Sex toys, new-season scents and plastic-free sponges: what you loved most this month

Whether you’re planning a late summer holiday or pining over crisp autumn days, your August favourites show you’re ready for a change

Country diary: Deep purple and fallen leaves at this mighty mountain

Cadair Idris, Gwynedd: The heather is dominant on the slopes today, as I embark on a steep climb in the heavy heat

The one change that worked: I got a period cup – and saved £120 a year

Ditching sanitary towels and tampons has made my period much less stressful. Crucially, it’s better for the environment too

Women cope better when their partner dies. I’ll have to go before him, out of spite

Should your partner be your best friend? After David Mitchell mansplained relationships, I asked my husband and his answer surprised me

The best mattress toppers in 2025 for a more comfortable night’s sleep, tested

Whether you’re looking for memory foam, wool, cooling or firm, we reveal the toppers we rate – and whether they can really rescue a bad mattress

My health is declining and I’m worried my husband might not take care of me

Facing illness is scary, especially if you’ve always been the carer and your family don’t seem to see your needs. The first step is sharing how you feel

Experience: I see the world through a layer of snow

My condition has a name – visual snow syndrome – and it could be with me for the rest of my life

‘Pop it in front of the TV and run on the spot’: 11 simple fitness hacks that work (some are even free)

From parkrun to a hi-vis belt, our readers share the tips and affordable kit that helped make them fitter

The Guardian view on the carnivore diet: red meat for influencers, but bad news for health

Editorial: A fad for consuming high-protein, high-fat food, while avoiding vegetables, has taken off online. Followers are doing themselves no favours

Back to the office! Why gen Z has had enough of working from home

In a new survey, 45% of this age group were considering looking for jobs with more social interaction – and the loneliest of all were influencers