PMT, Veganism & Cute Cats......

 

Urgh ladies we have all been there – every month, once a month and we will be until we are in our 50’s, maybe even our 60’s! Yep the monthly visits we all dread. Period. (Joke intended!!) Tiredness, pain, bloating, mood swings and craving are sprinkled on us by mother nature for a few long days and what long days they are. I have had a monthly battle (as it has become known) for about 21 years of my life now with this – to the point where laughing it off, eating chocolate and skating round a la a body form advert in white skinny jeans was nowhere near an option. For 5 days a month I go from being happy, calm and optimistic to being what can only be described as a possessed crazy lady. To my friends, family and lovely man I can become unrecognisable. So after years of struggling, hating myself and it being listed as a reason to end a relationship with me I decided 6 months ago it was time to deal with this beast head on.

The first step was my GP. Who, by all accounts knows me well and is a lovely lady with a wicked sense of humour. Despite my fears she took me seriously and started me on some medication which, although felt extreme, has helped massively. But like any good practitioner she encouraged me to look at lifestyle changes, self-help and holistic therapies to help tame this monster. So here is my list of helpful tips that will hopefully work for you –

·         Chamomile - in tea form - you'll want one which contains the flowers not the leaves too, preferably Dr. Stewart's, as it contains the essential oils too. Add sweet freedom agave syrup, otherwise it's an acquired taste. This will relax you. Dr. Stewart's also do a brilliant herbal tea called "Tranquility" which really does de-stress you powerfully. It doesn't taste very nice, and you will want to add some sweetener, but it certainly does the trick!!

 

·         Evening Primrose Oil capsules - helps with mood swings, and water retention. Always a good idea for women to take this every day, as it's good with balancing oestrogen (so I understand).

 

·         Essential oils (either a few drops mixed into a carrier oil for massaging into pulse points if you're on the go, or a few drops in the bath, or used in an oil burner - put some water in the dish, add a few drops and light the tea-light, making sure the dish doesn't burn dry): Lavendar (relaxing), clary sage (reviving, mood-balancing, uplifting), rose or ylang ylang (uplifting). Geranium, chamomile, and neroli are all uplifting, and frankincense is relaxing, uplifting and good for meditation (always a good idea when suffering from PMT) and clear-headedness. I personally swear by Neals Yard Womens Balance, I use it in the bath, mixed with oil as a moisturiser and mixed with their baby balm on my pulse points.

 

·         Dark chocolate releases endorphins into the bloodstream, helps boost the immune system, and is a super-food (more of the good stuff and less of the fatty stuff than you get in milk chocolate). So I'd recommend eating a few squares of that if you need an extra little lift.

 

·         Yoga is extremely helpful when fighting Mother N. And I am not talking full on hand balances and back bends. I am talking comforting like child’s pose (my favourite and most comforting), the cat / cow transition sequence and happy baby. Positions you can crawl to in your PJ’s if needs be (yes I have done this!)

 

·         Release serotonin into your brain. This is not some scary Frankenstein idea but the chemical that makes us feel good. A depletion in serotonin is what happens when you have a low mood or extremely low levels equals depression. Whilst SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) medications can be used to increase serotonin production you can help it along by ensuring you eat healthy carbs such as a whole meal bread, pasta and brown rice as they help the brain to produce serotonin. A top trick I have learnt to get the brain to release serotonin (which I love) is watching YouTube videos that make you feel good. Cute cats, daft dogs and babbling babies – whatever floats your boat as long as they distract you and make you giggle.

 

·         A vegan diet. Yep it has been proven that a diet high in whole grains, bran, nuts and dark green leafy vegetables  provides us with enough calcium and magnesium to help prevent muscular contractions, headaches cramp and bloating. It also has an impact on certain brain chemicals and hormones (serotonin again and dopamine) which help lift your mood.

 

·         A good old fashioned hot water bottle.

Hope this helps, and remember you're not alone in this – we all struggle and it really is just a case of finding what works for you but just to make you smile - check this out....

