Collaborative / Partnered Post - Small Changes You Can Make To Have A Positive Impact On Both Your Physical And Mental Health*

I don't know about you, but the last twelve months or so have been a bit of struggle mental health wise. I don't whether it's totally been down to Covid, and lockdown, after lockdown, or just life stresses mounting up and getting the better of me, but at times I've really struggled. The key thing when you're struggling with anything but especially mental health is to talk, be it to a friend or a family member, or even seek some professional or unbiased help.

When your struggling with your mental health every problem can seem so huge but when you look at it even the biggest problem is just a series of tiny little ones, and when you break it down, the majority of times it isn't quite as scary as what you thought it was, and the same thing applies when it comes to making changes that benefit both your mental, and physical health

As a species, humans tend to be very good at thinking big, and setting huge goals for themselves, that to be honest aren't always achievable in the one go. I know it isn't always possible but if you want to truly benefit your mental health then you need to start out with something more manageable, and more achievable. The first thing you need to do before you start focusing on some of your problems is to think about self care, and the tiny changes that you can make on a daily basis, that can help you get your mind and body into focus, and prepare yourself for the task

Exercise for 20 Minutes

It’s important to know that your version of working out doesn’t have to be anything like someone else’s, and believe me mine isn't! It doesn’t matter at all if you want to build up so you can eventually run marathons or whether you just want to try and get a little bit fitter, and get some much needed fresh air to boot, if it makes you feel better, it all matters and it all counts. Now I just do as and when, but what you need to do is make sure that you schedule it into your calendar, like you would a coffee date, or a zoom meeting, and make it part of your day and your week. You don’t have to go running either, or do anything strenuous, just spend 20 minutes or so a day being more active, you can save on the stresses, cost and self esteem issues of going to the gym by doing an online class, following a You Tube video, by buying a bit of exercise equipment (I've recently bought a seated exercise bike) or even going for a 20 minute walk. Whatever the form, exercise really gets those endorphins going, and it can really help with stress, depression and self esteem issues.

Source: Pexels (CC0 License)

Eat More Fruit And Vegetable

When I'm feeling a bit down, or stressed, I turn to food, and in particular things like chocolate, crisps, and junk food and I'm not alone in that - so many of us turn to food and comfort eat in times of stress, and that's fine, don’t restrict yourself , no food should ever be forbidden, instead though, instead of reaching for the biscuits try and introduce more fruit and vegetables into your diet. Consider how to add more vegetables into your daily meals so that you can increase your nutrient intake, add some salad vegetables to a sandwich, snack on some carrot sticks, and hummus, instead of using crisps or bread for dipping, and if you love bananas, then why not add more of them to your diet, pop them into your porridge, yogurt or cereal or even pop them in a sandwich. As I said in my last post if you hate Brussel sprouts, change how you cook them, but if you still aren't a fan then don't force yourself to eat them there are plenty of other vegetables out there to eat. It maybe because I'm a vegetarian but I do love vegetables and eating more fruit and veg is such a tiny change that can make a huge impact on both your mental and physical health.

Drink One More Glass of Water a Day

It sounds strange but just drinking one extra glass of water a day can play a huge role in helping both your physical and mental health. The average adult needs to drink around 8 glasses of water, and a few more alongside, if you're drinking a lot of caffeine. If you don't drink enough water your body and your mind will suffer, you won't be able to concentrate, you may get a headache, and it can effect your skin. It can look dull, and you can get more breakouts. and suffer from more blotchiness and skin damage. If you are struggling with your skin, it may be an idea for you to look into hyperpigmentation treatment.

Sleep for Half an Hour Extra A Day

Although most of the time I'm not one of them, so many of us just don't get enough sleep that it’s so important that you make this year, the one where you actually look after yourself. I know it's hard when you're feeling anxious but give your body the sleep that it has been craving and make sure that you are getting between 7 and 9 hours every night. If you don't get enough sleep you really struggle to focus during the day, and as well as altering your mental health it can ultimately also ultimately effect your physical health. I've done a few posts on sleeping better so take a look back through the blog, but if you are having trouble sleeping then spend some time winding before you go to bed, cut down on the caffeine, turn off that phone, and prepare yourself for a goodnights sleep.

