Never mind about Nike's new Air Max 360 trainers ... I'm far more interested in their new 'intelligent' clothing technology - Nike Sphere React, which actually responds to the wearer's physiological changes.
For example, when you start out, cool and dry, it just sits there. But as you warm up and start to break into a sweat, the material (which, I have to say, is reminiscent of waffles) transforms from a flat fabric into a 3D structure, to reduce cling. The fabric also opens up, to increase airflow and aid evaporation. When you cool down again, it goes back to normal, so you don't get chilly. Sphere React is available in various Nike tops, trousers and jackets. It's ever so clever. For more information, visit nike.com.
Healing waters
The latest swanky spa to make a splash on the London scene is Notting Hill's Hydro Healing, where treatments to help with common 'lifestyle disorders' (I think that means tiredness, stress and overflowing toxins) have an aquatic focus. There's Hydroflex, a hands-on reflexology treatment, followed by a mineral-rich ionised-water foot bath; Hydroblitz, involving gentle oxygen suction and a warm, mineral-rich water massage to reduce puffiness and cellulite, and enhance circulation; and there's Hydrocolonic - which needs no further explanation. Call 020-7727 2570, or visit hydrohealing.com.
Knead therapy?
According to research from Oxford University, we are a 'touch hungry' society - reliant almost solely on vision for our sensory gratification (although personally, I find cake quite gratifying). But our dearth of multi-sensory experiences is what motivated the creator of Aroma Dough to, er, create it.
Made from beeswax, grapeseed oil and cocoa butter, and infused with pure essential oils (so, basically, it's smelly Play-Doh), Aroma Dough can allegedly improve alertness and concentration, increase energy levels and soothe stress or anxiety - which is why it is being used in special needs schools, nurseries, mental health trusts and hospitals.
Kneading it may also aid recovery from hand injuries and ease the symptoms of osteoarthritis - but then again, Play-Doh probably does that, too. Maybe even cake.
Pots, including Stress Release, Energiser and Quiet Play, cost £6.99, plus p&p, from squidgeme.com, or call 0845 4567057.
Chafing marvellous
Ooh, ouch, aaah. Chafing can be a nasty business - as anyone currently in training for the London Marathon will know. But jogger's nipple isn't the only affliction I'm referring to. Navels, thighs, armpits and heels can all be rubbed up the wrong way.
Diehards slather everything in Vaseline, but if you want to be flash, check out Bodyglide, a vitamin E and aloe-based roll-on lubricant. At £6.99 (£9.99 for a larger size), it's a lot pricier than Vaseline, but then it's also less gloopy, non-greasy, sweat-resistant - and it washes off with soap and water. For more information, visit lessbounce.com, or call 08000 363840 to order.
