Sunday 25 November 2018

Maintaining Motivation: When The Going Gets Tough...

Since finishing university and entering the working world I've found myself often falling into a bit of a hole. Motivation sometimes escapes the best of us and recently I've had conversations with multiple friends about how they have struggled over the past year or so. After two or three years working, it starts to feel a bit repetitive, day in, day out, tube there, tube home. I know two friends who are currently feeling this way, one is thinking about switching things up and moving abroad, the other is still trying to find her motivation and I hope that a few of my words on here will give her a little something, a hand, because we've all been there and we know that we'll be back at some point in the future. It's getting to know yourself, what keeps you happy, motivated and energised day to day for the good things to come!

Respect Your Body
This can be a number of things but taking time to respect your body is key. For me this means eating a healthy diet, heading to the gym or practicing yoga. I'm not lying - it's science! Giving yourself those happy endorphins is going to make you feel soooo much better. Also, I think its pretty obvious that you're gonna feel a lot better whipping yourself up a fresh meal rather than having a greasy takeaway. I'm not saying to not treat yourself, far from! I'm a big believer in treating yourself to a chocolate brownie or a pizza but if you're feeling rubbish, rubbish food is not gonna make you feel any better.

Take a Break
Don't overwork yourself! Learn that there's a time for 'go' and a time for 'stop'. If you don't set these boundaries your work is going to be a lot less productive and the quality of your work will slowly deteriorate, the lines will blur. Your time is vital to maintaining a happy state of mind. Whether your you time is reading a book, taking a bath or meditating, whatever your thing is make sure you're taking at least 10 minutes a day to let your mind rest and restore.

Keep the Balance
There's a reason people say balance is key. Work, play and relax! Take time for all three, you can't fully appreciate each one without the others. If you're working hard and have to stay late at work treat yourself to that glass of wine, go for cocktails with the girls but still attend that Boxercise class on Saturday morning. That said if you're knackered, sleep in! Listen to your body, there's a reason why it asks for different things.

Keep Those That Matter Close
Keep those that are positive around. You know what pushes you further when you're feeling down - bad vibes! If you're in a negative environment it's going to rub off on you. Over the past two years, I've started to recognise those friends that have a positive impact on my mental state and you know what? I spend a lot more time with them now and this makes me a hella lot happier!

Try Something New
I love trying new things. I realised a few years ago that I used to hold back from the unknown, you see I'm a fairly organised person and when I don't have order I can get stressed and anxious. Slowly, slowly I started to introduce doing new things, whether they were new activities, going to new places or even spending more time with new people and I realised that I love it! Don't get me wrong, there's always a chance that you're going to stumble across a few things that you don't like. This weekend I went to my first ever spin class and went wreath making and I bloody loved both! Trying new things gives you a chance to learn more about yourself and isn't that fun? 

Learn to Say No!
Don't want to do it? Just say no. Too tired? Say no. Too stressed? say no. We are all scared to say it but the reality is nobody really cares that much, you're allowed to say no and you won't be penalised if you say it occasionally.

Don't Let your Anxt Win!
Often when you lack motivation you don't really want to leave the house. Here's an example: It's a Saturday and you've not made any plans, so what do you do? I know I've had days sitting at home feeling sorry for myself and it can get to 7pm and you've not even left the house - but you know what, kick your ass into gear! Head out for a walk, go do your weekly shop, start your Christmas shopping or go visit a friend, because I'll tell you a secret, sitting doing nothing... does nothing. Crazy, I know right?! Even if you feel really rubbish, sometimes you've gotta force yourself, because at the end of the day YOU are the only person that can maintain your motivation!
SHARE:

Tuesday 6 November 2018

Back to Blogging: Best Bits

It seems I always go through peaks and troughs when it comes to blogging. I tend to stumble over hurdles, whether its writer's block or simply being overly busy with work and seeing friends. Blogging has always been a hobby to do in my spare time, and when time runs out, unfortunately, this is the first thing that it effects. So, I managed to miss out writing anything for you guys for the whole month of October. I'd like to say loads has happened but to be honest I'm taking a whack at prioritising different things at the moment and it's making me feel a lot better. I'm glad that I've managed to muscle up the time to write a blog post because I've got a few things that I'm loving at the moment, whether its fashion, beauty of lifestyle bits. 
So here they are...

