A Good Heart These Days Is Hard To Find! Simple Ways To Improve Your Heart Health*

Hello lovelies,

Pixabay - CC0 Licence

We all know the importance of a healthy heart, but with temptations around every corner, and the fact that a sedentary lifestyle tends to be rammed down our throats, we can gradually lose sight of maintaining a healthy lifestyle in favour of a cheeky takeaway and Netflix binge. While you can start exercising or eating a little bit healthier, when it comes to having a healthy heart, there are simple things that we can all do. What are these?

Flossing

You might not think this is directly related, and some studies contradict each other, but there has been a connection between poor oral health and cardiovascular disease. Visit any private dentist, and they will tell you the importance of flossing anyway. But we have to remember there are lots of other variables, including lifestyle choices, such as smoking. It's important that we floss because the bacteria that infect the gums can travel to blood vessels around the body and can cause blood vessel inflammation.

Increasing Your Omega-3

Omega-3 fatty acids have long been touted as a way to decrease inflammation in the arteries. Having a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids through foods like nuts can also help to lower cholesterol levels. Due to the healthy fats, they can also help to fill you up. This is partly why the Mediterranean diet is so popular and appears to be one of the best all-round diets to protect us as we age.

Learning To Relax

There have been studies that have shown that people suffering from heart disease who practice transcendental meditation for 15 minutes a day cut their risk of heart attack and stroke by 50%. Meditation is thought to lower blood pressure. Having an opportunity to relax by practising deep breathing exercises or yoga have been shown to provide similar benefits. Learning how to relax is crucial, especially as we get older. And learning how to relax can minimise that blood pressure, reduce anxiety, and provide that little extra meaning to our lives.

Minimise Alcohol

The one we all don't like! While there are reports that moderate drinking could benefit your heart, there isn't any proper proof. The fact of the matter is that drinking too much alcohol can cause issues all around your body, from high blood pressure to abnormal heart rhythms, and can contribute to cancer. Cutting down on alcohol, and having it in moderation is the key. And the great thing is that now there isn't as much of a culture focused on drinking as there used to be. With Dry January or Sober October becoming the norm, and with Christmas on the horizon, there are ways for you to enjoy the season without excessive drinking.

Learning to help our heart as we get older is a lot to do with the right habits. Unfortunately, it's one of those things that we can ignore, especially when we're younger. But as we get older we could do with a little bit more exercise, a healthier diet, and an improved outlook. A little bit of what you fancy is always good, but moderation is the key.



Playful Promises X Felicity Hayward lingerie collection

Hello lovelies,
Playful Promises X Felicity Hayward lingerie collection
Photo credit - Playful Promises

Plus size supermodel Felicity Hayward has collaborated with London-based lingerie brand Playful Promises to bring a collection of underwear in bra sizes 32-44 A-K and sizes 8-26. It's the first UK lingerie collection by a plus size supermodel and features retro inspired girdles and bodies, suspender belts and diamanté chain detailing, as well as Felicity's Self Love Brings Beauty sloganing. There's lots of pretty pink, lilac, as well as standard lingerie staples like black, red and leopard print. 

Playful Promises X Felicity Hayward lingerie collection
Photo credit - Playful Promises 

Playful Promises are the queens of the collab collection, having previously teamed up with Gabi Fresh and Fuller Figure Fuller Bust, among others. Felicity was one of the first models to show stretch marks, cellulite and scars in global campaigns with brands such as Missguided and The Body Shop, who were inspired by her digital campaign and body positive movement #selflovebringsbeauty. Felicity’s movement promotes self-love, diversity, confidence and acceptance in the fashion industry for everyone She explains that she “wanted to create something for everyone, to view beauty from your perspective, not the media’s view on body image and worth.”

Felicity Hayward is excited to partner with Playful Promises, as she believes they share the same values in terms of design style, and the promotion of body positivity. She says, “I wanted to create a lingerie range for everyone, so that no matter what your size or body type, you can be empowered to feel sexy. I’ve always loved Playful Promises for its wide size range, quirky designs and inclusive and diverse imagery, so to collaborate with them on this collection was an absolute dream.”

Emma Parker, Director of Playful Promises says, “We feel Felicity perfectly embodies our brand values of body confidence and self-love, and she’s helped created some fabulously sexy pieces that are designed to really give that wow factor – whatever your size.”

I have a gorgeous leopard print set which was kindly gifted to me by Playful Promises. I'm wearing a 44F and size 26 and both are generously sized. I usually wear a size 28 in underwear, but the 26 fits with room to spare. The bra cups are very roomy, so do consider sizing down at least one cup size. I'll be sharing my photos on social media and in a separate blog post as soon as possible. 

Playful Promises X Felicity Hayward lingerie collection
Photo credit - Playful Promises 

Are you excited for this collection? 

Thanks for reading. 
Leah xoxo

#AD - Gifted Product - Wolfairy A Line Tunic Dress OOTD*

Hello sweet peas,

The folks over at Wolfairy sent me over this lovely sporty tunic dress last week, so here are some pics of it.

Wolfairy Plus size a-line jersey dress tunic long sleeve pockets

I'm wearing a size 28 and it's oversized. It's made of the softest cotton and it was made in the UK. The cowl hood is so cosy for this time of year and it has pockets! It's also longer at the back, which I love. I absolutely love the colour but it isn't available in green on the website at the moment, but it is available in 4 other colours. As you can see it's long enough to wear without leggings or trousers underneath. I'm wearing my trusty Snag 80 denier tights with it.




Wolfairy A Line Tunic Dress (I've linked to the black one as the green one isn't on the website).
Snag tights
Leopard print boots

Thanks for reading.
Leah xoxo

5 Self-Care Hacks You Might Not Have Tried Yet!*

Hello loveys, 

This is a collaborative post (not written by me).
pexels

We all have different ways of prioritizing our self-care, from the old favourites like long-hot baths to the new hobbies like meditation. Perhaps you’re looking for a self-care hack or two that you haven’t given a try yet? If so, you might enjoy a few of these nifty ideas.

