30 Gifts We Totally Won’t Judge You For Buying For Yourself This Christmas
In the same vein of deliciously 'AHHH' worthy presents you'd buy for your bestie, look no further than this edit for a selection of gift ideas that will make your year too!
2021 may have been an improvement on the year we’d rather forget, but it has certainly still had endless highs and lows that mean a well needed rest, reset and recharge this Christmas are something worth counting down for. And although the most wonderful time of the year is the perfect time to celebrate your nearest and dearest and spill out the thoughts and feelings that have filled your gratitude journal over the past 365 days, we’re here to remind you that you also deserve to feel special and treat yourself in ways you normally wouldn’t, just because you can.
In the same vein of deliciously ‘AHHH’ worthy presents you’d buy for your bestie, look no further than this edit for a selection of gift ideas that will make your year too! From luxury candles to keepsake jewellery, indulgent make-up (hello Gucci) to new artwork to spice up your home, find something that makes your heart sing and add it the basket before the self deprecating voice (that we all have btw) tells you you don’t deserve it. You can be your own best friend if you let yourself be treated like one, and if that’s not an attitude to take into 2022 we don’t know what is…
Sober Curious? Here’s 10 Booze-Free Cocktails To Sink This Christmas
Whether you’re teetotal all year round, expecting a baby or just embracing the holiday season and going easy on the mulled stuff because you don’t need booze to have a good time, these alcohol-free cocktails will ensure you’re happy and hangover-free through all the merriment.
Having a sober Christmas this year? Join the club.
There are bottomless benefits of celebrating the holidays without booze, the best one of all being fresh as a daisy for Boxing Day / Christmas Day take two and revelling in the smugness of your good, responsible choices.
Zero alcohol spirits and mocktails are having a real moment, so your cup will be full to the brim, literally and metaphorically. Whether you’re teetotal all year round, expecting a baby or just embracing the holiday season and going easy on the mulled stuff because you don’t need booze to have a good time, these alcohol-free cocktails will ensure you’re happy and hangover-free through all the merriment.
Now is as good a time as any to be sober curious and with this drinks menu at your fingertips, December 25th will be anything but dull. See you at the bar!
Apple Highball
Beer fear doesn’t live here. Using the Seedlip Garden 108 combined with apple juice, lemon and maple syrup you’ll be able to get through your day without a hint of humiliation.
Add 60ml of Garden 108, 30ml unfiltered apple juice, 15ml lemon juice and 15ml maple syrup to a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake and strain into a highball glass, top with soda, fresh ice and an apple fan for garnish.
An absolute coffee lover’s dream, perfect for perking you up when you feel yourself nodding off to the Eastenders special.
Simply add 60ml of Seedlip Spice 94, 50ml of a cold brew concentrate of your choice and 15ml sugar syrup to a shaker. Add ice and shake. Garnish with fresh coffee beans to make your no-liquor pièce de resistance look and taste like the real deal.
Serve up a big bowl of this holiday punch with a ladle so guests can help themselves. In a large punch bowl, mix 2 cups of cranberry juice, 1 cup of OJ and 1 cup of pineapple juice. Give it a good stir. When you’re ready to serve, add 2 cups of sparkling apple juice or apple cider and 1 cup of ginger ale for a festive kick. Finish with fresh orange slices, pomegranate seeds or cherries for garnish and plenty of ice.
For an easy booze-free take on this traditional festive tipple loved by all, grab a bottle of non-alcoholic Merlot or pomegranate juice and cranberry juice if you prefer + orange slices, cloves, cinnamon sticks and star anise. If you’re going for the juice option, you’ll need 2 cups of water too.
For a true lazy gal recipe, bung it all in the slow cooker on low for 1.5 hours whilst you crack on with some Christmas wrapping. When it’s done and your house is smelling like a Homesense aisle, strain the mulling spices, pour into a heatproof glass or mug and garnish with a slice of orange and hit play on Mariah. Cheers to the joy of mulling out. You’re not missing a thing!
Christmas off the sauce never looked better. Put all the ingredients in a shaker, fine strain and pour in a coupette glass – she fancy! Garnish with orange zest and enjoy every last smug sip.
Ingredients:
45ml Lyre’s Pink London Gin 15ml Lyre’s Orange Sec 15ml lime juice 30ml cranberry juice 7.5ml strawberry syrup Lemon twist (optional)
For something rich and decadent to see you through the cocktail party, let this vanilla sour elevate your dry December with aplomb. Add all ingredients to a shaker, strain into a cocktail glass and garnish with a lemon twist or edible flowers.
Ingredients:
50ml Everleaf FOREST 25ml fresh lemon juice 15ml vanilla syrup 15ml aquafaba or egg white
For a bright and complex alternative to the classic minty mojito, add 50ml Everleaf MOUNTAIN, 25ml fresh lime juice, 15ml wildflower honey, 6-8 mint leaves and pomegranate seeds to a highball glass. Mix until the honey has dissolved. Top up the glass with crushed ice and churn with a cocktail spoon. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint and you’re good to knock it back. Aesthetically-pleasing, festive, thirst-quenching but most importantly, a friend to all (foreheads).
The designated driver shall not be an afterthought this year with this indulgent non-alcoholic take on the classic Snowball.
For the syrup, heat together sugar and water until the sugar dissolves. Leave to cool and pour into a jar. Add the mincemeat to infuse overnight. Strain the mixture and reserve the syrup. Measure out 10ml of the syrup, mix with the other ingredients until white and frothy. Pour into glasses, dust with cinnamon and garnish with redcurrants. For extra points, rim your glasses with cinnamon sugar. Cin-cin!
Ingredients:
Snowball:
300ml vanilla ice cream 100ml lemon juice 500ml diet lemonade ½ tsp ground cinnamon 60g redcurrants
A prosecco-based cocktail made virgin – this zero proof bellini has enough fire in its fizz that you’ll be hard pressed to tell it apart from its boozy counterpart.
Using a chilled champagne flute, add 25ml peach puree. Top it up with London Essence White Peach and Jasmine Crafted Soda for posh champagne-style bubbles, leaving just enough room for a curl of lemon zest. All we want is Soft Seltzer for Christmas.
Curl up with this cool ‘n’ creamy classic + your favourite Hallmark movie and sleep soundly knowing that you didn’t ruin the family portrait this year.
Divide the crushed ice between 4 glasses, leaving the rest in a cocktail shaker. Add the coffee syrup to the shaker then the milk. Attach the lid and give it a gentle shake. Pour into your glasses, garnish and get sinking the good stuff. Merry Christmas, ya filthy sober animal.