 

                                                                         Cute cats!

 

Eco Living

In my mind following a vegan lifestyle extends further than my diet – it is conscience decision to be mindful of the foot prints I leave on this world and to do as much as I can to reduce them. And that means leading, where possible, an eco – friendly lifestyle. There are many ways to do this including eating a vegan lifestyle, using public transport / my bike where possible and shopping responsibly.

In recent years, terms like "going green" and "eco-friendly" have become buzz words we are all very familiar with. The term "eco-friendly" has been used for so many different products, its meaning is in danger of being lost. By understanding the true meaning of eco-friendly, you can implement the practices that will lead to healthier living for the planet and its inhabitants, big and small. Eco-friendly literally means earth-friendly or not harmful to the environment. This term most commonly refers to products that contribute to green living or practices that help conserve resources like water and energy. Eco-friendly products also prevent contributions to air, water and land pollution. You can engage in eco-friendly habits or practices by being more conscious of how you use resources.

Making a truly eco-friendly product keeps both environmental and human safety in mind. At a minimum, the product is non-toxic. Other eco-friendly attributes include the use of sustainably grown or raised ingredients, produced in ways that do not deplete the ecosystem. Organic ingredients or materials are grown without toxic pesticides or herbicides. Products with "made from recycled materials" contain glass, wood, metal or plastic reclaimed from waste products and made into something new. Biodegradable products break down through natural decomposition, which is less taxing on landfills and the ecosystem as a whole.

You can develop eco-friendly habits to help you use less and make the most of what you have. Turn off lights in empty rooms and use a programmable thermostat so you're only heating or cooling your home when it's occupied, recycling, up cycling and reusing where we can. Buying small storage containers for leftover food to be frozen for another meal, creating recipes that use up odd and sods (for ideas check outBuddha Bowls , my previous blog for inspiration ) and ensuring all your house cleaning products are eco friendly (Eco Cover are currently 342 in Waitrose). It is also important to adopt a make do and mend attitude. Learning to sew, knit and craft can save you a small fortune as well as reduce your carbon footprint.  In an era where Cath Kidston, Annie Sloan and Kristy Allsop encourage us to get creative - you can support  local businesses who  are running craft classes every night. With so much choice there is really no excuse to not have a go – even if you are the least creative person in the world (like me!) the coffee, cake and friendship is definitely spot on!

Small Business Saturday - The Moon on a Stick

I am a mahoosive supporter of local small businesses and try where ever possible to shop within my local community. I am a very lucky girly and have been adopted by Gods green county itself, Yorkshire. Meaning I am spoilt for choice when it comes to small local businesses. However I do know from literary bestsellers to the latest gadgets, there is no denying that the internet makes it far easier to compare the price of shopping. But the tide is turning and buying locally is the message behind Small Business Saturday.

And there are plenty of reasons why it is worth going local to support small business Saturday -

1. Your spending will boost the local economy

Research on spending by local authorities shows that for every £1 spent with a small or medium-sized business 63p stayed in the local economy, compared to 40p with a larger business.

2. It is the ethical choice

Buying out-of-season produce, like strawberries in December, lowers your eco-credentials. As does eating veggies and breads that have been flown halfway round the world or wrapped in layers of plastic. When you shop at local bakers, farm shops and green grocers, it is likely that a decent percentage of the produce has had a short field-to-fork journey. Along with supporting local businesses, it means the food is likely to contain more nutrients and have less packaging.

3. They sell quirky, one-off gifts

Independent shops often stock items which are made locally and aren't available elsewhere: buy a dress by a fledgling designer and there is little chance of turning up to the office Christmas party wearing the same as someone else.

4. You can help build communities

Bookshops, cafes and craft shops often drum up custom by hosting events, from book groups to knitting clubs and children's events. If the businesses are not supported, the local groups tend to disappear too.

5. You might get a better deal or some good advice

Local bakers throw in extra bagels for regulars; grocers give informal 10% discounts; and market stall holders are prepared to negotiate on prices. Independent retailers can use their discretion to reward regular custom, and it can mean you get discounts on the items you actually want to buy, rather than being tempted by multi-buy offers in the big chains.

