A Little Bit Of ‘Me Time’ Is All You Need: How To Feel Relaxed & Energised For 2022

Nobody ever said that January was a good month. Motivation and focus often as empty as your wallet after an over-indulgent festive season, it’s the month of the year where it’s easier than ever to find yourself slumping into a pile of blankets and biscuits. Although a fresh page can bring with it a fresh opportunity, it can also bring with it a sense of anxiety that you should be doing more / trying harder / making up for lost time. January can become a pressure cooker of expectation, when actually what we should be doing is being kind to ourselves; ensuring we feel relaxed, energised and have a sense of wellbeing pays off to a far greater degree as we emerge from the sofa and back into the world.

If you’re feeling the strain already, here are my four top tips for taking back a bit of ‘me time‘ and ensuring I feel relaxed, energised and focused.

A Little Bit Of ‘Me Time’ Is All You Need: 4 SIMPLE WAYS To Feel Relaxed & Energised

DRESS THE PART


If you’d told me a couple of years ago my wardrobe would be bursting at the seams with loungewear sets, comfy tracksuits and PJs that get worn from 5pm, I wouldn’t have believed you. But here we are! (One of the few benefits of lockdown is how we all embraced comfy clothes…) Just because you’re at home doesn’t mean you can’t look and feel good, so switch up those mismatching 15 year old pyjamas or paint splattered joggers for a set or two that helps you to feel great. There’s something about changing out of the days clothes into something altogether more relaxed, not dissimilar to that feeling of slipping into freshly laundered bedsheets. Trust me – new PJs are life.

SCENT YOUR HOME


Behavioural studies have revealed that smells can trigger intense emotional memories, as well as helping to either enhance or hinder our mood. There’s no better way to set the scene than to light a candle, or even better, invest in an Aroma Diffuser that gently and effectively diffuse essential oils into the air. I’ve been using one of these for the past couple of years and adore it so much that every family member has since recieved their own for Christmas; they delicately fill the air with a scent of your choosing, helping to relax the mind or energise the senses when you need it most.

A Little Bit Of ‘Me Time’ Is All You Need: 4 SIMPLE WAYS To Feel Relaxed & Energised

TREAT YOUR SKIN


Skincare is more than just functional. It can be an emotive and relaxing experience, if done right. Taking your time to indulge in some of your favourite products and thoroughly massaging them into skin will not only benefit your complexion, but your mind too. Don’t skimp on your bedtime skincare regime: dedicate half an hour to effectively double cleansing (with something beautiful like Elemis Pro-Collagen Cleansing Balm,) steaming (I swear by a facial steamer to clear and refresh the skin,) massaging and lifting, before adding a night treatment (such as Elemis Plumping Pillow Facial) that will leave you looking and feeling amazing.

HAVE A PAMPER


Making time for regular pampering really does make all the difference, but sometimes we just don’t have the time to book in a spa day or pop to the salon. That’s where handy at-home solutions come in! My mum had a foot spa in the 90’s and it was the absolute height of sophistication, but did you know they’re making a comeback and better than ever? The Homedics Luxury Foot Spa is the perfect way to ease away the stresses and strains of the day; jets relieve tension in your feet, while massager rollers soak away muscle tiredness, leaving your tootsies relaxed and your mind at ease. A session in this followed by some great foot cream and even a cheeky polish paint is sure to leave me feeling so much better.

A Little Bit Of ‘Me Time’ Is All You Need: 4 SIMPLE WAYS To Feel Relaxed & Energised

Remember: the last couple of years have been hard on us all, and you can’t be the best version of you if you don’t stop to have a little ‘me time’. Taking time out isn’t a weakness, it’s a strength and should be celebrated. My resolution for 2022 is to focus on the wellbeing of my body and mind just as much as my career, family and social life. What will yours be?

Feeling inspired? Check out all the beauty treats and wellbeing must-haves over on www.very.co.uk

How do you feel relaxed and energised? Let me know below!

This is a sponsored feature on behalf of Very; all opinions my own.

A Little Bit Of ‘Me Time’ Is All You Need: 4 SIMPLE WAYS To Feel Relaxed & Energised

The Ultimate Beauty Destination: Surprise That Special Someone With The Perfect Gift From Boots

It’s been a tough year. A tough couple of years to be exact. With the world still in a spin, and the lack of certainty causing even the most stable of us to lose our footing, it’s more important than ever to take a moment to reflect back on how far we’ve come. If you’ve made it this far in one piece, with your health and wellbeing still pretty much in tact, you deserve a medal! If you’ve not, then you still deserve a medal (or a very nice gift from Boots *wink*) for trying your best during unprecedented circumstances.

There are so many people to celebrate this festive season – from the NHS workers who have pushed forward so selflessly, to the key workers who have kept the world moving, to the parents who have juggled home schooling with a full time job, and the friends who have kept reminding us that it’s ok to have a wobble and feel like you’re losing yourself. I for one am grateful to my network of amazing people who have listened to me moan, been there when I’ve cried and reminded me that things will get better; what would we all do without a shoulder to cry on eh?

