Blog - Page 14 of 22 - Parenting, Mental Health & Lifestyle

How to Create Your Dream Backyard This Year

21 December 2022 , 4 Comments

If you’re like most people, you’re already looking ahead to spring and summer. As the days are getting longer and warmer, it’s the perfect time to start planning for a backyard oasis. Whether you have a small apartment balcony or acres of land, there is something special about having an outdoor space to call your own. In this blog post, we’re going to take a look at key tips on how to create your dream backyard this year.

Planning Out Your Backyard

When it comes to designing your dream backyard, the possibilities are endless! It all starts with an idea and some sketching—what kind of look do you want? Are there specific elements you would like to include? Answering these questions will help you create a vision board that serves as your guide throughout the design process.

Procuring the Materials

Once that’s complete, it’s time to start measuring and gathering materials. And remember to have fun with it! You don’t need expensive materials or fancy tools to make impactful changes in your outdoor living space. But if you are doing something like a water feature or a pool, be sure to get your RIW toughseal protective coating too. You’ll need that to finish everything off.

Choose Your Plants Wisely

When selecting plants for your backyard paradise, consider what type of climate you have and what kinds of plants might thrive best in that climate. Research native plants in your area so that you can choose ones suited for long-term success—no one wants their money going towards plants that won’t last more than one season! If you live in an urban area where outdoor space is limited, opt for low-maintenance plants like succulents instead of high-maintenance flowers like roses. Also, consider non-plant elements such as water features (like fountains) and bird feeders if they fit within the scope of your project and budget.

Keep It Sustainable

Finally, when creating any outdoor living space it’s important to keep sustainability top-of-mind at all times. This means using natural resources responsibly while also considering how waste impacts the environment around us. The materials used should be safe for both humans and animals alike—including any fertilizers or pest control products used on the plants—and should not pollute water sources nearby such as rivers or lakes when it rains heavily. This is especially the case when creating your pool.

Bringing it All to Life

Creating a dream backyard may seem daunting but with patience and dedication, anything is possible! With some careful planning, research, and creativity anyone can turn their plain old backyard into an incredible retreat just waiting to be enjoyed by family members or friends alike this summer season! Take advantage of the fresh air outdoors this season by investing some time into making changes around your home – no matter how big or small – because there is no better feeling than being able to enjoy nature while spending quality time with loved ones just steps away from home sweet home!

The Body Shop

My Latest Finds From The Body Shop & Why I Love Them

11 December 2022 , 18 Comments

With Christmas coming up, I had to ensure The Body Shop made it onto my Christmas present spreadsheet. I know my family and friends love some of their trusted favourites. Check out my latest finds.

I will also be reviewing an amazing gift set recently sent to me by The Body Shop.

Quick note: Some of the links on this page are affiliate links; if you go through them to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. I only recommend products I use myself and think would be useful for you.

Let’s dive into the gifted items I was sent and why I love them so much

Mango

If you like the soft-squidgy-ness of juicy mango and its sweet luscious scent, you’re in for a treat with the Mango fragrance and body care range.

Sweetness & Sunshine Mango Essentials Gift

This Christmas gift is the next best thing to a tropical paradise! The set includes:

Mango Shower Gel 250ml
Mango Body Yoghurt 200ml
Mango Hand Balm 30ml
Mini Ramie Bath Lily

My thoughts on the gift set

This set is fantastic. Such a luxurious scent and some of the items are only available in the set. It also comes in a cute gift package and has everything you need to provide your loved ones with the self-care they need!

Read to the bottom for a discount code!

Let’s dive into the trusted favourites I buy every year

Strawberry Beauty & Skincare Range

The strawberry range takes me back to my younger days. The fruity smell is so luxurious and I have just the person in mind for this cute little gift set.

Whipping up memories of summer sports and sweet treats, the heart-shaped strawberry could be said to be the most symbolic of berries, but it’s all the more lovable as our splendidly scented Strawberry fragrance and body care range. Each of our strawberry beauty products contains real strawberry seed oil, bringing the plump, juicy fruit to your bathroom and on-the-go bag.

Jolly & Juicy Strawberry Essentials Gift

This is a juicy Christmas gift they’ll love to unwrap.