So because I am passionate about supporting small businesses and I am an action speaks louder than words kinda gal, every Saturday for the next month I will be bigging up my local favourite business in aid of small business Saturday! So with no further ado, let me introduce The Moon on a Stick -

I first came across this quirky business based on Newland Avenue (Hull) when I first moved to the city and was exploring the local areas. The shop is always full and over flowing with gorgeous one off pieces and I quickly fell in love with everything I saw. From the stunning jewellery (the first thing I vere brought here was a lovely tea cup ring!) to the one off home bits - I wanted it all.  As well as items by local businesses they also stock Gisella Graham, Sass & Bide and JBHome. But if this didn't blow me away enough (which it did!) The Moon on a Stick also run craft evenings!! I had found heaven.....

 Owned by a lovely lady called Sonya this little shop has had a few homes on Newland Avenue. Always smiling and happy to help Sonya is a fountain of kindness, crafty knowledge and thoughtful supplier of vegan biscuits at craft evenings. From bird box making to rag rugging to shabby chic furniture and lampshade making, The Moon on a Stick provides a course for everyone. I have to be honest now and admit I think I have done all the workshops they have run over the past few years and all have been fabulous. All equipment is provided, the tuition is expert and the tea /cake half time break is always appreciated. I have recently heard from a reliable source that the future is looking bright for this lovely local business with an organic, natural skin care workshop on the cards and potential on line store The Moon on a Stick will definitely find its place among the stars!

Smoothie Bowl.........

As I have mentioned many times before breakfast is my absolute favourite meal of the day. Nothing makes me happier than a nourishing, hearty breakfast to set you up for the day. So I was very excited when I discovered the smoothie bowl. First and foremost, what is a smoothie bowl? The simple answer is that it’s a way to enjoy smoothies with a spoon instead of drinking them with a straw. But there’s more to it than just a change in utensil. It gives the opportunity to add treats that boost our nutritional intake and just like a Buddha Bowl it is fab for using up any leftover bits that might else get binned.  

Frozen fruits used in smoothie bowls are great for not only thickening the smoothie, but also for adding natural sweetness and creaminess. Frozen bananas in particular are a perfect foundation for a smoothie bowl, as they add sweetness, thickness and are one of your 5 a day. Winner! However if you’ve no frozen fruit using fresh works equally well. As I feel the cold a lot I only add ice on hot days and on extra cold days I add oats and gentle heat the smoothie mixture

The great thing about smoothie bowls is that although anyone and everyone are making them you are still the master of your own destiny! The combinations you create are limited only by your imagination (well, that and whatever happens to be in your fridge and pantry) so be as unique as you like.

The ingredients you add will affect the consistency of your smoothie, so you may need to experiment with different combinations and ratios in order to end up with your ideal smoothie bowl. I like my smoothie bowls very thick, so I’ll add vegan protein powders (which work wonderfully to thicken and add creaminess) and loads of ice in a quality high-speed blender. Healthy fats such as avocado and nut butters are also great ways to increase the creaminess of a smoothie bowl. Great topping ideas could be granola, nuts, seeds, sweet freedom sauces, more fruit, crumbled oat cakes, cacao nib and nut butters. I could go on but you get my drift!

Lastly although any bowl will do for a smoothie bowl I like to use a pasta dish as mine is the perfect size portion for me (and can be found at wwww.waitrose.com). Simply pour the smoothie into the bowl and top with whatever you’d like, make pretty patterns, try crazy combo’s but most importantly – enjoy!

Buddha Bowls.....

 

I have a new obsession and it involves my favourite obsession – quinoa (you beautiful little seed of protein goodness!). The Buddha Bowl seems to have taken the foodie world by storm and it is easy to see why. The pictures look amazing and there is a million combinations to choose from, amazing right!?