1. Feminists Don't Wear Pink 


Let's start with something I've been banging on about over and over... Feminists Don't Wear Pink and other lies by Scarlet Curtis. I urge everyone, male or female to have a read of this book. It's a collection of essays from a variety of different women about what feminism means to them. The goal of the book is to help the reader come to their own personal understanding of the word, because lord knows it's got some pretty negative connotations these days - let's not get me started! It's funny, witty, real and heartfelt. 

2. Mio Liquid Yoga 

Bath time favourite - Liquid Yoga. Mio strikes again with another fab product. I'm really loving alternating between the gym and yoga at the moment- one clears my head and the other helps me to think- but with all this exercise I do tend to get really achy muscles and this product is perfect. Plus, it smells like Deep Heat or Tiger Balm, so what's not to love!

3. OGX Orchid Oil Shampoo
Unless you haven't realised, I've really tried to go fairly natural and eco-friendly recently, whether its beauty products that I'm using, recycling a bit more, my weekly food shop or cleaning products. It is a bit of a struggle when you have certain products that are great and you just can't let go of them... BUT I have found the perfect shampoo- I say this but I often have to change shampoo every 2-3 months otherwise my hair gets used to it- alas, at the moment this is my perfect shampoo! Sulphate-free and super hydrating, this shampoo allows me to leave my hair for a few days without washing (which by the way is a pretty big deal for me). Also, a pro for anyone that's looking to use this who colours their hair, it's great for protecting colour and locking in moisture!

4. Morphe x Jaclyn Hill

I was lucky enough to get these babies through work and for now, these are FOR SURE my go-to brand for make-up brushes. They are super smooth. These professional brushes are made from a natural blend of sable and goat bristles and are 100% animal cruelty-free <3

5. Why Buddhism Is True 

So, for this one I took an image from the internet because my book is looking pretty rank right now, God knows how many tube journeys and bus routes it's been on. Now the front cover of this book doesn't do itself justice at all. People will read the front and think - ahh this is going to be a book about how we should all be calm, try meditating and seek enlightenment. Well, not quite. I'm in love with this book, and with only 80 pages left I hope Robert Wright doesn't somehow screw it up with such a short space to go. The book looks at the science and philosophy behind Buddhism from an evolutionary psychologist's perspective. Now, Robert himself looks at the paradoxical view of Buddhism and shows both pros and cons to meditation and enlightenment. This book has made me look at things in an entirely different way, the difference between feelings, emotions, essence all of which are human-made. I can't rate this book enough if I could make all my friends read it I would! 


SHARE:

Sunday 9 September 2018

The Best of Brunch

So, anybody who knows me is well aware of the fact that I'm a bit of a brunch enthusiast. What's not to love?! Pancakes, eggs, sourdough, corn fritters - you get the deal. It's delicious and since moving to SW London I've tried out my fair share of brunch spots. I thought I'd put together a list of a few of my favourites...

Milk (Balham) & Milk Teeth (Tooting)

Best for: Menu variety 
Whether you're after a typical Eggs Bennie or you fancy something a little more extravagant. How about a Young Betty? Or The Convict? My personal favourite has to be Sweet Maria, corn fritters with poached eggs, halloumi, avo and kasundi <3 They also have THE best chai latte at the Tooting branch, I always get sad when I can't grab it in Balham. 
Price: £7 or £9 if you add eggs or bacon

The Ivy Cafe (Wimbledon)