From puffers to trench coats and shearling to quilted numbers too, the options for a slice of newness on your coat stand mean simply choosing one will likely be as much of a challenge as deciding on which Christmas coffee to try from Starbs first.
Oh the weather outside will soon be frightful, and a new season coat is so delightful! Is there anything more deliciously indulgent than a new piece of outerwear to start the cool winter season? We think not…
From puffers to trench coats and shearling to quilted numbers too, the options for a slice of newness on your coat stand mean simply choosing one will likely be as much of a challenge as deciding on which Christmas coffee to try from Starbs first. And unlike the winter of 2020 (the darkest of times) in which the most love your coat was ever gonna get was a walk down to the local park or beach, this season your newest purchases can be shown off in all their glory at the ice rink, Christmas market and en route to your Friendmas dinner for maximum value for money paid in compliments and ‘oooh where did you get it?!’ remarks. Did someone say main character energy?
Keep scrolling to see Team Zoella’s top picks from the dream destinations that are & Other Stories, Jakke, Whistles, Skinnydip and more…
Danielle
It’s so hard trying not to buy a hundred coats as soon as the colder months come. I feel like a coat is such a big part of my outfit (especially when I’m wearing jeans 90% of the time) that I really need a lot of trend-led outerwear to update my looks. I’ve picked 4 coats I’m drooling over that I think will serve many different purposes, the first being this gorgeous white smart coat from River Island, which I’d save “for best” obviously! The second is a black quilted long coat from H&M, perfect for throwing on for work or the pub on a Saturday afternoon. The third had to be a trench, so good when you just need a light layer on top of your bulky Christmas jumper, great for heading into town and brunch. The 4th and final had to be something in this season’s most desired green, this little smart jacket would be great for evening events and office days!
I look forward to the crisp mornings every year, when you can throw a coat over any outfit and look somewhat put-together, regardless of what’s underneath. Zara and H&M are my faithful favourites for an everyday coat that’s guaranteed to work with my whole wardrobe. For fun fashion-forward coats and jackets, I’ve recently discovered the brand Jakke. If you’re in the market for an investment piece and want to make a statement this season, Jakke needs to be on your radar! I’m obsessed with the cuffs on the green Bailey coat.
My coat collection is one that’s always growing and I am of the opinion that you can never have enough- they literally make up your whole outfit in the winter months so I can always justify more! Most of my current coats are short so I think this season I need to invest in a few that offer maximum warmth and cover my bum at least. ASOS is my go-to but I always sleep on H&M and they’ve got some good’uns this year!
Winter jackets are the first thing I get excited about when the colder days begin, they really do make an outfit, but you also want them to be practical as well (especially living in the UK with rainy cold days). Marks & Spencer have the perfect longline quilted coat, super affordable and very lightweight but warm, so it’s perfect for the commute/dog walking etc. I also found a really lovely shearling jacket, perfect for those sunny crisp mornings, also both of these jackets are pretty timeless so I know they’ll do me well for years to come. Lastly, this mono check jacket from Topshop is SO NICE, I am obsessed with it. I urge everyone to buy it.
I went to Liverpool in September and all my coats got stolen, genuinely 4 coats/jackets so I have some very recent experience shopping for winter coats. I was very sensible and brought coats for every eventuality. I got a practical black puffer one for the wintery walks and national trust trips I’m planning. A fun faux fur one to subdue the heartbreak of my strawberry coat being stolen and a leather jacket for when we’re queuing for the club. As well as a fancier one for work and day to day life where pink fluffy clouds might not be acceptable.
3 Christmas Decor Ideas Kris Jenner Would Be Proud Of
From mantelpiece garlands to tree decorations, table centrepieces and entranceways that wow, there’s endless decorative options to explore when Christmas-ifying your home this festive season.
If deciding which is the superior Christmas chocolate hasn’t already been dubbed the hardest choice of the festive period, committing to one decorative theme is surely a close second. Spoiler: Surely Maltesers is the unrivalled winner, no? And in the year in which we can finally welcome our nearest and dearest back into our homes for celebrations galore, you best believe the stakes are higher than ever for nailing a style that leaves your house feeling like a home for your loved ones to enjoy. After all, and in the words of Paul McCartney, “The moon is right, the spirits up. We’re here tonight, and that’s enough”…
From mantelpiece garlands to tree decorations, table centrepieces and entranceways that wow, there’s endless decorative options to explore when Christmas-ifying your home this festive season. Etsy search reports this year are cementing the humble tablescape as the decor trend to watch, with searches for place settings up 72%, tablescape decor up 27%, and napkin rings up 19%. Get your festive tablecloths at the ready!
If you’re having trouble deciding which (snowy) route to follow for Christmas 2021, look no further for the ultimate inspiration guide of our three favourite decorative styles and themes: Retro, Scandi and Natural Florals.
Novelty Retro Fun
Sometimes the classics are best: Mariah’s version of ‘All I Want for Christmas’, Love Actually over recent Xmas movies and mince pies without the newfangled toppings, and for some, that’s the mantra for Christmas decks too. Red, green, white and gold are traditional Christmas through and through, and you can’t go far wrong by incorporating those colours into your home year in and year out. For this theme, it’s all about mixing the traditional, passed down through the decades decks, with some kitsch and retro additions to curate a fun, colourful yet traditionally Christmasified space. We recommend heading over to W.A Green for a huge selection of fun colourful novelty ornaments! Mix up your textures with a combination of paper, glass and plastic decorations, as the combination of all three works seamlessly to add volume and pizzaz to your spruce, even if it is a sorry looking faux version that’s definitely seen better days…
When it comes to dressing your table: more is more, period. For a simple way to inject a little more va va voom into your dining room, opt for colourful plates (and mismatched designs too if you’re feeling brave) against a darker cloth to really make them pop, and finally, in the name of pre-dinner tradition, finish with a chic set of crackers (we went for personalised cocktail crackers from The Buffalo). If your roast dinner spread doesn’t take up your entire table (who could blame you) then centrepieces are a great way to carry through decor choices throughout your home, and they needn’t be expensive either! Stack paper garlands and lanterns and surround them with candles (at a safe distance) and consider your table of dreams complete!
For some real novelty fun that’s guaranteed to evoke a reaction from your guests, hang mismatched baubles from a chandelier or hanging light feature with some leftover ribbon and watch as your living space is transformed to a colourful haven Santa and his elves would feel right at home in.