Strawberry Shower Gel 250ml
Strawberry Body Yoghurt 200ml
Strawberry Hand Cream 30ml
Mini Ramie Bath Lily

Strawberry Body Butter

I love the fruity body butter from The Body Shop, but I think strawberry has to be my fave.

The Edelweiss range

You may remember me writing an entire blog post on the Edelweiss range. And why I love it so much. It was only right to buy this item for someone I love.

Edelweiss Cleansing Concentrate

Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin
Leave skin feeling purified and renewed
Made with 95% ingredients of natural origin
Enriched with edelweiss
Certified by The Vegan Society
Dermatologically tested

Dry Hair & Scalp Products

Let’s talk about dry hair – straight or curly, thick or thin, it can affect any hair type. We are introducing our range of hair shampoo, conditioner and hair care products formulated with dry hair and scalps in mind. Think shampoo for dry hair, hydrating conditioners and nourishing masks.

My hubby loves both of these products. They make your hair feel clean and refreshed. Something we both require as tired parents.

Ginger Anti-dandruff Shampoo

What does it do for you?

Anti-dandruff shampoo
Perfect for dry, flaky scalps
Help clear flakes
Leave dry, itchy scalps feeling soothed
Made with 90% ingredients of natural origin
Certified by The Vegan Society

Ginger Scalp Care Conditioner

What does it do for you?

Scalp care conditioner
Perfect for dry scalps and weak hair
Leave dry scalps feeling soothed*
Leave hair feeling stronger, softer and more resilient*
Made with 97% ingredients of natural origin
Certified by The Vegan Society

Satsuma

A ball of pure orange energy as vibrant as the sun, is there anything better than a satsuma to help put a zing in your step and a wiggle in your walk? We love those bursting citrus notes so much that we’ve captured this juicy fruit in our Satsuma body care products.

Satsuma Shower Gel

Perfect for all skin types
Leave skin feeling soft, cleansed and refreshed
Juicy and refreshing
92% of ingredients of natural origin
Certified by The Vegan Society
Dermatologically tested

A firm fave within my family. I grew up with this scent and my brother absolutely loves it.

Discount code

As promised, let’s reveal the discount code

Visit The Body Shop – 20% off discount code MCA20 until the end of the year (Including Advent Calendars)

Check out all my blog posts… for The Body Shop

Family, Parenting Resources, Parenting tips

10 Tips for Raising Confident Kids

8 December 2022 , 14 Comments

When it comes to raising confident kids, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. Every child is different, and what works for one might not work for another. That said, there are a few general tips that can help any parent raise a confident child. This blog post will discuss the most important tips for doing just that!

1) Encourage Independence:

Parents should strive to provide their children with opportunities to make decisions and do things independently. This will help them become more confident in their own abilities, as well as gain a better understanding of how the world works.

2) Celebrate Accomplishments:

It’s important for parents to celebrate their children’s successes, no matter how small. Doing so helps kids understand that accomplishments are something to be proud of, which will give them confidence when it comes time to tackle harder tasks in the future.

3) Praise Effort Over Results:

Most parents praise their kids when they get good grades or win a race. However, it is just as important – if not more so – to praise the effort and hard work that went into achieving those results. Doing this will help kids understand that there is value in trying, regardless of the outcome.

4) Encourage Healthy Risk-Taking:

Parents should foster an environment where their children feel comfortable taking risks and attempting new things. This could be anything from trying a new sport or musical instrument or even just speaking up in class. Taking healthy risks can help a child build confidence as they learn to trust their own judgement.

5) Model Confidence:

Children watch and learn from their parents more than they realize, so it’s important for parents to model confident behaviour. If you want your kids to be self-assured, make sure you are too. Show them how to be confident in uncomfortable situations, and don’t forget to praise yourself for your successes!

6) Have Realistic Expectations:

Parents should strive to set realistic expectations for their kids. This means being realistic about the amount of time it takes for a child to learn something or accomplish a goal, as well as not expecting children to achieve perfect results all the time. Doing this can help kids understand that mistakes are normal and nothing to be ashamed of.

7) Be Positive:

It’s important for parents to remain positive while raising their kids. Negative reinforcement can have an adverse effect on a child’s confidence, so always try to focus on the positives when providing feedback.

