Get Lean With This Fat-Burning Hobby!

Cycling has become all the rage lately, and for a very good reason! You get to spend time outside, you get killer pins and it can even help burn fat! Whether you cycle to work or just love a casual bike ride around the park, the health benefits attached to it are not to be ignored! So as it’s National Bike Week, we thought we’d give you the low down on why you should whip out your cycling cap and how it can have a huge impact on your mind, body and soul!

 

Sharpen up!
Cycling has been proven to force serve cells to fire up your neuroses, boosting the creation of proteins that help the formation of new brain cells. So get pedaling, because the more you pedal, the faster your brain cells will communicate faster and more efficiently with each other.

 

Achieve Euphoria!
Spin classes may be tough, but, there is no denying how amazing and empowered you feel afterwards. Cycling is proven to elevate endorphins and dopamine, both during and after your workout, so dust of that old bike sitting in shed and pedal your way to happiness!

 

Regenerate your body!
Cycling regularly helps improve circulation, increases lung capacity and can even aid digestion. So next time you’re feeling a bit bloated, know what to do!

 

Spice up your love life!
Regular cycling improves stamina…need we say more?!

 

Ditch the muffin-top!
Cycling is an amazing way of torching fat. The combination of high intensity and low intensity movement, will kick start your metabolism and keep it raised long after you’ve finished your cycling session. You can also expect to burn around 500 calories in 45 minutes alone! Perfect for those pushed for time and rely on their commute as a form of exercise.

 

Strengthen and lengthen those muscles!
Expect a stronger core and victoria secret models pins after taking up cycling! The constant change in speed and rhythm will strengthen and tighten your body and if you want to give your booty a boost, lift yourself off the seat and head for the hills! You’ll definitely feel your booty working!

 

Our favourite bikes to get you inspired!

Foffa – Used at the dreamy Soho Farmhouse, we think these bikes ooze style!

foffa bike

Pashley – If you’re the kind of gal who’s always wanted a basket at the front of her bike, look no further than the perfectly pretty Pashley! We love them in red!

pashley

words by Oliva Fantoni


Anti-Aging From The Inside Out!

There’s no escaping the fact, at one point or another, our delicate skin will start to show signs of ageing in the form of wrinkles, sun spots ect. Although a process that is beautifully natural and not something to dread, we’ve still compiled a list of the best foods to eat, to help us maintain our dewy youthful complexions! With a healthy lifestyle and the correct nutrition there’s no reason why we can’t give the ticking clock a run for its money!

 

Foods high in Amino Acids
Amino acids are the building blocks for collagen and elastin, which are essential for healthy skin. A diet high in essential amino acids will help keep your skin firm and elastic, while a deficiency makes it thin and dry. So make sure you dig in to foods such as; fish, quinoa, lean meats, eggs, watercress, pumpkin, leafy greens, hemp seeds, sesame seeds, sunflower seeds and sunflower butter, almonds, avocados, figs, raisins and spirulina.

 

Foods high in omega fatty acids
Foods, rich in omega acids such as; salmon, mackerel, flaxseeds, chia seeds and walnuts, help maintain the structure and fluidity of the cell membrane making sure nutrients enter the cell and waste products are removed. The wonders of Omega fatty acids stretch far beyond anti-aging benefits so be sure to enrich your diets with lots of omega rich foods for beautiful and supple skin.

 

Dark green and orange Vegetables
Dark, leafy green veggies such as; kale, spinach and broccoli, can really help rev up your collagen production. These green veggies are rich in vitamin C, which, not only contain anti-oxidising properties that stabilises the enzymes which break down collagen, they also protect your skin from free radicals which contributes to the weakening of collagen. Also make sure to up your intake of carrots and sweet potato, both of which are rich in vitamin A, which can actually help restore damaged collagen. Basically in a nut shell, green veggies are awesome!

 

Garlic
Garlic contains a high level of sulfur, which is essential for collagen production in the body. Garlic also provides our bodies with lipoic acid and taurine, both help rebuild collagen fibers that have been damaged. So load up your meals with lots of garlic. The anti-ageing effects will definitely outweigh bad garlic breath! Chew on some mint leaves and you’ll be good to go!

 

Citrus foods
Various studies have proven that citrus fruits such as; grapefruits, lemons and limes, rich in vitamin C, help amino acids; lysine and proline to aid collagen productions. The abundance of vitamin C will also help neutralise the negative effects of free radicals, which destroy collagen and elastin in the skin.


Must-Have Glow Enhancers For Perfect Summer Skin

Every once in a while our lives can get a little bit hectic, and unfortunately, our skin always pays the price! So, to help you get your glow back in time for summer, we’ve rounded up some of the best, illuminating and brightening skin products, to help replenish and revive your skin! Get ready to say hello to perfect summer skin!

oskia

Oskia- Get up and Glow
The first product which we highly recommend is Oskia’s Get up and Glow, with natural skincare ingredients such as MSM, Ribose, Butterbur, Swiss Apple Stem Cells, and Hyaluronic Acid,  Get Up & Glow is deliciously lightweight revitalising and energising serum that increases cell respiration. This little bottle of radiance actively brightens, firms, and evens out skin tone, as well as protecting your delicate skin from the stresses of seasonal, environmental and lifestyle damage. This serum will leave your skin silky smooth with a radiant glow that works perfectly on it’s own or under makeup.