‘Tis the season for bringing the outside in and this Christmas aesthetic just so happens to cement itself as a true celebration of all things foliage, foliage and foliage – if you’re a fan of holly, red berries and mistletoe, then look no further. Sarah O’Sullivan, Home Designer and Partner at John Lewis sums this up, noting that “carefully considered design details are at the heart of Natural Scandinavian style. Layering natural materials will add interest and draw on the appeal of nature within the home”
The soft colour palette instantly adds an element of zen to your home, with no bright colours or dazzling decorations that steal the show, simply beautifully understated decor that feels sophisticated and warm. Of all the Christmas decor styles to opt for, Scandi is best suited to minimal design lovers who favour earthy tones and pared-back additions to their treasured humble abode.
Scandinavian winters are long and harsh, meaning inviting indoor spaces are important for those living in these super cold conditions more than most. The Danish word ‘hygge’, roughly translating to “a mood of coziness and comfortable conviviality with feelings of wellness and contentment” became an international buzzword and design trend in recent years, but is especially desirable during the festive period. Ultimate cosiness after a cold walk home from the bus stop? Yes please!
Stick with one clear, neutral colour palette, encompassing greens, whites, gold and other earthy tones with everything from tree decorations to wrapping paper and crackers to emulate the clean and cosy ambience of Scandi living. Add the characteristic warmth of a typical Scandinavian design with fairy lights, candles and soft mood lighting and prepare to never want to leave your house again!
For those with little storage in their homes or who want to minimise the amount of Christmas decorations they’re purchasing, the Scandi aesthetic might just be the one for you- a Scandinavian touch really does go a long way.
Fruity & Floral
Maximalist, colour lovers rejoice- this festive aesthetic is for you! If there was ever an ultimate oxymoron at Christmas it might just be florals in winter, but we’re not mad about how much sense this theme makes once it all comes together. Trust the process, people!
For those whose fancy isn’t tickled by a traditional bauble design then consider the humble carnation (or flower of your choice) your friend in this instance, and watch as your tree is transformed into a colourful oasis of joy that you can’t help but smile at. Simply attach flowerheads with some floristry wire et voila! Dressing your tree has never been easier or more striking. This trend is one to watch for those who love the natural vibes of Scandi but want to take it to another level with the traditional vibrancy of a Christmas colour palette. If you want to make your spruce look ‘merry and bright’ this is the outfit it deserves.
Combine real and faux foliage in this design for the perfect marriage of botanical decor that’s sure to last. With additions such as a Toyon (the perennial shrub classically seen at Christmastime, FYI) your mantelpiece feature is sure to really steal the show. Finish with some woodland themed accessories- think mushrooms, mini toadstools, tiny birds and acorns- and your nature lovin’ mantel is complete. The beauty of this theme is how seamlessly it fits into most interior styles, from minimalist, traditional or farmhouse, this unique and standout festive theme adds a certain je ne sais quoi to any space.
Screenwriter, playwright and actress Laura Turner talks to us about her incredible movie Lapwing which is being released this month, what it's like to see your script get made into a movie and a brand new festive play she's written for Durham Theatre.
First off, how has your 2021 been?
2021 has been fast and busy! I can’t believe we’re already in November and the end of the year is approaching. It’s been a strange year for certain, going from the lockdown at the start of the year to the gradual reintroduction of “normal life” back into our daily lives. I feel really fortunate that I’ve been able to pursue so many of my creative goals and ambitions this year, from signing with a new agency for representation for my writing, doing more acting work alongside my writing and establishing my own theatre company, Fury Theatre, focused on “female stories told with fire”. I’ve also had the pleasure of working with brilliant people, and having the support of friends and family along the way, which I’m so grateful for.
Can you tell us about your background and journey to scriptwriting?
I grew up writing stories and poems – and even plays when I got a bit older – but I never really knew that I wanted to be a writer. It didn’t feel like something “someone like me” could do. I was from a small village in Lincolnshire in the Midlands and didn’t know anyone who’d made a successful career doing something like writing. Theatre was my route into creativity from a young age, first as an actor and then realising that I loved writing scripts (and getting to tell other people what to do on stage!) I studied English Literature at the University of York and after graduating, decided to give writing a go and see how it went.
It’s been a long process since then, filled with lots of twists and turns, but I wouldn’t change a thing as I learned so much from each of those ups and downs. When I discovered screenwriting and started collaborating with filmmakers, I really felt like I’d found a new way of telling stories that excited me hugely. I started writing short films initially, before plunging headfirst into feature films with only limited experience – but a strong sense of the kind of stories that I wanted to tell, about women, places and emotional experiences that I felt I hadn’t seen depicted on screens with the complexity they deserve.
Your film Lapwing releases this month, can you tell us what an audience can expect?
Lapwing is a psychological historical thriller that has some challenging themes at its heart, from emotional abuse and coercive control to bigotry, toxic masculinity and misogyny. Set in 1555, on the rural coast of Lincolnshire, Lapwing is the story of a young non-verbal woman, Patience, who lives a suffocating life under the tyrannical thumb of her brother in law. When she meets an illegal traveller, a young man called Rumi, she starts to imagine a different life for herself. But this brings her immediately into conflict with her family and her community – particularly her toxic brother in law who will stop at nothing to keep Patience close.
What gave you the inspiration for writing Lapwing?
Lapwing actually started life as a short film. I have always been inspired by the past in my creative work, and also by isolated rural locations, and these things came together with a very vivid image of a young woman in Tudor dress covered in blood. That probably gives a sense of the tone and some of the themes of Lapwing – violence was always at its heart. From there, I developed the other elements of the character, world and story on my own initially, and then with Philip Stevens, the director of the feature. Lapwing was always going to be a story about a young woman finding her voice in some way and rebelling against the constraints placed upon her, which, like for so many young women, felt like a very resonant story that I could connect with and empathise with.
The movie is set in 1555, how much research goes into writing something set so far back in history?
A lot, in all respects of the process. Not just for me as a writer, but also for the director, the actors and particularly the design team from costume to set and props. It was important to us that Lapwing was as historically accurate as we could make it, and we were really fortunate to be working with incredible creatives who brought the world to life on a minuscule budget. From my perspective, the historical research was really about asking questions about the kind of life Patience would have had, and what her worldview was like compared to the others around her. Patience is in some ways a very modern figure, but she is also a woman of her time.
What is the process like for writing a script and eventually having it become a movie?