8) Give Opportunities to Develop Skills:

Providing kids with opportunities to develop their skills and learn new things is key when it comes to building confidence. This could be anything from signing them up for a sports team or art class, swim lessons, or simply giving them age-appropriate chores around the house.

9) Normalize failure:

Every child will face failure at some point in life, so it’s important for parents to normalize this experience. Remind your children that mistakes are an opportunity to learn and grow, not something they should be ashamed of. This will help them become more resilient and confident in the face of adversity.

10) Gentle parenting:

Gentle parenting is important for helping kids build confidence. This means responding to their feelings with empathy and understanding, using positive reinforcement, avoiding power struggles, and being mindful of their individual needs.

While there is no one-size-fits-all approach to raising confident kids, these tips can help parents provide their children with the tools they need to become more self-assured. With proper guidance and support, children can learn to trust in themselves and their abilities, which will set them up for success in life.

Mental Health

Why I decided to participate in the #JoinIn Twitter hashtag

30 December 2021 , 4 Comments

Firstly, I should make it clear I am writing this mainly because I want more people to be aware the #JoinIn Twitter hashtag exists. It’s important people know there is someone out there to support them. Even if it isn’t possible to do this face to face right now.

I previously volunteered for a befriending service and did home visits with an elderly person. But the service also offered much-needed telephone conversations. As you can imagine, this could mean the world to a lonely older person. Therefore, I’m aware of how valuable this contact can be.

To clarify, this isn’t about me being a hero or superior to anyone else. I truly believe we are all muddling through life. Any one of us could be lonely one day, or find ourselves in the depths of depression during the Christmas period. If everyone could understand this, or always try to lead with a kind heart, I don’t think the stigma surrounding mental health would be as bad as it is.

What happened on Christmas morning?

All I can tell you is, I felt compelled to support others on Christmas Day. And the #JoinIn Twitter hashtag was my way of doing it.

I will be honest and say when I first saw the campaign in the lead-up to Christmas, I was dubious about committing. The only reason for my reluctance was self-preservation. I’ve learned to look after myself first. I obviously also want to help others and it’s the reason I started my blog. But how can I help others without preserving my mental strength?

Despite my reluctance, something happened on Christmas morning which made me feel I needed to participate. I looked at our little family and I felt grateful. Lucky to be seeing my parents and finally getting to teach my toddler about Santa.

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Giving back

I genuinely loved interacting under the #JoinIn Twitter hashtag on Christmas Day. I still had quality time with my family, but I was also proud to give something back. The Twitter community helped me out of a dark place. To recover from a mental breakdown.

In a similar way to my blogging journey, this then made me think of all the people who wouldn’t have this luxury. We couldn’t see some family members because of a positive covid test. Therefore I was all too aware some people might just be isolated this year to avoid spreading the virus.

These selfless, kind people needed someone to connect with. To clarify, this isn’t about me being a hero or superior to anyone else. I truly believe we are all muddling through life. Any one of us could be lonely one day, or find ourselves in the depths of depression during the Christmas period. If everyone could understand this, or always try to lead with a kind heart, I don’t think the stigma surrounding mental health would be as bad as it is.

I’ve found receiving and giving the following to others really does help to transform your life.

Compassion

Gratitude

Kindness

Support

Empathy

Love

Hugs

Understanding

I wish everyone would show more of these qualities. The world would be a better place.

For anyone who needs it right now, feel free to sign up to my freebie library and download the self-care checklist

I want the checklist

How it all started

Sarah Millican is an amazing human being for starting the #JoinIn Twitter hashtag and also taking time out of her Christmas day to chat with everyone. I honestly think it’s so lovely. Through her shows, she also raised an amazing amount of money for Mind. A charity doing amazing work to support those with mental health problems.

When confronting my own mental health issues in the past, I’ve always found therapy helped. Something about talking to a stranger means you lower your guard and can often be more honest. I truly think the same concept works online. I’ve sometimes felt more supported by strangers online than people close to me.

My wish and the reason I am writing this

I want to spread the word to everyone. this support exists on Twitter. I would like the chat to continue and I know there are some people who want to do this.

The main thing we all need to be aware of is there is someone there to talk if you feel you need it. And that is priceless. It warmed my heart to see the exchange of kind messages!

Final thoughts

Please come and chat with me in the comments below and let me know what you think of the #JoinIn Twitter hashtag.