Even if you try all of things I can't guarantee that your problems will disappear but if you give them a try, they might make you feel a little bit healthier and hopefully they might help you to think a little bit more clearly x Remember though it's okay not to be okay, and there is always help out there and somebody is always there to listen

*Collaborative / Partnered Post

AD - Spreading The Cost Of Winter Fashion And Some New Online Discoveries*

Purely based on my own experience of talking to people, watching You Tube videos, reading magazines and reading blogs, I've discovered that when it comes to fashion, people roughly fall into two categories, there are spring and summer people, there are are autumn and winter people.

I definitely fall into the autumn and winter camp, I love jumpers, cardigans, warm scarves, and chunky and practical winter boots! Don't get me wrong I still love t-shirts and sandals but whether it's down to my body shape, my lifestyle, or even plain old personal preference, I love to cover up and to get warm and cosy.

At the moment I'm in my element, the shops at the moment are full of fabulous colours and fabulous winter styles but lets be honest, who really wants to brave the high street when it's cold and pouring with rain, or brave that out of town shopping centre when it's full of Christmas shoppers? Not me! At least not all of the time anyways/ I'm 100% in favour of supporting local businesses and our high streets, but sometimes especially when your health isn't the best like mine, it makes a lot more sense to do a least of some of your shopping online.

Although online shopping is a relatively new thing, distance shopping isn't a modern invention by any means, people have been shopping from catalogues since the 1800's and whilst I'm not quite that old, I have fond, childhood memories of circling things in my mam's mail order catalogue and trying to rest the huge, heavy book comfortably on my tiny knees!

Now pretty much every store has some sort of online or mail order shopping presence, and although catalogues aren't always the first place that you may think of when it comes to online shopping, in some cases they probably should be your first port of call no matter what you're looking for, but especially when it comes to shopping for winter fashion for the whole family.

Online catalogues are probably one of the best alternatives to actually getting out there and braving the high street. Not only is the whole shopping experience less stressful and less time consuming but you also have the added benefits of choice, convenience, easy price comparisons, the occasional option to spread the cost , and of course lots of special offers, all at your fingertips. If you're interested in picking up some new winter fashion pieces and you would like to spread the cost or at what can be an expensive time of year, or make your life just a little bit easier by shopping online, here are 2 online catalogues that may not have heard of that might be right up your street.

Fashion World

When it comes to clothes shopping, Fashion World really is the creme de la creme when it comes to catalogue shopping. Although like me, you may not have necessarily heard of Fashion World, you'll definitely have heard of some of the brands that they stock and some of their sister stores, websites and catalogues. Part of the JD Williams & Company group, one of the leading purveyors of mail order catalogues in the UK, Fashion World makes shopping quick, and easy. As well as a huge variety of women's clothing in sizes 12-32, Fashion World also stocks a range of men's and children's wear, as well as home items, electricals and Christmas gifts - so you can stock up on some winter fashion pieces and of course some festive gifts for both friends and family at the same time - convenient, guilt free shopping - what more could you want?!

Madeline 

If you're looking for fashions just that bit different, and with a bit more sophistication, and class then Madeline should probably be your first port of call. Established way back in 1977 Madeline are of one of the pioneers in the mail order fashion business and have operations both in the UK and in mainland Europe. They're easy to navigate online catalogue contains a wide variety of high fashion clothing, shoes and accessories that are perfect for this time of year. Focusing entirely on female fashion, the site contains everything for the autumn and winter season, from winter boots, to cosy scarves, smart work wear, sparkly evening wear and comfortable, yet stylish casual clothing. Madeline is considered by many to be the site for people who know what top fashion is all about and I can see why. Whilst often veering towards the classic their clothes seem to have enough of an edge to make them appeal to the most fashion conscious women out there, be it in the cut of a garment, in the shape of a collar or a seem or even in the buttons or on a trim, they really do seem to offer something that's just that little bit different. 

If you're anything like me then I know you'll probably need no excuse to go shopping, so I won't be responsible for any purchases made because of this post ;) I know I've definitely made a wishlist after checking out both of these online catalogues, and it's definitely made me wonder just how many other catalogues and shopping sites there are that I haven't discovered yet x The Internet really is a wonderful thing when it comes to shopping or even window shopping, it's easy, in a roundabout way it can save you money, it's convenient and you do it all from the comfort of your own home.

