First off, how are you and how is your 2021 going? 

I’m okay! Thank you so much for asking. This year is so weird isn’t it, I still don’t know what on earth is going on but I think I’m okay. 

Can you tell us about your career online and how it has evolved? 

Yes, of course, it’s such a random one because I remember when it started so well. I had a breast reduction when I was about 18 or 19 (I can’t actually remember), and that gave me the biggest boost of confidence I had ever experienced in my life. I was a double H cup before my reduction and the pain was extreme. I remember when I had the operation and I suddenly had these boobs that would fit “normal” bras I was just beside myself with excitement. I could suddenly buy cute matching sets and have them actually supports my breasts and feel lovely at the same time (before my reduction, at the time nearly nowhere stocked my size). From then on it just became a genuine passion that has stuck around ever since, as did the content about it! 

How would you describe your Instagram to someone who doesn’t follow you? 

I like to think it’s a positive space that you can go to feel good. Saying that I don’t always feel good (who does?!) and am always as transparent as possible when it comes to being a human who exists on the internet. I just hope I can provide a bit of honesty in a world where let’s be honest, that’s pretty rare online.  

What made you want to show the reality of what bodies look like to your audience? 

This probably sounds SO cliché but honestly, it’s because I never, and I mean NEVER, saw my body type growing up. I genuinely believed I was some form of mutant human with a deformed body. Which is so sad to look back on now but it really is true. If I had simply seen someone who had hip dips as prominent as mine I just think I would have felt more comforted. There really was only 1 body type shown in mainstream media when I was a teenager and that was a very thin, super model-esque frame, which was so far from what I looked like. I wish I had known that every single body is different in their own unique way, and so beautiful! 

How do you feel about filters and editing online, do you think they are damaging our perceptions? 

I really do. I made the conscious decision last year to never use a filter again on Instagram because without even realising I would whack on a filter because I wasn’t wearing makeup, or because the lighting was bad, or just because I thought I looked better with a filter on. But even that seemingly small decision is actually such a scary one! We are so used to seeing the world through a filter as well as seeing ourselves through one, I really hope more people can move away from filters and editing and feel incredible just as they are. Easier said than done I know, a few years ago there’s no way I would have thought I would be able to do it! 

Can you tell us about your collaboration with AYM and what it was like to work on?  

Ah, it was amazing!!! This probably sounds cliche too, but I never thought I’d get to work with such an incredible brand, let alone collaborate with them. The actual pieces that we designed together are honestly (in my opinion) the most beautiful swimwear I’ve ever seen. The feedback we’ve had from it has been absolutely unbelievable and it has got to be one of my proudest projects so far. 

What are you currently working on? 

The biggest project going on right now is honestly our flat! We moved into our new place about 3 months ago now and we’re changing quite a lot. I renovated my last flat but somehow managed to forget just how much energy and stress renovations are. We are hoping to have it finished by Christmas so my home account will be very busy for the next few months! 

Who are some of your favourite body empowerment accounts online? 

Ah, there’s so many, honestly, my whole following list is full of absolute angels. I thoroughly recommend a scroll through haha. 

As a fellow Brighton dweller can you tell us some of your favourite things to do in the city? 

I’m so lucky to live so so close to Hove beach so honestly, I spend most of my time just walking along the seafront. It’s one of my absolute favourite things to do, no matter the weather. I feel like that’s probably really boring but honestly I just like walking and dog watching. 

What does your perfect weekend look like? 

Lay in, breakfast out in a lovely café, coffee, walk along the beach, see my family (dog), maybe a pizza in the evening. Like I said I’m pretty boring haha.  

What do you always carry with you? 

Polos!

What would your last ever meal be? 

I think either macaroni cheese or a big Lebanese feast. 

What is one positive piece of advice you could give to our audience? 

I always say it but baby steps, whatever you’re trying to achieve, get there with baby steps. Whether it’s body acceptance or doing a handstand in yoga, just take small steps every day to help you get there. I feel like we always have really unrealistic expectations when it comes to life goals, and we feel like we should achieve these things immediately, but it just doesn’t work like that.

Follow Nelly London on Instagram here!

Ad – In partnership with Bondi Sands

If you’re looking for a self-tanning routine that’s low maintenance, clean and sustainable you’re going to get on very well with the Pure self-tanning range by Bondi Sands.

Using ethically sourced, 100% recyclable packaging, Pure combines the iconic glow-giving Bondi Sands formula with a sustainable approach to self-tanning. Packed with skin-loving Hyaluronic Acid for hydration, Vitamin C for radiance and Vitamin E for repair, every ingredient has its purpose.

Whether you’re looking for a lightweight quick-drying foam with no wash off required, facial tanning drops for an effortless and customisable application with your favourite moisturiser or a face mist for those on-the-go moments when you want to give your complexion a glow boost, the Pure range offers a line of products created to slot seamlessly into your self-tanning routine.

Fragrance, dye and sulphate free and packaged responsibly, it’s their most planet-conscious range, yet. Ideal for anyone looking for a sustainable alternative to add into their beauty routine without compromising their tan. Sunless tanning just got pure, clean & simple.

With the classic British summertime forever keeping us on our toes, now’s the perfect time to lock in your reliable self-tanning products to ensure you’re looking and feeling your best-bronzed self in time for those carefree summer nights.

The Pure range was calling out for its very own entry in our ‘We Tried’ series and not ones to pass up the opportunity to trial a cult beauty product, we were buzzing to slip into our mitts for the evening and put Bondi Sands’ most innovative self-tanning range to date to the test.

Keep on scrolling to read our team reviews and rate our before and after photos, because let’s be real, a good tanning product is best judged by a side-by-side glow up.

The Bondi Sands Pure Collection is available at Superdrug and Cult Beauty. 

Lareese says…

It’s been a very long time since I self-tanned my entire body and as a naturally pale gal, I wouldn’t usually trust myself with applying it evenly. If ever I want a sun-kissed look for a special occasion, I would usually leave it to the professionals and book myself in for a spray tan to save myself the faff but obviously over the past 18 months that hasn’t been possible. Admittedly, I’m a bit rusty when it comes to self-tanning but trying out the Bondi Sands Pure range whilst I had a weekend of no plans allowed me to perfect my routine with confidence, without the added pressure of having to get it right the first time for a pal’s wedding or a night out.