I would love to hear from you.

Gift Guides, Gifting, Lifestyle

3 Reasons A CityStack Bundle Is The Perfect Affordable Gift

4 December 2022 , 2 Comments

CityStack is the perfect, affordable gift for pub lovers! I wanted to write about a quirky gift. Something you can purchase if you’re struggling with ideas on what to buy someone.

Maybe you want to give a friend the gift of socialising. Or you want to buy the stack for yourself so you can spend more time with the people you love.

Whatever the motivation to buy this amazing, affordable gift. I have some further information in this post and I can’t wait to introduce you to this quirky stack.

Get a stack of beer mats for just £20 and offer a gift of £100 worth of food & drinks at ten amazing independent pubs across London

Quick note: Some of the links contained on this page are affiliate links. If you go through an affiliate link to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. I only recommend products I use myself and think would be helpful for other people.

Keep reading for a discount code for free shipping

What do I get?

This pack offers ten money-saving coasters, each giving £10 off a £20 spend at one of the ten independent London pubs that are part of the collection. It’s a total of £100 worth of food & drinks offered per pack!

How does it work?

When it is time to pay, give the coaster to receive a £10 discount on your bill. This discount is available on any item on the menu, including food and drinks. And you can use the discount at any time.

3 great reasons to purchase this stack

Socialising

CityStack has been created to support independent pubs that are struggling with the current economic situation. Additionally, answer the issue of budget for going out.

There is no doubt everyone needs to tighten their budgets at the moment. But this shouldn’t mean we end our social lives. Often, we need human connection and time out to relax. And we must prioritise this in order to protect our mental well-being.

Supporting local businesses

With this pack, you save money. And get the satisfaction of supporting a selection of great independent pubs at the same time. It’s a win-win!

Discover new places

I always love purchasing a quirky gift like this. Giving the gift of experience is something I always try and do for my family members. With this stack, you may end up visiting a local business you’ve never discovered before.

Step outside your comfort zone and try something new. You never know, you might meet new people or one of these businesses might become your favourite place to visit. You never know if you don’t try.

Here’s to the joy of discovering new places!

Discount code & free shipping

Use code MUMMY22 at the checkout to receive free shipping on your first order.

This coupon is available up to Christmas!

Christmas

10 Unique Menkind Gifts For The Special Man In Your Life

24 November 2022 , 26 Comments

#AD #AFF

Originally posted in November 2021 & updated in November 2022

OK, forget about buying the man-in-your-life socks again. If you’ve already bought them, send them back. Check out my list of unique MenKind gifts.

Just for you, I have a rundown of some very quirky gifts you can buy for the special man in your life instead.

I don’t know about you, but I find men more difficult to buy for than the ladies in my life. My dad is especially difficult to buy unless he wants something specific at the time.

When I know there is an occasion coming up, I check out Menkind for a quirky gift for my hubby, and therefore, I’m thrilled to be recommending them to you today.

Unique MenKind gifts always make an appearance in my Christmas shopping each year

Quick note: Mummy Conquering Anxiety is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. Some of the links on this page are affiliate links; if you go through them to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. I only recommend products I use myself and think would be useful for you.

Images courtesy of the MenKind website.

Let’s dive into my list of unique MenKind gifts

1. Fizzics DraftPour Beer Dispenser

I love the look of this beer dispenser. How amazing.

2. BrewDog Punk IPA Beer-Making Kit

This beer-making kit is the perfect gift for a man who loves to be creative and feels better knowing he contributed to the creation stage.

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3. Lazy Man Frying Pan

My hubby has wanted one of these frying pans for a while. I think it ties into the thing of BBQs and men wanting to make an epic feast for everyone. There is no denying I am not the best cook in our house. My hubby definitely is and he requires tools to cook us a lovely meal.

4. Marvel Logo Light – Only At Menkind!

As a lover of the Universe, my hubby would appreciate this lightbox gift. We have a few quirky lights like this dotted around the house, including a Tetris light.

Menkind also has a few other cool lights, including the Minecraft creeper.

I am adding at least one of these to the Christmas list for him now.