UK Lifestyle Photographer - UK Photographer 2016

This invigorating scrubs is a delicate blend of soothing essences; Orange, Geranium, Myrrh & Litsea, helping you to unwind and relax in the evenings. This glowing, invigorating scrub will restore and repair your complexion, leaving your skin radiant and beaming, perfect for summer! 

twelve beauty

Twelve Beauty- Ideal Brightening Corrective Serum
Twelve beauty’s organic serum, enriched with twelve powerful herbs works synergistically to illuminate and correct an uneven complexion and reduce dark spots from sun damage and acne scars. Twelve Beauty’s serum, ideal for sensitive skin and particualy, for those with hyper pigmentation, will help kick start your skin in achieving a more radiant and dewy glow.

kahina

Kahina -Brightening Serum
This serum is lightweight and easily absorbed with a fresh, natural scent, promising to increase luminosity and refine skin tone and texture with an organic-certified treatment complex. The serum is a careful blend of rare white lily, Japanese wakame seaweed, and the powerful antioxidants in argan oil, maritime pine, and green tea, all help contribute to achieving a natural, radiant glow!

 tata harper

Tata Harper’s- Ultimate Brightening Solution
Tata Harper’s Ultimate Brightening Solution is a powerful anti-ageing treatment, targeted to help correct tone and brighten the look of the skin without harsh chemicals. The Concentrated Brightening Solution fights all stages of the hyper-pigmentation process by helping to inhibit the production, transfer and absorption of melanin into the skin, as well as helping fade the look of dark spots and protecting against further discolouration.

rms

RMS Living Luminizer
For an extra glow, to finish off your beach-ready look is the RMS living Luminizer! An ultra-sheer, mineral illuminating formula with a translucent finish, RMS is loved by many golden goddesses around the world, including Miranda Kerr! Living Luminizer contains nourishing coconut oil and rosemary extract, which are both extremely hydrating and calming for the skin. This little pot of sunshine will highlight anything you want to show off, from cheekbones to your cupids bow! Best of all, it’s not sticky, greasy or glittery so the effect is ‘chic and dewy’, not “sweaty and sparkly”!

Aduna_Super_Cacao_Face_Mask

DIY Super-Cacao Face Mask – Aduna
Hooray! Another excuse to whip out the cacao powder! One of our favourite superfood brands, Aduna, have come up with a rather delicious face mask recipe that you can make in the comfort of your home which uses their Super-Cacao powder. This mask is not only incredibly nourishing, it will also boost your complexion and give you gorgeous, perfect summer skin!

Recipe

1 Tablespoon of each:

Aduna Super-Cacao

Melted Coconut Oil

Yogurt (Coconut Yogurt is also great)

Apple Cider Vinegar

Honey

Method

Mix the Super-Cacao with the coconut oil, apple cider vinegar, smoothing out any lumps

Add the honey and mix till combined, then add the yogurt and mix again.

Instructions

Massage gently on to cleansed skin and leave for 20 minutes before washing off with a damp flannel or muslin cloth. A tingling sensation may occur.

words by Olivia Fantoni


#FITFRIDAYS – Swap Your Friday Night Out For A Friday Night Sweat!

With more and more of us jumping on the health wagon, the search is on to find more ways we can take care of ourselves properly and treat our bodies with the respect it deserves without having to give up our social lives and those life pleasures we’re all so fond of. Particularly when it comes to our most sacred Friday night out. After a long, tiring week at work we’ve earned the chance to let loose and enjoy ourselves haven’t we?! But the difference is now we’re choosing to unwind into the weekend in a much more health-conscious way. We like to call it #fitfridays! Welcome to the age of healthy hedonism where the pursuit of pleasure remains at the heart of what we do, but all with a healthier twist.

Friday night is now a much more adventurous affair, where the time to head to the pub for hours of drinking with friends seems almost old-fashioned. We still want to do all that naughty fun stuff – going out with our friends, dancing, drinking cocktails, eating at the latest street-food pop-ups – life’s about having a good time after all! But by throwing some more virtuous activities into the mix we can even out our more indulgent behaviours; a bit of healthier yin to the naughtier yang. Think a spin class with a live comedy performance followed by a well-earned glass of fizz, working-out in a nightclub (well almost), enjoying a wellness workshop or munching your way through a healthy supper club in your favourite studio.

So get your Friday night fired up, Hip and Healthy style with our pick of the best ways to let loose for the weekend.

Get hot and sweaty at the Fight Club meets Night Club that is KOBOX
If you want the taste of a nightclub but can’t afford the hangover the next day KOBOX could be your answer. Brought to you from ex-Barry’s Bootcamp officianado Shaun Collins, the studio offers high intensity boxing based classes in a sexy, booming, night-club setting for anyone who wants to let loose for an hour and have an awesome work-out. Each 60 minute class combines heavy bag boxing with high intensity strength training. You spend your time on the bag working with several different combinations jab-cross, hooks, uppercuts and then free-for-all flurry punching which involves hitting the bag as hard and fast as you can in a flurry for 45 seconds, 15 seconds rest over a few minutes. Which trust us is pretty knackering. But punching away on your own bag in the dark with disco lights flashing and a Night Club sound system booming in the background also results in a massively empowering feeling. Time off the bag is full-on too –  jumping, lifting, bear-crawling, holding and pushing your way to the end of the class. This one is for everyone – first timers and seasoned athletes alike to let loose, clear your head, feel stronger, work-out some attitude and generally have an awesome time.
www.koboxlondon.com/studio

Enjoy a ‘retox’ at BOOM Cycle’s prosecco nights
Pumping beats with serious fat-burning power is what you’ll find at BOOM Cycle’s Friday Prosecco nights – the perfect balance between health and hedonism. Hop on a ride with a girlfriend to get your sweat on and earn that Prosecco! BOOM Cycle’s signature spin takes the lights down low with candles ignited to instantly transport you into a party atmosphere. Weights are added in to the mix to up the intensity and build on upper body strength and core. But with the thought of that delicious glass of prosecco waiting for you at the end you’ll have more than enough motivation to push on through and smash that spin class. BOOM Cycle’s, Hilary Gilbert says, “You don’t have to be a saint all the time to be healthy and you don’t have to be a maniac all the time to be a hedonist. We introduced prosecco Friday’s after our 6pm class because why not? You’ve worked hard, it’s Friday and who doesn’t like to have a cheeky drink on a Friday evening?’ We say that’s Friday night drinks now sorted.
www.boomcycle.co.uk

