.

Supports Mental and Emotional Wellness

Beyond the physical benefits, Thai massage is a powerful tool for emotional wellness. The practice encourages mindfulness, as it requires you to remain present and attuned to your body during the session. This meditative aspect of Thai massage can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, providing a sense of inner peace and emotional balance.

For those struggling with insomnia, Thai massage can also improve sleep quality by calming the mind and relaxing the body, paving the way for restorative rest.

Boosts Immune Function

By stimulating lymphatic drainage and improving circulation, Thai massage helps the body eliminate toxins more efficiently. This detoxifying effect strengthens the immune system, making it more resilient against common illnesses. Regular Thai massage can be a proactive step towards maintaining good health and preventing sickness.

Why Choose Thai Massage?

Thai massage is more than just a treatment—it’s an experience that nurtures the body, mind, and spirit. Whether you’re seeking relief from stress, pain, or stiffness, or simply looking to enhance your overall well-being, Thai massage offers a comprehensive solution.

Unlike other forms of massage that focus primarily on relaxation, Thai massage incorporates movement and stretching, making it dynamic and engaging. It’s an excellent option for anyone who wants to feel physically revitalised and mentally refreshed.

What to Expect in a Thai Massage Session

During a Thai massage, you typically lie on a comfortable mat on the floor, fully clothed in loose, flexible attire. The therapist uses their hands, elbows, knees, and even feet to apply pressure and guide you through a series of stretches. Sessions can range from 60 to 120 minutes, depending on your preference and needs.

The experience is deeply personal and tailored to your body’s requirements, ensuring you leave feeling balanced and restored.

Conclusion

Thai massage is a transformative practice that offers a wealth of health benefits, from reducing stress and chronic pain to improving flexibility and circulation. It’s a holistic therapy that not only addresses physical ailments but also promotes mental clarity and emotional wellness.

Whether you’re new to massage therapy or a seasoned enthusiast, incorporating Thai massage into your wellness routine can be a game-changer. Treat yourself to the benefits of this ancient art and discover how it can elevate your overall quality of life.

The post The Health Benefits of Thai Massage: From Stress Relief to Improved Flexibility appeared first on British Journal.

Her book, called simply My Art Book, is the reproduction and the best version of the author’s take on art. This is not just some modern art or something done by the book. It is the cleanest and the most original production of as she calls it “pure art”. The idea and the inspiration behind the creation and publishing of “My Art Book” come from the author’s personal love for art, skills, and being part of several industries that work around art. As the author explains herself, the creative skills a person can have with just a dose of imagination can turn out to be something definitely worth exploring, which will later result in a unique form of art. Their complete and unfiltered expression of all that is perceived through creativity is the first way of stepping out of the box and the comfort zone of those who understand and want to take part in any form of art. That way, there is no more connection to reality, to the real world. Everything revolves around the imagination, and a whole new world of endless possibilities opens up.

As for the creation of My Art Book, the author explains that the process is driven and inspired by her personal life. Emotions, for starters, are what create a person, make their personality, and make the one different from the other. Emotions, no matter how strong or weak, have a huge role in creating art. Combined with the passions from personal life and style, the final result is an art that comes n the level of a masterpiece.

Throughout history, art has proven to be, many times over, a therapeutic process. In this process of creating My Art Book,  De Biasi Iaschelcic talks about how rewarding the entire experience has been. The use of raw materials, merging them to create unique and different pieces, and seeing the final result is definitely an achievement that brings a lot of content and satisfaction.

Going through the pages of My Art Book, one cannot miss noticing that this type of art is the reflection of the author’s mood. It is not something shallow, meaningless, or modern. It is much more than that. It is deep and timeless. It carries value, and interest, and inspires everyone to think about what art stands for and means to them.

Whether you are looking to gift a unique gift that will leave your recipient in awe, or you just want something for yourself, My Art Book is a great place to start exploring the limitless possibilities of the art world. It is a book that everyone can perceive and understand differently. There is no right or wrong with art. It is the value of the understanding that comes out in the end that matters. Supporting the imagination, and creativity, and getting a glimpse of the author’s thoughts during the creation of this book is more than enough inspiration to experience something completely new. Be prepared to be overwhelmed with new feelings and emotions.

As mentioned above, any form of art can be explored and pursued differently. The process of creation is what lets all the emotions out. Do not be afraid to explore new horizons, show your side or art and let creativity become a part of you.

My Art Book will instantly become your favorite art piece. Get your copy now and see how this book will completely change the take you have on art.

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The live performance industry has suffered massively during the pandemic and the billions of fans world wide that usually flood to the theatre have missed out on the magical moments that they treasure. For older fans and newer fans of musical theatre, BroadwayHD has allowed them to experience these moments as much as they possibly can. While the service cannot replace the atmosphere of a live show, it does serve to fill the void momentarily and provide viewers with hope and excitement at the prospect of returning to the theatres very soon. Many Broadway icons such as Laura Benanti, Gavin Creel, Lin Manuel-Miranda, Jonathan Larson, and more, have positive things to say about the impact that watching shows on TV can have.

Launched in 2015, the streaming platform has been particularly valuable to older Broadway and West End fans as they currently may not feel comfortable attending live shows. With multi-camera angles and high definition footage available 24/7, those who struggle to see or hear a live show will ensure that they never miss any of the action. The closed captions and audio descriptions which Broadway HD offers improves accessibility for people with these issues. Mobility issues are also reduced as the shows can be enjoyed on any device from the comfort of your own home.

For the next generation of theatre fans, BroadwayHD is helping them grow their love for live shows before they are even able to attend. This can be an ideal way to introduce young people to theatre etiquette and more. Shows can be paused for snack breaks and questions, rewinded to highlight favourite parts, and rewatched over and over again until your whole family knows all the words. When the time comes to attend a show in person, young families will be expert attendees.

For full length musicals, plays, and more, BroadwayHD is the ultimate streaming service. Accessibility issues, such as location or financial factors, are no longer an obstacle for fans. Anyone and everyone can enjoy the best of what the theatre world has to offer. For only $11.99 per month, or $129.99 per year, you will gain unlimited access to old and new favourites. Compatible with any device, from Apple TV, to Chromecast, and much more, you will see the magic of theatre come to life before your very eyes. A subscription to www.BroadwayHD.com is the gift that keeps on giving and is ideal for a theatre lover dear to you.

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