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AD - A Laptop Love In - Top 3 Budget Laptops And Buying Electronics On A Budget*

I still remember my first, my first computer that is! Way back in the late 80's or early 90's I had a Sinclair ZX Spectrum +2, it didn't do much, games were loaded onto a cassette, and to be honest I didn't get it, I just wasn't that interested in computers, I played the Oregon Trail at school and Donkey Kong at home and that was it -mehhh. By the time I started university though in the late 90's computers were starting to become something of a necessity, assignments had to be word processed, research need to be done, and there was no escaping it, I needed a computer, my first real computer was a Compaq Presario - a huge pile of cream metal and plastic, and do you know what I loved it. From blogging, to chat forums and of course online shopping, the Internet became my life and my escape.

Looking back now it's quite laughable it, and it's subsequent replacement were huge, big monitors, cables everywhere, and these huge tower units, that took up half the desk. I didn't mind though, I looked at laptops and I just didn't feel the same love towards them, it took me years and years before I gave in and switched to something more portable and do you know what I've never looked back. My first love was a tiny little net book, quickly followed by an ACER or two, and do you know what? I've never ever missed my hefty, cumbersome desktop, they're small, powerful, and portable and basically everything that you could want and need in one tiny (ish) package.

A few years ago I took a big step and left the world of Windows behind and I got myself a MacBook, and again, embracing change paid dividends I love it and I'm a totally Apple convert. Lets be realistic though, they are super expensive and if I'm being really honest I could have bought something a bit cheaper and it could probably have done the same job. When it comes to laptops, I don't think the majority of us really need to spend a fortune, obviously if your a graphic designer, artist or a gamer, then you may need something a bit more powerful but for the majority of us, you can get something with all the latest technology without spending silly money.

Seeing as we're coming into what for a lot of people is the most expensive time of the year, the thought of shelling out on a laptop either for yourself, or for someone else as a gift can been pretty terrifying, but there are ways and means to make both finding that perfect laptop and paying for it easier, If you're looking for a great laptop at a budget price, then the UK market has plenty to offer. There are a staggering number of laptops out there, but here's a look at 3 that you will definitely want to take check out:

1. ACER CB3-131 11.6 Inch Chromebook

This little beauty is made for those who want to step outside of the Windows world and step into the world of the Google Chrome operating system. The ultra sleek unit is 11 inches wide and has 2GB of RAM and as well as looking good it weighs less than 1kg. It is tailored to students for the most part because it's easy to transport and carry. The hard drive is only 16GB but as well as being able to store information on the Google Cloud, you also expand your storage with a USB drive. Compact and powerful this particular ACER Chromebook currently retails at around £199

2. ACER Aspire E15

If you're looking for something just that little bit special and with a lot more storage then the ACER Aspire E15 series could be right up your street. This specific version is ultra light, allowing you to use it just about anywhere. With a 1 terabyte hard drive and 4Gb of RAM, the Aspire E15 has plenty of power and acres of storage space, and if you're into gaming or photography, or if you want to use your laptop to watch movies, then you have a 15.6" screen for that inclusive, full colour viewing experience. Giving the size and the features this one is a little bit more expensive at around £349 but for the features and the technology it's still excellent value for money.

3. ASUS Chromebook Flip

If you can't decide between a laptop and a tablet then this one could be for you. With a full rotatable sleek metal body and a back lit keyboard, the laptops in the ASUS Chromebook Flip series have a full HD screen, and 2 USB ports, as well as a 64GB hard drive and 4 GB RAM. Whilst anyone would love to own this beautiful laptop, the look, feel and finish ideally suits professional and it would fit perfectly into any office environment. Price varies depending on the model but one of these beauties would set you back at around £400.

These are just some of the excellent value laptops on the market at the moment but if you're looking to buy a new one either for yourself or for someone else, and whether you're on a budget or even if you're not, then there are ways to not only find the best deals and offers, but also to help you stagger those payments by using a site like Want Gadgets. As well as hints and tips on what laptop to buy they also offer information on buying new, and second hand products and even renting laptops and various other electrical items including televisions, games consoles, tablets and even mobile phones.