Dine out at one of Transition Zone’s infamous healthy supper clubs
A mecca of health and fitness, this is one of Hip & Healthy’s favourite places to hang out. And that’s not just because of the high intensity classes. It’s because of the whole healthy picture you can get at the studio, which always has a calendar of exciting health events lined up. Recent suppers have seen healthy food names Punch Foods, Mighty Bee and consultant chef at Nama Lorena Loriato, cooking up various feasts for all to enjoy, from Indian Summer healing foods to a rehydrating coconut and raw menu. The food is always healthy and nutritious yet it never compromises on flavour, meaning your inner Friday night foodie can tuck in safe in the knowledge that what you’re eating is good for you! At every supper club, Transition Zone owner Claire Finlay also brings an educational element to the evening with a short Q & A and interactive discussion about the food behind the menu and its particular health benefits. You’ll leave feeling inspired and clued-up on new ways to cook and eat healthily, and you may have even made a couple of new health-conscious friends along the way.
www.transitionzone.co.uk

Get your disco fix at Disco Barre
Friday night is a prime disco night for most of us. And now you can smugly tell your friends you hit up the disco last night courtesy of underground edgy Disco Barre – a ballet barre workout to disco, devised by Sophie Ritchie. With a setting so perfectly urban and cool with scaffolding poles used for the barre, Disco barre was launched in January 2014 and ran once every Friday evening as a pre-party class or alternative to going out to party to get your music hit. Luckily for us the classes have now grown to 7 times a week. Sophie refreshingly tells us that ‘The concept came to me after a few wines!’ listening to the track ‘Work That Body’ by Taana Gardner. The workout consists of barre choreography matched to classic house, soul, boogie and funk and the great news is you don’t need any dance experience to get involved. You’ll start with a warm-up to a fast paced traditional disco track (think old-school Jamie Lee Curtis in ‘Perfect’ 80’s aerobic dance class). Then it’s straight to the barre to work with weights, resistance bands, Pilates, medicine balls and your body weight followed by a killer ab section on mats. The cool-down is a chance to embrace your inner disco diva for a dramatic 80’s style dance to end the session.
www.discobarre.com – find it at Barbers Gym, The Refinery E9, Pop Brixton and Blok London.

Enjoy a live performance at 1Rebel
A live music performance or trip to the theatre is a great way to spend a Friday night. Luckily for us 1Rebel offers a way to indulge this craving, bringing a heightened experience to working-out with their brilliant live performances at their signature Ride and Rumble classes. With the characteristic low lighting, strobe effects and booming beats all adding to the experience, the live music and performances range across live orchestras, drummers, saxophonists, DJ’s and garage MC’s. And now their latest offering now comes in the form of a live stand-up comedy performance in their signature Ride class. Amongst the fast and furious pedalling and weights work, you’ll find yourself exploding with laughter at the flurry of jokes coming at you from the live comedian. Having a giggle whilst working up a sweat sounds strange but the reality makes for a super fun, endorphin-fuelled Friday night out that doubles as the most intense core work-out you may ever have!
www.1rebel.co.uk

Hone your yogi skills at the Life Centre
The ‘friendly haven where yoga, Pilates and natural therapies inspire wellbeing’ that is the Life Centre, offer incredible work-shops on a Friday night and across the weekend to build on your yoga practise and mindfulness skills. Ranging from the fundamentals of Thai massage, flying therapeutics, the art of yoga, balance to meditation and relaxation these workshops are a great way to bring a bit of zen to your Friday night. Most recently the Life Centre Islington hosted a Yin Yoga practise by the glow of candle light with pranayama, Yin Yoga and meditation to re-awaken the connection with body and mind and lift the worries of the week away. A nice little Friday urban retreat where you’ll come away feeling rejuvenated and ready to enjoy the weekend.
www.thelifecentre.com/centres/

Dance like Beyoncé with Seen on the screen
If for you, Friday night means putting on your dancing shoes, then Seen on the Screen is a fun, healthy alternative to the usual dance club experience. Learn how to dance like Beyoncé – or whomever else your latest dance crush may be – with a complete routine laid out to you by one of the talented dance instructors in these 60-120 minute classes. By the end of class you’ll be rocking it like Queen Bey herself. Classes range from Diva (Beyonce), Hip-Pop (Rihanna), Steamy Sundays (ultra-feminine songs to maximise your girl power think Ariana Grande’s ‘Dangerous Woman’, SOS Stilettos (the all-important lesson – how to dance in heels) and our favourite the Twerkshop amongst others. Workshops are longer and themed according to a particular artist, song or style like the Beyoncé Sass Session. For die-hard fans there are also various Masterclasses lasting a full 120 mins, which run through a full breakdown of a song or medley. Our pick is the Britney Dance Break Special (Overprotected/Toxic/BOYS), which will take you straight back to 90s. And if you’re worried about your questionable co-ordination or dancing skills don’t be! The vibe is totally welcoming and those who go are a mix of pros and complete beginners. This is a great one to do with friends where you’ll tone up, have a laugh and get your dancing fix. Plus the next time you’re actually in a club you’ll have some new moves to rock-out on the dance floor.
http://seenonscreenfitness.com

By Sophie Heywood

I: @Sheywood90s T:@Sheywoods


6 Best Environmentally-Friendly Scrubs!

When it comes to face and body scrubs, not many of us can say that we look at the fine print in great detail. Yes, most of us will take a quick look, but with many everyday scrubs containing a wide variety of different ingredients, it’s hard to make sense of them all.

