This October, embrace your inner yogi with the ultimate coffee table book, experience the wonder of showbiz with the film that explores the life of Judy Garland, and drift off with a soothing blend that’s sure to send you on your way to dreamland
1. Page-turners
Yoga: A Manual for Life by Naomi Annand
In this beautiful hardback edition, be guided through yoga sequences by former ballet dancer, and founder of Yoga on the Lane yoga studio, Naomi Annand. Using simple, modern movement, and including everything you need to discover a balanced life, this read seeks to soothe anxious minds, and leave you inspired. Out 31 October, Bloomsbury Sport, £20
Image | vegtoberfest.co.uk
2. Out and about
Vegtoberfest 2019
Bringing together the festivity of Oktoberfest with tasty 100% vegan beers, wines, and street food, head to Camden Town this month for live music, comedy, and an absolute treat for your tastebuds. 12 & 19 October, tickets £10–15, visit vegtoberfest.co.uk
3. Put on a show
Birmingham Comedy Festival
Get your giggle on at the annual 10-day celebration of comedy that brings together some of the biggest names around, as well as the stars of tomorrow, in free and ticketed performances. With a side-splitting line-up, featuring the likes of James Acaster, Josh Widdicombe, Henning Wehn, and many more, it’s guaranteed to be a barrel of laughs. 4–13 October, for information and tickets head to bhamcomfest.co.uk
4. Plugged-in
Esther the Wonder Pig
Steve Jenkins and Derek Walter’s lives were turned upside down when they adopted Esther, the supposed micro-pig who turned out to be not-so-micro. Today, Esther – now a whopping 650 pounds – and her dads share their lives on Instagram as they work towards their mission to give unwanted animals a home at the Happily Ever Esther Farm. Follow their journey on Instagram @estherthewonderpig
5. Tech Tip-Offs
Garden Answers
Become a horticultural hero with this app that helps you identify plants. Simply open the app and take a photo of the plant you would like to identify. The app will then suggest possible matches for the plant, as well as offering information on its growing habits. Available from the App Store and Google Play Store
6.Lend us your ears
‘Griefcast with Cariad Lloyd’
Death isn’t an easy topic, but in this award-winning podcast – hosted by comedian Cariad Lloyd, and featuring a new guest in each episode – no subject is off the table, as they work through the pain, loss, and challenges that come from losing someone. Available on iTunes and Acast
7.Square eyes
Judy
In the film that stars Renée Zellweger – and tells the story of the heartbreak and obstacles that Judy Garland faced 30 years after The Wizard of Oz – get ready to be immersed in the world of showbiz, and a mother’s plight to do the right thing for her children. In cinemas 4 October
Image | Young Minds
8. The conversation
#HelloYellow
Raise awareness for young people’s mental health by taking part in charity Young Mind’s #HelloYellow campaign on World Mental Health Day. Don your brightest piece of yellow clothing, and challenge the stigma that young people face when seeking support. 10 October, visit youngminds.org.uk to find out more.
9. Get going
13 Tors Challenge 2019
Take on the wilds of Dartmoor, in aid of Marie Curie, as you head on a 14-mile trek through the rugged landscape that inspired Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s The Hound of the Baskervilles. Armed with a map and a checkpoint card, get set for the adventure that gives back. 6 October, £30 registration fee, find out more mariecurie.org.uk
10. Treat yourself
Pukka Herbs Night Time Organic Latte
With a soothing blend of organic herbs, oats, and nutty carob bean – this malty drink is the perfect thing to sip on before slipping into bed. Best added to a milk of your choice, let go of the day's stresses, and indulge in the gentle power of natural herbs. Available in stores and online, £4.99
