When you look up what the word retreat means, it is often linked to military operations: withdrawing from enemy forces as a result of their superior power or after a defeat. Not massively positive eh? Albeit sometimes I do feel like I am waging a war – against hormones, heat, the never-ending midlife mental load … 

Jo Darling, Chinese medicine practitioner explains: ‘In its simplest form ‘Retreat’, means ‘to withdraw, to drawback. So, with this in mind, the original intention of a retreat is to withdraw from our regular routine of daily life and take time to reflect, evaluate and to reconnect. A retreat, at its essence, is about coming back to basics’. 

Finding the best midlife retreat for you … 

It seems at the moment, we can’t move for retreats and whilst I love the idea, I can’t work out if I want peace, activities, adventure or all 3!  Budget, time and location all play a part too, so I spoke to Jo Fellowes, yoga practitioner and wellness advisor who recommends thinking about what your desired outcome is first – what do you want to experience? She says “Choose a retreat that is aligned with your interests and goals, there are many different types, such as yoga retreats, meditation retreats, wellbeing retreats, writing retreats, spiritual retreats etc. Also, consider the level of activity. Some retreats are very active, while others are more relaxed”.

Questions to ask yourself when choosing a retreat:

Do I want to:

• Relax and de-stress?
• Connect with nature?
• Reflect on your life?
• Learn new things?

Other things to consider when choosing the midlife retreat for you: 

• The facilitator. Do some research on the facilitators of the retreat to make sure that they are properly qualified and experienced. 

• What type of accommodation is offered? Are they shared or private? In mid-life most of us want to have our own private space and bathrooms. 

• Budget. Retreats can range hugely in price from a few hundred pounds to several thousand. It’s important to set a budget before you start looking so you don’t overspend. Check what the price includes, some include all meals and activities, while others don’t. 

• Food. Is the food included in the price of the retreat? If so, what kind of food is served? Can they accommodate your dietary requirements?

• The location. Do you want to go on a retreat near home or travel to a new destination? Consider the climate and time of year.

• The size of the group. Do you prefer a small, intimate retreat or a busier setting?

• Ask your friends and family for recommendations. Do they know of any retreats that they would recommend? Read reviews. See what other people have said about different retreats.

• Trust your gut. If you feel good about a particular retreat, then it’s probably the right one for you.

Remember, the most important thing is to choose a retreat that will help you achieve your desired outcomes, your available time, and your budget.  Here are a few ideas to get you started!

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If you have 7 days …

Jo Darling organises menopause retreats which focus on the simplicity of rest, restoration, and revitalise, immersing guests in ancient wisdom, all taking place in the magical mountains, waterfalls, and sunshine of Andalucia, Spain.

She harnesses the idea of going back to basics and observing nature, by introducing her guests to the theory of the ‘Chinese Clock’. This explains that each organ has peak energy at a specific time of day. Guests explore this principle through a series of workshops, gentle movement practices and acupuncture treatments to help guests with their own self care, with plenty of important free time, for guests to explore their surroundings and relax. 

For full details of Jo’s retreats visit the Menopoised Retreat

Get Surfing!

I have been following Wild and Free Adventures for a while now.  I surfed (badly) in my twenties but loved it and feel that this could be the retreat for me.  Set up by Amanda and Jo, Wild and Free was born from two people’s passion for surf and yoga and the balance and freedom each one offers mind, body and soul.  Their retreats offer an opportunity to unwind and reconnect with your sense of adventure whilst exploring the world and beautiful oceans but they also run retreats in Cornwall if that is more your bag.  Hosted with the help of an amazing local crew at every destination these are unique experiences designed not only to relax you, but challenge you too. 

If you have a weekend …

Check out Sunset Bay Retreats, set up by dance teacher Maggie and her husband Graham, they offer a variety of retreats to suit the seasons, choose from winter yoga to Veganuary theme to summer solstice retreats either midweek or weekend depending on what suits you.   On the program: holistic workshops, invigorating outdoor activities, rejuvenating treatments, and revitalizing yoga and meditation practices, as well as nourishing plant-based food. 

