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● Laura Thornberry ● Lifestyle Blogger ● London Based ●

AD| New Year? New Me? It’s that time of year again. How many times have you heard that phrase being thrown around when New Years Resolutions are made. Many people hope to make a change in their diet and exercise habits but find it incredibly hard to get started and maintain over a long term period. 

However, with these 10 top tips, you're bound to kickstart your lifestyle change in 2021!

Workout Exercise Tips

1. Trainers
For me, a good, durable and comfortable pair of trainers is a definite must have for anyone who is looking to get into exercise and beginning any fitness workouts. Investing in quality footwear can help you to prevent injuries, mainly foot and ankle damage, and make your workout a more pleasant, enjoyable and comfortable experience. Whether you're going for long walks, jogs or runs, it's super important to make sure you have correct fitting and supportive footwear. My personal favourites are Nike and Adidas!

2. A Sports Bra
As a women, having a comfortable, supportive and well fitting sports bra is a must for any physical activity as continuous movements can result in soreness, pain and sagging of the breasts. In general, your sports bra should feel slightly tighter than your regular bra, however, you should still be able to breathe deeply and comfortably. They also come in a range of styles and types of support, depending on the amount of impact your workout requires.

3. Tracksuit Bottoms/Leggings/Shorts
You want something that is going to be comfortable, practical and suitable for your desired exercise or workout. You don't want something that is too tight and restrictive, as this can stop you from performing well, as well as making you feel uncomfortable and isolated. Tracksuit bottoms or leggings are my preference! They are super comfortable and warm, and perfect for day to day wear and perfect for any weather type.

4. Yoga Mat
A yoga mat can probably be the most beneficial for those doing floor exercises or stretching. It's also great to help increase flexibility and keep your body relaxed. For many people, pressing their bodies onto the bare ground or floor can be painful and sore, especially on the palms, knees, elbows, and vertebrae of the back. The yoga mat offers some light support and cushioning which can help avoid any injury.

5. Water Bottle
A water bottle is another must have item. Whilst exercising, you are constantly losing water from your body, through breathing and sweating, so it's important that you keep hydrated and keep up your fluid intake. There's such a variety of amazing bottles out there, where you can track exactly what you're drinking, or even infusing your drinks with some delicious fruits.

6. Baggy T Shirts/Vests
Whilst working out, you don't want clothing that feels tight and uncomfortable - this just makes you feel slightly insecure and makes you lack confidence, especially if you are wanting to lose some weight. Choosing loose fitting tops is perfect for exercise, they aren't too tight, breathable and for me, I think they are perfect attire for a workout.

7. Routine/Schedule
Creating a workout schedule or routine is a great way to begin getting fit and healthy. By sticking to your schedule, this gives you something to stick to, be committed to and doesn't allow you to "cheat". Even if you choose to go running once a week or exercise at home everyday, sticking to this will boost your confidence and give you that encouragement you need to stick to your routine. However, you need to listen to your body and if you don't feel like working out, you're feeling tired or just lacking motivation, use this time to relax and reflect on how you can achieve more!

8. Music Playlist
Having an upbeat, motivational music playlist helps to your keep focused and keep your mind on your exercise. Music can also help you to enjoy exercise a lot more and also make it fun! Along with a music playlist, you need a good set of headphones to keep those tunes playing and keeping you on track for your workout. Similarly, it's super important to keep your ears healthy and make sure you don't suffer any hearing issues through life, so it's important to have regular check ups just in case. 

9. A Notepad/Diary
Keeping a fitness diary/log is a great way to record your progress and see how far you've come! You can also use this to set your fitness goals and targets, and give yourself deadlines for this. It's also a great way to record your weight loss, your exercise routine or even how far your running/swimming/cycling each week! You'll be able to see how you're improving and progressing, to get to the place you want to be at the end!

10. Hairbands and Clips
A must have essential! Whilst exercising, the last thing you want is your hair flying in your face, getting in the way, getting sweaty and just annoying. Hairbands and clips are just needed to keep your hair back and out of your face.

What are your fitness essentials? Do you use any of these? Will you take any of these on board and include them in your 2021 workouts?
10:00 No comments

AD| Can you imagine a world where you don’t need to stress about money? You know there is enough to cover your bills, and if an emergency was to crop up, you have savings to tackle it. As well as being able to live the lifestyle that you want? If you make the effort to become financially stable, you will be able to do just that. Let’s have a look at some of the things you can do to achieve it: 

financial business

Make Sure Finances Are Personal 

It essential to make your finances personal to you, and this doesn’t mean avoiding talking about them. To make your finances personal, you just need to stop concerning yourself with others and making a comparison. Focus on your own situation rather than concerning yourself with another financial situation. 


