‘I should feel pleased the fast is having the desired effects but my life is boring’
In an extract from her new book Wellmania, Guardian Australia columnist Brigid Delaney recalls the agony – and unfortunate side effects – of a 15-day fast
Ultra sound: why music means so much to us
Music is one of life’s great pleasures. But why, asks Adam Ockelford, does it affect us so profoundly?
Is there any way to avoid writer’s butt?
Writing novels full-time and snacking in a sedentary position is surefire way of seeing your rear end expand. So what are authors’ best tips for keeping trim?
A Manual for Heartache review – sound advice for the grieving
Cathy Rentzenbrink, who wrote a moving memoir about losing her brother, now offers unpreachy tips to fellow sufferers
Bring me sunshine: the designers being briefed to create a happier planet
From the Guatemalan town painting itself in bright colours to Norway’s 10-year plan to banish belching exhaust fumes, the London Design Biennale is celebrating ideas that put a smile on everyone’s face
Can you write your way to happiness?
A growing number of diarists are using expressive writing or ‘bullet journalling’ to improve their health and productivity. But does keeping a daily log actually work?
Born to do it? Why pop’s pregnant pause could be coming to an end
As musicians from Rebekka Karijord to Tori Amos begin to explore birth, perhaps pregnancy in music could become less taboo
Chloë Grace Moretz ‘appalled and angry’ over body-shaming poster
The billboard for the actor’s new animated film Red Shoes and the Seven Dwarfs has attracted criticism for its beauty standards message
In Pursuit of Memory: The Fight Against Alzheimer’s – review
Joseph Jebelli’s personal study of a disease that has reached epidemic proportions offers the latest research – but not much hope
Bigger wine glasses make us drink too much, says researcher
Today’s glasses, 450ml compared with 65ml 300 years ago, encourage consumption, Cambridge scientist tells Hay festival