Another thing I’d say about the Pure range is that it’s as convenient as self-tanning can get. Not only does it dry in a matter of seconds leaving no tackiness behind, there’s no need to wash it off after the developing time and it doesn’t leave any marks on your bedding. I had white sheets and there was no trace of tan in the morning. I basically took a magnifying glass to my duvet to hunt for some evidence of my starfish outline but no, nada. Huzzah – a low maintenance self-tanning routine does exist, even for those of us who are basically self-tan virgins. It me. The Pure Self-Tanning Face Mist was also a joy to use – particularly convenient for a quick burst of hydration and glow that again doesn’t feel sticky or tacky on the skin. I did a triple misting and woke up with a lovely bronze even glow the next day. For anyone who wants to top up their face tan in between their weekly full-body tanning ritual, this is a great product for quick and easy application.

I think testing the Pure range has opened a whole can of worms and I can see myself making self-tanning a weekly ritual again now, especially since it looks like summer is still on furlough until 2022 and any hopes of getting a natural tan are pretty much trashed. I had actively avoided self-tanning for years because it was always such a faff but this range is formulated with laid-back self-tanners like me in mind. It’s convenient, sustainable and it works – what more could you ask for? Bravo Bondi Sands, bravo. You’ve got a new self-tan evangelist in me.

Charlotte says…

If there was an award for extreme tan newbie in this world then the title would absolutely go to me. Having never dared self-tan before (through pure lack of knowledge on where to even start) I was what you could say a little nervous before starting the tanning process for fears of turning out like Georgia in that scene of Angus, Thongs and Perfect Snogging. I’ve also just never really been that drawn to tanning, even in the way of catching some rays IRL, I’m naturally more likely to be sat in the shade and to be honest, have never had a problem with the tone of my skin. I know so many people feel more confident and happy when looking like a bronzed goddess but I’ve personally never felt too conscious of my skin tone. Having said that I was intrigued to see what all the fuss was about and if I could become a tan convert!

I followed the Bondi Sands instructions to the letter, and along with some expert advice from our resident tan queen Darcey, I felt pretty sure I was on the right track when it came to the application process. To be honest, I’m normally pretty lazy when it comes to skincare on my body, but taking the time to exfoliate and moisturise the night before was a welcome treat- the Coconut & Sea Salt Body Scrub, in particular, has become a regular in my routine now. I decided to opt for the Light/Medium shade in the Pure Self Tan Foaming Water because as I said I’m really not used to seeing my skin looking anything other than Casper white and on reflection I definitely think this was most suited to my complexion/features. I applied the tanning water at night and found it a little difficult to see where I had and hadn’t covered, so I think if possible next time I’d try and apply using natural light. Despite my probably questionable application, I woke up SO pleasantly surprised as the tan was even and not at all patchy which felt like such a win as a self-tan virgin.

It took me a little while to get used to catching myself in the mirror looking so brown, mainly because it’s been such a long winter and I am at peak paleness right now, but as the days went on I found myself liking it more and more. I was worried that tanning would feel really high maintenance and that having to keep topping up with moisturiser etc would be a bit of a drag, but I’ll be honest in saying I was v lazy on that front and the tan remained perfectly intact and I didn’t notice any dry patches of skin whatsoever. I also had no idea where to start when it came to removing the tan but I was pleasantly surprised to find it faded super naturally and really didn’t need much aftercare whatsoever.

Big wins for me were how quickly the product sunk into the skin, the fact there were no traces of tan in my bedsheets (one of my big concerns!) and also how naturally the product faded along with my normal shower and washing routine. Let’s just say I’m converted!

Darcey says…

I have been self-tanning basically every week for the past 5 years, so I would absolutely consider myself an expert now when it comes to the tanning world. I’ve tried quite a few brands throughout the years, but I always go back to Bondi Sands as I find the application is best, it’s a reasonable price range and also the colour is very natural and sun-kissed which I think is really important for any self-tan.

I thoroughly enjoy my weekly exfoliating, showering and moisturising routine now. I usually do a hair and face mask at the same time and have a proper pamper sesh every week, very good for the mind and soul! Exfoliating and keeping your skin moisturised is soooo important when using self-tan, as tan just sticks to dry skin and that’s when you get really dark hands, elbows, etc (definitely had this happen a few time to me ha). So I usually tan using Bondi Sands One Hour Express or their Liquid Gold Gradual Tan, mainly because I hate sleeping with tan on at night and getting it all over my sheets. So I was pretty excited to try the new Pure self-tan knowing that I can whack it on and go to bed without worrying about it getting on my white sheets. I never use gradual tan in the day really especially in this heat as I think I would just sweat it off. I also liked the idea of this tan as it develops in 6 hours whereas most non-wash off tans take about 8 hours.

I absolutely love how sun-kissed this tan makes me look. I am super pale naturally and being tanned makes me feel confident as I don’t tan naturally either, I just burn! I used the Pure Self-Tanning Drops on my face too and throughout the week to keep my face tanned as my skincare usually strips the tan pretty quick. The tans blend beautifully mixed with moisturiser I was super impressed. I also love that this tan doesn’t have a really strong scent, to be honest none of Bondi Sands tans have a strong smell but that’s something I really like about them too!

Danielle says…

I was super stoked to try the new Bondi Sands Pure range, I loved the idea of a self-tanning product that is fragrance, dye and sulphate free! To give you a bit of background on my tanning CV, I’m naturally fair but I catch the sun very quickly without really trying, which sounds great but it often leaves me with an uneven tan and random tan lines. My legs especially from the knee down are SO hard to tan so if I can get those to the same colour as my arms and upper body using self-tan I’ll be very pleased. I HATE having my face in the sun and my skincare pretty much zaps any colour I do manage to gain naturally so I’ve been using a facial mist to tan my face in the summer months and that’s about the extent of my self-tan usage.

My self-tan goals for the Bondi Sands Pure range are to even out my existing upper-body tan, find something to give me a consistent glowy facial tan, and finally get super bronzed legs I feel confident showing off! To achieve this I concentrated on using the Self Tanning Face Mist and the Self Tan Foaming Water in shade dark. I made sure to shave and exfoliate the night before tanning as well as moisturise. When it came to doing the deed I stripped off in my bathroom popped on the Mitt and started with the Self Tan Foaming Water from my feet up to the top of each leg, some of the areas I was concerned about were my feet, knees and also hard to see/reach areas so I took my time and worked the product in using lots of circular motion all over my legs, then used the excess from the Mitt on my knees and feet. I couldn’t believe how quickly the product felt like it dried down which is such a relief knowing I was about to get into bed!