1 . Join a new club or group

Trying something new can be a fantastic act of self-care to boost your confidence, skills, and widen your friendship circles. Perhaps there’s a hobby that you’ve always wanted to try? It could be a sports team, a creative group, a study-based course- you name it! When you put yourself out there to try something unknown, you allow yourself to indulge in an activity that’s just for you and your wellbeing.

2. Spend time alone 

Between work, jobs, family life, and friends- it can be hard to get a little me time. The fact is, though, spending time alone can be great for our mental health. Spending time alone allows you some thinking space and lets you fully enjoy your own company. What’s more, you’ll have time to plan your goals and build up your emotional resilience. It’s amazing to have a support network, but sometimes it’s good to remind ourselves that we can cope alone too. Why not book a random day off work just for you? Visit a museum, take yourself for lunch, write in a journal, meditate, and just spend time being grateful in your own company.

3. Write a poem

Random acts of creativity can be a fabulous gift of self-care just for you. Writing a poem can be a lovely release of emotions and a healthy way to express your mental health. The poem doesn’t have to be shown to anyone; it can be something just for you. You might use it to express a difficult emotion that you’ve been going through, a joyful memory, or something totally abstract. If you’re not sure where to start, you can always get a poetry book or two from the library for a little inspiration!

4. New oils & supplements

So we’ve all heard much about the benefits of lavender or peppermint oil, but what about trying something new? There are plenty of great oils and supplements out there that can do wonders for our self-care. One great example is St. John’s wort; it’s made from a flowering plant and can be consumed in the form of a pill supplement or a tea. St. John’s wort is beneficial for reducing anxiety. Another product fast gaining popularity is CBD oil, extracted from the marijuana plant (but not the same compound which produces the intoxicating effect). CBD oil has also been linked to pain relief in conditions such as arthritis. When ingested and inhaled, the oil can promote a sense of relaxation. For popular CBD oil products, Vsavi offers great quality vape pens.

5. Make a book of memories

Spending time amongst cherished memories can be a lovely gift to yourself. Why not print out all of your best photographs and make yourself a scrapbook of memories? You can write descriptions of the pictures and reminisce about these times spent with loved ones. When we celebrate our good memories, we’re reminded of all the good things in our lives that we are grateful for. Self-care is as much about our mental health as it is about improving physical health.

Thanks for reading. 
Leah xoxo

At This Moment 11 | What I'm up to

Hello lovelies!

I've got a bee in my bonnet about blogging again after so long, so here I am with two posts in one day! This one is going to be a bit one-dimensional I'm afraid as I have a new man and I'm OBSESSED.





WATCHING

I've just finished Series 6 of Power, as far as it stands There are 5 more episodes to come but not till 2020. I need to find a new addiction on Netflix now. Recommendations?

READING

Texts from my new man! I split up with my last boyfriend Enyo in the summer. I wish him nothing but the best, he's a lovely man, but the distance between us was tiring him out and so he ended it.

I met my new fella 2 months ago online and it's been a bit of a slow burner in some ways, but we went official a week or so ago. I'm head over heels for him. We're going to have a long distance relationship, as he's in the forces and is stationed 150 miles away from me, and that's when he's in the country! He's currently overseas for work and will be overseas for work a LOT, but he's so worth it. He's incredibly lovely to me, and drop dead gorgeous too. I'm a very lucky girl. Because of his job and his distinctive name I'm just going to call him S for now, but rest assured you'll be hearing lots about him in the future. He's very special.

MAKING

These eyes at photos of my man! 😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍😍

STARTING

  • To think about the future and what it might look like for me and my man. 
  • Seasonal affective disorder. Now the clocks have gone back the early dark nights are starting to take their toll on me and I can feel the depression creeping in, even though I'm ludicrously happy because of S. I'm going out for a walk every day to get my sunshine fix and it's time to start taking my high strength Vitamin D too.

FINISHING

Umm, finishing being single, lol.

ENJOYING

  • Seeing all the trees turn their shades of red and gold. 
  • Afternoon naps. 
  • My new electric blanket. It keeps me toasty warm AND helps ease my Fibromyalgia pains.

LISTENING

I love listening to my playlists on Spotify while I lay in my bed thinking about my love.

LOVING

My maaaaaaan and life in general. It's amazing how being loved can make everything feel rosy!

HATING

The fact that S is abroad for work and I don't know when I'll see him again.

-------------------------------------------------------------------

Tell me what's new with youuuuu? Tell me about when you fell in love with your significant other. 
Thanks for reading.
Leah xoxo

You can read previous posts here.
One Two Three
Four Five Six
Seven Eight Nine Ten

All the pleats OOTD

Hello lovelies,

I'm back with an outfit post! Don't die of shock. 😂

I'm wearing a plisse wrap top from ASOS Curve and a pleated skirt from New Look Curve.



I'm wearing a size 26 in both items. The top is shirred at the waist and cuffs and is so comfortable. The skirt is an actual midi length, because so many skirts are called a midi and then come just below the knee. This is the perfect length.

Plisse wrap top, ASOS Curve
Pleated midi skirt, New Look Curves

I use affiliate links on some items, which means if you click and buy from them I will earn a small commission. See my disclosure for more details.

Thanks for reading.
Leah xoxo

Unhealthy Habits that are Way Worse for you Than you Thought*

Hello loves, 

This is a collaborative post (not written by me).

If you know that you have a ton of bad habits, then you will also know how hard it can be to kick them. The main thing that you have to remember here is that some habits are actually bad for your health and if you do not take the time to look after yourself then you may end up doing yourself harm.

