Category Archives: Health and Fitness

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Swimwear – Speedo review

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I reignited my love of swimming last year, I’m not the best swimmer – I lack style, something I should probably work on. Other people get in the water and look gorgeous, I get in the water and…well, swim. But I’m sure I don’t look as graceful as others! I really do need to work on my front crawl this year!

What I love about swimming

I love swimming as it requires very little equipment, just great your swimming costume and you’re ready to jump in. Although, if I’m swimming in a pool, I also have to have goggles! I have a pair of anti-fog Speedo goggles which fit me well and I find really comfortable.

For me, swimming is a great way to relax, I have to focus on my breathing and every day stresses fade away. Of course, it is a great way to keep fit too, and I am always amazed by how a good swimming session really does work all my muscles!

Swimwear

I have to admit that I like to have different options when it comes to swimwear. Especially if I’m taking part in a water-based sport rather than swimming. Sometimes I need more support – or more flexibility in my swimwear.

I was sent a Speedo Swimming costume to review which is designed for sports use. It has a high neck, and offers great bust support. I was worried about the zip-front but actually I can’t notice it once it is on. The leg is not cut too high, making it comfortable for things like aqua-aerobics too.

The side panel detail makes it a really flattering style, it really helps create a waist.

I was really impressed with this swimming costume, it was comfortable in the water and out too. It is soft to wear, and yet offers great support too. Also, it is also an eco-friendly option! It has been made using recycled abandoned fishing nets.

I teamed it with a pair of Speedo ladies swim short – I love these as they’re perfect for beach days when I am in and out the water! I have to say that they’re quite a generous fit, and they’re not too short! Being tall I often struggle with shorts being a little too short, and these are perfect for me! They have a drawstring waist which helps them to stay perfectly in place! They are also made using recycled polyester – it is great to see companies like Speedo choosing eco-friendly fabric options.

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My tips for healthy living

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I am not a health and fitness geek, but I have learnt over the last 12 months that I really need to look after myself!

Keeping Active

Staying active is really important! But, I think it is really important to find something you enjoy doing. I have never enjoyed running, but I kept running to the point where it was bearable. I just don’t love doing it! The truth is, I love the feeling when I stop, and I keep going as I hate not loving it, but I’ve never been a runner. So, I’m trying out different sports to see if there’s something I can love more.

I love the water. So swimming, sailing, kayaking or SUP and I am there! I enjoy walking, and will happily walk miles. I really want to give myself a challenge this year – but more on that another time!

Healthy Diet

My diet declined rapidly around the time I became a Mother. It is something I have to continually work on, or I fall back into bad habits. It’s difficult when you’re tired and there’s a chocolate bar at the checkout calling your name! Strangely I love eating vegetables and fruit, but I am terrible at snacking.

I try to eat quite a balanced diet, avoiding too much meat and dairy. So while I’m not Vegan, I tend to eat quite a lot of Vegan products. I prefer Vegan friendly chocolate, and I read dark chocolate is meant to be good for you too!

Gifts and healthy lifestyle.

I am terrible at asking for specific things when asked what I’d like as a gift. I always feel a bit awkward, having been raised fiercely independent! But I’m learning that it is OK to suggest e.g. vegan gifts. It’s a broad suggestion allowing them plenty of options (and I still get a surprise!).

Vegan Food Hamper

Healthy Living with Children

I have always encouraged the children to keep active. Weekends are spent out and about in woods or beaches – anything to keep them running about! Whether it is the park, swimming, or dancing around the lounge I think it is great to keep us all moving!

We are working on sugar intake, I think I do give them too much sugar at times. So I’ve started to take small steps. I’ve banned squash from the weekly shop and explained why – I think it’s important to explain that I’m not just being dull! Of course I’m not going to ban treats altogether! And with Easter almost upon us I’m well aware they will want chocolate – (so will I!) We were sent some Vegan Easter Eggs from Yumbles and they were popular with all of us! I didn’t even mention they were vegan!

Remember…

I’m the worst at “being too busy…” but I always remember to go for healthcare checks. I don’t think anyone enjoys going, but I see it like an MOT for me. I plan appointments for days when I have childcare, and if I have to cancel, I re-book straight away.

Health and Fitness, Reviews

Nutreelife Superfood Bars Review

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Getting fit and training for sports events means looking carefully at what you’re eating. I’m not a nutritionist, but using a well known app which allows me to track my food, I’ve noticed I don’t tend to consume enough protein.