Buying a high price electronic item is a considered purchased for most people, so the more research that you can do the better, but it is good to know that there are so many sources of information and advice out there to make that decision making just that little bit easier, from product information, to price comparisons, offers, and finance plans, the world really is at our fingertips and where would we be without a computer? It's amazing how things have changed even in my lifetime!

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Enjoying The Last Days Of Summer Whatever The Weather*

When you're a child the days seem to drag, weeks seem like months and summers seem to go on forever. When you're an adult though the weeks and months tend to blur into one, and your life seems to be flying by at a million miles an hour. It hard to believe it, but this weekend is the last bank holiday for most us in the UK, till Christmas. What a scary thought, and with the children going to back school soon, and college and university starting up again, for many of us this weekend probably signifies the unofficial end of summer 2017.

Unusually for the UK, the bank holiday weather forecast doesn't actually look that bad, especially if you live in the south of England, but come on lets be realistic, in this green and pleasant land of ours we're never far away from a shower of rain. Although we've had the odd nice day, by and large this summer has been a bit of a washout. I'm still praying that we're going to get the Indian summer that the newspapers keep promising us, but in the meantime we need to use a bit of that British resolve and make the best of it. So this bank holiday weekend, put your latest DIY project on the back burner, crank up DJ Jazzy Jeff and The Fresh Prince and Summertime, on a waterproof speaker like the Panasonic Waterproof Bluetooth Speaker and enjoy the long weekend, and the last days of summer, whatever the weather.

Unlike most people in the UK I'm not the biggest fan of barbecues but if the weather's decent a bit of al fresco eating is the way to go, so get outside and enjoy the sunshine while it lasts. Get the music blasting, chill down some bottles and cans, and some soft drinks, or maybe even make up some jugs of Pimms or cocktails if you're feeling fancy. and then prepare enough food to feed the 5000.

Pop some potatoes wrapped in foil in the barbecue coals, then make or buy some nice salads, breads and accompaniments, and then fill your barbecue with enough sausages, burgers, chicken, and chops to feed the entire street.

In order to host a good barbecue though don't forget to provide a few vegetarian option for both vegetarians and people who are trying to stave off the meat sweats. As a vegetarian I've been to barbecues before and the only thing that I've been able to eat is the salad - not ideal. Thankfully there are loads of barbecue friendly, veggie options available including steaks, burgers and sausages, just cook them indoors or make a foil parcel on your barbecue to keep them away from those meat juices.

If you want to be a bit fancy though and really impress your guest then why not treat them to a veggie kebab or two. Kebabs always look so impressive but they are so easy to make, stick some things on skewers, add some sort of marinade and then pop them onto the grill. The possibilities are endless but why not try adapting my Lentil, Roasted Vegetable And Halloumi Salad recipe. Serve the lentil and rocket mixture on the side, and pop chunks of pepper, courgette, and halloumi on to some skewers, and then brush with olive oil, lemon zest and thyme leaves and then grill until the cheese has browned slightly, and the veggies are charred - simples and a bit more exciting than a burnt sausage!

Let's be honest though, as I've just said when does the British weather ever cooperate. The weather forecast promised fine weather so you plan for a barbecue or a picnic and then what happens? well the heavens open and all of your plans go out of the window! So what do you do? well like with all things you should have contingency plans, so if it rains, bring that picnic or that barbecue indoors.

Put on some summer themed tunes, and light some candles to set the scene, then if you can, move your furniture to sides of the room, and spread out either a paper table cloth or a picnic blanket on the floor. Get some cushions to sit on and some cozy throws to wrap yourself in, and then bring out some cactus, flamingo, or pineapple themed napkins, straws, glasses and paper plates, and bring out a board game or two, and before you know it you'll have forgotten all about the rain

It goes without saying that whatever your were going to cook outdoors, you can cook inside on the oven or grill, but why not impress your guests and be a little bit more experimental with you indoor picnic fare. Have a little look online at sites like BBC Food and you'll be sure to find lots and lots of summery recipes. to take both your indoor or your outdoor picnic to the next level (I'm loving the sound of the Ploughman's Cheese And Pickle Tart!). At the end of the day who cares if it's raining, with the right setting, music, food, drink and company, does it really matter that summer is nearly over?

