Food for positive thought at the Aberdeenshire Wellness Festival

Aberdeenshire Wellness Festival which runs through to May 31 turned its focus on Thursday to an event at the Garioch Community Kitchen in Inverurie.

Head chef Mandy Dambruoso welcomed visitors and soon had her pupils washing, chopping, measuring for her demonstration of a healthy and economical meal of Chinese chicken take-away with noodles and oatmeal and raisin cookies.. While she cooked Mandy fielded questions from her audience and encouraged their participation. She advised not to go rushing out to buy expensive pots, pans and kitchen gadgets.

"If you havent got a wok just use a big frying pan," she said. "And one good vegetable knife will probably serve well for many tasks."

Buying locally grown vegetables was another of her tips and oddly shaped fruit and vegetables can be much cheaper. She soon got her students all 'pinnied up' and mixing up plain and wholemeal dough for the oatmeal and raisin muffins which she recommended for a healthy breakfast. Her happy audience were then able to sample the finished results. In some of her other classes at the community kitchen she has been pleased to notice more men are now taking an active interest and welcome her practical hints. Senior library administrator Mel Watson had brought along a selection of useful cookery books from Inverurie library It was emphasised that learning to cook healthily can improve self confidence and mood.

Local events continue through out the month with a full listing available here and we present a small selection for reader -

Sunday May 19 - Menopause Brunch at Banff Castle - Join the team for brunch whilst talking about the menopause. Several speakers will provide inputs around symptoms, myths and coping with the menopause, strength and balance and eating will through the menopause. Informal event providing plenty of opportunities for questions. Banff Castle 10am to 1pm Adults only For booking details, please email GRAM.Northpublichealth@nhs.scot

Thursday May 23 - Dunnideer Hill Fort Walk in Insch. Join the Garioch ranger on a walk to Dunnideer Hill Fort and the standing stones. Insch Cemetery Car Park 6.30pm to 9pm, 20 places, 10+ child to be accompanied by an adult. All adults must book a ticket

Thursday May 23 - Walk and Create: A Celebration of Walking, Wandering and Wellbeing - joing the launch the Wander Buddy service in Banff and Macduff. Talks, information sharing and networking event, with partner displays, followed by an optional gentle walk to The Vinery. Refreshments provided. Deveron Community and Sports Centre, Bellevue Rod. Optional end of event venue: The Vinery, Airlie Gardens 10am to 12 noon, Adults, adults with limited mobility, adults experiencing isolation contact healthwalks@aberdeenshire.gov.uk,or phone 07826 510438..

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