Lockdown Love

Haven’t posted in ages but I wanted to share some things that have been keeping me positive through lockdown. Hope something helps you too xx

1.Some Good News – YouTube

This is the only news I can watch. Each and every weekly episode makes me cry tears of joy and reminds me that “no matter how hard things get, there is always good in the world” John Krasinski calls upon celebrity pals to share the most positive and uplifting, beautifully curated internet news show.

2.Bloom and Wild – Flower Delivery

I had these amazing flowers gifted to me on my birthday in January and haven’t used any other floral delivery service since. Gorgeous buds arrive in a letter-box-friendly delivery and bloom in a few days (they even give you sweet flower arranging advice) No detail is overlooked and they arrive in super-speedy time. It really is perfect for cheering up a friend or loved one in lockdown. Get £10 off your first order here

3.Here for You – Podcast

A daily podcast hosted by Forever 35’s Kate & Doree. They talk openly and hilariously about self-care, survival, parenting and puzzling. Each day has a challenge and a word or phrase to inspire you. Not cheesy, just honest and if they’ve having a tough day they’ll share it so you don’t feel alone. They are my best friends who don’t even know me.

4.Encore – Radio

Sorry neighbours, but singing loudly to showtunes in my kitchen makes me HAPPY. A continuous playlist loop from the musicals which goes some small way to fill the painful gap that Jane’s Calamity singalong night has left behind.

4.Chris D’elia, No Pain – Netflix

I have watched this multiple times and I still hoot like I haven’t heard this stand-up special before. Highly recommend his YouTube podcast too, not many people can carry a solo podcast and be sssssssssss’funny. Love him.

6.Hello Fresh

Fed up of cooking the same meals on rotation, I took the recommendation of a colleague and tried a Hello Fresh meal delivery. I’ll admit, I was also looking for a way not to spend quite so much time in the germy supermarket or spend quite so much mental energy trying to come up with new ways to serve mince. The recipes are easy to follow and completely delicious. I’ve learned stuff! Fully customisable, you can select which meals you’d like to make (including family favourites, meat-free, under 600 cals or speedy eats that take less than 20mins) and take a break whenever you like. Great service and fresh food delivered safely to your door. Get £20 off your first order by using the code HS-X35KRV15G here

7.Headspace app

When free access to the headspace app was offered to NHS staff I was extremely happy to take up their very kind offer. It is amazing the difference that just a ten minute meditation practice can make. On the days when sleep has been elusive, the soothing stories have helped me to quieten my noisy mind and settle down to rest. The app has accompanied me on walks, alongside my workouts (mindful cardio anyone?) and in my frazzled moments. Whatever this costs when the NHS offer ends, I will pay it.

8.Josh Elkin

His chopping skills are on point, he never skips egg day and his livestream cooking shows on Twitch are so calming to watch, even if they do make you unbelievably hungry right at bedtime. I love his high hair, the way he says “cheese”, his little mini-whisk and his undeniable passion for cooking innovative and delicious food. Get a free subscription with Amazon Prime.

Hope you’re all finding new ways to stay upbeat too, would love to hear about them.

Stay safe friends xx