The retreats are run in the beautiful Welsh countryside where guests can nourish their bodies and spirits and leave feeling regenerated, relaxed and ready to face the world once again.

Jo Fellows has teamed up with Notgrove Holidays to organise a series of well-being retreats set on the Notgrove estate, which is an idyllic 1,500 estate in the Cotswold countryside.  Designed to nourish, awaken, heal and renew. it’s the perfect place to reflect and unwind from the stresses and strains of everyday life.

Guests stay in eco-glamping pods on the estate whilst enjoying a mix of yoga, nutrition, time in nature and breathwork, connecting with like-minded individuals – embracing the energy of the season, for growth, renewal and creativity.  I have already booked my space on the March weekend retreat…. But there are also dates in June to choose from.

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If you have a day…

For those of us who find it difficult to carve out time for ourselves, then maybe a day out is more achievable for both diary and purse.  For midlifers, there are more specifically designed spa treatments than ever created especially for us! 

Try the “Your Best You” treatment from Temple Spa which is a bespoke top-to-toe menopausal treatment combining massage with Himalayan Salt stones to support stress relief, increase energy, and positively boost mood. Rhythmic stretches, and gentle joint rotation rescue achy limbs and a gentle lymph drainage facial reduces puffiness to leave skin fresh and toned. You can enjoy your treatment hot or cold depending on how you feel and make the most of the spa facilities depending on the spa location you choose. 

Chewton Glen Spa in Hampshire is the sister hotel to Cliveden House in Berkshire.  They have linked up with award-winning CBD brand OTO to develop a Menopause & Restore Spa Day which includes breakfast and lunch at the pool bar, an indulgent 90-minute body ritual tailored to release emotional heaviness and aid digestion, including an abdominal massage to provide analgesic, cell-regenerating and anti-inflammatory properties to the skin and tissues. Live sound is woven into the experience, reducing binaural frequencies to allow you to completely switch off and reset.  You can make the most of the spa facilities, have lunch, and maybe sign up for a class.  The Chewton Glen grounds are well worth exploring and you can also follow the path down to the sea for a brisk coastal walk. 

The Old Dairy, set in the beautiful North Oxfordshire countryside, offers various retreat options from one-hour treatments to full days, where you can escape, let go and just be whilst enjoying a selection of yoga classes, guided walks, treatments, nutritional advice, sound baths and nutritious lunches.

If you have an hour … create a retreat at home…

Busy lives mean that sometimes all we have is an hour, sometimes less. Maximise whatever time and space you have with these quick-fix ideas:

• Meditation – with Calm app – they have various meditation tracks so pick one to suit your timescale from 2 minutes to 20 minutes, take that time for yourself
• Tea – Forage Botanicals Cool and Calm Tea contains Peppermint, known for relaxing fried nerves, Lemon Verbena to clear the mind and Sage, to alleviate hormone imbalance – a powerful blend for brain fog, anxiety and other perimenopause symptoms. 
• Eye mask – a heated eye mask is not only great for relaxation but also good for midlife eye health. Did you know our eyelids secret oil from ducts that can get blocked causing dry eyes – sound familiar?  By using a heated eye mask once or twice a week, the oil is softened, thus lubricating the eyes– try spacemasks or optase moist heat mask.
• Run yourself a bath – I love an Epsom salt bath and I love the scent of lavender – this gorgeous bath milk from Neom combines both magnesium salts and the heavenly scent of lavender to calm and restore – magnesium bath milk 
• Yoga – try an online session from Yoga with Adrienne or Silverlinings wellbeing and choose a class depending on the time you have-   I like to apply a bit of Scentered balm on my pulse points before a class and breathe deep depending on my mood.

words by Nicola de Burlet

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READ MORE: H&H Reviews: The Lanesborough, London

In the realm of nutritional superheroes, Omega-3 fatty acids stand out as champions for heart health and cognitive function. These essential fatty acids are not only vital for the structural integrity of cell membranes but also play a crucial role in various bodily functions. Let’s explore the myriad benefits of Omega-3 and discover how to effortlessly incorporate them into your diet for a healthier heart and a sharper mind.