This is one of the most vital parts that will help you achieve the financial stability you’re after. We are all guilty of comparing ourselves to others, but it’s important to concentrate on your finances alone. Try not to concern yourself with the new car your neighbour has bought, or the holiday your sister is going on, chances are you have other things to spend your money on. Maybe you are looking for a house for sale and you need to save for your deposit, or you are paying off your debts to become debt-free. 


Make a Budget

Budgeting is likely something that you have heard before. And they aren’t as bad as they actually sound. It should be used as a tool not as something to restrict you or make you unhappy. It’s definitely the best way to manage your money and ensure things get paid when they need to be. There are always essentials that need to pay, so make a plan to do this on time every month. If you find that you are overspending on your essentials, you need to look for ways to increase your income or reduce your spending. However, the problem usually lies with other spending when it comes to failing on a budget. When you have a budget, you can also identify where you may be able to save money for a good financial future. 


Always Live Below Your Means

This is again, something that you have probably have heard before. You most definitely heard about people living to their means and then struggling to afford luxuries or extras. You should make sure you make a budget and create a living expenditure that is below your means instead of spending right to the mark. If you live below your means, you can almost guarantee that you are covered if you need to tackle any emergency, or if you want to save. 


Build an Emergency Fund

As well as thinking about your future such as retirement or paying off your debts, you should also make sure you build an emergency fund. Having an emergency fund is your way of protecting yourself against anything unexpected. You never know when something bad might happen, losing a job with a regular salary can really hinder someone financial security if they have no emergency fund. 


Pay Off Your Debt 

If you have any debt, it will likely stand in the way of you having financial security. Once you are aware of how much you are able to comfortably spend, using your budgeting, and when you have built an emergency fund, you can focus on getting rid of any debt. You should pay credit cards and other high-interest debts first, it’s best to avoid any future debt on these while you are trying to clear them. Bear in mind that if you have signed a contract for a term, it doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t pay it off sooner. If you want to keep on top of the debts that you have, it best to track your credit score. You can do this for free, and doing it can you the best chance of getting straight with your finances. 


Financial security is where you will have the freedom to live a life where you don’t need to worry about how you will pay the next bill that comes your way. For some people, this may seem like an unachievable dream but it is something that everyone is capable of achieving. 


These tips should help you on your way to becoming financially secure, just remember it does take a little effort but once you are in the swing of it it will become second nature.


Do you have any other tips that you are using to help you get you there? 

10:00 No comments

AD| It’s that time of year when people vow to be more active and dust off their gym gear in a bid to work off the indulgences of the festive season. Exercise is one of the best remedies for improved physical and mental health. If you’re embarking upon a new fitness regime, here are some tips and tricks to help you get the best results. 

workout routine


Set realistic targets

Setting targets is an excellent way to increase motivation, but it’s essential to establish goals that are achievable. If you’re a beginner, and you’ve never trained before, it’s unlikely that you’ll be able to run a marathon in a month’s time. Set goals that are relevant to your aims and consider your fitness level. If the end goal is to run 26.2 miles, break it down and start by ticking off a 5km run, followed by a 10km route and a half marathon. Celebrate each milestone and be ambitious. As you build your fitness and stamina, you can modify your goals. 


Eat well

When you increase your activity levels, and you’re pushing hard in training sessions, it’s crucial to ensure your body has sufficient fuel and that you’re eating the right foods. Focus on good nutrition and make sure your diet is balanced. You may need to increase your calorie intake if you’re burning a lot of calories and you want to maintain your weight or gain weight. If you want to lose weight, reducing your calorie intake in a controlled manner can help you drop pounds in a safe way. Training puts a strain on your body, and it’s beneficial to allow time for rest and to aid recovery. If you’re thinking of taking supplements, such as hyperade supplement, ask your doctor or a personal trainer for advice before changing your diet. As well as embracing healthy eating, it’s also critical to stay hydrated. If you lose fluids through sweating, you’ll need to replace them. Carry a bottle of water with you and aim to consume at least 2 litres per day. 


healthy avocado spinach toast


Introduce competition

Humans are naturally competitive, and many of us lift performance levels when there are competitors around. If you want to push yourself, introducing some friendly competition is a great idea. You can do this by joining exercise classes or group training sessions or getting involved in virtual races or competitions. You can also work out with a buddy. This will help you get the best out of the session, and it may also be more fun. 


Make training enjoyable

Many people will roll their eyes when they hear others talking about going to the gym or going for a run. If you’re sceptical about the fun factor, and exercise has always been a chore, it’s an excellent idea to vary your workouts, try new activities, work out in different places and get friends and family involved. 


cycling


If the start of a brand new year has inspired you to get fit, it’s natural to want to see results. To get the best out of your workouts, set achievable targets, eat well, stay hydrated, make training fun and unleash your competitive side.

13:14 No comments

 Happy New Year!