I’m an absolute lazy gal when it comes to a lot of beauty rituals and scoffed at how much work topping up your tan would be every week but after doing it, I couldn’t believe how easy it was. As soon as I felt relatively dry I went to bed and lay on top of my duvet watching a tv show for a little bit as even though I wasn’t worried about the tan transferring to my sheets I thought it might go streaky or patchy if I immediately put my pyjamas on and got into bed, I also applied it during the Great British summer which lasted approximately 4 days (classic) and lying on your bed with the windows open naked is basically a rite of passage.

The tan faded naturally and didn’t go patchy as it was coming off which I was super happy about, I carried on exfoliating lightly and moisturising in the days following and my skin continued to look great. Next time I’m going to use the gradual tanning lotion every other day following application and I think I’ll have a perfect tan for longer. I’m so glad this review pushed me to give self-tan a real go as it’s definitely something I’ll use more often, especially for events during the summer.

Holly says…

I’m quite lazy with my beauty routine so never really tried self-tan, even though I feel so much more confident when I’m a bit bronzed. In my head it was just so much effort, having to shave, exfoliate, moisturise and don’t get me started with the hassle of making sure my back is even. But I am pleased to let you know that I was wrong. The whole process is actually a lot easier than I thought. And I’ve learnt something new about myself in that I can reach the whole of my back woohoo.

To make sure I did it all right, I followed the Bondi Sands instructions to the letter. I exfoliated with their Coconut & Sea Salt Body Scrub first which works best if the skin is wet before applying. My skin was silky smooth when I got out of the shower, I then used the Body Moisturiser and 24 hours later I cracked on with the self-tanning.

I used the Self Tanning Drops in my moisturiser to tackle my face and if I do say so myself, my skin looks incredible. It’s such an even tone I haven’t even been wearing foundation. I’ve put drops in my moisturiser that I use every day and I’m actually chuffed. Just have to remember to blend it down to my neck so my face matches my body.

10/10 from me. It really helped even out my natural tan but didn’t look like self-tan at all. I’ll be using the Light/Medium shade in the winter months so that people can’t tell that it’s fake. Would definitely recommend it.

The Bondi Sands Pure Collection is available at Superdrug and Cult Beauty. 

Ad – In partnership with Bondi Sands

The novelty of seeing friends/family/neighbours/anyone who will hang out with us after the long drought without socialising has certainly not worn off yet, and you best believe we’re seizing every opportunity to be amongst company that we can. Having said that, the expenses of endless weekends out on the town, bar tabs, restaurant bills and ASOS orders to dress for said occasions is piling up, so if you’re Monzo pots are looking a little worse for wear, keep on reading …

May we politely suggest: hanging out at home. It’s time to embrace hosting for your fave ladies, cosy dinners and movie nights on the sofa, catch ups over a reduced bottle of Rosé and ‘make your own’ pizza that serves as entertainment as well as dinner. Sometimes all you need is an excuse to take your makeup off before 7pm and life is good again! It really is the little things. After so long spent at home, we certainly all understand the power of a welcoming space, but upgrading it for hosting might just be the next step in homeware switch ups to prepare for normality continuing to return. Get the gang together, celebrate making it to hump day or organise a Love Island viewing party, whatever the reason, hosting is here to stay!

*This post contains ad-affiliate links

Living in a van is the ultimate carefree nomadic lifestyle. No astronomical rent or pressure to mount the property ladder, just the freedom of the open road, simplicity and adventure. It’s slow living at its best, where making do with what you’ve got and embracing uncertainty is the new status quo.

But is #vanlife all it’s cracked up to be? Are you always living the dream in a bikini on a picturesque beach as Instagram would have us believe?

Living the free-spirited life might seem fun but it’s not without its problems. We spoke to these van dwelling pros to find out the reality of that van-living life. From saving money and seeing the world, to flat tyres, zero privacy and foraging for public toilets, here’s the good, bad and ugly of living out of a van.

Where’s Mollie

What was your lifestyle like before you took the van life plunge?

Before I moved into my van, I lived in London for 3 years whilst building my travel brand and blog, Where’s Mollie. My work and travels always took me into the heart of nature and combined with my base in London I had a beautiful balance of city/nature living. In March 2020, my London tenancy ended and I committed to full-time nature!

What appealed to you about this nomadic way of life?

I knew, moving out of London, that I wanted to move closer to nature but I wasn’t quite sure where. Moving into my van was my way of trying out different locations without the commitment. In the van, you can stay as long as you love somewhere and then move on when you’re ready. The flexibility was definitely appealing. I also love being in such close proximity to nature. In the van, you reduce your insulation between your body and the natural rhythms of the earth and the effect that has on your mental and physical health is profound. Waking up to the sound of the birds or the view of the ocean is just heaven on earth.

Did you convert your own van or was it already kitted out and ready to go? What are some of the things to consider before picking out a van that’s right for you?

I bought my VW transporter high top as a blank canvas. It was used for transporting goods before! No wicker baskets or surfboards in there beforehand! This was a creative project for me, my creative dream. I’d spent years mood boarding images and inspiration on Pinterest. I’d say, be patient when choosing your vehicle, it’s the most important part. The good ones go quick (just like renting in London), you have to be ready to view and act quickly. It’s so worth waiting for a van that will go the distance… literally. Particularly if you’re deciding to invest in the interior. It’s also good to think about how much time you’ll spend in it and how many of you will be in it. It’s so important to be comfortable if you want to live in it! If you’re spending any more time than just weekends in it, get something you can stand up in!

Do you live in the van full time or part-time / temporarily?

I’ve done 4-5 months total of full-time van living over the last year but vanlife wasn’t so fun when the UK was in lockdown. For me, it’s about the community you meet on the road and the connection you have to the people you meet along the way! The social lifestyle is what keeps me coming back for more. You know if someone’s in a van, you have more than a few things in common. It’s like a green light to chat. I love opening my doors to other van lifers and having a morning cuppa with them!

One of the best things about living on wheels is the freedom to travel wherever and whenever you want! What’s been your favourite road trip adventure, so far?

It’s between Scotland, where I spent the last 4 weeks… and my European road trip last summer. Scotland blew my mind, it was like New Zealand, Iceland and Canada all together in one (we got lucky with the weather which made a huge difference). In Scotland, the landscapes are so vast and their tolerance of wild camping makes it so easy to park in incredible locations. The same with Portugal last summer, at the time wild camping was legal and you could just pull up right on the ocean. That’s what it’s all about, driving your home into nature that silences your mind and brings joy right into your heart space!

Although there are endless advantages of living in a van, particularly for your mental health and wellbeing, it’s not for everyone. What are the greatest challenges and things you’ve learned along the way?