Understanding Omega-3 Fatty Acids:

Omega-3 fatty acids are a family of polyunsaturated fats that are classified into three main types: alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). While ALA is primarily found in plant sources, such as flaxseeds and walnuts, EPA and DHA are abundant in fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and trout.

The Heart-Protecting Power of Omega-3:

Cholesterol Regulation: Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to lower levels of triglycerides and increase HDL (“good”) cholesterol, contributing to a healthier lipid profile and reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Blood Pressure Control: Regular consumption of Omega-3s has been associated with modest reductions in blood pressure, helping to maintain a healthy range and decrease the risk of hypertension.

Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Chronic inflammation is a key player in heart diseases. Omega-3s exhibit potent anti-inflammatory properties, reducing the inflammation that contributes to the development of atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular conditions.

Cognitive Benefits of Omega-3:

Brain Development: DHA, a type of Omega-3 fatty acid, is a major structural component of the brain. It is crucial for the development of the nervous system in infants and the maintenance of cognitive function in adults.

Memory and Concentration: Studies suggest that Omega-3s may enhance memory and cognitive function, playing a role in preventing age-related cognitive decline and potentially reducing the risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.

Mood Regulation: There is evidence to suggest that Omega-3s may play a role in mood regulation and could be beneficial in managing conditions such as depression and anxiety.

How to Boost Your Diet with Omega-3:

Fatty Fish: Include fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, sardines, and trout in your diet at least twice a week to ensure an adequate intake of EPA and DHA.

Plant-Based Sources: For those following a vegetarian or vegan diet, incorporate ALA-rich foods such as flaxseeds, chia seeds, hemp seeds, and walnuts.

Supplements: Omega-3 supplements, such as fish oil capsules or algae-based supplements, can be a convenient way to ensure you meet your daily requirements, especially for individuals with dietary restrictions.

Fortified Foods: Look for foods fortified with Omega-3s, such as certain brands of eggs, milk, and yoghurt, to easily boost your intake.

Omega-3 fatty acids are nutritional powerhouses with a multitude of health benefits, ranging from heart protection to cognitive enhancement. By incorporating Omega-3-rich foods into your diet or opting for supplements when necessary, you can take a proactive approach to support your overall well-being. Whether you’re aiming to improve cardiovascular health, boost brain function, or simply maintain a healthy lifestyle, Omega-3s are a nutrient worth prioritising in your daily nutrition.

“A good laugh and a long sleep are the two best cures for anything” – We think this Irish Proverb definitely has some theory to it! Getting adequate sleep is crucial for all kinds of things, like concentration, energy, memory and even immunity.

To coincide with the clocks going back this month, we wanted to showcase our cant-live-without sleep aids that help make nighttime more relaxing and, most importantly, restful. See below the Sleep Awards Winners for 2023!

Best Overnight Moisturiser – The Ritual of Karma Overnight Body Mask

If there’s one thing I’ve learnt in trying to master the art of a perfect night’s sleep, it’s that it’s all in the prep! A series of lulling evening rituals cement in that all-important rem sleep and one I’ve loved incorporating is slathing on The Ritual of Karma Overnight Body Mask after a long soak in the bath. Blended with the calming fragrance of white tea and lotus flower, this lightweight gel cream complex contains aloe vera to lock in moisture and give a cooling effect on the skin for temperature control overnight. Most importantly, the mask sinks into the skin effortlessly so you can slip into your sheets without feeling sticky! Let the active ingredients work their magic while you sleep and wake up with fresh, hydrated skin.

Best Sleep Oil – Dr Hauschka’s Nurturing Oil Set

Dr Hauschka’s products are always next level in terms of results and efficacy, whilst also remaining deeply natural and in harmony with Mother Earth – it is this duality that we love here at Hip & Healthy. Their Nurturing Oil set offers a body oil and hair oil that you can apply before bed and will have you waking up feeling hydrated, cared for and smelling divine! It also comes in a pretty pink box making it the perfect gift for a loved one. You’ll no doubt be seeing a few of their products on our Christmas gift lists so watch this space!