Boots christmas gift surprise 3 for 2 offer Boots christmas gift surprise 3 for 2 offer

This Christmas Boots want to celebrate those special people who deserve an extra sprinkling of joy… And we all know more than one who has experienced a bit of a cr*ppier-than-most twelve months. Their incredible selection of Christmas gifts will undoubtedly include the perfect treat that’s guaranteed to put a smile on their face and show them how much you care, with price points that start at only a few pounds up to extravagant gifts that will certainly surprise and delight.

MY SPECIAL SOMEONE

2021 has been especially hard for my family, as my 91 year old Grandad succumbed to dementia and moved into a full time care home earlier this year. Despite my Nan believing she could cope, it became increasingly apparent that he required more care than she was now able to give. Sleepless nights, panic attacks and anxiety ridden days have left their toll – and worried the rest of us no end. But six months on and she’s found herself (and her freedom) once again, despite being separated from the love of her life for the first time since they were married over sixty years ago.

When Boots asked me to choose someone to surprise with some of their beauty gifts (that make the best Christmas presents,) there was no question of who that special someone would be. My Nan is so deserving of a treat, and picking out some pretty gifts was an absolute pleasure; the little squeal she made when I delivered them melted my heart!

Boots christmas gift surprise 3 for 2 offer Boots christmas gift surprise 3 for 2 offer Boots christmas gift surprise 3 for 2 offer

THREE MAGICAL GIFTS

With the iconic ‘Boots 3 for 2’ there’s always a great deal to be had and amazing savings to be made – with the cheapest of your choices coming absolutely free. (Bonus!) Here’s what I chose for my Nan…

1. Liz Earle Superskin Beauty Sleep Ritual (£45.50)


For the last year she’s struggled with anxiety, especially at night, so anything that will encourage self-care and relaxation is gratefully received. This gift set includes some of Liz Earle’s iconic products (including Cleanse & Polish) alongside a little terrarium she’s already got plans for in the bathroom.

2. Laura Ashley Fragrance Diffuser (£18.00)


My Nan loves scent as much as I do; I’ve definitely inherited my love of candles and room diffusers from her! This home fragrance is enriched with notes of Daisy and White Aloe to provide a delicately floral experience, while the glass bottle is a statement in itself. The perfect gift for any home decor or fragrance connoisseur alike.

3. Laura Ashley Luxury Hand & Nail Cream (£5.00)


One of the things my Nan has kept up for decades is her regular manicures and pedicures, and her hands continue to defy her age. Some of my earliest memories include her applying a fragrant hand cream and me thinking it was the most grown up thing ever, so suffice to say I was unsurprised when this was ripped open and applied in an instant!

Boots christmas gift surprise 3 for 2 offer

So if you’ve got a special someone you’d love to treat this festive season, there’s guaranteed to be that last minute solution they’re sure to adore. It’s the season to show how much you care, and the joy really is in the giving…

Who in your life deserves to be surprised Secret Santa style this Christmas?

Check out all the Christmas gifts for her and Christmas gifts for him on offer on www.boots.com

AD: sponsored feature in partnership with Boots.com; all opinions my own.

Boots christmas gift surprise 3 for 2 offer

Three Great Independent British Candle Brands To Support This Springtime

Candlelight has transformative powers; the gentle flickering warm hues can make even the coldest of spaces feel more welcoming, while soothing away many of the worries that may be on our minds. What may often seem like a little indulgence reserved for the chillier months can actually be something to be enjoyed all year round, offering not only a restorative emotional quality – but helping to effortlessly fill a space and offer a delicate scent too. I’ve always got a candle on the go, no matter where in the house (don’t underestimate the power of garden candles either!) I am; although some of my most used and favourite brands are recognisable and relatively mainstream, I do like to dabble in ‘under the radar’ names that bring something extra special to my surroundings. Often an independent brand will be offering something unexpected and truly evocative, as well as allowing you to support someone’s dream… And these three independent British candle brands do all that and more.

Three Great Independent British Candle Brands To Support

Naomi Joy Living (£29.00)


I’m not even sure how or where I discovered this brand, but I’m definitely glad I did. The scents themselves feature unusual but evocative combinations (such as Wisteria & White Tea, Lemongrass & Lime and Pineapple & Pomelo) that burn to leave a subtle lingering scent in any room, but for me it’s the quirky names and packaging that’s an unexpected delight. I bought myself a F*?king Fabulous candle (Rose & Pink Pepper) just because it made me smile and I thought I needed the mojo boost, but the scent is so delicious I’ve gone back for more – my mum received a ‘Mother Like No Other’ candle for Mother’s Day, while my mates will certainly be receiving these for future birthday celebrations. The candles are hand-poured and manufactured in Britain too.