I’d say, for me, extended periods of time on the road can be exhausting. I think that’s because I’m running a business on the road, doing it solo and moving locations a lot. The energy it takes to navigate to new locations, maintain appropriate awareness as a solo traveller, meet new people, fix inevitable issues that arise, food shop every few days (limited storage), figure out where to fill up water (to name a few) can be tiring. Just the little things like washing up and locking everything down before you drive can take time and energy that you wouldn’t expend in a fixed apartment / home. I find myself craving stationary time after a while.

Humour us because we know people will want to know… what’s the toilet and showering situation really like?

Haha! If you’re not down for getting up close and personal with nature from time to time, van life might not be for you. Wild weeing for the win (it’s actually rather liberating). No but seriously, the places you spend your time more often than not have public toilets. You get into sync with what’s available and of course, if you’re on a campsite, you’re sorted. On top of that, I have a portable toilet option in the van.

For the shower situation, again I’m usually parked up near lakes / the ocean! So a combination of lake dips (with biodegradable, eco-friendly soap), beach showers, campsites and the shower I have in the back of my van. I’d be lying if I said I hadn’t used the baby wipe option from time to time.

It’s part of the adventure. You certainly begin to appreciate the abundance of luxury you have in a fixed home. Gratitude levels skyrocket.

Apart from the initial upfront costs of investing in a van, has it allowed you to save money in the long run?

Absolutely! I mean anything is cheaper than London rent lol. I’ve gone to the other side of the spectrum. I think in Scotland we stayed on 2 campsites in a month so that takes monthly rent from £1000+ down to like £40. Of course, there are many other costs incurred with a van (maintenance, fuel, parking) but on the whole, for such a wholesome lifestyle, it’s ridiculously attractive.

What do you do for work or have you taken some time off work right now?

I’m still running Where’s Mollie full time and also currently studying as I transition and open my new business. In the coming months I’ll be launching a new well-being business and graduating in Tantra-Kundalini Yoga, Conscious connected breathwork and level 3 sound healing!

How has living this way of life changed you as a person, what has it taught you?

Living in a van has showed me just how important it is to regularly disconnect from technology and to reconnect with the earth, our true nature. When you have no signal, you have no signal. You get outside. It’s made me so grateful for the little things that I once overlooked, like water and electric supply, a big fridge, a bath. Those things feel like incredible luxury to me now. Last summer, in the heart of the pandemic, I lived in my van for 4 months and felt complete peace in what was a globally chaotic time. Van life shows me that we are a product of the things we surround ourselves by, and it’s given me a clear direction and standard for the internal peace I want to feel in my life.

Do you think it’s something everyone should do at least once in their life, even if it’s for a vacation / short-term?

 It’s definitely an acquired taste but… even if you don’t see yourself as a ‘camper’, there are vans out there to suit everyone! You could get a top of the range, luxury van with an inbuilt toilet and hot water shower! All van life really means, is the willingness to be spontaneous, to be wild for a while and in return? to feel complete freedom.

One thing a van-lifer can’t live without…

A good tea and biscuits selection. Haha. Gosh so many things… to be honest, if we are being serious it’s a comfy bed and enough water storage! 

For anyone thinking about living in a van, what would be your golden advice?

Hire some first! Try out the lifestyle for a week/weekend before you commit to the investment. There are so many types of vans to choose from so it can also be really overwhelming when deciding which one to get. You never really know what you like design wise until you get in the van so hiring one is a good way to get an idea of what you like. There are websites like Camptoo where you can rent one out!

Follow @WheresMollie & @WheresMolliesVan on Instagram, and check out Mollie’s blog here!

Amy Nicholson

What was your lifestyle like before you took the vanlife plunge?

Just before covid hit, I was living in a flat on my own in a town just outside London. I was working as a freelancer remotely, which I love, and had a full rota of clients but when the pandemic hit I, unfortunately, lost all my work as marketing budgets got slashed. This meant I could no longer afford to live in the flat, so I moved back home with my parents. The idea of the van came about as I wanted to be able to have some freedom, and to explore and travel whilst we were in the midst of all this uncertainty and chaos. I had been wanting a van for years, as I had done a few trips in one in New Zealand and across Africa. I loved the simplicity of it all, and being able to explore and travel from your home. 

What appealed to you about this nomadic way of life?

I have lived the ‘nomadic’ lifestyle for a few years before I got my van, as I lived in Bali for three years working remotely out there. I had grown tired of the rat race in London, and was exhausted by the constant rush of city life, so after a year of traveling I eventually settled in Bali and started picking up freelance work. There was a huge ex-pat community living out there who were all working from their laptops, and it completely hooked me! To be able to choose your own hours and to design your work life around your hobbies was the dream! I decided to go freelance there and then, and since have been building up my portfolio of experience and clients. In the last few years [especially since covid] finding remote work has become a lot easier, so working remotely from the van is working out really well.

Did you convert your own van or was it already kitted out and ready to go? What are some of the things to consider before picking out a van that’s right for you?

I converted my current van myself yes! It was a project I took on during the last winter whilst in lockdown. Due to losing all my work, my flat, and various other difficult things I was dealing with behind closed doors, I needed something to focus on and put my creative energy into. It was incredibly hard, especially doing all the work in the freezing cold weather in the dark months of winter with no DIY experience at all, but it was so worth it. It’s very rewarding to be driving around in my little home on wheels that I built myself. I got some help with the difficult parts, like the electrical system, but the majority of it I did myself using the help of YouTube videos.

Do you live in the van full time or part-time / temporarily?

I am currently full-time in my van! I finished it in April 2021, and moved in that day! I’ve been exploring Cornwall, Devon, Scotland, and am currently in Wales. I’m planning to go over to Europe in September.

One of the best things about living on wheels is the freedom to travel wherever and whenever you want! What’s been your favourite road trip adventure, so far?

I actually had a smaller van before this one, and I went over to Portugal for 4 weeks last October which was incredible. At that time wild camping was allowed there and I can’t even put into words the beautiful places I parked up at. Waking up with ocean views is the dream. The weather was glorious, the surf amazing, and it was the first proper trip I had done in the van. I just completely fell in love with the simple life that vanlife offers on that trip. Since then, the two-week trip to Scotland I did recently blew my mind – the scenery there is incredible!

Although there are endless advantages of living in a van, particularly for your mental health and wellbeing, it’s not for everyone. What are the greatest challenges and things you’ve learned along the way?

I travel a lot on my own, so there are times that I do struggle with loneliness. The vanlife community is very open, but if you are struggling with your mental health and not feeling confident to be sociable, it can be a lonely place being in this small space on your own away from your friends and family. But, I also had these feelings living in my flat on my own, and having an ocean view is much better for me and my headspace than a town view! It can also be stressful constantly trying to find places to stay, feeling unsafe in new locations, and not having that routine [like your local gym or coffee shop]. But for the most part, I love the thrill of moving around and exploring!

