WHAT’S ON – FEBRUARY 2023

Show the Love
The Climate Coalition’s Show the Love campaign takes place throughout February and calls on people across the UK to ask their MPs for urgent action to tackle climate change, protect nature and bring down energy bills. Supporters are encouraged to make, share and display green hearts (the campaign’s symbol for change) as a call for action to create a cleaner, greener world. There’s plenty of green heart craft inspiration on the Climate Coalition website, plus resources including an action pack and a printable postcard to send to your MP.

Time to Talk Day (February 2)
Time to Talk Day is an annual campaign to get the nation talking about mental health. There are lots of ways to get involved including sharing on social media using #TimeToTalk and making time for conversations with friends and family. Talking tips, resources and inspiration on the Time to Talk Day website.

• Read our review of What’s Going On Inside My Head? Starting conversations with your child about positive mental health

World Pulses Day (February 10)
This UN recognised annual event celebrates the incredible power of pulses. Not only are they nutrient dense, but they have a low water footprint and can better tolerate drought compared with other food crops. Their nitrogen-fixing properties can also improve soil fertility and this in turn can contribute to climate change mitigation by reducing the dependence on synthetic fertilisers. In short, pulses are amazing: “They are our delicious ally in achieving food security, reducing malnutrition and creating a #ZeroHunger world”, says the UN website. This year’s theme is ‘Pulses for a Sustainable Future’ in recognition of the considerable benefits that pulses provide to agrifood systems and the environment. To join the conversation, use #WorldPulsesDay and #LovePulses.

Featured recipe: Spicy chickpea coconut curry from The Imperfect Nutritionist

Fairtrade Fortnight (February 27 – March 12)
This year’s campaign will focus on the climate crisis and the threat it poses to some of the planet’s most beloved food products (cocoa, coffee and bananas, for example) as well as the livelihoods of the farmers who grow them.

BOOKS

Rest to Reset by Suzy Reading
“There is no badge of honour in relentless pushing… only burnout.”
In her latest book, self-care expert Suzy Reading challenges the “glorification of busyness” and shares 25 practical and prescriptive toolkits that can be used to help bring your mind and body back into balance whatever your individual needs and circumstances. Published by Aster on February 2 (£12.99)

• Read review: Rest to Reset: The busy person’s guide to pausing with purpose

The Imperfect Nutritionist by Jennifer Medhurst
In this evidence-based guide to eating well, registered nutritionist Jennifer Medhurst outlines seven principles that underpin any healthy diet. It’s full of easy-to-follow action points and practical ways to apply these principles. There are also 70 flavour-packed recipes to inspire a sustainable and enjoyable way of eating. Published by Kyle Books on February 2 (£25)

• Read review: The Imperfect Nutritionist: 7 principles of healthy eating

Inspire: The Art of Living with Nature by Willow Crossley
With her characteristic passion for sharing the uplifting power of nature, floral stylist Willow Crossley delivers 50 creative projects that bring nature into the home. Expect wild and free floral arrangements, plus inspirational ideas that use shop-bought blooms, foraged finds and garden-grown flowers. Published by CICO Books on February 14 (£25)