Exciting and terrifying in equal measure! It’s a really exciting time when you’re working on a new creative project, but inevitably it’s also scary when you’re handing that script over to other people, who you know will have opinions, ideas and feedback on it. You make yourself vulnerable when you write from the heart and when you write about themes and issues that are really important to you, as I did with Lapwing. But I do believe that the feedback you receive from trusted sources is all about helping you to tell the story you want to tell and ensure it’s communicating itself to the absolute best of your ability. So then the making of the script is a really thrilling process, seeing actors and a whole team of creatives bringing this thing you wrote to life. It can feel quite overwhelming sometimes, and now I’m in the midst of all of the confusing excitement of introducing the film to a wider audience. My mum and dad haven’t even seen it yet, and now it’s getting reviews and will be going out in front of people who I’ll never meet. That’s strange – but totally wonderful.
What are some common misconceptions about scriptwriting and the film industry?
I suppose my biggest misunderstanding about the process of filmmaking was the time these things can take. I was prepared for Lapwing to be a long journey, but it’s been a learning curve for me to really see and feel that play out. Also, it’s been a fascinating process to see how much a film is created and refined in the edit after filming. It makes complete sense retrospectively because the decisions an editor and director make in the edit shape the film, the tone and the way the story is told, but as a writer who’d never experienced a film edit before, that was a really new and interesting experience for me and not one I’d imagined previously.
Do you have to make many compromises on what you had originally imagined when a script gets made into a movie?
Inevitably things have to change on the journey from page to screen, whether that’s because of budget, time constraints on set – or sometimes things just don’t work the way you want them to when you start doing them with real people in a location. I think because of my background in theatre, where there’s always a lot of collaboration between writer, director and actors in the room, I feel quite relaxed about changes that might need to take place. I think it’s about trust – as long as you are working with a team of creatives who understand your story and truly want to put your vision forward along with their own, you’re in safe hands. That was exactly what it was like with Phil Stevens (the director of Lapwing), as I knew that everything he suggested or spoke to me about was to make the story as clear and strong as it could be. Also, Phil always talks to me about changes he might need to make – for whatever reason – which helps enormously, to always feel part of the conversation.
What are you working on now?
At the moment I’m in rehearsals for a new Christmas show for the Durham Gala Theatre. It’s an adaptation of the Nutcracker story called The Nutcracker Re-Miced and told from the perspective of a Rat Pack of three punk-rock loving mice living in the Durham clock tower. It’s been lots of fun to work on something full of life, music and fun – quite a contrast to the darker themes in a lot of my work! I’m also busy working on several new features and TV ideas, as well as developing a new show with my theatre company Fury Theatre.
What does your perfect weekend look like?
Brunch would definitely be involved, along with catching up with friends and family (usually drinking prosecco!) and my partner and I will probably go to the cinema or theatre, head out for a walk around our home city of Lincoln, which is beautiful, and paint together. We both work in the creative industries, so at least some of the weekend will involve some writing for me, and probably rehearsing the current project for the stage as well!
What do you always carry with you?
A tube of Smarties. They’re my essential fuel for writing, and the nostalgia of them always cheers me up!
What would your last ever meal be?
Definitely my mum’s Sunday roast, with my boyfriend’s chocolate mousse for pudding. That’s totally a hint to them, if they feel like cooking for me any time soon!
What is one positive piece of advice you could give to our audience?
Take the time to figure out what it is you want to do, and when you know that – go for it with everything you are. Never hold back and never let fear stop you from doing something. Believe in yourself and push yourself out of your comfort zone. It’s worth it.
Christmas Ads Coming In Hot! All The Festive Ads In One Place For Your Viewing Pleasure
Will Kevin the Carrot reprise his role as Aldi’s most-loved character and who will lend their vocals to the John Lewis soundtrack this time around?
The countdown to Christmas is officially on and television sets everywhere are warming up for the epic Christmas ad battle. Much to our delight, some retailers are getting into the spirit of things earlier than ever (18 months of turmoil has that effect), making the most of the lead up to the most wonderful time of the year. We stan the eagerness.
Following the global pandemic, kindness was the overwhelming theme from last year’s flurry of heart-warming ads but which retailer will take the crown for the best Christmas ad 2021? Will Kevin the Carrot reprise his role as Aldi’s most-loved character and who will lend their vocals to the John Lewis soundtrack this time around?
Brief your heartstrings and stick your predictions in a sealed envelope folks, here’s a look at all the surprise entries and big budget crimbo campaigns from your favourite brands so far, along with the iconic debuts from the likes of John Lewis, Marks & Spencer, Coca Cola, Sainsbury’s, Waitrose and Disney as they hit our screens.
John Lewis
And now it’s Christmas! The most anticipated moment of winter tv has crash-landed onto our screens, two weeks earlier than usual and naturally, it’s out of this world.
Set to an ambient soundtrack of Together in Electric Dreams reworked by rising star Lola Young, the ad follows a young teenage boy as he befriends an unexpected guest.
Space traveller Skye lands in the woods near the home of 14-year-old Nathan, who shows her how Christmas is done on earth, from eating mince pies to snowball fights, decorating the tree and wearing novelty jumpers. When the time comes for her return to her home planet, Nathan gifts her a light-up jumper, she pecks him on the cheek and off she flies.
The strapline, ‘For A Christmas As Magical As Your First’ reminds viewers of the importance of sharing traditions and enjoying Christmas with their families again after 2020’s last-minute lockdowns left many missing out on the togetherness of the season.
Claire Pointon, Customer Director at John Lewis, said: “There is nothing more magical than discovering the joy of Christmas for the first time and enjoying your favourite festive moments with loved ones.
“After the last 18 months, we wanted our advert to really celebrate this as we look forward to a brighter future.
“We know our customers are excited for this festive season more than ever, as they reconnect with family and friends. Through the story of Skye and Nathan, we celebrate friendship and are reminded of the joy of experiencing Christmas for the first time.”
Were we overcome with emotion and running off to the loo to compose ourselves Edgar the excitable dragon style? Maybe not, but the festive ad carries a sweet and meaningful message nonetheless.
Sainsbury’s: A Christmas to Savour
Etta James. The cinematography. Every tear-jerking-round-the-table Christmas Day moment captured in 60-seconds flat. That’s how it’s done.
This year’s Saino’s ad captures a series of freeze frames as the camera pans around the room to show a Christmas Day mannequin challenge of sorts. From the champagne spray to the gravy bout mid-pour and the family dog begging for dibs on the roast potatoes, it’s a heartwarming reminder that we’ve been waiting a long time for this big family get-together, without the worry of cutting the guest list down to your six favourite relatives.
Apart from the spinny bit under the table that made us want to vom up a sprout a tiny bit, we liked this seasonal offering from the big orange ones. They might have peaked with the plug boy era (truly the definition of iconic content) but this isn’t a bad attempt at rekindling that modern-day Christmas spirit.