Spending Too Much Time on the Sofa

The more TV you watch, the less exercise you are getting. You also end up increasing your odds of being overweight and also developing type 2 diabetes too. If you know that television is replacing the time you’d otherwise spend engaging in your favourite hobby or even exercising, then this is a sign that something needs to change. You need to commit to having a healthier balance and you also need to try and become more fit too. If you don’t then you may find that you reduce your risk of developing health problems and that you have way more of a social connection too. If you aren’t sure where to start, then you need to keep your TV time to a minimum of two hours per day. You also need to make sure that you are getting 30 minutes of exercise too. This will help you to turn things around while also giving you the chance to feel better about yourself overall

Photo by Lovefreund

Overspending Every Single Month

Money worries can also come with serious health consequences. Stress can contribute to depression, high blood pressure, insomnia, digestion problems and more. It can also be hard on your lifestyle and on your ego too. If you want to fix things here, then you need to try and regain control over your finances. Educating yourself here is important, so make sure that you keep track of your mortgages, your budgeting, investing and more. It also helps to know how much you have coming in each month and how much you have going out. If you are able to do this then you will soon find it easier than ever to stay under budget.

Eating Too Many Fatty Foods and Takeaways

Takeaways can be an easy and convenient option when you are stressed or if you just don’t feel as though you have time in the day to cook. The problem with them is that they can lead to a growing waistline and they can even cause diabetes and heart disease too. Trans fat is often found in fast food and it can cause fatty build-up in your artery walls. If you make the switch to healthier food, then you will soon find that the benefits are immediate and that they also come with substantial and long-lasting benefits too.

Behaviour that Stresses you Out

An unhappy lifestyle can easily cause you to experience way more stress hormones and you may even find that your blood pressure increases as a result. This can lead to depression, a lower level of immunity and general poor health. You may even find that you crave foods that are high in sugar and fat too, and this is the last thing that you need when you are finding it so hard to manage everything right now. If you want to help yourself then you need to keep your stress under control as much as possible. This can include deep-breathing, meditation and yoga. If you want to take things to that next level then CBD oil may be a good option, as it can promote a sense of relaxation without interfering with your day to day life. It even comes with some great health benefits too, so keep that in mind.

Try to Avoid Sunburn

If you love to sunbathe or if you are continually making the effort to maintain a golden or bronze tan, then you may be putting yourself at risk. Sunbathing essentially destroys the elastic fibres that keep your skin firm and it can also lead to blotches, freckles and earlier wrinkles too. If you are not careful then you may end up experiencing discolouration and other related issues. Tanning beds will never build up a safe base tan and they may even increase your chances of developing certain cancers too, so you need to make sure that you are aware of this. One way for you to stop yourself from being at risk would be for you to wear long sleeves when you go out in the sun and also for you to wear a cap too.

Thanks for reading. Leah xoxo

Middle-Aged Hump: How To Deal With The Problems That Come With Aging*

Hello loves,

This is a collaborative post (not written by me).
(This post contains weight loss talk).
Every single person has to deal with aging, and it’s perfectly natural for you to encounter a few problems when you become middle-aged. Dealing with these issues needn’t be a hardship, as you no doubt have the strength to tackle anything life throws at you, so take the first step in adopting this attitude and put your best foot forward! If you’re getting a little grey around the gills and are beginning to face a few of the usual problems, then read on to uncover some of the best top tips to help you get back to your usual lively self in no time at all!



Image Source - Pexels

Can You Repeat That Please?

One of the biggest complaints of adults reaching middle age is loss of hearing, and it can be really tough to cope with. Despite your best efforts to listen as close as possible, background noise can overpower the voices of people you speak to, and it can be an embarrassment to ask for constant repetition during conversation. There are several different things that can be done to improve your hearing, with many natural options to try first before investing in those that are more high tech. Your problems may be down to a build up of wax or other blockage, and this can easily be solved by using olive oil. If your hearing loss is more serious, you might need to purchase an aid - they can really help you to tune into the right frequency and catch every last word!

Can You See That?

Problems with sight are very common, and this means that there’s been a lot of investment into solutions and treatments to make it much more bearable. Choosing the right option for you couldn’t be simpler, it just takes some research online to find all of the information you need to make a decision. From lens replacement surgery to a simple pair of glasses, the prices vary depending on the complexity of the treatment, so consider your budget throughout.

A Weighty Issue

When you get older, it seems much easier to gain weight. Energy levels plummet and exercise is usually one of the last things on your mind, and that makes it common for the number on the scale to slowly creep up. Laziness has to be kept to a minimum for the benefit of your health, as being overweight can bring about diabetes and heart disease amongst many other problems. Try to create your meals following the same guidelines: half of your plate should consist of fruit or vegetables, with a third being complex carbohydrates and the remainder being split up of lean protein and healthy fats. Keep your portions small and eat slowly at the table (away from the TV), stopping when you feel full. Exercise will help your mobility as well as control your weight, so it’s definitely worth the effort.

With this advice you can tackle several of the problems faced when you reach middle age, to make growing old gracefully go smoothly. Your hearing, sight and weight must be looked after with much more consideration.

Thanks for reading. 
Leah xoxo

How To Live A Life Free From The Strains Of Stress*





(Pixabay License)

Hello lovelies,

This is a collaborative post (not written by me).

Now, we aren't suggesting you can have a life that is entirely stress-free. If that were true, then we would all be drifting through life on (figurative) fluffy clouds and silk-sewn rainbows!

Rather, we are suggesting that it is possible to live a life (largely) free from the strains of stress; those health issues that can occur as a result of the stressors in our lives.

How?

Well, consider these suggestions. While we can't guarantee you will never get the occasional headache because of your stress, or a case of the jitters when you have to enter a stressful situation, you might still be able to handle stress without falling majorly ill as a consequence.