2020 may not have been the year we had hoped for and it is definitely one we wont forget. This year seemed to be full of negativity and uncertain times, with Coronavirus, multiple lockdowns, working from home and staying indoors, it's definitely been a rollercoaster year. But one positive for me was managing to continuously work on improving my finances and working towards a savings goal which I'm extremely happy and proud about. I'm hoping that this will continue in 2021, in an attempt to reach an ever bigger goal of mine financially, and here's 6 ways I'm going to use to help me with my targets and get on top of my finances.

money and finance

1. Savings Account - I mentioned that in 2020 I was lucky enough to reach my savings goal of 5 figures. This was mainly due to the multiple lockdowns, where I wasn't spending as much money as I would usually. This may not seem like a lot of money but having somewhere to direct that money to definitely helped. Every month, I would deposit an amount of money from my wages, along with an money I had earnt through sponsored posts and advertising. This method really worked for me as I was able to physically see how much each month I was putting away to be saved, yet still leaving enough money in my main account for the month ahead, and whatever I have left in my account before payday, that money also gets transferred to my savings.

2. Spend On Essentials - This is definitely something that I've been working on over the last few months. I've been quite strict on myself when it comes to spending, and making sure that I only purchase necessary and essential items. A few ways I've managed this is by trying to use up my beauty stash, re-wear and re-style clothing items for example. It's definitely been important for me to use what I already have in order to save some extra pounds.

3. Use Discount Codes and Vouchers - I'll admit it, I always seem to be on the hunt for discounts and vouchers, especially when shopping online. I always check my emails for discount codes, or simply have a quick google sometimes strikes lucky. I've also got both the Honey and Pouch extensions added to my internet browser, hoping that one of them will give me some savings when taking my shopping basket to the checkout. You may only save a few pounds each time, but it definitely adds up over time, and I can assure you, the money is better in your pocket!

4. Sell Unwanted Items - This is perfect for decluttering your home and getting rid of unused, unwanted or unworn items, and giving them a better home somewhere else. I've been listing unwanted clothing, shoes and other bits and bobs on eBay recently, and it's definitely helped me save a few coins whilst emptying my wardrobe.

5. Save Up Spare Change - This is a really quick and simple way to add some extra funds into your life. Every time you get change or find some money laying around in your coat or handbag, add it to a money jar or money box. It may only seem small to begin with, but over the year it will definitely add up. I've done this previously a few years ago, and had just over £100 in change!

6. Find Cheaper Alternatives - This doesn't have to be for everything, as many of us will definitely have holy grail items or products we just cant live without. But if you're on the hunt for something new, definitely try out cheaper brands/products, as you may really be surprised with what you can find. There are so many brands offering such affordable but high quality products, you'll definitely be able to save some money by testing them out, and you never know, you may repurchase in the future!

What ways will you be improving your finances in 2021? Do you have any money goals?

09:00 No comments

AD| Learning to let go isn't going to be easy, but that doesn’t mean that it isn’t the right thing to do. Often when it comes to relationships, you find that people are holding onto something that isn’t working anymore because they have a history with that person. While it is understandable, it’s not something that anyone should be doing. While learning to let go isn’t going to be easy, it’s something that has got to be done, and in this article, we’re going to be giving you some advice about this topic. If you would like to know more, keep reading down below.

couple holding hands relationship

Understand When It’s Time


The first thing that you’re going to have to do is understand when it is time to say goodbye and move on. We know that this isn’t a pleasant thing to think about, but you need to learn to do this for your sake, as well as for your partners. You can’t both keep hanging on to something that is no longer working simply because you are scared of what is coming next. This isn’t going to end well the longer you keep doing it. At least if you understand that it’s time and you decide to move on, you might be able to part on good terms, rather than having dragged it out and now you hate each other.


As soon as you’ve decided that it’s time to let go, you need to start the process. If you’re married then you need to file for divorce, figure out whether you’re going to need to complete form e and so on. If you’re not married, then the process is much simpler.


Keep Hold Of Your Memories


photo memory album images


You should always keep a hold of your memories. Keep them close in your heart and don’t let them go. Just because you have decided that it’s time to let go of the relationship, that doesn’t mean that you have to forget about it. It doesn’t mean that there were no good times in the relationship, it just means that now it is time for it to come to an end so you can both go and find what you are looking for. You will always have the memories from the time that you have been together, and there is nothing wrong with treasuring those. 


It Doesn’t Have To Be Goodbye Forever


Finally, letting go may be very difficult, but you can find solace in the fact that it doesn’t have to be goodbye forever. A lot of people seem to be under the impression that when you let a relationship go, you have to cut the person off and never speak to them again. This simply isn’t the case, especially if you decide that you would be better as friends. Give you and your partner some time to heal from the break up and then see where you can go from there. It might take some time, but we’re sure that you can see it through if you want to.


We hope that you have found this article helpful, and now see that learning to let go might not be easy, but it’s got to be done. It doesn’t have to be the nightmare that all movies make it out to be either, so just do whatever is most comfortable for you.

13:20 No comments
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