Something that has come to our environmently-conscious minds recently is the rather horrifying discovery of the impact micro beads have on the environment. Many scrubs, particularly the mass-market range, contain microbeads. These little nasties, can not only tear and irritate your delicate skin, they are also incredibly detrimental to our oceans, raging havoc on wildlife and their habitats. Unlike in America, where microbeads have now been banned, here in England they are still a feature in our beauty products (often labeled as polyethylene). Since it’s World Oceans Day, we’ve come up with our favourite plastic-free face and body scrubs, which will not only care and protect your skin, but will also mean you doing your bit for the environment. A win-win situation in our eyes!

origins scrub

Origins Never a Dull Moment Face Polisher
This delicious scrub uses a combination of finely ground apricot and mango seeds to gentle buff your delicate skin. Infused with papaya, this fruity-smelling scrub will gently buff away dead skin cells, revealing youthful, radiant and super smooth skin.

Fresh scrub

Fresh Soy Face Exfoliant
With delicate jojoba, rosehip and cucumber seeds, this exfoliator will naturally and gently polish your skin. The soy proteins will help revive, firm and keep your skin supple and glowing. Rich in skin smoothing amino acids, cucumber and rosewater, your delicate complexion will be hydrated, soothed and free of irritation. All of these natural extracts act as powerful anti-inflammatories, making this scrub ideal for inflamed or irritated skin. The vitamin E found in this scrub will also shield your face from free radical damage, whilst the grapefruit extracts will help tone and brighten. This all-natural scrub is formulated without fragrance, parabens, sulfates, synthetic dyes, and phthalates. We love!

aurelia scrub

AURELIA- Refine and Polish Miracle Balm
AURELIA’s signature probiotic and peptide complexes pack a punch! The double action Miracle balm is a delicate blend of Chamomile, Eucalyptus, Rosemary and Bergamot. Containing Sugar Maple Sap, which accelerates the skins exfoliation process and Hibiscus, which helps tone and tighten your skin, this scrub will leave your skin feeling fresh and revived and ready for summer!

guy morgan mask

Guy Morgan Apothecary White Marble Clay Mask
This amazing clay mask can also be used as an exfoliant, or as way to cleanse and tone your skin. White marble powder and pumice powder gently lift away dead skin cells, softening and brightening your skin. This scrub is packed with natural wonders, including; Calcium Bentonite Clay, used to draw out toxins from your skin and Rhassoul Clay, to help reduce dryness and improve the clarity and purity of your skin, helping to fight acne and improve your skins texture. Other wonder ingredients include; Organic Neem Leaf Powder, which aids in regulating your skin’s oil production, whilst fighting bacteria and Organic Rice Powder which protects your skin from moisture loss, all while gently exfoliating and brightening your delicate complexion.

neals yard scrub

Neal’s Yard -Honey and Orange face scrub
Made with Rice powder and kaolin, this scrub will help buffer and tone your skin for that desired beach glow. Whilst the honey and orange flower oil will leave your skin, nourished, smooth and soothed, this deep cleansing scrub is perfect for removing any impurities as well as helping skin turnover.

clean beauty co scrub

Clean Beauty Co. -Scrub Life
This beautiful body exfoliant will buff, smooth and tone your skin, head to toe! With grapefruit, an anti oxidant which will help tone any stubborn cellulite and the high caffeine contents from the coffee granules, this is the perfect scrub for pre- fake tan applications. So lather yourself up, and buff it in to your skin to allow its magic to work!

 

Words by Olivia Fantoni


Upgrade Your Life And Live Like An Aussie!

Hip & Healthy contributor, Gemma Bath (who calls Australia her home), reveals how us brits can implement the aussie lifestyle without stepping outside of the country!

As an Aussie in London the most common question I receive is “Why on earth would you trade in that aussie lifestyle for the UK?” Well, London is an incredible thriving metropolis brimming with opportunities and is the perfect place to base yourself if you want to see more of the world. But I will admit, moving abroad has made me appreciate the creature comforts of an Australian lifestyle where it’s easier to drag yourself out of bed to exercise, healthy food is more palatable thanks to the weather and activewear is basically a national uniform. Now don’t get me wrong, according to the latest World Health Organisation figures, Australia is neck and neck with the UK when it comes to obesity rates. But for those of us that are more health conscious there is no denying the benefits of the lifestyle Down Under when it comes to staying hip and healthy.

 

Food
An Australian weekend isn’t complete without the smell of “snags on the barbie”, yes that stereotype is 100-per-cent true. While your plates on a Sunday are filled with roast and Yorkshire puddings, our alternative is a good cut of meat teamed with an almost always, avocado laden salad and a fruit platter to finish. No restaurant, even in Australia can ever live up to the DIY backyard barbeque, I recommend ordering some beautiful organic produce online at coombefarmorganic.co.uk. A meat box delivered to your door? I can just about hear the Aussies cheering from across the Indian Ocean. As for sides, head on over to Breads Etcetera and get on the sourdough bandwagon. Australians are obsessed and you’ll be hard pressed not to see a loaf at a gathering in Oz.

Now, Aussies do pride themselves on being quite the breakfast food connoisseurs. Fruit laden pancakes, chia puddings and poached eggs are our jam! We will argue with you until we are black and blue that our brunches are the best in the world. The closest in style, vibe and menu I have found that feels like home, is Brickwood in south London. It would fit right into the Bondi Beach or Melbourne food scenes with ease.