Humour us because we know people will want to know… what’s the toilet and showering situation really like?

Due to wild camping being illegal in most of England and the fact that I feel safer in a campsite when I am on my own, I actually spend a lot of time in campsites, so the toilet and shower facilities are great here. I do have a Porta Potti in my van, which is basically a glorified potty. It has a flush and a toilet lid so it feels like a toilet, but you have to empty and clean it every few days – that is probably my least favourite thing about living in the van. But it is funny how quickly you get used to it! My outdoor shower is also great – it’s cold, but a cold shower is good for you!

Apart from the initial upfront costs of investing in a van, has it allowed you to save money in the long run?

I’m saving a lot of money living in my van now because I’m paying no rent, mortgage, or living bills [I have a full solar system so I don’t even pay for electrical hook up at campsites]. My only outgoings are my mobile, wifi router, campsite costs, and diesel. I also am living a very simple stripped-back, outdoor life – so I am spending much less in general too. No more expensive nights out in London or mass orders on ASOS [I mean, I can’t shop because I literally don’t have anywhere to put anything new!]

What do you do for work or have you taken some time off work right now?

I am a freelance marketing consultant. I have built up my portfolio since losing all my work last March and am busier than ever, which I love! I designed my van layout so that in the day it transforms into my office! I am clocking some long laptop hours, and I do try to show this on my social media – I work hard to have this lifestyle. 

How has living this way of life changed you as a person, what has it taught you?

Traveling solo has made me more confident, and the time alone has given me the chance to figure out what makes me happy and work on a few things that were making my headspace a little fuzzy. The stripped-back lifestyle has also made me much more chilled out! The simple life of vanlife has definitely rubbed off on me and my attitude towards life and how I want to live it. I’m much less materialistic than I used to be, and have found a new love for outdoor hobbies like hiking and surfing. I think all of these things contribute to me feeling a much healthier and happy person in general.

Do you think it’s something everyone should do at least once in their life, even if it’s for a vacation / short-term?

It definitely won’t be for everyone, but why not give it a go! It might surprise you. I think a really positive thing to come out of the pandemic is that it has given a lot of people the time to sit back, to stop, and to look at their life and whether they are happy. It is so easy to get caught up in this rollercoaster of life, but sometimes we do just need a little re-set. Taking a little trip in a van might be just the thing you need to re-evaluate what is important to you and what makes you genuinely happy. 

One thing a van-lifer can’t live without…

Eco-friendly soap! I try to be as environmentally friendly as I can in the van, and when I outdoor shower I use soap that is biodegradable.

For anyone thinking about living in a van, what would be your golden advice?
Try before you buy! I  spent a month in my first van and that trip was so eye-opening to understand how I wanted my layout of my second van to be, what I needed to have in the van, what I needed to pack etc – it’s all a personal preference and there is no right or wrong way, so it’s just what works for you! 

Follow @Freelance_Amy on Instagram!

The creme de la creme of any outfit: jewellery. Whether you’re a minimalist, maximalist or somewhere in between dresser, the final touches of a sentimental ring or fun statement earring never go amiss in finishing off an outfit with some added extra flame emojis. Brands such as Gucci have championed a ‘more is more’ approach to styling jewellery in recent years, and piling on the rings, beaded bracelets and layering necklaces has never been cooler.

The pandemic and earlier lockdowns were partly responsible for this shift towards trends such as resin rings and kitsch, colourful styles, with everyone and their mum ordering beads and thread galore via Amazon Prime to pass the time and create something totally unique. Y2K nostalgia is truly alive and well!

This week the team are running through the classic and contemporary jewellery pieces on our current wish list, showcasing the best of the best from indie and small online businesses that nail this market so well. If you’re in need of an injection of fun to be added into your styling repertoire, look no further.

Zoe

I am a lazy jewellery wearer but LOVE jewellery! It’s one of those things that is always a last minute decision when getting ready in the mornings and I definitely don’t put in the time to properly think about which pieces of jewellery compliment an outfit/which should I wear that day. So once I’ve put something on, it usually stays on or is repeatedly worn for weeks or months on end before I get bored or realise I have other lovely jewellery I could wear or layer together. I like a lot of classic bits and some of my favourite pieces have definitely been from Carrie Elizabeth, Missoma & Estee Lalonde Gold Goddess Collection with Daisy London!

*Missoma, Short Beaded Necklace, £129 | *Missoma, Flat Snake Chain Necklace, £198 | Carrie Elizabeth, Simple Star Set Diamond Band In Gold Vermeil, £90 | Carrie Elizabeth, Dainty White Topaz Star Chain In Gold Vermeil, £100 | *Daisy Jewellery, Estée Lalonde Wavy Snake Chain Necklace 18ct Gold Plate, £109 | *Daisy Jewellery, Estée Lalonde Goddess Glow Hoop Earrings 18Ct Gold Plate, £119

Darcey

I love myself some beaded jewellery, just find it’s super nostalgic and I like that really playful jewellery has made a comeback, very 2000’s! I recently bought these beaded necklaces from a lovely Etsy shop called Jessie’s Happy Wave, her pieces are so bloody cute and customisable as well! Also, is anyone else obsessed with Millie’s Sagittarius necklace? Cause same, so best believe I’ve ordered myself a Gemini one. Lastly, I am obsessed with large gold hoops and I wear these ones from Missoma nearly every day as they go with so many outfits.

*Etsy, Custom Y2K Beaded Necklace Personalised Necklace, £13.50 | *Etsy, Smiley Pearl Necklace | Choker, £11 | *Etsy, Zodiac Necklace for Astrology Lovers Pendant, £24.38 | *Missoma, Medium Molten Hoop Earrings, £115

Danielle

When it comes to my relationship with jewellery the phrase “buy cheap, buy twice” has never been more true. I’ve gone through countless multi-packs of earrings and rings and I’m pretty sure I lost or broke them all within a matter of months. I now try and spend a bit more on good quality jewellery that won’t stain my skin, pieces I love so much I could never lose them. I’ve picked out a few things I like from my favourite brands, Carrie Elizabeth has beautiful rings, I can’t stop thinking about this rose quartz one! Astrid and Miyu offer lovely dainty bits and this necklace is perfect if you’re wanting to buy into the colourful jewellery trend but keep it classic this is perfect. In the Frow’s collaboration with Edge of Ember is lovely especially the pearl pieces. I recently came across Junk Jewels on Instagram and love their colourful stones embedded in gold.