Although I'm not planning either a big get together, a picnic or a barbecue this weekend I'm definitely going to have a good time regardless of the weather, and I'm going to take some time out to listen to some good tunes and enjoy some good food. Do you have any big plans for the bank holiday weekend? Let me know in the comments x

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The Fragrance Shop Bank Holiday Flash Sale*

If you follow me on my blog or any of my other social media channels, you'll probably haven't learnt several things about me - no not the obvious things that I love food, or my cats, or that technology hates me, instead you'll probably have learnt that I love a bargain!

I love shopping at the best of times but if there's a chance of a free gift, or a discount believe me that I'm normally first in the queue. Shops must love me for that I guess and as my mam says they probably see you coming, but as long as you're staying within your own budget and not (cough) buying things that you don't need then it's a pretty savvy way to shop.

I've decided to start another little series on my blog - it doesn't have a name yet and I'm sure it ever will, but from now, every now and then, I'm either going to be sharing some of favourite bargain buys with you or I'm going to pointing you in of the direction of some of my favourite sales, free gifts and discounts.

It's a bank holiday weekend here in the UK, and I know for a lot of that one of your favourite bank holiday activities is to go shopping, well if you're after a new perfume or a fragrance for yourself or  for someone you love then it might be worth heading to the The Fragrance Shop.

If you go online, or you pop into any branch between 12pm and 2pm, until Monday then you can get 15% off everything, and that includes high end fragrances from Tom Ford, Chanel, and Dior! Better still if you're a fellow North Easterner then pop into the Intu Eldon Square store and you'll get some free samples with your purchase. A discount and some free samples? what more could you want! If your not lucky enough to live up north then you can find your nearest branch of The Fragrance Shop via their website.

That reminds me, I really must do an updated perfume collection video, I wear perfume every single day and it safe to say that I'm a bit of a fragrance addict, in fact I actually currently have a perfume wishlist! Should I succumb to temptation or should I hang on for a couple of weeks and see what the birthday fairies bring? Decisions, decisions! x I'm always looking for new fragrance recommendations so let me your favourites in the comments x

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Top 5 Fashion Accessories*

Which earrings pair best with the outfit you want to wear? Or, which shoes are going to work best with the dress you want to buy? When thinking of these, and other wardrobe questions you have, choosing the right accessories is key.

These are the top 5 accessories to keep in your closet, so you can always find the perfect outfit for any occasion.

1. Get Lifted  

Platform sandals are in! Thick or thin heel, sandal or full boot, thong style or any other style you like pair up well with nearly any outfit. If you want the perfect shoe, for every occasion, have a few of these platform sandals in your closet.

2. Statement Earrings 

From a large pearl, to the bold colours, dangling earrings, or an ornate earring which perfectly matches with the outfit, statement earrings are in. They can easily be paired up with any outfit, and with many colours, designs, and shapes to choose from, you can find a pair which works well with any outfit.

3. The Gladiator Sandal

Gladiator sandals have been huge this year. With the distinct lace design, the fun back closure, and low and high heel options, you can find a pair which perfectly pairs with your favourite dress, a pair of jeans, or the suit you have to wear when making a work presentation. 

4. Short Handbags  

Short handbags, which allow you to carry items around in a clutch style bag are in. Easy to carry, transportable, and they work well with any outfit. Women will also like that they don't dangle down to the ground, or weigh them down, when going out for the evening.

5. Ballerina Flats

You remember these when you took ballet classes as a kid? With designers rethinking the pointed toe front, back wrap closure, and designer straps, you can find a pair which will look good with any outfit. Plus, you will stay light on your feet all day.

Whether it is a night out on the town or the perfect outfit for work, these designer accessories will add a little pop to any outfit.

Wondering where you can start shopping for these top fashion accessories? Online catalogues might be the perfect solution for you. They provide a massive range of styles and trends from top celebrities as well as offering the ability of spread the cost by paying monthly on clothing and lots of other products.

*Sponsored Post

A Few Changes - Sponsored Posts, Advertising And Posting

Hey Everyone x Hope you're having a nice weekend so far x I just want to make you aware of a few changes that are occurring on my little space in the interweb.

Don't worry it won't be anything major and it hopefully won't affect your enjoyment of my site but from this week my blog will be featuring paid advertising, affiliate links and hopefully sponsored posts.