Best for: Special occasions
If you're looking for somewhere that is a little classier but the price isn't too bad, then The Ivy Cafe in Wimbledon Village is perfect. You can actually book here, which is uncommon with most hip and cool brunch spots nowadays, and its worth it. I've tried to get in a few times without booking but succeeded just the once. I ordered the hot buttermilk pancakes with strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, Greek yoghurt, lemon balm, and warm strawberry sauce. I also asked for additional caramelised bananas - DELISH!
Price: £8.95 or £10 with added banana 

Brickwood (Balham, Clapham or Tooting)

Best for: Your standard brunch spot
So I know my description doesn't scream and shout but Brickwood is just that, your typical brunch spot. You'll find all the usual go-tos for brunch food. I especially love their toasties. 
Price: Ranges from £6-12 

TOTA (Tooting)

Best for: Drunch
An all-time fave of mine, not only because they have some absolutely fab cocktails, but also because anywhere that has a fish finger sandwich on the menu is my kinda place! A lovely spot for brekkie, lunch and/or dinner. Here's a photo of the three buttermilk pancakes with apple and cinnamon, maple butter and an extra side of banana - cos it's me! 
Price: Usually £8.25 but an additional £1.50 for banana (criminal I know)

Saucer & Cup (Wimbledon) 

Best for: Cheap and cheerful
The cuuuutest little brunch spot, and right by my gym! This is a hidden gem perfect for a cheap and cheerful brunch without compromising any quality. I've previously had a sausage sandwich on my first trip here and most recently avo, eggs and mushrooms on sourdough. They also serve up a lush Matcha Latte!  
Price: Starting at £6 

My newest love: Mud Cafe (Tooting)

Best for: Flavours and food
First of all, they serve Ozone coffee - dare I say it THE best coffee in London sourced from NZ. Their dishes throw brunch up in the air, spin it around and come crashing back down onto the menu with some delish twists and turns. Welcome to the table Huevos Rancheros: a large taco with refried beans, avocado, pickled red onions, garlic cream, fried eggs and the option of chorizooo - YUM. A little more expensive than the other spots...
Price: This dish was £10 but so worth it! 



SHARE:

Sunday 12 August 2018

ldnstyleactive's Molly Horne shares her favourite summer activewear

I caught up with the lovely Molly Horne of ldnstyleactive who has shared her favourite activewear brands of summer 2018...




One of my best ways to stay motivated to workout is activewear. There’s nothing like treating myself to a new pair of leggings to get my butt to the gym. It’s important to find gymwear that serves both fashion and functionality, living in a world today where athleisure is acceptable for any occasion, you are bound to find a style that suits you. Coming from someone who’s gymwear (almost) requires a wardrobe, I have reviewed a fair share of activewear brands to make sure I am wearing the correct pieces to benefit my workout. If you're lacking workout motivation, here’s my favourite activewear brands this summer to help inspire you, not only to look good but feel exceptional whilst exercising.



Who says you can’t make a statement at the gym? Matching sets (sports bra and leggings) are my favourite combination to wear whilst working out. Sellise, featuring fitness model Amanda Finnie, brings you flattering matching sets in gorgeous colours such as heather rose, lily yellow and lucid lilac. No need to worry about any wardrobe malfunctions, Sellise knows that comfort is key, that’s why they have created their latest collection with a new improved super soft brush fabric.



Thanks to its gorgeous insta-reel, Lilybod adds their unique style to your workout, ensuring that you can look on trend whilst breaking a sweat. I am wearing Lilybod’s JADE Super Burst leggings in a size small. Crafted with a high waisted fit, Lilybod’s trademark engineered micro print pattern and a subtle hint of pink – I was sold. Combining sport with street, Lilybod ensures that you can look good whilst working out. Their exquisite 4-way stretch premium fabric models the legging to hug your figure in style throughout any workout intensity. Whether you are a gym goer or beginner, it’s soft-touch fabric is moisture wicking and breathable with 27% elasticity, meaning that you can feel comfortable in any activity.