 

Coffee
Yes coffee needs its own sub-heading, it is that important! While chain brands like Pret or Starbucks are the easy option here, I know many an Australian who would shudder at the thought. Flat White in Soho is a must visit for the perfect cup, and you’ll find it’s usually teeming with Aussie and Kiwi coffee snobs. Another go to for a stellar brew is The Borough Barista in St James, which is also run by expats from Down Under.

bondi beach

The breath-taking Bondi

Sweat
The day begins a lot earlier for many in Oz. Thanks to the balmy climate, early morning exercise isn’t a chore, it’s a perfect way to start the day and get your dose of vitamin D before heading to the office. While many in London head to the gym for a pre-work sweat session, in Australia you’re more likely to hit up the surf or head out to an outdoor boot camp. Thanks to the unpredictable weather, everything in London is just slightly more indoors-orientated. My recommendation to feeling like an Aussie is to run the Thames path from the city right out past Richmond on the south side of the river. In some places the track turns from pavement to dirt making you feel more at one with nature even though you’re right in the city. Team sport is also a very Australian option. Most expats here in London are signed up to their local rugby, netball or dodge-ball team.

 

Dress
Everyone knows Australians are big on comfort with our obsession with flip flops and spaghetti straps (or as we would say thongs and singlets). But it is now almost fashionable to be rocking your latest fit clothes, while picking up the milk (almond that is). While active wear is still an obsession here, it is more of a uniform back home. Hip & Healthy is of course the #1 destination for stylish activewear here in Europe!

Like most 20-somethings, Aussie women buy online. Our favourite go-to fashion sites include Mura boutique, St Frock and Gingham & Heels, all are affordable Australian brands that ship overseas, hallelujah! As for jewellery, if you want one off, hand crafted beautiful Queensland made pieces go no further than Frankly My Dear Store. It is chic, elegant and oh so Australian.

4668-miranda-kerr-1680x1050-girl-wallpaper-2

One of H&H’s favourite Aussie’s, Miranda Kerr

Beauty
If it’s the wholesome golden glow you’re looking for, Bondi Sands is your saviour. It is the self tanner us Aussies use and I have noticed it popping up in some London pharmacies. For our sun kissed beach hair O&A Surf Bomb sea salt spray is the perfect way to add that windswept texture. As for chapped lips look no further than Lucas Paw Paw ointment, you’ll be hard pressed to find an Australian woman without one (or three) tucked away in her handbag. A must-visit also has to be Content Beauty in Marylebone. It’s a store dedicated to natural, organic beauty and it’s an Aussie heaven!

 

Travel
Most Australians you meet in London have a thirst for adventure. Our whole lives we’ve been incredibly jealous of the fact you can literally pop over to Paris for the weekend. But while many of you make the most of your geographical location, I’ve been blown away by the number of born and bred British who can count the number of countries they’ve visited on one hand. Aussies in London are almost always going to be drawn back to the sea, Spain, Greece, the Italian Coast. We need to get our dose of sun and sand somewhere!

So how do you live like an Australian in London? Steer towards the fresh fruit and salad, sweat it out in the outdoors where possible, trek far and wide for a good flat white, keep the makeup light and bright, and travel travel travel.

Words by Gemma Bath – Twitter @gembath, Instagram @gembath


Buckwheat Cookies – Calgary Avansino

Everyone has a weakness and cookies are mine, so I felt compelled to include a killer recipe in my book. These are decadent but still contain lots of wholesome ingredients and don’t taste overly sweet. I usually double the batch when I make them and freeze the extras. It’s always nice to have these buckwheat cookies ready for a rainy day…


Makes about 15

125g buckwheat flour
25g cacao powder
½ tsp Himalayan salt
½ tsp baking soda
120g dark chocolate (70 per cent cocoa solids), roughly chopped
150g coconut sugar
4 tbsp coconut oil, melted
2 medium eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
80g dried cranberries
shelled hemp seeds, to sprinkle

Combine the buckwheat flour, cacao, salt and baking soda in a medium bowl and mix thoroughly. Set aside.

Put the chocolate in a small heatproof bowl and sit it above a pan of simmering water without letting the bottom of the bowl touch the water. Allow it to melt, stirring occasionally.

In a food processor, blend the coconut sugar with the coconut oil. Add the eggs one by one, then add the vanilla extract and finally the melted chocolate. Mix until just combined.

Add the chocolate mix to the dry ingredients and mix with a rubber spatula. Then fold in the dried cranberries and mix until combined.

Preheat the oven to 180°C/gas 4 and line a baking sheet with baking parchment.

Place the mixture in the fridge for 20 minutes to cool down.

Once the dough has cooled a little, you are ready to bake.

Drop tablespoons of the sticky chocolate mix on the prepared baking sheet, leaving 5cm between each cookie, then sprinkle with hemp seeds.

Bake for 10 minutes, then remove from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for 5–8 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. The cookies will feel quite soft when they first come out of the oven but will firm up when they cool down.

Once cooled, the buckwheat cookies can be kept in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Recipe extracted from Keep It Real by Calgary Avansino, published on the 11th February by Yellow Kite, £25

 


London’s Best Facials!

Pai Skincare Facial

Good For? Sensitive Skin
This facial is truly luxurious and perfect for all of you who suffer with sensitivity. Pai products emit the most deliciously aromatic scents, which transport you away to the beaches of Thailand. Pai products are also formulated specifically with sensitive skin in mind and are naturally anti-inflammatory with their skin healing ingredients. Irritation be gone! The products are chosen with your skin concerns in mind so you still get a totally bespoke experience. The facial is extremely gentle and restorative on your skin, so in our eyes, it is the ultimate facial for sensitivity sufferers who desire that dewy glow!

Where to go?
Content Beauty is a cute, little boutique store in Marylebone that sells exclusively organic skincare products and makeup. It really is a nature lovers dream! Downstairs, however, you will find their treatment rooms, which are used for beauty treatments and naturopathy.