Honourable gripe/mention: We can’t help but notice they seem to be getting shorter and shorter. Mog’s slow blinking Christmas Calamity was a whopping short film compared to this. Bring back the bigger portions next time, please. We need more STORY.
Waitrose – You Can Taste When It’s a Waitrose Christmas
Infused with truffle, stupidly succulent turkey and Heston’s mince pies, the Waitrose ad has gone heavy on food for 2021 and we’re not mad.
It’s the first time in two years that Waitrose, which is part of the John Lewis Partnership, has gone it alone with their advertising campaign, which explains why the grub is the main character this year. Again, we’re not mad.
Starring Extras actress Ashley Jensen and top chef Heston Blumenthal, the light-hearted ad is really just a 60-minute journey that will leave you feeling kind of festive but mostly fucking starving.
Whilst the close-up food shots can come again, we’re not here for the Carol of the Bells mash-up, it feels a little too sinister for us, like Les Mills trying to cobble together a fun festive workout track for us and failing.
Did it set our souls on fire? No. But did it leave us wanting to run down to the world’s most expensive supermarket for a three grand Christmas pudding complete with candied figs? Yes, yes it did. Consider that a job well done. Take all our money.
Amazon
Amazon
What a way for Adele to debut her new song! The 2-minute Amazon ad is set to the goosebump-igniting ballad “Hold On” by Adele – the second glimpse of what to expect on her upcoming album ‘30’.
It tells the story of a young woman anxious about life after lockdown as she attempts to get back to normal, attending university lectures and seeing friends again.
In the next scene, a neighbour heads to the local park to feed the birds and notices the young girl on a bench next to her. After hearing a news update about the rise in anxiety amongst young people on the radio, she realises the young girl is struggling.
Determined to make a difference, she heads home, opens up the app and orders a gift to be delivered to her door.
Upon opening the present, the young girl smiles at the bird feeder and the thoughtfulness of her neighbour. She watches the birds gather on the feeder and glances across at her neighbour as she potters about on her balcony. She then gestures to her heart and mouths ‘thank you’. And just like that, we’re a mess, just like the soundtrack suggests.
Sharing a message about overwhelm and anxiety as we navigate the new normal in the wake of the global pandemic feels as poignant and necessary as ever.
Stripped back, current and unfussy in its approach to Christmas sentiment, it reminds us all that kindness truly is the greatest gift of all. We’re going to put it out there, it’s our favourite ad so far.
Boots
Three whole minutes of tear-jerking joy, Boots really pulled it out the bag this year.
The short film has gone for straight up Mary Poppins vibes featuring a magic bag bursting with sentimental gifts and never-ending glee.
Starring Doctor Who’s Jenna Coleman as Joy (aka chief gift giver and generous angel to her core), the campaign sees a young woman receiving a gift from her nan alongside a note that says, ‘This is what Christmas feels like.’ Realising that her bag contains a stash of perfume and beauty goods, she sets off to save Christmas, delivering thoughtful prezzies to her friends and family, from a polaroid camera to a woolly hat and even eyelashes for a sorry looking snowman. Honestly, we were doing just fine until the nan part at the end. Hold me.
M&S
So that’s what Percy Pig sounds like! The iconic character has been brought to life for the very first time thanks to a little bit of fairy dust and the nation is thrilled about it. Voiced by Marvel’s Tom Holland, Percy Pig can be seen roaming the aisles after hours with the help of his fairy friend, expertly played by national treasure Dawn French. Exploring the delicious treats on offer from triple chocolate panettone to delicate smoked salmon and golden blonde Christmas pudding, this is the best M&S food advert yet and it’s thanks entirely to the Spiderpig crossover we didn’t know we needed.
Elsewhere, their clothing campaign ‘Make the season anything but Ordinary’, staring former Victoria’s Secret model Madisyn Ritland and shot by Autumn de Wilde, showcases all the glitz and glamour of party season with the iconic matching pjs thrown in for good measure.
Very
Very really said Christmas cannot wait by unveiling their festive ad in October and after last year’s last-minute lockdowns and underwhelming festivities, who can ruddy well blame ‘em for starting the celebrations early. Chief Marketing officer Carly O’Brien said that after a pared back Christmas for many in 2020, the retailer wanted to “get into the spirit early and unashamedly embrace the season as soon as the leaves start to fall.”
Titled “It’s the Very Best Excuse” the ad plays on its keen timing with confused Halloween trick or treaters turning up to a house bedecked with Christmas lights and mince pies for treats instead of sweets. Whilst it’s no match for Man on the Moon, we’re all for getting organised and starting early to avoid the hell that is last minute hoo-ha of Christmas shopping.
Etsy
Keen to spread some festive cheer, Etsy dropped their first ad back in October and we’re here for it.
The online retailer has gifted us with not one but two Christmas ads this year, drawing on the importance of unique and meaningful presents.
“Our Santa” is the first 30-second commercial, which highlights the importance of representation, as a father sees how disheartened his own dad is that Santa Claus is always portrayed as a white man with rosy cheeks, in store, on gift bags and jumpers. When Christmas Day arrives, a young boy reaches under the Christmas tree for his grandpa’s gift a fluffy stocking featuring a Santa Claus that looks just like him. When we say our bottom lip left our body.
The second Etsy advert to air in the UK, “The Tradition” focuses on good ol’ neighbourly kindness as an older woman set to spend Christmas on her own is invited for a spot of wild swimming with the rest of the Sea-Gals. A neighbour named Agnes turns up on her doorstep on Christmas Day bearing a special gift – a personalised dry robe and an invitation to join them in celebrating their longstanding tradition.
Disney
Titled “The Stepdad”, this year’s heart-warming short film is a sequel to last year’s instalment and celebrates family togetherness and the power of storytelling.
The sweet story follows Nicole, the granddaughter from 2020, all grown up with two adorable children of her own. Stepdad Mike moves into the family home and bonds with little Max and Ella as they make new festive traditions together and share in the magical storybook gifted to them by their papa.
But chaos ensues when their DIY gingerbread house collapses and the children run off in tears. Mike stays up to reconstruct it and by morning, Max and Ella are happy once more. Not all heroes wear capes.
All proceeds from each download of the soundtrack “Love Runs Deeper” by Grammy award winner, Gregory Porter, will go towards the Make-A-Wish foundation.
Lidl
It seems futuristic Christmas ads are the way to go for 2021 and Lidl certainly got the memo. Set to the soundtrack of Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree, the one minute Lidl ad starts in the present day with a family gathered round the table tucking into a festive feast with all the trimmings, popping the bubbly and carving the turkey.