#1: Find your support network

Talking to another person can give you a perspective on your stressor. Having somebody around to make you laugh can offer you instant stress-relief. And the physical hug of another person is a proven way to lower your blood pressure. So, find the people who can offer you these things in your life, and add them to your support network.

#2: Use remedies for stress relief

From rub-on-lotions to stress-relief sprays, visit your local health shop, and buy any natural products guaranteed to offer you quick relaxation when you need them. Then carry them around with you in your bag, and apply them as soon as you start to feel the effects of stress.

CBD oil is another effective stress-reliever, so follow the link for where to buy CBD oil in the UK legally. And there are other essential oils you might consider, especially when getting into a bath, so consider lavender, chamomile or jasmine, as just a few examples of quick and soothing stress-relief when you need it. Follow our previous link for more advice.

#3: Spend more time outside

Staying cooped up indoors when you're feeling stressed isn't helpful as, without the fresh air and natural light of the sun, it can be easy to fall prey to depressive symptoms. This is often why people suffer from seasonal affective disorder during the winter. Instead, make an effort to spend as much of your time outdoors as possible when you're feeling stressed, as your mood will soon start to improve.

Of course, if you're physically active when you're outdoors, you will also start to feel the stress-relieving benefits of exercise. And if you can spend time taking part in fun activities, then you will drive down the effects of stress further. Incorporate such behaviours into your lifestyle on a regular basis, and stress won't have time to take its hold on your life.

#4: Take breaks from technology

Staring at your phone for hours on end won't help, as not only will you feel more stressed if you read anything online that bothers you, but you will be less likely to spend more time exercising. And the same applies to your television. Life on the sofa isn't good for you on either a physical and mental level, so turn off the TV and spend more of your time in activities that will stimulate both your mind and body. Apply the same rules to any other piece of technology that rules your life. While they are fine in moderation, too much time with them could increase rather than reduce your stress levels.

Finally

From work worries to money issues, you will experience stress on a fairly regular basis. While you should find ways to manage your stressors, it's important for you to know that they don't have to derail your overall health. Follow our suggestions then, and live a life free from the strains that your stressors can cause. And if you have any other pieces of advice for our readers, be sure to share them with us.

Take care, and thanks for reading.

Leah xoxo

Making Big Decisions In Life*

Hello lovelies, 
This is a collaborative post (not written by me).

There are going to be times in everyone’s life when they need to make some big decisions. When those times come around, it can often be particularly concerning trying to work out how to make sure that you are making the right one. Of course, this is something that we all struggle with, but if you are keen to try and make sure that you are making the right decisions then you will need to think about what you can do to make sure of that. In this post, we are going to discuss just a few of the things that you could consider if you want to try and improve your decision making. You might find that focusing on these things is going to mean that you end up with a much better ability to make those big decisions.



Credit - CCO Licence

Consider All Your Options

One of the most damaging things you can do here is to rush into making big decisions without properly considering all of the options available to you. When you do that, it is only going to mean that you will struggle to actually make the right decision, and you might not even be able to work out why. So it’s important to take some time and step back, and really think about what kind of options you have in front of you, which are viable and which are not. If you can do that, you should find that you end up making the right decision much more often, so this is absolutely something that you will want to think about as best as you can.

Ask Around

It is always a good idea too to make sure that you know what others think of whatever is in front of you, and the decision that you are having to make. If you can get a good sense of what people are thinking about that decision, then you can find it easier to place your own understanding within it all, which is something that you are going to admit is very important indeed. There are lots of people you can turn to for this. You can ask your parents, your siblings, your partner, or your friends. You might even want to think about getting email psychic readings and using some of that information to help you. Whatever you do, just make sure that you are seeking the advice of some of the people you really trust who you have access to.



Credit - CCO Licence

Take It Slow

Finally, remember that it is often important in these big moments to make sure that you take things slow. That doesn’t mean not jumping or taking risks, but it does mean that you should make sure that you are really certain of what you want before you make any big decisions in life. The last thing you want is to regret anything, so this is going to be the kind of thing that you will really need to be sure of in order to avoid that.

Thanks for reading, 
Leah xoxo

An All-Around Sustainable Lifestyle To Look Great and Feel Great*

This is a collaborative post (not written by me).
https://unsplash.com/photos/4PG6wLlVag4


Hello loves, 

Living a cruelty-free lifestyle doesn't just end at the beauty products you use. It should affect all parts of your life from your clothing choices to your diet to how you get around town. If you're new to doing this, you'll know it's not easy, and even those who have been doing it their whole life still struggle with some aspects of the lifestyle.

But it doesn't need to be a chore. While you're making possibly massive changes to your lifestyle, it's not something that should get you down. Instead, it's supposed to be fun. Something to energise you. Something to make you feel good about yourself and the rest of the world. 

Everyone needs support when making such significant changes, so here's some quick advice on how to live an all-around sustainable lifestyle that will make you look great and feel even better. 

Diet Decisions
The first thing everyone tells you when seeking a more sustainable lifestyle is to change your diet. For meat-eaters, this might be a challenge, but those who have already dipped their toe in 'alternative' diets shouldn't have too much trouble. Vegetarianism, veganism and flexitarianism are all superb diets to consider. 

It doesn't end there, though. You also need to think about how you get the food onto your plate. There are plenty of ways to do this without spending half your life wandering aimlessly around the supermarket. One successful option is to grow your food, but this only works with a back garden. If you're short on space, locally sourced food is a winner. 

Fashion Fixes
The clothes you wear and their impact on the environment is not something most people think about when considering a more sustainable lifestyle. However, when you consider how many new clothes you buy each year, it all adds up. 
 
This isn't to say forget about labels and designers and live in a potato sack, but instead research sustainable clothing options. You can do this through existing stores or consider second hand and charity shops. It's also easy to take existing clothes and alter them to suit different seasons to give you a brand new wardrobe without spending a penny. 