We LOVE Pai’s Restore & Rejuvenate Facial – 30min | £40 or 60 mins | £70

 

Sarah Chapman – Light Glow Pod Session

Good For? Busy Bees who want an instant glow
The Sarah Chapman clinic is a calm and luxurious oasis where one can experience true pampering! But if you are pushed for time and need a quick-fix facial then we highly recommend the Glow pod light session, which takes under half an hour and really will give you that instant glow! You will receive a skin consultation before a relaxing cleanse, followed by a twenty minute session with the light therapy machine. It is perfect for any of those short on time, but wanting a brighter look to their skin.

Where to go?
Situated just off Sloane Square in Chelsea, clients can drop in or pre-book an appointment and get a blast of healing light (red for collagen-boosting, yellow for pigmentation and anti-bacterial blue for acne-prone skin) whenever they feel their skin is looking a bit lack lustre.

One session starts at £40

 

Liz Earle; The Healthy Beautiful Facial

Good for? Congested, puffy skin
The Liz Earle Spa is a perfect pit stop for those feeling in a need of a little TLC. You can choose from a variety of facials or massages, and we tried out The Healthy Beautiful Facial. Melt your troubles away in the comfiest of treatment beds with a gorgeous heated blanket! What better way to enjoy a facial? After receiving a facial cleanse to get rid of any dirt, the treatment follows with a de-puffing and incredibly relaxing 30 minutes lymphatic massage, on your back, neck and shoulders. Be prepared to fall asleep! You are guaranteed to fall in love with the therapeutic smells and scents of the Liz Earle Naturally Active Skincare range, which aim to target uneven skin tone, congestion and ageing.

Where to go?
Liz Earle have a few shops dotted around the UK but we always head to the one in Duke Of York Square, Chelsea. It’s such a gorgeous shop with beautiful, uplifting displays of all their products, and their treatment rooms are blissfully tranquil. Be warned – you could leave with a massive whole in your purse!

 

French & Corry – Environ Active Vitamin Treatment

Good for? Dry, dull skin
French & Corry is a lovely new salon with a very fresh, French shabby-chic feel to it. We experienced the Environ Facial which was developed by Dr. Dres Fernandes, one of the top plastic surgeons in the world. The treatment focuses on getting nutrients and vitamins deeper into the dermal layer of your skin using sound waves and small electrical pulses, using vitamin A, C, and E, which are very high in antioxidants and help fight free radical damage that our skin is exposed to on a daily basis. The facial also includes a super relaxing shoulder massage. Post facial, expect the tone of your skin to look much brighter and any sign of dryness should have vanished! You might experience post facial breakouts but don’t worry, it is completely normal and it’s just your skin’s way of fully detoxifying.

Situated in Hampstead Village, French & Cory also offer an extensive range of facials, including Elemis and Environ as well as massages, manicures and pedicures, waxing and tanning. Environ facials start at £70.

 

The Santi Clinic, South Kensington

Good for? People wanting a complete skin analysis
If you really want to understand your skin through and through, you must check out The Santi Skin Lab Clinic where you’ll get a full analysis and assessment of your skin. It’s really quite fascinating! Your skin is measured under the following parameters:

Visual photography – a standard assessment of features

Photomicrography – surface analysis of the skin under 15x and 50x magnification

Skin hydration – giving a precise measurement of the hydration levels in your skin in SI units (or units of siemens)

TEWL – (tans epidermal water loss) rate at which the skin loses its moisture. This is a useful measurement to help identify possible skin damage from injury or pathological conditions such as eczema

Skin density/collagen structure – gives an understanding of collagen structure, skin elasticity and the rate at which the skin retracts when pulled measured in micro seconds.

The treatment involves a Glycolic peel (not suitable for sensitive skin), which helps to reduce fine lines, wrinkles, acne and also uneven skin pigmentation. The glycol solution is derived from sugar cane and buffs away dead skin cells, resulting in a smoother, brighter complexion. Do expect to feel a few tingly sensations on your face during the treatment but it’s not uncomfortable and isn’t anything to be concerned about. Expect your skin to immediately look dewier (is that a word?!) and more refined with less visible pores.

Where to go?
The Santi Clinic is a stone’s throw away from South Kensington Tube on Thurloe Street. It’s in the perfect spot to grab a post facial smoothie from our fave, Roots & Bulbs!

words Flora Crichton


Our Favourite Insta-Foodies!

Here at Hip and Healthy we are all about getting fitter, healthier and stronger. Our love for fitness doesn’t just extend to beautiful sports wear, we are also mad about yummy and nutritious food. So, with that being said, we have compiled a list of our favourite insta foodies! These beautiful foodies never fail to deliver on show stopping goodness, from yummy sweet treats to quick, fresh and crisp salads and suppers.

 

Best For Sugar Free Sweet Treats!
Although these accounts are mouthwateringly beautiful, they can be dangerous when scrolling on an empty stomach or just before bed! You’ll instantly want to get your apron on and whip up a magically raw creation! We do love our sweet treats here at H&H and why shouldn’t we when the likes of RAINBOWNOURISHMENTS, LENALICIOUSLY, NADIADAMSO_EBNL, BALI ZEST and A.HEALTHY.NUT, inspire us with their mouthwatering works of refined sugar free art!

 

Best For Veggie Inspiration!
Alongside these treats of joy, these insta foodies showcase the wonders of veggies with their stunning salads and dishes! LUISEGREENKITCHENSTORIES, THEWHOLEFOODDIARY, ENIEATSPRETTY and HEALTHYEATING_JO are just a handful of our favourites and are sure to implant some greeny goodness inspiration you’re your kitchen!

 

Best For Smoothie Heaven!
Smoothies are undoubtedly one of the best ways to start your day and you can really go crazy with so many different ingredients and combinations! We #drool over SMOOTHIE_PLANET, FLOURISHINGHEALTH, COLOURSMOOTHIES and LITTLE_MUESLINGS… With summer almost here, we can’t wait to serve up big jugs of smoothie creations at garden parties!