Best Pillow Mist – SLPT Essential Pillow Spray

The Essential Pillow Spray from SLPT is a carefully crafted product designed to enhance the quality of your sleep. Infused with a blend of calming essential oils, this spray creates a tranquil and soothing atmosphere conducive to restful sleep. The thoughtfully chosen ingredients, such as lavender, jasmine and sandalwood, are known for their relaxing properties, promoting a sense of tranquillity and easing the mind into a peaceful state. The convenient spray bottle allows for easy application, enabling users to lightly mist their pillows or bedding before bedtime. With a commitment to promoting wellness through better sleep, SLPT’s Essential Pillow Spray is a delightful addition to any bedtime routine, providing a natural and aromatic solution for a more serene night’s sleep.

Best Sleep Supplement – PURA Sleep Collagen 

Ever wish you could drink something as indulgent as hot chocolate and have it be good for you? Well, at the risk of sounding sales-y, now you can! PURA Collagen’s Sleep powder is unbelievably yummy and is the perfect post-supper drink, and the great news is that it will actually help calm your nervous system as well. The collagen peptides activate your body’s own natural collagen production which may lead to silky hair, stronger nails and dewy skin (giving  new meaning to the phrase beauty sleep). Plus, the L-Glycine is an amino acid that taps into the central nervous system, whilst the magnesium in it will also help your body to regulate its melatonin levels, making this indulgent drink a bit of a sleep elixir if you ask me!

Best Overnight Skincare Mask – Elemis Pro-Collagen Overnight Matrix

Elemis’s Award-winning Pro-Collagen range is iconic in the world of skincare as everyone who uses it finds it works effectively and fast in improving their skin. The Overnight Matrix is another stellar product to come out of the range that has impressed us hugely. The clinical results are astounding: 100% agreed their skin bounced back to life after using this product; 100% agreed the product dramatically improved the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles; 100% agreed their skin looked much more youthful in the morning – it is not often you see results as sweeping as this. Designed to be used daily in the evening after you have cleansed and toned your skin, the Pro-Collagen Overnight Matrix glides on, smells beautiful and almost instantly delivers results. What’s not to love.

Best Sleep Serum – Sarah Chapman Overnight Facial 

Sarah Chapman is the kind of brand that you fall in love with, the moment you try any of her products. This Overnight Facial immediately became one of my bedtime non-negotiables and the benefits are amazing. It is the ultimate “post facial glow in a bottle”. With a combination of Vitamin A and C this serum will leave your skin feeling both hydrated and nourished whilst also looking visibly firmer and and more plumped. There really is nothing like waking up to perfect skin in the morning. 

Best Pre-Sleep Ritual – Rituals’ The Ritual of Jing

I love a pre-slumber ritual – I honestly think it is essential for any good night’s sleep. Ritual’s range of products from their Ritual of Jing line are designed to help our minds and bodies slow down at the end of a busy day and get ready for a deep, restful sleep. Favourites from the range include their Sleep Aroma diffuser, which will fill your room with the most heavenly, sleep-inducing fragrance of lavender and sandalwood. Plus the shower oil (who doesn’t love a shower oil!!) and the pillow mist have become must-haves in my evening wind-down routine.

Best Sleep Candle – This Works Deep Sleep Heavenly Candle 

Get your best nights with This Works. This Works have focused on the science of sleep since 2004, with each of their award-winning natural sleep products, so you can be confident This Works is more than just their name – it’s their promise. Lighting a candle is the perfect way to unwind in the evening to calm your mind and body before bed. With a luxurious blend of calming lavender and soothing chamomile essential oils, this candle is the ultimate scent and the perfect way to relax before a good night’s sleep. 

