Put those weights down! How ‘eccentric’ exercise opens up a whole new world of fitness

For years we have been told the best way to get fitter and stronger is to lift something heavy, whether that’s a barbell or our own bodyweight. What if how we put it down was just as important?

Is it true that … your lungs regenerate when you quit smoking?

Our lungs have evolved to heal from damage, but for some cigarettes will cause changes beyond the body’s ability to fix them

‘I was mortally offended’: writers on the throwaway comments that changed their lives

Can a sentence affect the course of your life? Five authors reveal the interactions that transformed the way they saw themselves – and the world

My mother is addicted to gaming and emotionally unavailable. What should I do?

Her actions may be numbing pain she feels in other areas of her life, so you must approach the issue thoughtfully

The Devil Wears Prada is back – and oh, those fat jokes are wearing thin

There has been much talk of the long-awaited sequel making the most of body diversity. The reality seems to be one plus-size actor and gags worthy of the 00s, says Guardian deputy fashion and lifestyle editor Chloe Mac Donnell

You are what you keep: why we cling to clutter and how to free yourself of it

Feeling overwhelmed by all the stuff in your life? Understanding why we hold on to things is the first step in finding a healthy way to let go

Wellness culture is trying to sell you products your vagina doesn’t need

There isn’t enough research about the vaginal microbiome. But that doesn’t mean you need ‘feminine probiotics’ that companies are pushing

A moment that changed me: I cried about my cleft lip for the first time in my 60s

When I saw a woman with a facial difference like mine at a party, I crossed the room to speak to her. It led to one of the most joyous, exciting and transformative discussions, in which I connected with feelings I’d always ignored

All the right moves! 17 personal trainers on the exercise they always recommend – from planks to face pulls

Whether you are starting from scratch, or have a well-honed routine, moving can help us feel happier and healthier. Experts share their one essential exercise and how to get the most out of it

‘This is so taboo’: Kimberley Nixon on the hell of perinatal OCD – and how she survived it

After the birth of her son during lockdown, the Welsh actor was flooded by disturbing thoughts she couldn’t shake, a plunge into darkness and isolation. She discusses how it changed her and what helped her recover

OurChemist

Our Chemist – Health