To be transported to Britain, hop aboard The Olde Ship. While not technically an actually ship, the pub replicates the haul of an old-timey boat with dark wooden beams criss-crossing the ceiling; long, sleek tables; and antique decorations. Run by a British couple, The Olde Ship offers pleasingly authentic pub fare and ale for lunch and dinner. Many locals enjoy stopping in the friendly atmosphere for a bottle of British brew, including Boddingtons, Smithwicks, Abbott Ale, and Blackthorn Cider. The bartender is happy to guide newcomers through the delicious creamy beers. The daily menu offers up hearty options like fish and chips, lamb shank, roast beef and Yorkshire pudding, and steak and kidney pie (for the daring). Stick around for raucous viewings of live soccer games and live jazz on the weekends.

The Olde Ship
1120 W. 17th Street
Santa Ana, CA 92706
(714) 550-6700

Stress is something that can affect us at any age. If you’re feeling a little overwhelmed, and are looking to relieve your stress, we’ve got some simple solutions for you. Below are helpful suggestions to help reduce stress and bring more calm back to your life.

• Journaling has been proven to bring several health benefits, including stress relief. Take a moment in a quiet place to write down your worries and clear your head – just getting your thoughts on paper will make you feel instantly better. Then, begin a list of what you’re grateful for to switch your attitude into a more positive place.
• Breathing exercises can be performed anywhere and provide convenient and simple stress relief. Focus on the breath for a few minutes as you smooth out and elongate your inhales and exhales, and feel your stress melt away.
• Laughter is a fabulous tension reliever, and it also brings about positive physiological changes. Put on your favorite funny movie or TV show, or call up a friend who always makes you laugh and giggle your worries away.
• Meditation brings both short-term stress relief as well as long-lasting stress management. If you’re new to meditation, find a quiet place to sit and begin by focusing on the breath, drawing it in and out through your nose. See if you can count 10 breaths without the mind wandering off.
• Yoga combines breathing and meditation with light exercise. One yoga class can leave you feeling instantly better, and a consistent practice will bring about greater resiliency to stress. If you’re new to yoga, look for a “gentle yoga” class or one that says it’s “restorative”.
• Music can change your physiology in amazing ways – if you’re feeling run-down, put on a soothing CD and allow the calming tones to seep in. If you’re interested, you can also make an appointment for a music therapy session, which can help with a variety of stress-related issues.
• Mild Exercise, such as walking, is a great stress reliever that can work in no-time. Stepping out and taking a walk provides you with a change of scenery, which can get you into a different frame of mind altogether. Plus, you reap the benefits of exercise as well.

Wishing you a very happy and relaxing Labor Day!