Junk Jewels, Kaleidoscope Disco Hoop Earrings, £26 | *Edge of Ember, Inthefrow Tahiti Pearl Bracelet, £155 | *Astrid & Miyu, Spectrum Necklace in Gold, £79 | Carrie Elizabeth, Georgia Rose Quartz & White Topaz Ring In Gold Vermeil, £80

Lareese

I’m loving all the resin 90s sweetshop style rings making a comeback at the moment, they looks so good stacked up with nail art. I’m also a huge fan of classics like Wolf & Badger, Merjuri and Daphne for elevated jewellery you can wear with anything.

*Etsy, Retro Chunky Daisy Rings, £13.50 | La Manso, Supernova, £49.99 | *Wolf & Badger, Unlucky Horseshoe Ring, £160 | Mejuri, Dôme Ring, £60 | Daphine, THIN OLI RING, £60

Holly

I’m so bad at remembering to put on jewellery and also I lose it after 3 wears, but I’m trying to be better. I’ve brought a few nice bits recently and I’m just trying to wear the same ones every day until I get into the swing of it. My absolutely favourites are my ring I made with the CAST experience guys and a necklace my best friend brought me of hands pinky promising. They are both mean so much to me so I know I’ll take care of them.

*Etsy, Hand Gestures Necklace £35.22 | Cast, Bespoke Jewellery Making Kit, £29 | *Missoma, Mini Helical Hoop Earrings, £39 | Carrie Elizabeth, Hexagon Opal Ring In Gold Vermeil, £90

Charlotte

I’m SUCH a big jewellery person so I never have any issue finding jewellery I like- if anything there’s too many pieces I want to add to my collection because I have dreams of being as extra and blinged up as Mr Styles himself. A Gucci king I think we all aspire to be a bit more like. Mejuri is a brand I come back to time and time again for high quality pieces that don’t break the bank, and their Charlotte collection is chef’s kiss if I do say so myself. I’m very much a gold jewellery person, hence the theme of these picks- I think it’s just so classy and grown up! Junk Jewels is a more affordable brand that does gorgeousssss pieces too and is great for building up your collection.

Mejuri, Large Croissant Dôme Hoops, £140 | Marah Cotta, the smiley pearl ring, £24 | Seol + Gold, Compass Star Signet Ring, £29.95 | Junk Jewels, Moonstone Heart Hoop Earrings, £26 | Junk Jewels, Kaleidoscope Disco Chain Bracelet, £28

*This post contains ad-affiliate links

First off, how are you and how is your 2021 going?

2021 has been a really exciting year for me despite the national lockdowns! I have enjoyed being able to ‘slow down’, spend some quality time at home whilst on maternity leave, and get to grips with motherhood, having had my baby girl, Savannah, in August of 2020.

I was also really fortunate to be included in the Team Bath Netball Superleague squad for the 2020/ 2021 season, and I relished the opportunity under the Government’s elite athlete framework during the lockdown, to be able to engage in the elite training environment at Bath with my teammates in order to compete in the Netball Superleague 2021 season.

The last year has been challenging for us all in a variety of ways, so it’s also been wonderful to invest in and reconnect more frequently with family and friends.

Can you tell us about your career in netball?

I first started playing netball at secondary school and if I’m honest, I only started playing because my friends played and I loved the social aspect that comes with team sport. However, the more I played, the more competitive I became and I started to fall in love with the game.

I remember my mum taking me to watch England v Australia at Wembley when I was 12. I was mesmerized by the speed of the game and the ‘Amazonian’ athletes. It was there and then, that I developed my dream to one day play for England and wear the coveted ‘Red Dress’.

I debuted for the England Netball Senior Squad in 2008 and to date, I sit on 104 appearances which span across 3 World Cup Championships and 3 Commonwealth Games. Our greatest success was winning the Gold Medal at the 2018 Commonwealth Games, beating tournament and world favourites, Australia, by one goal in a thrilling final.

When did you first discover Netball and what do you love most about it?

My mum had a major influence in my desire to participate in sport. She herself, was national basketball and netball player at junior level and she always encouraged me to get involved and take part.

What I love most about netball is the community that you become a part of. It is a sisterhood and the friendships that I have made will transcend my career in the sport and are what have made the journey and continue to make the journey thoroughly enjoyable. Through the highs and the lows, it’s the unwavering support, the commitment to build on each other’s strengths, the fun, the memories and most importantly the laughter is what glues me to the sport and why I am so passionate about it.

How has the sport changed in your lifetime?

There has been a real growth in awareness and the development of netball. The sport provides opportunities for people around the world.

It has been amazing to see the growth of the sport especially with the world-class events I’ve been lucky to be involved in. The launch of World Netball and their new strategy has shown how much the sport has grown into a global game that’s providing opportunities for people around the world. It’s really exciting to see the sport look ahead.

Can you tell us about World Netball’s campaign #YOURNETBALLWORLD?

The Your Netball World mosaic was all about collecting inspirational stories from the netball family around the world. The mosaic has over 1400 entries from 30+ countries and was revealed to mark two years to go until the Netball World Cup 2023 in South Africa – there are some really amazing and heart-warming stories in there, it’s been wonderful to see the netball family come together. View the mosaic here!

What are your top tips for adults wanting to get back into playing netball?

Do it, do it, do it! Find a local session near to you using the Netball Finder tool on the England Netball Website. Just enter your postcode and pop along. I promise you after you take the first step, you’ll enjoy it and won’t look back!

Why do you think playing team sports is so important?

Team sports are important as it allows you to build a connection with like-minded individuals with a common goal. It also assists with the development of physical ability and emotional intelligence. In my opinion, netball is one of the greatest team sports because it requires little resource but it can cater to a large group of individuals. It is a sport that is wholly inclusive, there is no prescribed body type or skill ability needed in order to play the game and it can be played by anyone, the young and old.

What are you currently working on?

My maternity leave ends at the beginning of September and I will return to my role as a solicitor. So I am currently making the most of my time with Savannah and my husband doing day visits to local attractions and visiting family members.

I am also engaging with some summer training with the England Netball Roses as we look forward to the Commonwealth Games in 2022 to be held in Birmingham. I still have a long way to go in terms of getting back physically to where I was before, so I am taking this pre-season training one step at a time, being kind to myself (reminding myself, I had a baby 11 months ago and it’s ok to go slowly), and enjoying the process.

Can you tell us some of the most inspiring women in sports you follow online?

Serena Williams – The G.O.A.T., an ultimate champion who epitomises hard work, determination, resilience and what it means to break down social barriers and continuously change the narrative.