Best Sleep Mask- SLPT Eye Mask

Crafted from the softest 100% cotton, the blackout SLPT Eye Mask offers a touch of luxury while delivering unparalleled comfort with its wrap around velcro feature. Imagine a little duvet for your head, keeping you cosy while you snooze! Whether you’re on a long-haul flight or simply seeking a night of uninterrupted rest, the SLPT Eye Mask has you covered. Ultra plush, this mask rivals the flimsy eye masks you have hanging around your draw…upgrade your sleep eyewear for the ultimate night’s rest!

Best Mattress- Mattress Man Healthopaedic Zero Gravity 1000 Mattress

Mattressman is our go-to when it comes to sourcing a new mattress! The Healthopaedic Zero Gravity Mattress is the latest we’re loving, elevating your sleep to a whole new level. This remarkable mattress has earned its accolades for good reason, offering the most sumptuous sleeping experience that feels like a gravity-defying dream. The eco-friendly tencel cover regulates body temperature throughout the night to help you stay asleep. Designed with precision, this mattress has 1000 pocket springs and an extra comfort foam layer for a softer finish.

Autumn is upon us and as the nights draw in I love turning my attention to self-care rituals that will boost my immunity and support my skin as winter sets in. Read on to find out you can hack your immune system through the gut, age better with a cult serum and indulge in the yummiest chocolate that will also give you wellness benefits. 

Try This: 10 Day Gut Reset from The Detox Kitchen

As we lean into Autumn viruses and bugs start emerging again (anyone with children at school will know what I mean!) It’s a good idea to look to our gut when trying to ensure we’re ready to fight anything that comes our way. Your gut could play a very important role when it comes to the immune system. Home to thousands of different species of microorganisms, a healthy gut microbiome will include a wide range of different beneficial bacteria that is vital for a healthy immune system. Gut health guru, Eve Kalink has teamed up with The Detox Kitchen to bring you the ultimate 10 day meal program designed to help give your gut a reset – expelling any bad bacteria that might be in there and replacing it with healthy strains. From delicious meals to supplements, skincare support and even a bottle of Symprove (the holy grail in gut goodness), this regenerative programme is set to create a happy, healthy, immune-fighting gut!
Readers can get £90 off using the code HIPGUT90. Valid until October 31st. 1 usage per customer. 

All Hail This Celebrity-Loved Serum: 111SKIN Repair Serum

Having recently been sent 111SKIN’s Repair Serum I have become obsessed. Yes it’s expensive but it is worth its weight in gold! My skin looks and feels the best it has in ages. I am already dreading running out. Known as the “clock-stopping serum”, this product is powered by 111SKIN’s highest concentration of NAC Y²™ to help promote the production of glutathione – the body’s master antioxidant – and protect against free radical damage. It also contains 111SKIN’s signature complex which encourages healthy collagen production and helps to improve elasticity. The result? A literal time reverse – just saying! 

Add This To Your Daily Routine: JSHealth Greens + Collagen

JSHealth Greens + Collagen Formula is a game-changer for anyone looking to enhance their wellness routine. This innovative blend combines the power of nutrient-packed greens with the rejuvenating benefits of collagen, making it a must-have for vibrant living. Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, it supports overall health and promotes a glowing complexion. Whether you’re an on-the-go professional or a health-conscious individual, this formula is the perfect addition to your daily regimen, helping you look and feel your best from the inside out. Embrace the fusion of nature and science with JSHealth Greens + Collagen Formula and unlock a new level of vitality.

Three Favourite Vegan Chocolate

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QUOTE OF THE MONTH

“Aging is not ‘lost youth’ but a new stage of opportunity and strength.”

– Betty Friedan

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The New Trend: Wellness Fragrances

Bregenzerwald Fragrance Oil

The collaboration between SUSANNE KAUFMANN and Byredo is a harmonious fusion of two visionary brands renowned for their dedication to craftsmanship and the art of wellness. SUSANNE KAUFMANN, known for its luxurious, all-natural skincare products, and Byredo, a fragrance house celebrated for its innovative scents, have joined forces to create a line of products that transcend traditional boundaries. This partnership embodies the essence of holistic well-being, incorporating SUSANNE KAUFMANN’s expertise in skincare with Byredo’s mastery of olfactory artistry. The result is a collection of products that not only nourish the skin but also engage the senses, transforming daily routines into sensory rituals. This collaboration speaks to the shared commitment of both brands to create exceptional, sensorial experiences that promote self-care and elevate the everyday. Their fragrance oil will transport you to the forests of Bregenzerwald in the heart of the Austrian Alps. But that’s not all, with this on-the-go fragrance oil you’ll also notice skincare benefits too. Apply to pulse points to envelop yourself in a scent of earthy greenness and sense the wild yet calming openness of Alpine nature.