The second part cuts to the same scene only this time it’s set decades in the future. Some family members have moved to the moon, they’ve got a cutting-edge laser to carve the turkey, levitating plates and in a plot twist, their pet dog can now talk and even ask for a pig in a blanket.
The final scene leaps even further into the future with the same family still enjoying Lidl’s delectable Christmas spread and getting into the intergalactic spirit of the season, featuring a novelty Christmas jumper we can’t help but want.
Lidl marketing director Claire Farrant, says of their festive ad offering, “After a challenging couple of years, the nation wants to look forward, not back, which is why we’ve set our light-hearted ad decades in the future.
“Given our commitment to always be ‘Big on quality, Lidl on price’ this year we wanted our Christmas advert to show that we really do mean always, no matter what the future has in store for us!”
Aldi
Anyone else over here casually having kittens about Kev the Carrot’s whereabouts?
This year, Aldi are starting a new animated tradition with… Ebanana Scrooge – a beggy banana who really, really wants to meet Santa. It’s giving 2020 with the banana thing, ngl.
Whilst ditching our Kevin the Carrot for Ebanana Scrooge isn’t exactly festive (nor forgivable) we’ll see if they redeem themselves when the full ad hits our screens. There’s hope for Kev’s safe return, yet. For now, here’s the 20 second trailer.
TK Maxx
It’s serving big Love Actually vibes. Six seconds in and someone is cutting onions because that little girl with the wand is everything.
School boy Laurie takes to the stage, nervous at first due to a digitally distracted (read: rude) audience who clearly have very little faith in a) this festive comeback concert and b) the power held in the toe of those teal ankle boots. Give ‘em hell kid!
A penny for more of our thoughts: Finding a matching pair of anything in TK Maxx… It really is a Christmas miracle.
Sports Direct
Jack Grealish in a white fluffy East 17 coat is the Christmas cameo we were holding out for and Sports Direct delivered. They win. Featuring a stellar cast of sporting legends from Jordan Pickford and Emma Raducanu to Jessica Ennis-Hill and golfer Andrew ‘Beef’ Johnston, the one-minute ad captures the essence of what Christmas is all about. Read: snowball fights, fistfuls of Quality Street and family members who refuse to play games with you. Our only grievance: it needed to be longer.
Advent Calendars For Every Type Of Christmas Lover
From beauty to alcohol, foodie treats to creative pastimes, there are tiny versions of everything good in life to help the overwhelm of December feel that tiny bit more manageable. Self-care at Christmas? Check!
If the festive period wasn’t already magical enough, then a tiny present every morning in December certainly goes a long way to help- that’s right, we’re talking advent calendars, people! And whilst these 12 or 24 tiny boxes of joy are truly supposed to be a fun part of the run up to Christmas, choosing a luxury advent calendar to invest in from the endless variations now available can actually be a little overwhelming when the options feel so endless. If you’re in need of a little help deciding, you’ve come to the right place …
From beauty to alcohol, foodie treats to creative pastimes, there are tiny versions of everything good in life to help the overwhelm of December feel that tiny bit more manageable. Self-care at Christmas? Check!
From Love Honey to luxury cocktails, Fortnum and Masons to Friends, and of course the classic Colin the Caterpillar Advent Calendar (who could forget…), keep scrolling to browse the creme de la creme of luxury calendars available in 2021.
Psst: If glam is your thing, check out our run down of the beauty Advent Cals to add to basket ASAPhere …
Zoella Book Club October 2021: Reviewing A Slow Fire Burning by Paula Hawkins
Featuring nosy neighbours who just love to tamper with a crime scene, a grotty canal boat and plot twists that only a clairvoyant could see coming, it’s an iconic cocktail of murder, revenge, whodunit mystery and complex female characters. Need we say more?
If you’re sitting there twiddling your thumbs, wondering what the hell to do with yourself now you’ve binged the entirety of You Season 3, then allow the latest Zoella book club pick to fill the Love Quinn shaped void for you.
Paula Hawkins, author of best-selling global hit The Girl on the Train, is back with her latest novel A Slow Fire Burning and it is every inch the addictive and terrifying psychological thriller we’d hoped for.
Featuring nosy neighbours who just love to tamper with a crime scene, a grotty canal boat and plot twists that only a clairvoyant could see coming, it’s an iconic cocktail of murder, revenge, whodunit mystery and complex female characters. Need we say more?
Keep reading to see how the team rated this eerie and epic Hawkins masterpiece.
But first, a reminder of the blurb.
‘What is wrong with you?’
Laura has spent most of her life being judged. She’s seen as hot-tempered, troubled, a loner. Some even call her dangerous.
Miriam knows that just because Laura is witnessed leaving the scene of a horrific murder with blood on her clothes, that doesn’t mean she’s a killer. Bitter experience has taught her how easy it is to get caught in the wrong place at the wrong time.
Carla is reeling from the brutal murder of her nephew. She trusts no one: good people are capable of terrible deeds. But how far will she go to find peace?
Innocent or guilty, everyone is damaged. Some are damaged enough to kill.
Look what you started.
Lareese
Usually, I’m a simp for historical fiction, character-driven stories or something with a fantasy twist. Admittedly, psychological thrillers aren’t the top of my list of books I willingly stroke on my weekly trip to Waterstones but if anyone can shake up my bookshelf and convince me to consider a whodunit more often, it’s Paula Hawkins. Like the rest of the whole wide world, I loved The Girl on the Train, so when A Slow Fire Burning turned up on our content calendar for 2021, I thought this is where we peak with our selection, surely.
This novel gets right under your skin leaving you no option but to tear through its breakneck chapters in a mere few hours. Slow burning at first, Hawkins gives you just enough until the final cathartic denouement when the whole story ignites and the three female culprits and their overlapping tragedies come to the forefront. I don’t think it’s so much the ‘who’ done it that stays with the reader it’s the reason why.
Sinister, gripping and full of all the iconic Hawkins twists that give us life, Slow Fire Burning will set your TBR pile ablaze in all the best ways. Ladies and gentleman, her.
Rating: 5/5 Would you recommend? If you don’t live in a canal boat, then yes, YES I do.
Charlotte
I absolutely ADORED Girl on The Train so I was so excited to read another Paula Hawkes novel and my hopes for it being a good’un were definitely high! This book certainly lives up to its title of being a slow burner to begin with and I have to admit I normally prefer a novel that grips me from the off, but I persisted and in some ways I’m really glad I did!