Transport Triumphs
One of the most significant issues with living a sustainable lifestyle is pollution from transport. The main problem is convenience. Once you get your driver's license, you hope to never get on a bus again, but when everyone thinks this, the planet suffers. 

Instead of sitting in traffic on the way to work, consider waking up just a little earlier and catching the bus. The first weeks may be difficult, but soon you'll soon get used to it. If public transport is out of the question, you can always cycle (and get in some exercise) or car share with a coworker who lives close. It's not ideal, but it's one step closer to more sustainable living. 

Sustainable Success
What's important to remember on your quest towards a more cruelty-free and sustainable lifestyle is that you'll find it easier and more comfortable if you take it one step at a time. Trying to change too much at once can lead to you becoming overwhelmed with what you have to do, so don't overdo it. Instead, take it easy and make changes where you can. You'll soon make a habit of sustainable living like you've been doing it all your life.

Thanks for reading. 
Leah xoxo

It Is How You Are Old: Ways To Feel Young(er) Again

Hello loves, 

This is a collaborative post (not written by me).



Image - CC0 Licence

When you start to fight old mother time, it is a battle that you will end up losing. When it comes to looking younger, while there's plenty of lotions and potions out there, the real secret is feeling younger. Feeling younger doesn't just have a benefit for you right now, but it helps you later on in life. But what are the different ways that you can feel younger without resorting to drastic measures?

Swapping Those Bad Vices

We've all got some vice, whether it's sugar or cigarettes, but we can do is, before making those healthy swaps, is realise what they do to us on the inside. This is usually the best springboard to make a healthy change. But when it comes to something like cigarettes, they can be notoriously difficult to give up. This is while it is worth making a swap to something similar, such as a shisha kit or e-cigarette. If this is something that interests you, it's worth looking at buyv2cigs for the best shisha pen kit. Swapping those bad vices can take a while. The trick is not to swap all of them at once, it's about doing one at a time. And remember, when it comes to something like diet, a little bit of what you fancy is good. It's just when they take over your entire life that you need to make a major change.

Reclaim A Sense Of Happiness

We can spend so long looking for the right moisturiser when really, it's beyond the skin we need to look. Feeling happier in life is a great way to keep you young. And when it comes to making yourself feel better but things, a lot of it is to do with not sweating the small stuff. It is, after all, the little things in life that make you happy. We have to remember this when we bury ourselves in stress, because it's these things that won't do us any favours, and when we feel a lot of stress over little things, anxiety is never far behind!

Get Lifting

Weight training is one of the great ways to increase your energy levels and if you feel more energetic, you will begin to bound about the place. If you can't get to a gym, resistance bands work just as well. In fact, exercises with resistance bands provide the same muscle stimulation for a fraction of the cost but it's not as heavy on your joints. Weight training or any form of exercise is great to give you a lot more energy.

Take The Right Vitamins

It's something that we're all told to do! If you don't have enough Omega-3 or Vitamin C, and you always feel a bit under the weather, it's amazing what supplement can do. Remember, getting a supplement isn't meant to replace a diet but if you can get an allergy test, and see what vitamins and minerals you lack in, taking the right supplements can make you feel a lot better, in fact, could make you feel much better than when you were younger!

However old are young you are, there is always a way to recapture our youth in mind and body. Remember, it's not how old you are but it is how you are old.

Thanks for reading, 
Leah xoxo

My top 5 rides to visit at Universal Studios Orlando*

Hi loveys,

This is a collaborative post (written by me).

[By NBCUniversal - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link]


Are you a rollercoaster fan? I haven't been on a rollercoaster in years but I grew up going to Dreamland in Margate and regularly got my thrills there as a teen on the American Looping Star and the Scenic Railway. I'd love to visit Universal Studios in Orlando. Opened in 1990 and co-founded by Steven Spielberg it's one of the top theme park destinations in the world.

Here are the 5 rides at Universal I'd most love to go on. Some of them are rollercoasters and some of them are virtual reality simulations. There are a couple of really family friendly rides in my picks as I'm basically a 5 year old in a 45 year old's body!

HARRY POTTER AND THE FORBIDDEN JOURNEY 

I'm a massive Harry Potter fan (and proud Slytherin) so this ride is right at the top of my list. Harry Potter is great escapism from reality and what better way to do that than by flying over Hogwarts?



THE SIMPSONS RIDE

When I was with James we used to watch The Simpsons almost every day of the week. I'm a huge fan of the dysfunctional yellow family so this virtual reality coaster ride would be a beeline for me. It's good family-friendly fun.



DESPICABLE ME MINION MAYHEM

I don't know what it is about me and cute yellow critters, but I also love Minions. They're cute and silly and they love ba-na-nas, so what's not to like?! This ride is pure escapism and very family friendly, featuring a dance off at the end of the show.



THE AMAZING ADVENTURES OF SPIDERMAN

This is another virtual reality ride rather than an actual rollercoaster. Watch Spiderman save the day as he soars over New York. Just make sure you don't lose your lunch when he drops 400 feet!



REVENGE OF THE MUMMY

This indoor rollercoaster takes you on a dark and scary ride complete with fire and insects as the Mummy Imhotep tries to steal your very soul! This ride looks really scary and would be sure to get your heart pounding.



Have you been to Universal Studios Orlando? If so, what was your favourite ride?

Get your Universal Studio Tickets for the family.

Thanks for reading.
Leah xoxo

How The Gut Affects Mental Health*

Hi loves,

This is a collaborative post (not written by me).



Michael Schiffer

Gut bacteria or the 'good bacteria' in your gut helps to regulate your bowel, assists with digestion and maintains healthy levels of microbes. In case your gut bacteria is not functioning properly then you may suffer from constipation, flatulence, diarrhoea, acid reflux, bloating, and a lot more gastrointestinal ailments. If your gut isn't working correctly for a long time period it may result in serious illnesses such as irritable bowel syndrome or perhaps diverticulitis!