Imagine treating yourself to new activewear that not only makes you look great but feels incredible on your skin too? Introducing Boody, an Australian company that designs beautiful activewear by using earth-friendly materials. Boody keeps comfort in mind, that’s why their activewear is made from bamboo. Bamboo is one of the fastest growing plants on earth. An important benefit of bamboo fabric is that it’s great for the environment. Bamboo fabric absorbs moisture away from your skin, keeping you drier. Feeling comfortable in your activewear is the key to getting in a killer workout, it’s time to get fitness motivation with Boody.





NEUapparel includes a stylish range of activewear fit to suit all exercise types. So, if you are a runner, gym goer, yogi or somebody who simply loves to wear activewear on a daily basis (like me) NEUapparel have got you covered! Nothing screams gym goddess more than when your sports bra matches your leggings. NEU Apparel’s luxe tonal bra is the perfect shade of creamy taupe to create an effortlessly chic look when paired with the tonal luxe leggings. Their leggings feel incredible high waisted, squat proof, true to size and actually stay up during your training.




FLEXXFIT is your answer to fitness motivation. I discovered the clothing company by Instagram and fell in love with their new colours. I bought their Luxe Leggings in Dusty Rose along with matching sports bra and All White Everything Leggings.
Its beautiful cross over back creates a stylish look. Being comfortable in what you wear at the gym is crucial to smashing your workout. If you feel great wearing just leggings and sports bra, do it. If you don’t feel comfortable revealing as much, don’t worry, adding a vest/tee on top will still show off the flirty details from the sports bra.

***

Molly is always my go-to for activewear inspiration and fitness tips!

 I recently wrote a feature on How Exercise Can Make You Feel Good on LDN. Check it out HERE


SHARE:

Sunday 1 July 2018

Foodie Fresh: How I've Changed Up My Diet

With so many of my friends changing up their eating habits and becoming Pescatarian, Vegetarian, and even Vegan, I took a step back and started to analyse my own diet. 
This started whilst I was on holiday with my family in February. My sister had previously tried out a Vegan diet around November time, but by this point had found her happy balance by becoming a Pescatarian. I decided to try it out and join in whilst I was on holiday, and traveling around Thailand and the Maldives actually made a Veggie diet fairly easy. I'd been playing with the idea for around a year as my best friend has been Vegetarian since she went traveling. I've always been aware of gross animal farming and the mass effect that it has on the earth, but let's be honest, for those of us that love the taste of meat taking that first step is bloody hard!
Now I'm nowhere near a saint for doing this, there is no way I could become vegan, I love cheese and milk too much (and wine and beer), but taking the time to observe my diet and make a few changes has for sure left me feeling fitter and more energised. 
After a few months of going full-out Veggie, I've found myself a middle ground. I realised that after a while my meals became a lot more carb-based as I was trying to fill myself up without having meat. So with a bit of trial and error, I have now decided to include fish in my diet to try and find that balance.  
I know that for sure I am a lot happier with cutting down on my beef intake and that by making these dietary changes I eat A LOT more fruit and veg a day, dare I say more than my allotted 5... and I'm feeling a lot better for it. So keep your eyes peeled for a good few recipes coming your way. I'm really into my veggie burrito bowls, baked cod, chili and prawn tagliatelle and aubergine curry!
SHARE:

Wednesday 23 May 2018

Back To Blogging: Best Beauty Bits

I can't believe its already MAY! What have I been doing?! God knows, but I haven't posted on here since February, and that's the longest break I've had from blogging in four years. Its been good to clear my head, focus on what's important, and really have some me time, which if you saw my post New Year More Me, I'm really doing well at - aha, slightly selfish I know! I've been spending a lot of time focusing on my career, where I want to go, changing up my diet, and experimenting with what works best for me in the gym and exercise wise - I'll get into that in another post. But, I have been doing quite a bit with my skincare routine and my best beauty bits. Here goes...