 

These awesome insta foodies truly prove to us all that health and beauty go hand-in hand, and what you put inside your beautiful body is incredibly important. From breathtaking breakfasts to impressive suppers, this lot will certainly kick start your imaginations! So give them a follow and get cooking!


Is This The Solution To Your Quarter Life Crisis?

(Shop this activewear look in our store here)

There is a certain uneasiness when it comes to the very real concept of a quarter life crisis; it can seem selfish, unreal, attention-seeking, to have the world at your feet but a simultaneous, insidious nag of anxiety residing in the back of your head that you can’t quite shake, never mind find reason for. So such issues are left un-talked about and simultaneously pushed to the back of the mind where they fester and grow and perpetuate.

The truth is that contrary to however our lives may appear externally, most of us have so many unaddressed, or over-addressed thoughts and stressors blasting through our heads every day that mental burnout is not only unsurprising but actually, probably inevitable. Such stressors can be caused by huge, character-changing events in our lives but also by the accumulation of many small instances of hurt, frustration, rejection and unease we may not have even noticed at the time. Reaching your mid-twenties/early thirties and experiencing this phenomenon is real and is a overwhelmingly prevalent adjunct to our culture, and is one which has lead to much of our generation feeling lost, unmotivated, self-conscious and physically unwell.

After overcoming years of anxiety and depression Stephanie Kazolides, founder of Angel’s Belly (www.angelsbelly.com), recognized this health crisis also unfolding amongst her peers and identified the need to do something about the epidemic of emotionally and spiritually confused individuals leading unhealthy, unhappy lives. Driven by her belief that it is ‘everybody’s human right to be educated properly about health’, Stephanie created The Holistic Health Project, a platform that aims to educate, empower and transform on the very topics that traditional schooling failed to teach us.

As the first Project to launch under The Holistic Health Project, The Quarter Life Health Project is a retreat which immerses guests in a structured, supportive programme which serves to equip them with the tools they need to eschew mental fatigue, break down self-made and socially-constructed barriers, promote body confidence, educate on eating to nourish, and clear the mind in order to refocus and go back into everyday life with renewed energy and direction. Working on each of these areas of blocked energy enables guests a chance to breathe, to fix areas where they have broken and transcend from hurt, ego-centric mindsets and societal doctrine into a state of empowerment, creativity and perspective. Far from being the traditional concept of a ‘retreat’, which connotes withdrawing and switching off, The Quarter Life Health Project takes an antithetical approach which promotes self-reflection on the deepest level, inviting guests to step into their true power and highest potential.

So whether you arrive wanting to feel more confident in your skin, take time out from mental fatigue, get over a break-up, or just looking for direction, The Quarter Life Health Project offers a non-preachy, supportive environment to awaken you to who you really are, so you can know what you really want – and can go out and get it!

The Quarter Life Health Project unites a dedicated team of mentors who form a triptych of knowledge, expertise and guidance to cover every base in supporting you in your transcendence and turning on your internal light. Yoga practice and theory form the backbone of the retreat as a basis for learning discipline, mindful movement and, as instructor Maya — veritable ball of light, patience, reasoning and embodiment of everything yoga is outside of Western interpretation — summarises, yoga

‘is keeping poise and balance in [ourselves], in practice, in daily life, relationships, in [our] home environments, in eating, in [our] physical bodies and in everything that [we] do… to maintain the awareness of freedom of choice in every moment’.

This is a theme of The Quarter Life Health Project yoga programme, which sets guests up for self practice, teaching the skills and control needed to take self-created flows home to develop and take ownership of.

This is supported with structured group life coaching sessions with the wise, knowing, endearingly relatable Life Coach, Aimee Rai. ‘Your emotional and mental states influence the effectiveness of your immune, nervous and glandular systems and your organs’ she says, ‘there are many life skills and techniques we’re not taught in school that we can use to master our bodies and minds and bring us into a place of optimum health’. Aimee uses Kundalini Yoga techniques and her own life experiences as the framework for her life coaching sessions to teach these techniques in a functional way to guide guests to finding their calling whilst remaining grounded in the everyday.

food retreat

Finally, a series of food-focused workshops is headed by the brilliant Chelsea Parsons, Kinesiologist, chef and founder of our favourite superfood brand Well and Happy. Expect to learn the truth about total nourishment through food, how eating affects our emotions and vice versa, a sneaky peak at some of Chelsea’s delicious recipes and a whole lot of tasting. Following from the concept of food as healing, the retreat is fuelled by a profusion of plant-based, gluten-free, nutritionally dense meals served up buffet style three times a day. There’s no deprivation here, even those arriving from an omnivorous diet will be satisfied – and all the food is simple enough that it can be recreated with ease back home.

Set in the 4* Gran Hotel Benahavis, cosied up in the Andalusian mountains, guests can look forward to full use of the gym and spa, outdoor pools, en-suite double bedrooms, complimentary wi-fi and the serenity of the surrounding mountains. The landscape lends itself to solitary, headspace-y runs and silent, group sunrise strolls and is a natural conduit to calm and presence.

Approaching The Quarter Life Health Project with an open mind is fundamental to getting the most from the experience – it’s a scary thing to face yourself amongst a group of strangers, however this safe space will only remind you how necessary this is to your journey if you are seeking true awakening, or even simply aiming to return home with some clarity and a new start to a healthier and happier you. And if you do, you can look forward to getting off the plane back at home and feel like you’re flying. As humans, we’re afflicted beings but a lightness of being is achievable for us all, we just need to know how to change our approach, calm our restlessness, and find empowerment. This experience can guarantee, at the very least, a nudge in that direction!