Gut bacteria are necessary since they are the bacteria that keep your entire digestive system secure. They are the bacteria that antibiotics kill, so if you are ill frequently and will need to take a great deal of antibiotics afterwards your gut bacteria will be deficient. This is going to cause diarrhoea. If you choose antibiotics, all of the gut bacteria can be ruined. However, your gut bacteria isn't often considered as being the probable cause of a mental health issue.

Latest research, however, indicates that a number of bacteria known as Gamma-aminobutyric acid or GABA, may influence somebody's emotional health if there's a scarcity of this substance. If you are missing GABA, you can be identified as suffering from Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and fatigue but what is often ignored is that you may be also afflicted by susceptibility to stress, causing nervousness, depression and possibly autism.

GABA has a role as a neurotransmitter, sending messages to the mind and nervous system. It is also involved in regulating the communication between our brain cells. Studies have proven that GABA can restrain anxiety and affect our behaviour, so when it's low we don't feel as calm or relaxed or having difficulty sleeping too. Dealing with anxiety, we may turn to cigarettes (much worse than even the best vape). More studies will need to be carried out in this area, but this new information is possibly a good insight to explain the link between our bowel and emotional health problems.

The good thing is that GABA may be raised naturally with foods high in magnesium and vitamin B. It is a fantastic idea to have an organic multi-vitamin daily, as nobody eats perfectly every day - a supplement will make sure you don't become deficient in minerals and vitamins. Green tea and chamomile are also good for increasing those bacteria levels. These foods and vitamins have shown in certain tests to increase gut bacteria and consequently an increase in an individual's mental health capabilities. Additionally, there are a number of other all-natural approaches to improve mental wellbeing, manage stress, anxiety and depression. Ask your therapist to learn what you will need to do if you suffer from one of these ailments.

GABA hence has the capability to be a fantastic supplement if you're feeling a little away or have been suffering from poor anxiety, depression, or even PMS. Bear in mind your mood may be changed by levels of hormones and also how the thyroid is working. Conversely, GABA can improve your mood, impacting your emotions and putting a positive slant on your perspective.

Thanks for reading. 
Leah xoxo

Setting the Date: 3 Things to Book ASAP

Hi loves,

This is a collaborative post (not written by me).



Image Credit: Unsplash

Planning a wedding is no small feat. Sure, you might have planned large parties before but the pressure on this day and the number of things you need to organise can quickly get on top of you.

There are lots of things you will learn as a bride-to-be and the whole process is a fantastic opportunity to get exactly what you want, even if it’s just for a day. But with so many things on your ever-growing list, what do you need to prioritise right now?

The Venue

The very first thing you need to think about is where you want to get married and whether you want to stay there for your wedding breakfast and party or if you want to move everyone to another location. For some people, a hotel is a natural choice as this means that you don’t need to go very far at all on the day and relatives and friends traveling longer distances can stay over too.

The main thing to watch out for here is the cost. Venues can charge a lot of money for a simple exchange of vows and you should definitely be careful of not-so-optional extra charges. For many people, choosing separate venues and paying for transport actually turns out to be a lot cheaper and get you exactly what you want.

The Band

If you want live music at your wedding, you definitely need to get in touch with your preferred band ASAP. Websites like https://www.alivenetwork.com/hirelivemusic/wedding_bands_in.asp?area=Suffolk are great for finding local talents, no matter what sort of music you are into.

The reason you need to book so quickly is that bands tend to book way into the future. The other reason, which will probably be obvious if you are a musician yourself, is that bands really like to have time to rehearse so if you have a list of songs you really want, they need time to learn them!

The Food

Another surprise early book but the food is a big ticket item for your wedding day and it can take time to decide what you want and how many you can afford to feed. While low key wedding breakfasts are more popular and cocktail receptions are becoming a thing too, food needs to be a top priority to keep people happy.

Again, caterers tend to get booked well in advance so if you have a particular taste or you like a particular company, you should definitely get in there quickly. The same goes for your wedding cake. If you want a bespoke cake that’s really going to stand out, you need to book in quickly so that you get the designer you want.

Once you have sorted out these big ticket items, there is still a lot left to do but at least you know that on your wedding day, all the basics will be in place. And, if you have started planning nice and early, you will still have plenty of time to do all the fun things like finding your outfits and making decorations.

Thanks for reading. 
Leah xoxo

#Ad Curvissa's Summer Of Yes OOTDs

Hey lovelies!

I'm back with an outfit post - well, actually two of them! Curvissa are running an awesome campaign at the moment called the Summer Of Yes. It features three bloggers/influencers and each of them has a capsule collection. You can read all about it and see all the items here - Curvissa Summer Of Yes.

CURVISSA TROPICAL PRINT MAXI DRESS

I'm wearing this dress in a size 28 and it's true to size. I decided to dress it down for daywear with plimsolls and a denim jacket but it'd look fabulous dressed up for the evening too.

The dress has corset-like tie fastenings on both sides so you can nip your waist in, which I've done here. It's lined to the mid thigh and is such a good quality heavyweight dress.





OUTFIT DETAILS

Curvissa Tropical Print Maxi Dress
Jacket (very similar)
Plimsolls (similar)
Earrings - Primark

SHEEGO FLORAL EMBROIDERED TOP & BOOTCUT JEANS

I was also sent a couple of other items. I chose some bootcut cropped jeans with the aim of turning them into rolled up jeans shorts. I can't do this with skinny jeans as my calves are so big so bootcut jeans are the way forward. Although the jeans are cropped, because I have stumpy legs they're almost full length on me. 😁 Because I carry most of my weight in my bum, belly and thighs I sized up 2 sizes to a size 32 in the jeans. Curvissa advises you to size up one size anyway as their jeans are tighter fitting than most other brands'. They're a little too big but nothing a belt won't fix. They have lovely embroidery on them and have loads of stretch. I also chose a white top with floral sequin arrangements. It's a really soft 100% cotton material and the tassels are a cute touch. I also sized up in the top to a size 30/32 because I wanted an airy, swing look.