The Nue Co Functional Fragrance

The Nue Co Fragrances represent a departure from conventional perfumery, redefining the olfactory experience with a distinct focus on well-being. These fragrances go beyond scent; they are designed to enhance our mood and overall state of mind. The Nue Co’s approach incorporates science and mindfulness, blending carefully selected, natural ingredients with an understanding of the psychological and emotional impact of fragrance. Each scent is crafted to evoke specific feelings or mental states, from tranquility and focus to vitality and sensuality. By prioritising transparency and clean ingredients, The Nue Co Fragrances exemplify a modern, holistic approach to fragrance that aligns seamlessly with the pursuit of both mental and physical well-being.

Øthers’ Mystic Zingaro & Red Skies

Backed by more than 35 years of pioneering scientific research, and with an aim to design bespoke self-improvement tools to help people better connect with themselves, Øthers has designed two functional, wellbeing fragrances; Mystic Zingaro & Red Skies. “Some of the cutting-edge methods used include functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI), Electroencephalography (EEG) and physiological monitoring, in which patterns of brain activity, heart rate or skin conductance responses are measured while participants smell fragrances.” A consumer study on Red Skies revealed that 85% of users got into a more focussed state. Brain data also showed an increase in EEG frontal beta activity – an indication that subjects are invigorated and sharp – specifically this is related to attention and focus. The Mystic Zingaro study showed that 90% of consumers got into a more meditative state. The brain data with this particular scent showed an increase in EEG theta activity (associated with meditative states) as well as an increase in emotional engagement (alpha frontal asymmetry) associated with the user enjoying the stimuli. This indicates that subjects are in a dual state – whilst keeping a good state of focus and sharpness, they also manage to be mentally relaxed.

We’re now in my favourite time of the year… I know, shoot me but I’m a September baby and Autumn is my jam ok!? I don’t know why but I feel very settled and grounded this time of year. The drop in temperature certainly bodes well for my sleep, I get excited about cooking more warming, comforting recipes and I particularly enjoy the seasonal joys of seeing the leaves turn auburn and knowing the festivities of christmas are just around the corner. If you’re feeling not quite so thrilled about Autumn as I am, then allow my top wellness picks to inspire you this month!

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Rebecca Udall Asparagus Scalloped Towels

I’ve been in the throws of bathroom renovation recently and this month I can finally start seeing the light at the end of the tunnel. It’s been a long-old 4 weeks with no bathroom (seriously, I’ve done a kitchen reno and I think that was easier to live with!) but now the end is in sight, I’m starting to get excited about dressing the space. Bathrooms are my sanctuary… it’s where I flock to for a bit of me time, be it running a hot bubble bath or taking a moment to myself to treat my skin with kindness, it’s such a vital space for my overall wellbeing. So making it feel luxurious, tranquil and like a room I can escape to is key! New towels never fail to give a bathroom that luxe feeling and I’ve had my eye on these from Rebecca Udall. I’m obsessed with anything scalloped at the moment! 

Bertioli Water Meadow Handwash

Ever since I visited Thyme Hotel back in the Summer, I’ve been totally head over heels for their Bertioli handcare range and I couldn’t leave without purchasing a hand and body wash for my kitchen sink. Their signature Water Meadow scent is so unique and unlike any other scent I’ve tried, it’s so beautiful and refreshing. My current bottle is over halfway finished so I desperately need to restock and I may indulge and pick up their handcare duo for my new bathroom as a reward for 4 weeks of upheaval and reno stress! The bottles happen to be made of a beautiful jade green glass and it just so happens my colour scheme for my bathroom is sage green so, I think it’s a perfect excuse to treat myself! 