I’ve mentioned in reviews before that I love books that skip between different characters and their perspectives and storylines so I was really pleased to read another with this format, but I think overall it did fall a bit flat for me compared to Girl on The Train, perhaps understandably so given its huge success. I think the main thing missing for me was an emotional and personal connection to the characters- although intriguing I didn’t necessarily feel emotionally connected to any of them and found myself quite ambivalent overall to their outcomes which was a shame.
Despite that I did enjoy the storyline and its twists and turns, although sometimes confusing, and think it’s a worthwhile read for anyone that is drawn to this genre. Perhaps if I had gone in with lower expectations I would have felt more satisfied!
Rating: 3/5 Would you recommend? If you’re a Paula Hawkins fan than yes, but just didn’t hit the spot for me!
Danielle
A Slow Fire Burning WOW what a bloody ending! As the title suggests the book’s pace is slow and fiery but it has such a big payoff if you’re looking for juicy twists and turns. I listened to this book on audible and it was hard to keep up with at points (probably similar to reading it) because there are so many characters and different narrators. There’s really solid character development and lots of unlikeable people, which let’s face it, is something that makes Hawkins stories so much more realistic and relatable. Paula writes about trauma and tragedy with so much finesse, bringing it home that everyone in life is suffering with their own sh*t. Having lived in London and spent a lot of time near the canals I loved the setting for this novel and could really picture how it might unfold in a real neighbourhood, where wealth and poverty are buttressed up against each other in the city. Great book, if thriller murder ‘whodunnit’ is your vibe then pick this up ASAP!
Rating: 4.5/5 Would you recommend? Another Paula Hawkins Banger!
Whether you're a PJs all day on the 25th kinda family or you simply retire into your well-loved loungewear post-roast dinner, keep scrolling to see Team Zoella's picks of the creme de la creme of Christmas PJs!
From Fair Isle to fluffy, gingham to gaudy and the classic traditional styles in between, there’s no shortage of patterned and printed pyjamas to curl up in with a takeaway this cosy season. And with the big day itself less than 2 months away, it’s certainly time to get browsing this year’s selection of festive pyjamas if you want to get your money’s worth and a chance to show them off in all their glory for as long as possible.
So whether you’re a PJs all day on the 25th kinda family or you simply retire into your well-loved loungewear post-roast dinner, keep scrolling to see Team Zoella’s picks of the creme de la creme of Christmas PJs! Spoiler: no sexy pyjamas in sight. Comfort = EVERYTHING around these parts.
Darcey
I love, love, love this time of year and Christmas PJ’s! Admittedly, I wear Christmas PJ’s from September all the way through to May/June when it gets too warm for them. I love a tartan set and Boux Avenue have some right crackers, especially this pink and red set which I loooove! Chelsea Peers are always a firm-fave for PJ’s, I’m obsessed with this set from ASOS too with the celestial print. Always need a pair of slippers too this time of year!
Now you’re talking my language. I wear Christmas PJs all year round (and loungewear too of course, duh). Why wouldn’t I wear a reindeer robe or a set of elf-adorned PJs in March just because it’s not seasonally appropriate? That’s madness. Christmas PJs deserve ALL the love and that’s exactly why I rotate mine on the 365. Yep, I’m one of those people who wear full-length PJs in the height of summer. As for loungewear, it’s basically a synonym for glorified PJs / house clothes, isn’t it? Again, I’m a simp for comfort so bury me in sweatpants.
I usually go balls to the wall when it comes to Christmas PJs and I absolutely carry on wearing them all year round. I’ll pick up anything from chich and subtle to full-blown novelty traditional so I’ve picked two options depending on how festive you like to remain whilst you sleep. I’m actually in need of a new pair of slippers and these Oliver Bonas look like I’ll be stepping into a cloud! Also added a hot water bottle because 9 times out of 10 I don’t actually need to turn the heating up I just need a little heat help.
If there’s one thing and one thing only we can take from 2020 (let’s be honest there’s too much we would want to carry over) then the ability to wear loungewear and pyjamas at all times would 100% be it. Considering the amount of time I spend in my comfies I think a more spenny pair is actually justifiable, and these iconic ones from Sleeper are what DREAMS are made of. A more budget-friendly (and realistic purchase) is this striped leggings and top set from Boux Avenue which is giving me 11/10 elf vibes and I love it!
If I could live my entire life in PJs and loungewear I would, actually I basically already do. Loungewear becoming acceptable outerwear was one of the best things to come out of the pandemic as far as I’m concerned. I absolutely love that high street brands like H&M are bringing chic styles in luxe materials at affordable prices, win-win. When it comes to Christmas PJs this year I only have one thing on my mind…how can I get mini-me versions of everything!
I have two whole draws full of Christmas Pyjamas at my house and I’ve just brought some more to add to my collection. Keep the festive spirit going all year round I reckon. For ultimate comfort, I’ll go for a classic long set. The Chelsea Peers ones are sooo soft and fit perfectly. You’ll find me with an extra-large onesie or blanket wrapped around me for the whole of December too. Big fluffy socks and slippy’s and I’m ready for the truck load of mince pies making their way to my mouth.
We Spoke to an Eating Disorder Specialist About Coping With Food at Christmas
For those suffering with an eating disorder or disordered eating in general, Christmas can be more of a testing time than ever for their mental health. We checked in with Emmy Brunner, to learn more about coping with an eating disorder in the run-up to Christmas...
Whilst for many of us the Christmas season and its endless buffet dinners, chocolate boxes and ‘go on just one more’ glasses of mulled wine are a reason to look forward to the festive period, for those suffering with an eating disorder or disordered eating in general, it can be a more testing time than ever for their mental health. Dr Prathiba Chitsabesan, NHS associate clinical director for children and young people’s mental health says –
“Living with an eating disorder is a constant struggle but Christmas can be particularly challenging with an increased focus on food, drink and big get-togethers, while the added pressure of New Year resolutions and the bombardment of weight loss messaging is just around the corner.”
Dr Prathiba Chitsabesan
We checked in with Psychotherapist, Author, Personal Empowerment and Transformation Coach, and Founder of The Recover Clinic, Emmy Brunner, to learn more about coping with an eating disorder in the run-up to Christmas, and gain some invaluable advice for not only making it through this period but also making it as enjoyable as possible. Emmy founded the Soho based Recover Clinic back in 2004, and since then she and her team have treated and worked with thousands of patients to “heal their trauma, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, personality disorders, low self-esteem and other mental health conditions or destructive behaviours, cycles, and patterns.” Here’s what she had to say about taking care of yourself and managing triggering eating disorder behaviours this Christmas…
Those with restrictive eating disorders may feel the need to control their intake before the festive period, whereas those with binge eating tendencies might find it difficult to control their need to overeat in a season so focused on food. How can those behaviours be managed to help an individual feel more in control and less as a victim of their ED?