As a busy parent, I find an easy way to supplement my protein is with a protein bar. Usually after exercise, although sometimes when I’m on a late school run pre evening run!

I was sent a box of Nutreelife Live Well Superfood bars to try. I’d never heard of Nutreelife before, but this is what they say about themselves:

 

We want to challenge this perception that protein is just for body-building, but more for the everyday; those who want to be healthy, those who lead an active lifestyle, or those who just simply want to up their protein intake.

Continue reading Nutreelife Superfood Bars Review →

Health and Fitness

The Second Run.. Couch to 5k

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I’m not going to lie, I used every possible tactic to put the thought of my second run of the week out of my mind. Yes, couch to 5k, I would have rather stayed on the couch! When run day arrived (I had planned it into my diary so I couldn’t “forget”) I focused on the “I can”. Remembering the first run – the struggles, I also reminded myself I had been recovering from a horrible cold and cough. This time the run would be better, and if not better, well, showed persistence? Continue reading The Second Run.. Couch to 5k →

Health and Fitness, Lifestyle

The one where I start running..

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I have put off starting the couch to 5k. I am really not a runner and the thought of it has just made me want to weep. Then, there’s the very real problem that I’ve had the most horrible cough for the last 3 weeks. I didn’t think that running with a cough would be the best idea! This morning I woke up early, and the sun was shining. My trainers were sat there looking sad. It seemed ludicrous that I had all the kit, but was still putting off getting going.

Nike Running Trainers

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Health and Fitness, Lifestyle, Reviews

Earth Conscious Natural Deodorant

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I’ve wanted to try a Natural Deodorant for a while, but it’s something I haven’t got round too, until now! There are many reasons why I’ve looked at switching to natural deodorant. But, primarily due to the chemicals contained in many mainstream deodorants.

I came across Earth Conscious Natural Deodorant after seeing it recommended by an eco-blogger. I was fascinated by the idea that a deodorant could be packaged neatly in a cardboard tube, have no “nasties” and actually work!

Earth Consicous Deodorant amongst pink flowers

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Health and Fitness

Why is Dental Cleaning so Essential?

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This article is published in partnership with Mediabuzzer

Tooth care should always start at home with brushing and flossing, but this is not to say that visits to the dentist are not equally important. Professional dental cleaning not only helps to keep your teeth looking great, it can also have a huge impact on your overall health. Your oral hygiene can have a direct impact on your health, with poor hygiene having been linked to a number of illnesses and diseases. A visit to the hygienist can keep tooth decay at bay while at the same time providing an opportunity for you to find out whether anything abnormal may be happening with your teeth and gums. In case they spot any issues, they will be able to refer you to the dentist right away for treatment before the problem worsens. Here are some key reasons that you should schedule a dental cleaning today:

Image Source: Pixabay

 

Aesthetics

One of the most obvious reasons for dental cleaning is cosmetics. Brushing at home is often not adequate for removing the heavy stains and discoloration that result from things like drinking tea and coffee or smoking. The intense cleaning methods and specialised tools used in a professional clinic will be able to tackle stains and leave you with a whiter, healthier smile.

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Health and Fitness, Lifestyle

Toxic “Friends” – do you have any?!

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Toxic friends, it sounds like a cool band, but actually I’m referring to friends, who aren’t really friends at all. You see, there are some people in life who can’t help but dampen your day. The ones who manage to make you feel even worse about something you already feel a bit rubbish about. You know the sort, your ex boyfriend has married a super model and your toxic friend can’t help pointing out that you’ve gained weight since being married.. Yes, she might be being honest, but really all she’s doing is making you reach for the ice cream. Continue reading Toxic “Friends” – do you have any?! →

Health and Fitness, Lifestyle, Reviews

Beauty Boost Skin Restore; Review & Competition

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Green People are one of my favourite organic beauty brands. I discovered Green People’s Beauty Boost  Skin Restore by accident. I ran out of face cream, and grabbed a sample sachet which I’d been sent a while ago. What a happy accident it was! A reminder to be braver and try new skincare from time to time! You see, I’ve reached an age when to be blunt my skin looks tired. I don’t drink enough water, and I drink far too much caffeine. My skin looks in desperate need of hydration.

Beauty BoostBeauty Boost

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