Denise Lewis OBE – An Olympic Gold Medallist, Mum of 4, Wife, TV Pundit/Presenter and businesswoman. The list goes on, but I consider her to be a real-life example of a high achiever, a woman of ambition who when she graces our TV screens always delivers with poise, eloquence and elegance.

What does your perfect weekend look like?

A perfect weekend is a healthy and hearty family breakfast followed by a long outdoor walk, usually along the Salisbury plains or around the Longleat Forest in the sunshine. Recently we’ve been able to strap Savannah into her Thule buggy and continue our love of exploring with ease. I love spending time with my family and I find that getting outdoors with little to no distractions allows us to connect and spend real quality time together.

After an outdoor adventure, food is always key. So retreating to a quaint countryside eatery which serves good food and drinks is a must! I try to fit in a workout at the gym at some point and more recently ensure that I touch base with family members near and far over zoom (as we haven’t been able to do so in person).

Weekends for me are a time to rest, relax and unwind; so at some point, you are also guaranteed to find me in a bath with some Epsom salts, a Mum and You face mask on and a True Grace candle burning. I try to always carve out some ‘me’ time where possible. I feel like it keeps me sane and allows me to retain a personal sense of identity, away from all the different ‘hats’ that I wear on a daily and working week basis.

What do you always carry with you?

I wear a single necklace that has two interconnecting rings as the centrepiece. On the largest ring, I have my name and my husband’s name inscribed alongside our wedding date. On the smaller ring, I have my daughter’s name, Savannah inscribed alongside her birthdate. Alongside my weddings rings, it’s the most treasured piece of jewellery I own!

What would your last ever meal be?

My mum’s Spaghetti Bolognese. It’s food for the soul and it always puts a smile on my face.

What is one positive piece of advice you could give to our audience?

Don’t be afraid to fail. Be afraid to not try. You’ll be richer for the experience regardless of the outcome.

Follow Eboni on Instagram here!

Picture this: your hair is greasy, your alarm didn’t go off, your dog has vommed on the kitchen floor and you’ve ran out of tea for your morning cuppa. Not a great start to the day, and in all honesty we’re not sure who you peed off in a past life but it’s not looking good. Anyhow, you need to get out the door STAT, but what are you going to wear? Let us remind you of the unsung wardrobe hero, the staple of any staycation suitcase, the cutest and most comfortable addition to any haul- that’s right people, it’s the humble midi dress.

Keep it feminine with sandals, add a grungy edge with a layered band tee or add a practical twist with some chunky trainers, and remember gleefully that there is nothing you cannot achieve in the perfect midi dress- you simply cannot go wrong. And as the U.K. summer continues to be somewhat lacklustre, the midi dress cements itself once again as the perfect staple piece to carry you through to Autumn (cries in Pumpkin Spice), making it a totally sensible and justifiable purchase. 

Read on for 24 of the best midi dresses to shop now, from & Other Stories, Molby The Label, Nobody’s Child, Kitri and more!

*This post contains ad-affiliate links

Content Warning: It’ll make you snort into your wine glass with the grace of a reversing dump truck.

Lizzy Dent’s delightful novel and soon-to-be TV series The Summer Job couldn’t have landed in our laps at a better time. If the perfect heatwave companion exists, then Dent has well and truly crafted a 10/10 fren to unfurl under a parasol with this one.

The pitch-perfect tone makes it feel like you’re on a night out with the girls and its honest and self-deprecating protagonist, Birdy Finch (who also happens to answer to Heather), will have you rooting for her from the very first page.

A case of mistaken identity and Highland hijinks coupled with just the right amount of grit ensures this summer read holds its own where others often tail off into soppy delirium and tweedom.

If you’re looking for something to fill the Fleabag shaped hole in your life, prepare to plonk yourself on the beach for the day and inhale this page-turner quicker than hunks of baguette dunked in aioli.

Keep scrolling to see what the team thought of this laugh-out-loud Scottish (mis)adventure!

Have you ever imagined running away from your life?

Well Birdy Finch didn’t just imagine it. She did it. Which might’ve been an error.

And the life she’s run into? Her best friend, Heather’s.

The only problem is, she hasn’t told Heather.

Actually there are a few other problems…

Can Birdy carry off a summer pretending to be her best friend (who incidentally is a world-class wine expert)?

And can she stop herself from falling for the first man she’s ever actually liked (but who thinks she’s someone else)?

I think we can all agree that the ONLY saving grace of this pandemic was the fact we didn’t have to wear proper clothes for 90% of 2020, and no-one bat an eyelid if you so happened to end up at the corner shop in said loungewear/pyjamas – truly simpler times. Whilst the ability to go to the pub/club/shop till you drop is wonderful in many ways (except for our bank balance, RIP), getting dressed every day might feel like a chore if you’re still longing for your beloved loungewear. Introducing: athleisure. You’re dressed as if you’re going to the gym, everyone around you thinks you’re going to the gym, but are you actually going to the gym? No siree. This stylish hybrid between gym wear and ‘grabbing coffee and running errands’ fashion is here to stay and we’re not mad about it. Workout clothes just got cool.

Gone are the days of PE kits you’d rather be seen dead in than wear for a second longer than necessary, #health is wealth and having a fitting outfit to translate that is everything. Brands such as TALA, Sweaty Betty, Girlfriend Collective and ASOS 4505 are ones to keep on your radar, and make actually having to leave the house the teeniest bit more comfortable.

Princess Di inspired cycling shorts 4ever.

Charlotte

Comfort + expandable waistlines …. yes please! Whilst the gym isn’t my most natural habitat I sure do have a thing for leggings/cycling shorts/oversized tees and anything that feels a little like pyjamas outside of the house. I’m living for the neon trend so these shorts are right up my alley for a fun summer look, and paired with a casual, toned down tee it makes for the perfect running errands look. Very Princess Di vibes! Paired with some black Converse- my most worn trainers- it’s a ‘fit I know I’ll be reaching for often.

*Future Self, Oversized UV Activated Tee, £30 | Neu Apparel, Acid Green Athena Neon Cycling Shorts, £25 | *Converse, Chuck Taylor All Star Classic, £57 | *Hollister, CLEAR MESSENGER BAG, £19

Danielle

I’m such a sucker for biker shorts and an oversized t-shirt, not only to release my inner off-duty Princess Di, but also because it’s SO comfy. I’m excited about the new SKIMS outdoor range so I’d put these malachite biker shorts to the test. Crisp white Nike tee with a sporty vibe and I’d wear that with some Arizona Love sandals. Throw on a lil baseball cap and I’m good to go.