If you recognise that you’re slipping into destructive behaviours, try to notice them with mindful compassion and reset your focus on being kind to yourself. Emmy Brunner
Be mindful that your ED unwell voice is gearing up to use the holiday as an opportunity to make you harm yourself with food, this could be restricting your food intake or it could be bingeing. Rather than focusing on what you are resisting and trying to battle that internal negative unwell voice, try to shift your focus on things that make you feel good. If you recognise that you’re slipping into destructive behaviours, try to notice them with mindful compassion and reset your focus on being kind to yourself. If you have enjoyed a nice amount of delicious food and drink on Christmas day – do not respond by thinking you should restrict the next day or week. Eat as well as you can every day you are on holiday to prevent binges or other unhelpful behaviours.
If it feels manageable, it may be helpful to adapt your meal plan to include festive foods, rather than only your usual foods. Find out what will be cooked and roughly when in advance. Allow time to talk over the plan with your therapist/nutritionist. Share this plan with someone you trust who will be with you over Christmas so they can help you, and others, stick to it. Be proud that you have been so well prepared!
What are some tangible steps those suffering with an ED can take to make the Christmas period feel a little more manageable?
Focus on maintaining a structure to your food of 3 meals a day and snacks but give yourself permission to eat things that your ED wants to demonise.
Plan ahead for difficult and challenging social situations by making sure you have support in place either before or after. Are you able to text a friend for support or drag a good pal along to something with you? Sometimes we just need someone close to us to know that we’re struggling in order to better cope with a difficult scenario.
Be kind to yourself. This is always the answer to difficult times in life I find. We so often overlook the impact that being a little more patient and compassionate toward ourselves can have. Your ED might not disappear over the holiday season but it doesn’t completely hijack your enjoyment. What else do you love about this season? What’s your favourite movie? Christmas jumper? Game to play? Focus on those things too.
Put in boundaries. Considering what we need at this time of year is so important. If you know that being around certain people or family members is going to be painful and triggering for you then put boundaries in around your exposure to them.
Don’t isolate yourself. The ED loves to isolate people and it’s up to us to gently challenge this. Think about ways of staying connected to people and experiences that you love to keep you from withdrawing and feeling lonely..
How can family and friends support someone struggling with an ED this Christmas?
If you know that Christmas is going to be a challenging time for your loved one then name it and ask THEM what they might need from you. Emmy Brunner
If you know that Christmas is going to be a challenging time for your loved one then name it and ask THEM what they might need from you. So much of what isolates people is the shame that they feel about what they’re struggling with. By naming that you love and care about someone and asking them what you can do to help, you are aligning yourself with them, rather than allowing the ED to separate you both.
For those struggling themselves, know who from your support network will be available, as during the festive period they may have their own plans. This will help you to feel more comfortable reaching out, rather than worrying about disturbing anybody.
Are there any resources or helplines available for those needing support and feeling isolated during the Christmas period itself?
OurReframe and Rise up Facebook group is facilitated by clinicians and coaches and is a great free resource for people that are struggling. You can also read Find Your True Voice which offers you a step by step guide for starting recovery on your own.
Christmas can also be difficult for those in active recovery from their eating disorder. Do you have any helpful affirmations or phrases of encouragement for those challenging their ED’s over Christmas?
Did you know that you are worthy of love and respect because you are a human being and this isn’t based on who you might think you are or how you might have behaved in the past?
Did you know that your ED is a strategy for coping with difficult life events and emotions and that if you develop new ways of coping you will be able to leave your ED behind?
Although it might be impossible for you to imagine recovery, it is possible and you are not the exception.
Useful affirmations: “I accept myself”, “I am safe”, “I am worthy of kindness”.
Eating in front of others is often difficult for those who struggle with food, which is made particularly difficult during the incredibly sociable Christmas period. How can someone manage situations like this which are out of their control?
Give yourself as many positive affirmations as you can before going into these situations. Often our unwell voice will try to control and manage these situations which draws more attention to us, thus increasing our anxiety. Keep reminding yourself that the unwell voice is trying to damage your relationship with yourself and food and wants you to isolate yourself, it’s not a voice you can trust. Consider how you would speak to someone you love in the same scenario and practice speaking the same way toward yourself.
Consider how you would speak to someone you love in the same scenario and practice speaking the same way toward yourself.Emmy Brunner
Using mental rehearsal to prepare can be incredibly useful too, thinking about the different meal and snack options that will be on offer and visualising portion sizes in your mind. This preparation will help you to make recovery-focused choices. If you are worried about eating at different times than usual, remember that you can have a snack or a bigger breakfast to help keep you going. Do not arrive at the dinner table too hungry or feeling faint or hangry – this will only increase your chances of binging or not enjoying a special time with family and friends. Consider viewing the less predictable meal structure at Christmas as practice for your future life as an intuitive and “normal” eater.
Do you have any tips for dealing with insensitive comments from family members regarding food or dieting, especially those from older generations who are typically less aware of the impact ingrained in their perception of food by diet culture?
Be mindful that the unwell voice will focus on insensitive, clumsy or even hurtful comments from people to support the negative narrative that it is telling you about who you are. If you feel yourself being triggered, give yourself permission to excuse yourself and walk away, take some deep breaths and re-engage if you feel comfortable. If you find that certain people don’t respond suitably to your cues or boundaries then ensure that you prioritise your wellbeing above anything else.
If you feel yourself being triggered, give yourself permission to excuse yourself and walk away, take some deep breaths and re-engage if you feel comfortable.Emmy Brunner
One of my favourite tricks for managing tricky or challenging comments from friends or family is to imagine that you are surrounded by a bubble of love. Although these comments might go on, see them bouncing right off you, unable to penetrate your little love bubble. Do your best not to engage in unhelpful chat and be mindful that your eating disorder will try to use scenarios like this to attack and criticise you… see it coming, stay cosy in your bubble and it will pass.
Opening up to those close to you about your eating disorder struggles can be really helpful in forming a close support system during this challenging time. What are some tips for making this conversation feel less intimidating?
Be brave. The unwell voice uses shame to silence and isolate us but vulnerability is a Patronus to shame. The more we talk, the easier it becomes and the less alone and ashamed we feel. Please know that you are not alone and that there are those of us out here who know how you feel, have walked similar paths and can help you to find a way forward.