Head to http://www.theholistichealthproject.com/the-quarter-life-health-project/ for more information on the next Quarter Life Retreat, and follow their instagram @HolisticHealthProject @QuarterLifeHealthProject @AngelsBelly to keep up to date with daily news. To apply for the next Quarter Life Health Project email [email protected] and join the holistic health revolution!

words by Rachel Bednarski


The Hottest Celebrity Activewear Collabs You Need To Know About!

We’re sure you are all aware of the latest trend of celebrity activewear collaborations with sports brands, so we’ve rounded up a few of our favourites that you definitely need to check out! These gorgeous collaborations effortlessly combine quality and performance, with a chic touch. It is our belief that we all work so hard to reach our fitness goals, so we should look good doing it!

Charlotte Olympia x Bodyism
Our favourite collaboration has to be the hot new range of activewear by Charlotte Olympia and Bodyism! As proud stockists, (yes you can shop the collection right here!) this beautiful collection perfectly combines Bodyism’s dexterity and elegance with Charlotte Olympia’s on trend, pioneering prints. The collection ranges from £75-£295, and it is worth every penny! The new collection is at the top of all of our wish lists here at Hip & Healthy! This gorgeous new line will carry you from the gym to a glam ladies lunch effortlessly!

Bodyism Activewear Co-founder Nathalie Schyllert perfectly sums up the collaboration; “We believe you should feel able to make bold fashion choices with your activewear and Charlotte Olympia effortlessly unleashes that inner sense of play. As always, Bodyism’s focus is on helping women feel and look their best, and this collection allows us to do that in a playful and feminine way.”

Get your Charlottle Olympia x Bodyism in our activewear store!

 rita ora adidas

Rita Ora x Adidas
The next collab that has been making waves for a while now is Rita Ora for Adidas. This collab packs a punch! The edge and swag of the range will stop you in your tracks and completely epitomizes Rita’s quirky style. The attitude of this collab will see you swaggering to your gym class whilst giving you a bold and euphoric feeling.

ivy park topshop beyonce

Ivy Park – Beyonce x Topshop
Perhaps, the most talked about and latest collab that has caught our athlesuire eyes is Beyonce’s partnership with Top Shop. The stylish love child of Top Shop and Beyonce; Ivy Park, is a fierce new collection. Ivy Park will bring out your primal inner diva, the sleek and perfected range will, without doubt give you the motivation to run that extra mile, even if it’s so others can gawk at your outfit with jealousy!

 kylie jenner puma

Kylie Jenner x Puma
Another sell-out collab is Kylie Jenner and Puma. The youngest Jenner sister is making her mark in the world of workout wear with her signature trainers (or sneakers if you’re from the US!) labelled “a lightweight trainer with zero excuses”, rivalling Kanye’s Yeezyy collection.

 

 


Discover The Latest Summer Scents!

The sun is finally shining, the days are longer, and summer is well on it’s way. With the changing of the season’s, comes the all important change of perfume. So, if you fancy a change of perfume this summer, and you’re a little stuck on what to choose, we’ve rounded up some of our favourite summer scents!

 Luxe perfume

Summer in the City

Our first perfume, which we have utterly fallen in love with, is; Luxe, by SheerLuxe. Sophisticated and enticing, Luxe by SheerLuxe captivates at first encounter with a hit of pomegranate, followed by lily at the heart before blending into a warm, woody fragrance with base notes of patchouli and vanilla. The elegant and intriguing combination is both unique and sensual and perfect for all-day wear. This contemporary perfume, will no doubt be your best companion at any event, from picnics to summer balls, Luxe, will leave you feeling fresh and empowered.

 liz earle perfume

A Stroll through the Park

The next perfume is by Liz Earle, made with fifteen delicate botanicals, Botanical Essence No.15 Eau de Parfum, is sustainably sourced. Fragrant, spicy notes of pink pepper, cinnamon and bergamot are complemented by alluring Damask rose, cypriol and Indian sandalwood, while the warming qualities of tonka bean and Bourbon vanilla create a feminine sensuality with a clean, fresh undertone.

 aerin purfume

A Mediterranean Get-Away

Aerin Mediterranean Honeysuckle, is all we’ve been talking about lately, here at Hip and Healthy. We love it. Leave your cares behind and float away across the silky turquoise Mediterranean sea with the delicate fragrance of sweet honeysuckle and glistening grapefruit. Sun warmed Italian bergamot and mandarin oil impart a citrusy, long-lasting freshness. Lily of the valley and lush gardenia add to the sensuality and richness of jasmine sambac absolute. This perfume will transport you away to an oasis of bliss, perfect, for gearing you up to tackle the day ahead.

 jo malone perfume

Walking through the Blossom trees

Nashi Blossom Cologne, a Jo Malone, limited edition, eloquently portrays the floral and tranquil feeling of summer. The harmonious combination of white blossoms and the delicately sweet nashi fruit, radiate a subtle and summery fragrance. Perfect for everyday wear, this perfume will add a spring to your step.

pour le monde perfume

Naturalista

The next perfume we’ve shortlisted is 100% natural and vegan. Pour Le Monde’s perfume; Envision, is a sultry and silky perfume. This perfume is perfect for when you want to make a statement or need an extra kick of confidence. With Brazilian orange, delicate grapefruit, Egyptian rose and Indonesian patchouli, this fragrance will inebriate you, transporting you to exotic euphoria.

 penhaligons perfume

Walk like a Goddess

Our final perfume is Penhaligon’s brand new perfume; Luna. Luna, radiates femininity. Inspired by the light of a magnificent crescent moon that brightens one’s dreams, this luxurious new fragrance captures the intoxicating spirit of the mythical Goddess of the Moon. The soft undertones of juniper berry combined with jasmine and rose, are perfect for a tranquil summers day in the sun.

 

Words by Olivia Fantoni