OUTFIT DETAILS

Sheego Floral Embroidered Top
Sheego Cropped Bootcut Jeans
Sandals

Have you ever shopped with Curvissa? They have a handy holiday shop section with everything you need for the summer.

I love my old lady sandals from Shoezone. They have velcro at the both the toes and the ankle and they're so soft and spongy to walk on. I had a conversation with my man about buying old lady sandals when we were in the shop and he said "Well, you are 45!" So this is middle age - being happy with comfortable shoes!

I use affiliate links on some items, which means if you click and buy from them I will earn a small commission. See my disclosure for more details. The items in this post were gifted but opinions are all my own.

Thanks for reading.
Leah xoxo

What To Wear To Visit Disney World*

Hello lovelies,

Image source. Shared under CC

I remember as a child and teenager being jealous of my peers whose parents were taking them on a family holiday to Disney World. I grew up seeing Disney World adverts on tv and it always looked so magical. As a small child I had a black hat with mouse ears on which I wore until it fell to pieces. I even used to wear it to church. Even as an adult it's still on my bucket list to go to Disney World one day, and here's what kind of thing I'd be wearing for the trip.

Comfy shoes

Comfy shoes have got to be at the top of the list as there's a LOT of walking to be done - there's the Magic Kingdom, EPCOT Centre, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom, as well as the water parks and more! Skechers are my go to comfortable shoes and I have a few pairs - their memory foam insoles really are like walking on air, perfect for a long day on your feet. These slip ons with fastenings offer great support, and you can machine wash them as well at the end of a trip to freshen them up. Just don't tumble dry them or they'll shrink. They are an expensive outlay but your feet will really thank you for it, trust me.



Minnie Ears

You can't go to Disney World without wearing Minnie ears, it's absolutely got to be done! These sequinned ones are a great price and would keep your hair off your face on a hot Florida day. I think I'd go for the ones on the left as the more colour the better for me!




Polka Dots

To me, Disney screams Minnie Mouse polka dots so I'd have to wear something polka dot print. This plus size Lyra dress by Lady Voluptuous is stylish and comfortable, and as it's made of stretch jersey it'll be great for those humid Florida days.

£47 here

Have you been to Disney World? What did you wear?

This is a collaborative post (written by me).

Thanks for reading.
Leah xoxo

Tips on How to Dress for a Summer Wedding*

Hi lovelies,

This is a collaborative post (not written by me).


Summer has arrived which means that there are sure to be a few weddings on your calendar to look forward to. There is nothing quite like a wedding and they are always great fun, but it can be hard to know what to wear particularly if you have a few weddings to attend. With this in mind, here are a few tips to help you navigate the summer wedding season.

Check the Invite
Before you start searching for an outfit you should check the invite as this is likely to say what the dress code is and if there is any particular theme to be aware of. Always follow any instructions on the invite - you don’t want to stand out and upset the happy couple! If you are not sure on what to wear or what the etiquette is then ask other people for guidance and what they are wearing.

Material & Colour
You will, of course, want to look your best on the big day but you must also consider comfort particularly if you are going to be there all day. Weddings can be tiring and hot in the summer months so think about a material or colour which will be comfortable yet flattering. Breezy, lightweight materials and light colours/patterns are ideal - just remember to not wear white!

Choose Accessories Carefully
The accessories that you wear provide you with the chance to make a summer outfit a little bit classier and more sophisticated but make sure that they are not too elaborate. Something like diamond earrings from a place like F Hinds is an excellent choice and will certainly make any outfit pop.

Plan for the Evening
Keep in mind that even in the middle of summer the evenings can get chilly. This means that you should have some kind of jacket or blazer to put on once the sun goes down so that you can stay warm while still looking smart and stylish.

Consider Footwear & Where the Wedding Is
It is a good idea to find out where the wedding and reception are being held so that you can pick out an appropriate pair of shoes. If the reception is being held on grass, for example, then you will want to switch out the heels for something flat yet still elegant.

Summer wedding season is always great fun, but it can be hard to plan your outfit especially if you have multiple weddings to attend. Hopefully this information will help you to plan the perfect outfit which will help you to look and feel your best while still adhering to the dress code. It is essential that you follow whatever dress code the couple have stated and to always check with other guests what they are wearing just to make sure that what you have planned is appropriate.

Thanks for reading.
Leah xoxo

Mac Or PC: Which Is Best For A Fashion Blogger?*

Hello lovelies,

This is a collaborative post (not written by me).

The age old question of whether a Mac or PC is better has been around since the dawn of computers. It’s the same as asking which is better: tea or coffee, ready salted or cheese and onion, DC or Marvel, coast or country, Nikon or Canon. While this question will continue to be debated long after you have finished reading this article, there are some pointers to look for when it comes to making the decision about which to plump for when purchasing your next bit of hardware. You could place your emphasis on colour, shape, or whether the speakers are loud and of good audio quality. However, there may be more important aspects of your purchase that you should consider.

Computers were once hefty desktop things, but they have now morphed into the more convenient and smaller laptop varieties. Both Mac and PC have ventured into this realm to create exceptional machines. No one is arguing that one is a poor imitation of the other. You simply need to consider whether Mac or PC best suits your needs. While they have many similarities, it is their differences that will help you decide which computer you prefer. If you are a fashion blogger, which laptop should you go for?