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Daye Vaginal Screening

I never thought I’d do an at-home vaginal screening test but here I am… and it was so much easier and more hassle-free than I thought! By combining science and innovation, Daye’s Vaginal Screening aims to empower individuals to take control of their reproductive health. The service is designed to be incredibly user-friendly, allowing women to conveniently monitor and understand changes in their vaginal health, contributing to early detection of potential issues. All you have to do is insert a tampon-like product for as little as 20 minutes, whack in your freezer for 12 hours and drop off at your post office. Within a couple of days, you’re results go straight to Daye’s team of experts for analysis and then land in your inbox… it’s as easy as that. With a focus on privacy and accuracy, Daye Vaginal Screening represents a valuable tool in promoting proactive healthcare, encouraging women to prioritize their reproductive well-being with confidence and ease. 

Ina Garten’s Italian Wedding Soup

One of the things that pleases me most about this transition to cooler, cosier temperatures is I can crack out my favourite soup recipe of all time, Ina Garten’s Italian Wedding Soup. I think this recipe could cure anything… a cold, a bad day at the office, heartbreak… you name it, this soup can cure it! It’s incredibly warming, brothy (yet substantial) and just full of goodness. Italian Wedding Soup is a classic Italian-American dish with a rich history that dates back centuries. Despite its name, the soup is not traditionally served at Italian weddings but is rather a mistranslation of the Italian phrase “minestra maritata,” which means “married soup.” The term “married” refers to the harmonious marriage of flavours in the soup which consists of veggies, herbs, meat and teeny tiny pasta. I’m sure there are many takes on this but my favourite has to be Ina Garten’s. I’ve watched her cooking show, Barefoot Contessa for years and years and she epitomises how I’d like to live one day in the future, strolling around my country house in The Hamptons, tending to my herb garden, cooking in my perfectly-organised kitchen and having many many dinner parties. Ahhh a girl can dream. 

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SLPT Pillow Spray

I never thought I’d exude so much passion about a simple pillow spray but I’ve found MY pillow spray and rather than gate-keep, I’ll be kind and share so you can enjoy it too! SLPT is a new brand that came on my radar recently and they are passionate about helping people sleep better. We all know good sleep is a vital pillar of health so it’s wonderful to see a brand that has this ethos at the core of everything they do. Now, I’ve tried many a sleep spray and I’ve been very generously gifted quite a few over the years and, to me, they are all nice but I’m not overly fond of the predictable lavender scent. On its own, I sometimes find it a bit sickly. Can anyone else relate? THIS one does contain lavender but in all honesty, the heavenly Jasmine and Sandalwood essential oils take centre stage and I’m not mad about it. It’s so different to most of the pillow sprays on the market and I’ve never used something so religiously before. Every night without fail I spritz this all over my pillow and I can’t quite put my finger on it but it evokes something quite nostalgic in me. They say scent is a very powerful memory enhancer so this scent must connect me to a time I felt really happy and calm, I just haven’t figured it out yet! 

Nutriburst Tripple Immunity 

We’re entering into cold and flu (and maybe more COVID) season so immunity is top of my mind at the moment! As someone who values both my wellbeing and my tastebuds, I’ve discovered a game-changer in my supplement routine – Nutriburst’s Triple Immunity Sugar-Free Vegan Gummies. I hate taking pills and I avoid them when I can so, when it comes to supplements, I’m a gummy girl. Packed with essential vitamins and minerals, these vegan gummies provide a convenient and delicious way to boost your immune system. The triple immunity blend adds an extra layer of reassurance, combining the potency of Vitamin C, Zinc, and Elderberry. With added Vitamin D3, knowing that I’m getting a dose of the sunshine vitamin, crucial for immune function and bone health, adds an extra layer of confidence to my daily supplement routine.

words by Molly Jennings

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READ MORE: Mindful Moments: Wellness, Self-Care & Motherhood with Laura Dodd