I've thought long and hard before taking this step but I'm determined to stay as true to myself as I can and I'm going to do my level best to only feature content that's relevant to me, to you and to my blog as a whole. That shouldn't be too hard though I never wanted a purely, say beauty focused blog, I always wanted a place would I could explore my own passions and interests, which are as wide and varied as they come.

So if you're a company, a sole trader or you're a blogger with a small business and you want to advertise or collaborate with me, then don't hesitate to contact me at louloulanduk@gmail.com x

I'm not accepting advertisements from individual bloggers at this moment in time but if you'd be interested in advertising with me for a small fee,in the future then by all means leave me a comment and I'll have a think about it x 

Other than that the only changes you're likely to see are a couple of layout changes and an increase in posting. I haven't shown my blog enough love over the last couple of years and from this week that changes. I'm going to try and get a least 5 posts a week up from now on. The comments from my last couple of giveaways have given my lots of lots of new ideas and I'm feeling inspired again. I can't promise hauls every day, in fact I know I can't lol but I can promise a lot more beauty reviews, some more lifestyle posts and some more fashion posts.

If you have any posts or any reviews that you'd love to read then by all mean leave me a comment and let me know, and I'll do my best to give you what you want x Your input and opinions are really important to me, so any constructive feedback is always welcome x 

So them's the changes x Thanks as per usual for reading and for your support x If you have any questions either leave me a comment or drop me an email x 

Oh and if you haven't entered my latest giveaway yet, get entering you have until the 8th November to enter for the chance to win a gorgeous H&M Heart Blusher, a sweet white and gold tone daisy necklace, and an inspirational quote bangle x Check it out here if you haven't already x Thanks for reading x 

Somewhere Else To Spend My Pennies - An Introduction To Zalando

If you've followed my blog for a while or even if your a new reader, you'll probably know that I'm a bit of a shopaholic. Since becoming ill I've had to give up a lot of my vices but one I could never give up is shopping. As much as I love the lure of real shops, shopping online really has become my new saviour, and as a result I'm always on the look out for new sites to send my pennies. I was recently contacted by a shopping site I previously hadn't heard of called Zalando.

Originally set up in Germany to sell shoes online, the site has recently launched in the UK. No longer just a shoe site, this site sells everything from high street, and designer clothing, to make up and smellies.

I've had a little look on the site and needless to say I've already started to formulate a bit of a wishlist - first up the fantasy wishlist - stuff I can't afford or justify - Zalando has a large range of designer shoes, clothing, and accessories from the likes of Fendi, Calvin Klein, Jeffrey Campbell and Melissa - come on lottery win come to mamma!!

Jeffrey Campbell Foxy G Sandals £95.00 worth of silver sparkles

Jeffrey Campbell Swansong Sandals - £79.00 - Wedges covered in the prettiest ditsy florals

Melissa Wanting Ballet Pumps - £50.00 - Love these and the bow is sooo cute

Brown Fendi Scarf -£185.00 - Please Santa I've been a good girl honestly!

OK bar the Melissa's this little lot is a bit out of my price range at the moment, but don't despair, Zalando, also sell more affordable pieces from the likes of Jane Norman, Miss Sixty, Vero Moda, and Vila as well as a few brands I haven't heard of

This cute sequined vest is the Jelva by Outfitters Nation and it's only £16.95 :)

I need this top the Rosanna by Vero Moda -At just £14.00 it also comes in Beige I love the corsage detailing

Another need for me is this skirt by a brand I've never heard called Anna Field - a little steep at £49.95 but I love it

Don't worry all you beauty junkies because guess what? Zalando sell beauty products too. Selling a lot of niche brand they also sell Korres, Yes To Carrots, Jemma Kidd, Shiseido, Jelly Pong Pong, and L'Occitane.

This super kit the L'Occitane Wake-Up Travel Set - £30.95, contains some of my favourite things in the Verbena line and of course the hand cream .

These are just some my picks, but if these bits don't float your boat Zalando has loads more items to choose from, and did I mention that UK Shipping and returns are free, yet another reason to give them ago. Have you looked at the site before and what are you picks? Any questions please ask x

(Post Written In Association With Zalando)