Image source

Hardware

While boring and super technical, it is imperative that you check out the hardware of your device. You need to consider the RAM, the memory, the speed and the display of your machine to ensure that it is a user friendly experience for you. You may assume that the sleekness and postmodern adored-by-millennial Apple may win this hands down. After all, they produced the MacBook Air that looks as light as a feather, is ridiculously thin and lightweight, and yet still squeezes in all the performance of a monster machine.

However, the PC has many more laptop varieties, from the Dells of the world to the more aesthetically pleasing Sonys. The colours are almost endless, so you can choose the ultra formal black or a quirkier rose gold. There are an array of different screen sizes and resolutions to play with, and there is a wealth of processors to pick to suit your budget. You could even have a PC with a touchscreen capability, making your blogging a breeze compared to having to tap away on a keyboard for hours on end.

Software And Apps

With Microsoft being the stalwart of the PC, they seemed to have a monopoly on the word processing and spreadsheet-esque software packages. However, Apple has its own version which gives Microsoft a run for its money. Of course, you may choose to forget the free trial before having to purchase your Microsoft Office 365, and instead go for some open source software. With your Mac, the Office Suite equivalent is free - great for those heavy blogging days.

In terms of apps, the Mac doesn’t come loaded with rubbish and filler that you’ll end up uninstalling to free up some much needed space. You will have an exceptional photo app, a decent movie maker, word processing tools and the opportunity to download extras from the Apple Store. This is your laptop created for your preferences with the capability to be highly personalised. For the avid fashion blogger, the Flume app makes using Instagram on your laptop a much more pleasurable experience. You can forget about having to rely on your smartphone, to scroll through your feed on the big screen instead.

Your PC will come with more free trials that you didn’t even want to sign up for, and way more pop ups. This is ok for the individuals who want all of this extra software kit, but it’s not great for the streamline fashion blogger.



Image source

Security

While you might not be blogging about the most confidential or secret of subjects, you still don’t want any old hacker compromising your posts, infiltrating your blog and stealing your content. Apple is more secure simply because there are fewer laptops with the Mac interface. Hackers tend to prefer going after Windows powered machines. However, this doesn’t mean that you can’t invest in some decent free anti-virus software for your Windows PC to ensure that you don’t fall victim to a cyber criminal. Whatever laptop you choose should have more than a mere firewall to protect it.

Money

If you don’t have very deep pockets, then a PC is the way to go. They range in price from under £200 for an entry level basic model to over a couple of grand. However, if you want a Mac, you won’t get much for under £600, and this is only for the bog standard generic bit of kit. MacBook Airs are way more expensive. Value for money rests with the PC. There are many more retailers of PC laptops, and there is a greater variety of choice. There are deals to be had with software bundles, which could be useful for your blogging credentials.



Image source

Intuitiveness

The amount of times Windows has rehashed its interface is shocking, especially when some of these updates are anything but user friendly. Does anyone remember Windows 8? The most recent update - Windows 10 - is more exciting with Cortana coming on board to rival Siri. The interface is user friendly and easy to navigate.

The great thing about Apple’s interface, OS X, is that it rarely deviates much from its tried and tested aesthetically pleasing menus and design. It has steered clear of the whole touch screen capability believing it to be little more than a gimmick whereas Windows have fully embraced the concept. It’s up to you how much emphasis you place on this quality.

Choosing a laptop is difficult, especially with the vast array on offer. Consider what it is you want from a machine, think about how you will use it for your blogging, and go with function over form. Laptops are built to last if you choose a good brand, so spend as much as your budget will allow.

Thanks for reading.
Leah xoxo

The Top Three Essential Oils*

This is a collaborative post (not written by me).


Ah, essential oils. They don’t just smell divine; they can benefit our health in a number of ways. Whether you’re physically soar or seeking calm, there’s likely one to suit your needs.
Unsurprisingly, each tends to have a specific effect – so, it’s important that you know what to look for.
To find the best one for you, read our essential guide.
  1. Lavender
Want to unwind? Lavender may hold the solution. People have used the plant to relieve stress for centuries – and to great effect.
Various studies have heavily suggested that it’s useful for aiding relaxation, both within the body and the mind. As an essential oil, it’s particularly effective, especially in the bath.
So long as it’s paired with carrier oil (as water and oil don’t mix), you stand to release mental tension. Place four to five drops in your tub, and you’ll feel tranquil for hours afterwards.
For a good night’s sleep, a few sprinkles on your pillow may help you to easily drift off.  Lavender can be the ultimate essential oil for tranquillity.
  1. Chamomile
If you really want to feel calm, how about chamomile? It won’t just soothe your mind – it could heal irritated or sore skin.
It’s used by many people as an anti-inflammatory, as it typically has a gentle feel. If you plan to use it directly on your skin, remember to be careful, particularly if you have sensitive skin.
Always dilute it with carrier oil. To stay completely safe, why not ask your pharmacist or doctor about how best to apply it?  
Once you’ve found a suitable solution for you, rub it onto clean, warm skin. For maximum effect, it’s usually best to oil-up just after a bath.
Use it wisely, and you could improve the look and feel of your skin.
  1. Jasmine Absolute
Jasmine emits a glorious scent. Floral, uplifting and clean, it’s a favourite among many aromatherapists – and it’s easy to see why.
Very often, it can really boost our mood. Breathe it in, and you may very well notice a difference in how you feel.
Of course, when made into an essential oil, its aromatic benefits intensify. Just imagine how uplifting bathing in it could be!
Unlike with gentle chamomile, however, try to refrain from using the oil – or any dilutions of it – on your skin, as it could cause irritation. Instead, limit it to baths. If your skin is highly sensitive, opt for a diluted version of it.
You’re bound to feel refreshed by its scent.
Now that you know what to look for, you stand to make the most of essential oils. What’s to stop you from finding the ideal one for you?  
Thanks for reading. 
Leah xoxo