*Skims, OUTDOOR BASICS BIKE SHORT, £52 | *ASOS, Nike Basketball 90s Premium t-shirt in white, £37 | *Farfetch, Arizona Love Trekky mixed-print sandals, £100 | *Weekday, Tip Cap, £12

Darcey

I love a sporty look with no intention of doing any actual sports! I recently got this tennis skort and top from Sophia & Cinzia X Slazenger collection and it is suuuuper cute. Paired with a big tote bag and some trainers you look prepped for the tennis court, but really I’m heading for brunch and a big iced latte!

Sports Direct, SLAZENGER x Sophia & Cinzia Court Skort, £11 | Sports Direct, SLAZENGER x Sophia & Cinzia Crop Top, £10 | *Future Self, Slogan Oversized Tote Bag, £22 | *ASOS, New Balance 530 trainers in white and peach, £80

Lareese

I never thought I’d be here for sportswear outside of the gym but I’ve done a full 180 since lockdown. I love how you can throw on some trainers, an oversized sweatshirt or baggy slogan tee, shorts and sunnies like the OG of 80s bike short outfits, Princess Diana, and be done for the day. It’s a top tier ‘just running few errands’ easy-going ‘fit in my eyes.

*Footlocker, New Balance 530, £79.99 | *Weekday, Standard Sweatshirt, £25 | *Arket, Seamless™ Yoga Shorts, £25 | Hannah-Michelle, Unisex Organic Fair Wear Green is Groovy T-shirt, £26 | Organic Basics, Organic Cotton Socks 2-pack, £14.00

Holly

I can’t say that I’m really one to wear sportswear as daywear, the only thing I think I would ever do would be to pop to the shops in cycle shorts and an oversized tee/jumper. Put on with my favourite trainers and you have ultimate chilled out comfort.

Skinny Dip, Anne Marie x Skinnydip Take Care T-Shirt, £20 | H&M, Seamless biker shorts, £9.99 | London Sock Company, LAVENDER SOCKS, £12 | Sports Direct, NIKE Star Runner 2 Big Kids’ Running Shoe, £32.99

*This post contains ad-affiliate links

First off, how are you and how is your 2021 going?

As with everyone, there are some very big changes happening in life and work. However, these changes have been incredible for my life. We have made Moody a fully remote business and I have moved to Portugal to build our vitamin product line and begin a new life of sunshine and surf.

Can you tell us about your career and how it has evolved?

I started my first business at 23 in 2011. It was a live event and social content business working with brands like Nike, Microsoft and Diageo. I was young but had a specific view of the new era of social and how brands could use live events as a vehicle for acquiring audiences and building brand loyalty. It felt as though that business was born out of me being in London at a unique moment, as social media exploded into the brand world. I sold this business in 2016 to start Moody, a tech company that uses data ethically to help women connect with the science of their bodies and personalise the experience for their daily health and wellness needs.

What’s the story behind Moody Month and how it started?

I burned out whilst building my first company. My periods stopped and I just kept working, until one day I realised my health was more important. At this stage, I made a tough call to sell the company I had built and begin working on how we solve the problem of stress impacting women’s hormones, health and happiness. 

Why do you think tracking your hormones is so important?

Understanding how your hormones affect your daily mental and physical health helps you make informed choices about life, work and even relationships. Our hormones have a huge part to play in how we optimise our productivity, reduce stress, and improve happiness. They also affect sleep, metabolism and even sex drive. All key functions for our bodies ability to be happy and healthy. They are the why behind wellness.

What do you want people to get from downloading the Moody Month app?

Moody is a game-changer for optimising happiness and reducing stress, connecting you with yourself and your body.

Moody provides each user with a daily understanding of how their hormones are fluctuating across their cycle. Logging and journaling alongside that allows women to connect with patterns of moods and symptoms, along with customised daily diet, exercise and nutrition tips and wellness solutions.

What are some of the best benefits of being more in tune with your body?

Less guilt about how these changes affect our emotional and physical self. When we have this knowledge, it helps us understand that we don’t wake up the same every day, we have flows and cycles that mean when we know how this works, we can work with these patterns and cycles. You become more productive as you reduce guilt and stress.

Can you tell us about your book, Moody: A 21st Century Hormone Guide?

The book is all the science and research behind the app that shows how we can use hormonal science to optimise our everyday lives, not just focus on fertility or contraception. This is science we should be learning in school and yet in 2021 we are having to re-learn how our bodies work, so we can better inform ourselves on the health and wellness choices we are making that work for us. Not following trends, but listening and learning from how your hormonal body works.

What are you currently working on?

I’m looking at how we can build more products and services that support women’s long term hormonal health, as well as working on hormone health research and education, to ensure we build a future world where every person who menstruates has access to the science they need to understand how their hormonal body works.

Who are some of your favourite body empowerment accounts online?

@eatlovemove – inspiring nutritionist who is breaking down wellness norms, science and body positivity

@christinamay (aka holistic baddie) – bringing all the vibes to wellness

@dose – wellness for hedonists – focuses on dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin and endorphins, our happy hormones and neurotransmitters

@ferly – sexual health and wellness – best app and social account for how sex and pleasure can help your health

@jadasezer – all-round badass and I am in love with her approach to neuroscience, health, body image and life

What does your perfect weekend look like?

I always try and start my weekends with a surf. It’s a new passion and I have been learning since moving to Portugal. This is followed by some time to decompress from the week, 15 mins of breathwork or meditation is key in my morning.

I always prioritise some time with friends and will often cook or host friends at my apartment. My friends are more like family to me and in Covid times these friendships and bonds have been a transformative tool for navigating through such challenging social restrictions. It’s also an important hormonal health support, as when we see friends and bond we release DOSE: Dopamine, Oxytocin, Serotonin and Endorphins. These are your happy hormones and neurotransmitters.

What do you always carry with you?

I have a ring that I wear every day and I bought it as a gift to marry myself. I remind myself that I must love who I am and be whole, or I can’t be much use to anyone else. I would advise everyone to marry themselves.

What would your last ever meal be?

Ramen (veggie). Noodle soup is my safe, cosy comfort food. It is my favourite meal and my go-to when I feel happy or sad.

What is one positive piece of advice you could give to our audience?

By best advice is to connect with your body and yourself by following this 3-step programme:

1. Marry yourself and commit to a life with yourself through sickness and health. You and your body are your biggest asset.
2. Understand your body, listen, and learn how to build daily routines that work for you. Use tech tools like Moody to help make your daily routines easy.
3. Forgive yourself quickly when you inevitably fail or don’t meet your own standards.