SO... VERSO. What can I say about this gem? Yes, an absolute beaut of a brand that I stumbled across due to work. Pricey stuff... but worth it! The Hydration Serum, whether used before work or before bed works wonders. I have very sensitive skin that is pretty bipolar in that some days it can be a dewy dream, and others dry as a desert. I usually use this serum before bed and the next day my skin is looking fab and fresh, although, on the off-occasion that I wake up with a dry forehead or nose, two drops of this sorts me right out and brightens up my whole complexion. Now for the Reviving Eye Mask. can't say a bad word about it apart from that its so good I kind of want to use it every night so I can get rid of my dark circles and bags every day. The Retinol element must be what's making a mega difference, it puffs those bags right out and leaves your eyes looking as fresh as a four-year-old's (maybe not quite but it was super close!). My only downer on these Verso products has to be the pricing, I will not be buying these every time they run out, but I will be asking for them as a treat come my Birthday or Christmas. 
I thought I'd also treat you to this mug shot of myself using the reviving eye mask...

 
Gotta love an attractive selfie!
So here's my next little secret, although I have shouted about it on Instagram as I am in absolute awe. Baija Gommage Festin Royal Body Scrub in Caramalised Honey - yup I reeeeeallly wanna eat this, it smells so good! But, stop yourself there, as when applied to certain parts of your body, works absolute wonders. I am a little late to the party when it comes to body exfoliators, but after seeing a product pop up on my feed over and over- which looks very similar to this one- I decided to do exactly what the advertising of that product said it was great for, smoothing out your bum. So, my legs and thighs aren't perfect and I've had cellulite on the tops of my thighs/bum since I was about 15, but after applying this, and might I add only 3-4 times in the shower, I'm already seeing smooth improvements. No, you can't completely get rid of bumps, no amount of exercise and skincare products can do that, what's natural is natural, but this is making a significant difference and making me feel more comfortable and confident, and for that this is a top pick for me - even if it does make me crave sweets in the morning!
Last but not least. Magnitone's Wipeout! I can't remember how many times I've mentioned this in a blog post but I know I've for sure featured it farrrrrr too many times on insta and on my stories. But what can I say, its a keeper. I'm trying to cut down on all the nasties that I pop onto my face and this even takes off waterproof eyeliners and mascaras! Yes, you've got to put it in the wash every few days(I have two so I can alternate), but throw it in your usual wash at a low heat and it makes no difference! Its super soft and fab for sensitive skin. When mine eventually fade away I'll be grabbing another set, this will be a staple of mine for years to come.

So those are my Best Beauty Bits, hope you enjoyed. Planning on getting back into blogging from now on, so expect to see a few more of these up soon!
SHARE:

Tuesday 6 March 2018

Fast Fitness: Full Body Workout

My New Year's resolution is still going strong! I'm hitting the gym 2-3 times a week and practicing yoga at home an additional 1-2 times. I have also recently changed up my training routine by increasing my reps and introducing a bit of cardio (I HATE CARDIO). I'm working on getting leaner for my May trip to Malta, so I'm eating more fruit and veg, and am pumping that iron. I thought I'd share one of my sessions with you guys, so you can follow this routine, or pick and choose the parts that you like...

Squats 6-8 x3
Bent over row 18-20 x3
Stiff-legged deadlifts 15 x3
Standing shoulder press x15 - flies x10 - x3
Cable legs 10 each leg x3
Bicep curls with bar 10 x3
Glute holds 20 x2
Leg curls 15 x3

Feel free to use whatever size weights you feel comfortable with for these exercises - the trick is to maintain your technique, don't let this suffer because you are trying to go too high in weight! 

Finish the session off with some HIT training on a bike, cross trainer or treadmill. 20-30 seconds sprinting 30-40 seconds even-paced for a minimum of 5 minutes.