Three Great Independent British Candle Brands To Support

2204 Candles* (£24.00)


Created by a “6’2, broad shouldered, shaved head, tattooed, Scottish” ex-music tour manager, 2204 is not what you’d expect from your usual candle brand. The dark jars set the scene for scents that linger in a sultry and intense way, holding combinations of unexpected and traditionally more masculine notes that make this a great brand for anyone sick of florals. With scents on offer that include Cuban Cigar & Cognac, Smoked Oak & French Vanilla and Espresso & Pala Santo, 2204 Candles is refreshing and somewhat unique; as soon as I light my candle I know the room will be filled with something soothing on the soul. All the candles are 100% vegan, cruelty free and sustainable – and they’re made using ethically sourced soy wax, carefully selected scented oils and fully recyclable packaging. I’ve got my eye on the Summer Cherry & Gurbandi Almond for summer!

Three Great Independent British Candle Brands To Support

Crosskey Avenue* (£39.00)


Each of the candles is inspired by a destination that left a mark on the founder, underpinning the pure passion for creating scents that bring about an emotional connection or that have transformative powers; who doesn’t want to be transported to a tropical island as soon as they light the wick? Langkawi, inspired by Malaysia’s tropical island, contains exotic frangipani, milky coconut, fresh lemongrass and sandalwoodto provide the perfect combination of depth and freshness. Not only does it look beautiful, thanks to the frosted glass container, but its subtle scent lingers even when it’s not being actively burned. The candles are made in England, contain the highest quality soy blended wax, are sustainable and recyclable – with the outer boxes made using Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified cardboard.

Three Great Independent British Candle Brands To Support

Lighting up a candle really can make everything seem so much better… So why not do it with style!

Which of these three independent British candle brands would you most like to see on your coffee table?

Get the most of your candle with my top tips on How To Look After A Candle Properly.

Discover 8 Amazing Ways To Re-Use Your Candle Jar when you’re done burning.

*AD: press samples sent with no obligation to feature.

Three Great Independent British Candle Brands To Support This Springtime

Candlelight has transformative powers; the gentle flickering warm hues can make even the coldest of spaces feel more welcoming, while soothing away many of the worries that may be on our minds. What may often seem like a little indulgence reserved for the chillier months can actually be something to be enjoyed all year round, offering not only a restorative emotional quality – but helping to effortlessly fill a space and offer a delicate scent too. I’ve always got a candle on the go, no matter where in the house (don’t underestimate the power of garden candles either!) I am; although some of my most used and favourite brands are recognisable and relatively mainstream, I do like to dabble in ‘under the radar’ names that bring something extra special to my surroundings. Often an independent brand will be offering something unexpected and truly evocative, as well as allowing you to support someone’s dream… And these three independent British candle brands do all that and more.

Three Great Independent British Candle Brands To Support

Naomi Joy Living (£29.00)


I’m not even sure how or where I discovered this brand, but I’m definitely glad I did. The scents themselves feature unusual but evocative combinations (such as Wisteria & White Tea, Lemongrass & Lime and Pineapple & Pomelo) that burn to leave a subtle lingering scent in any room, but for me it’s the quirky names and packaging that’s an unexpected delight. I bought myself a F*?king Fabulous candle (Rose & Pink Pepper) just because it made me smile and I thought I needed the mojo boost, but the scent is so delicious I’ve gone back for more – my mum received a ‘Mother Like No Other’ candle for Mother’s Day, while my mates will certainly be receiving these for future birthday celebrations. The candles are hand-poured and manufactured in Britain too.

Three Great Independent British Candle Brands To Support

2204 Candles* (£24.00)


Created by a “6’2, broad shouldered, shaved head, tattooed, Scottish” ex-music tour manager, 2204 is not what you’d expect from your usual candle brand. The dark jars set the scene for scents that linger in a sultry and intense way, holding combinations of unexpected and traditionally more masculine notes that make this a great brand for anyone sick of florals. With scents on offer that include Cuban Cigar & Cognac, Smoked Oak & French Vanilla and Espresso & Pala Santo, 2204 Candles is refreshing and somewhat unique; as soon as I light my candle I know the room will be filled with something soothing on the soul. All the candles are 100% vegan, cruelty free and sustainable – and they’re made using ethically sourced soy wax, carefully selected scented oils and fully recyclable packaging. I’ve got my eye on the Summer Cherry & Gurbandi Almond for summer!

Three Great Independent British Candle Brands To Support

Crosskey Avenue* (£39.00)


Each of the candles is inspired by a destination that left a mark on the founder, underpinning the pure passion for creating scents that bring about an emotional connection or that have transformative powers; who doesn’t want to be transported to a tropical island as soon as they light the wick? Langkawi, inspired by Malaysia’s tropical island, contains exotic frangipani, milky coconut, fresh lemongrass and sandalwoodto provide the perfect combination of depth and freshness. Not only does it look beautiful, thanks to the frosted glass container, but its subtle scent lingers even when it’s not being actively burned. The candles are made in England, contain the highest quality soy blended wax, are sustainable and recyclable – with the outer boxes made using Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified cardboard.

Three Great Independent British Candle Brands To Support

Lighting up a candle really can make everything seem so much better… So why not do it with style!

Which of these three independent British candle brands would you most like to see on your coffee table?

Get the most of your candle with my top tips on How To Look After A Candle Properly.

Discover 8 Amazing Ways To Re-Use Your Candle Jar when you’re done burning.

*AD: press samples sent with no obligation to feature.