Absolute Shambles

'Gratitude is the sign of noble souls'- Aesop A strange world known as the 'Isle of Wight' is one of rolling fields perched on cliffs of chalk and clay, with waves crashing ferociously against these geographical wonders. For those who dwell upon the Isle of Wight, they saw something else on this bizarre rock bobbing a short distance away from the likes of Portsmouth and Southampton. Odd structures had once more been erected over the Early May Bank Holiday weekend, and they were always a beacon for mainlanders to travel to the island. These marvels of architecture were not like the Needles, or Osborne House where Queen Victoria once presided. They were inflatable, and flags that bore the words 'Ultra Challenge' fluttered in the breeze. It was that time of year again. Thousands crossed on the ferries, all seeking to 'Walk, Jog, Run' around the entirety of the Isle of Wight. Some were cautious and chose a smaller distance of 25 km, with the more adventu...

'Healing is a matter of time, but it is sometimes also a matter of opportunity'- Hippocrates As a historian, I always enjoy a good anniversary. It seems pretty morbid and twisted to celebrate destructive conflicts, for example, but it is integral to remember the pivotal moments in history as a reference to how much has changed over the years. The passing of the First World War's centenary brought about beautiful images of remembrance across the globe, even though controversy surrounds the potential political hijacking of the remembrance poppy.  Events like these deserve the greatest amount of commemoration, much like a wedding anniversary does on a more personal level. For me, a very important anniversary just occurred, yet required no great act of remembrance or a themed present. It has now been over a year since I was falsely accused of being a menace to society by 'exploring my body openly' in a public place and then making inappropriate advances towards a y...

'Walking is man's best medicine'- Hippocrates When I originally signed up for the London 2 Brighton Challenge all the way back in  August/ September , it seemed as if I was attempting a feat that would overwhelm me, condemning me to a state of total collapse and despair. I was worried that I was rushing into a challenge that I wasn't prepared for, mentally or physically, and I would be letting down Battersea Dogs & Cats Home. 100 km is a long way (no shit, Sherlock) and the way I was tackling the challenge meant no camping and overnight rest; this massive distance had to be done in a more or less continuous state. This would be no walk in the park... apart from when I actually had to walk through parks. Yet, at 2:19 on the morning of Sunday 27 May, I crossed the finish line at Brighton Racecourse, bringing my adventure to an end. My feet were tired, my legs were heavy and my Captain America vest was a bit smelly. But 100 km had been walked, and it felt so good. ...

It's shopping day. You step into the supermarket with a list full of healthy items that are sure to keep your heart beating by the time you turn 30. But as you enter, your eyes are drawn towards the confectionery, placed strategically by the door in order for you to grab a quick reward for being an adult and doing the shopping. They look so good... it's as if they are calling to you. Their siren-like calls are enticing you towards them. It is too hard to resist; the diet is about to be slain. Your hands reach towards a Crunchie (the superior chocolate bar) but then you come to your senses. 'NO!' you scream, drawing back your hand as if it had touched a hot stove. Fellow shoppers recoil in fear at your outburst, but you care not. You got up at 5am to do that HIIT session for a reason, and that was because you are now a healthy human being. You take a breath, compose yourself and grab the avocados, almonds and lean white meats. People clap and cheer as you make your way...