SHARE:

Sunday 18 February 2018

What I'm Loving Right Now

I may have posted a few photos... but if you haven't seen, I've been away on holiday, so there has been a lack of reviews and posts the past month. Its almost Match 2018... HOW DID THAT HAPPEN?! If you're wondering how my New Year More Me is going, well not too bad thanks actually! I've changed up my diet- not fully veggie but I'm doing well- and I'm spending a lot more time with those who matter to me. ANYWAY, let's get back to the good stuff shall we...

What I'm loving right now. I've compiled a list of my favourite, whether they are all-time go-to's or new found loves, beauty products...

Twilight - Lush

Limited edition body wash that smells LUSH. I'm trying out more eco and animal-friendly products at the moment. I'll have to stock up on this again next December! 

No Oil Oil - Percy & Reed
I used this product whilst I was away on holiday and didn't touch the hairspray once! Amazing at preventing frizz and holding a style.

Chocolate Soleil Bronzer - Too Faced 
This matte bronzer is sooo smooth, I never get blotchy spots, and it smells of chocolate... what's not to love?!

Mon Guerlain - Guerlain
This is now my daily perfume - floral notes, but not too sweet! I'm not the best at describing perfumes, but if you like La Vie Est Belle and Si, I can guarantee you will love this.

Rouge Velvet The Lipstick - Bourjois
Such a lovely tone, it suits my complexion down to a t. I often find it hard to don pink lipsticks being blonde, but this is the perfect mix between pink and nude.

Better Than Sex Mascara - Too Faced 
I always rave about this product. SO much love, you have to try it!

Lemon Highlights Shampoo - OGX 
I have spent so much time in the past trying to find a good blonde shampoo. Some have sent me ashy, some bring out yellow tones. This does exactly what it says, awakens sunkissed highlights.

No Big Sweat Face + Body Cleansing Wipes - CliniqueFIT
My sensitive skin often prevents me from using wipes, as they sting and irritate my face. These wipes are soft and smooth - perfect even after a long day.
SHARE:

Sunday 7 January 2018

New Year, More Me

So I know the title of the blog post seems pretty self-absorbed and vain, and yeah, although pretty abrupt and quite self-centered, that's what I am to be a bit more of in 2018. 2017 was a year that taught me a lot of lessons, all good, and I feel was a year of growth. Now 2018 has begun I am making a conscious effort to do what makes ME happy. So many of us go about our daily lives and routines, forgetting one key ingredient to life, being happy. So starting now I am going to put myself out there. And here's how...


1. Get out and about doing activities that I enjoy.
Go to all those art exhibitions I said I was going to see but never did, see those films that I think look pretty damn cool, and try that doughnut shop that I've been drooling over on Instagram for months.
2. Make more time to see friends (those that bring joy to my life).
3. Make career choices and steps that contribute to my lifelong goal. Put in the extra hours if needs be, and voice my opinions and ideas when needed.
4. Exercise. I've always been pretty good with this one, but I want to change up my exercise routine this year. I've been stuck in a rut for a while doing the same stuff over and over, so maybe I'll try out a new class or start exercising with a friend, this will boost my moral and get me seeing some progress. 
5. Diet. when people hear the word diet they so often think about cutting their calorie intake and taking out all your favourite fatty and sugary foods. Well, I'm not talking about diet in that regard, I'm talking about changing my diet to a healthy and sustainable one. Since the winter months started to creep in I often find myself reaching for ready meals, quick and easy right? Well, my skin and energy levels have definitely been paying for it. I'm going to try my hardest to cook all my meals from scratch, and make sure that I've got a hell of a lot more fruit and veg in my daily diet, because I've noticed a mental change since putting this into action since Jan 1st (yes after devouring a tube of smarties to help cure my hangover from NYE). I'm even going veggie for the majority of my meals- also a great way to save some extra dollar (another goal of mine for 2018!).

So there you have it. New Year... more me!
 

SHARE:
© In The Life Of.... All rights reserved.
Blogger templates by pipdig