But what exactly is a Buddha Bowl? I decided to search the web for “Buddha bowl recipes”  and got a million different variations and there seems to be some confusion about what, exactly, a Buddha bowl is, so  let me try to set the record straight. A Buddha bowl is a combination of a lightly-seasoned grain (brown rice, quinoa, etc.) and a random mix of finely chopped vegetables, with everything tossed together in one bowl. It doesn’t matter which veggies you use, or whether they’re cooked or raw. The only important point is that the veggies be chopped into small bits.

With that information, you can basically forget any recipe and throw together a Buddha bowl with anything you think might be tasty/ is left over in the fridge and needs using up. Done correctly, the Buddha Bowl, is probably the most nutritionally-balanced meal in the universe, with the perfect blend of carbs, protein, fat, and micronutrients. I could eat it at every meal for the rest of my life and only get healthier by the day. But to give you an easy starting point I have created a sort of mix and match list but the most important thing is BE CREATIVE!  Do what suits you when it comes to this dish – it is supposed to make you happy and smiley and we all know no one is more beautiful than when they smile……..

Carbs –

·         Quinoa

·         Rice

·         Lentils

·         Sweet potatoes

Protein –

·         Beans

·         Tofu

·         Veggies / salad

Fats -

·         Avocado

·         Oils

·         Nuts

Micronutrients –

·         Nutritional Yeast

·         Dark green leaves such as kale

·         Chickpeas / hummus

Hen Weekend Adventures (no hens were harmed!)

Nothing makes me happier than a weekend away. Except a weekend away, in the countryside, with lovely people. Nothing is nicer than two whole days of long walks,  hottubs, great food and some girly giggles (plus a cheeky vino or 2!), my idea of heaven - and yep I am a lucky girl to be doing exactly this that weekend!

 So with bags already packed and the weekend all planned there is just one small thing to consider - food. What happens when a newbee vegan goes away with meat loving carnivores? Peoples reactions to my decision to become vegan (or as my dad says 'vagone'!) has been a mixed bag of support, intrigue and vague confusion as to why I would want to not eat cheese which has made for some interesting and funny conversations at times! Obviously part of the pleasure of spending time away with people is to share meals with them and as a vegan this can make you feel slightly isolated. I don't want to be the one causing a problem or eating out of separate containers all weekend but similarly I don’t want them to feel uncomfortable eating all the things they enjoy. To me veganism isn’t about being better than anyone - I believe we are all equal and within equality we all have the right of choice. Lucky for me the caterers providing the food this weekend are giving me ample  gluten free vegan alternatives that fit in with the party food and hopefully prove that vegans eat a varied and nutritious diet. Plus some of the other girls have kindly made vegan treats I can't wait to try! Which I guess brings me to my goal of this weekend, as well as having as much fun as possible I would like to educate and share my life choices fully with some of the loveliest know. And if they happen to like just one vegan dish – well, I will be the happiest vegan going!

Easy Butternut Squash Risotto (Vegan & Gluten Free)....

This is one of those ‘it looks like I’ve spent hours making it but it actually took me minutes’ type of dishes. It also only requires one bowl to cook it in so minimal washing up! It is the perfect night in on your own comfort food but works really well with a side salad and plenty of vino with the girls.
Easy Butternut Squash Risotto (serves 2)

·         125g risotto rice

·         350ml hot vegetable stock (Kallo are the best vegan brand to buy)

·         1/2 medium butternut squash (I use the frozen pre-cut chunks)

·         Handful of grated vegan cheese (I use Violife but you can also use Nutritional Yeast) plus extra to top

·         A few sage leaves, roughly chopped

How To -

·         Tip the rice into a large bowl and add ¾  of the hot vegetable stock.

·         Cover with cling film and microwave on High for 5 mins.

·         Stir the rice, then add the squash and the rest of the stock. Re-cover with cling film, then microwave for another 20 mins, stirring halfway, until almost all the stock is absorbed and the rice and squash are tender.

·         Leave the risotto to sit for 2 mins, then stir in the cheese / nutritional yeast and sage. Serve topped with more grated cheese / nutritional yeast. Enjoy!