5. Star Wars Ultimate Movie Challenge

How well do you know Star Wars? Find out!
Test your knowledge of all the movies
Not a simple quiz – there are 5 challenge types
Mime, draw, describe, link, and trivia
For 4+ players aged 8+

6. Chess For Three

How cool is the Chess for Three? I love how quirky it is. Having never seen a product like this before, it was so unique nobody else would think to purchase it.

Check out my other gift guides

I have also written a No7 gift guide and you can find my online last-minute gifts guide here.

Are you struggling to select an alternative advent calendar? Or do you need a special toddler gift?

7. Escape Room: The Game

Having visited an escape room as a family, how amazing you can bring it home and still enjoy the fun and thrill of escaping.

Another totally unique gift and I love it.

8. Magnetic Wristband

For the DIY fan, this wristband is so cool. How practical for fixing things in the house or tackling flat packs?

9. Bearded Man 24 Beard Oils Sampler Box Set

It’s a gift box of 24 beard oil samplers!
Contains each of Bearded Man Co’s 24 different scents
Each bottle is good for about 6 to 8 uses
Comes presented in a wooden gift box
Each glass bottle contains 2 ml

And finally…

If you are insistent on buying socks, let’s at least make them fun…

10. United Oddsocks Sock Invaders Socks

How cool are these? I don’t know what happens in your house, but in ours, we have a huge Ikea bag full of socks we still need to pair up. We also have lost socks, the ones that will never be a pair because one is gone forever.

Bearing this in mind, I LOVE the fact odd socks are becoming fashionable.

Other sections on the MenKind website

I am pleased to report there is a section on the website for ladies and kids. Check out the full website below.

Final thoughts

I hope you enjoyed reading this gift guide.

Unique MenKind gifts always make an appearance in my Christmas shopping each year and therefore I am so happy to be sharing this list with you.

Do you like any of the gifts on the list and will you purchase any? Let me know in the comments below.

Check out all my other gift guides here:

12 BOOKS & COURSES FOR MANAGING ANXIETY

14 AMAZING COSY WELLNESS GIFTS FOR WINTER & BEYOND

SOME AMAZING WELLNESS PRODUCTS – FOR YOUR GIFTING & CHRISTMAS NEEDS

MY GUIDE TO THE BEST APPAREL OUT THERE CONTRIBUTING TO GREAT CAUSES

WHY GIFT GUIDES ARE AN AMAZING RESOURCE WHEN ONLINE SHOPPING

Here are some of the previous gift guides I created:

4 AMAZING GIFT IDEAS FOR THE SPECIAL MAN IN YOUR LIFE

THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX FOR YOUR VALENTINE’S DAY GIFT

THE BEST DISCOUNTS & DEALS ON THE INTERNET FOR MOTHER’S DAY

THE REASONS I PURCHASE WITH ONE TRUSTED BRAND FOR GIFTS & SELF-CARE PURCHASES

THE ULTIMATE LIST OF SELF-CARE PACKAGE GIFT IDEAS FOR EVERY OCCASION

5 LAST-MINUTE ONLINE CHRISTMAS GIFTS FOR THE ONES YOU LOVE

CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE MY TRUSTED NO7 ESSENTIALS

Mummy life, self-care, The Body Shop

My Favourite Self-Care Products From The Body Shop

3 August 2022 , 16 Comments

AFF – products gifted in exchange for a review

20% off discount code MCA20 until the end of the year (Including Advent Calendars)

If you follow my blog, you will know I love The Body Shop. Since being a teenager and buying animal-shaped soaps on my trips to the nearest town centre with friends. I’ve loved the scents and the ethos behind the company.

In recent years, I now require high-quality products. It’s all about taking care of my skin and having a little self-care and indulgence in my life. As a busy mum, lack of sleep sometimes means bad skin, dark circles and all the other wonderful downsides of motherhood. A rescue plan to make me look and feel better is required.

I was overjoyed when The Body Shop sent me a package full of their best sellers to review

Let’s dive in

Himalayan Charcoal Purifying Glow Mask

I’ve been looking for a product to even my skin tone and I am so impressed with the results after using this scrub. It’s my go-to product now. And I’ve already ordered more. As a busy mum, having an even skin tone and refreshed look means less maintenance. Given that I quickly rub concealer on my face, in the car before the nursery drop. Anything that avoids this extra task, I will pay good money for.

Over the summer, it is nicer to have no make-up on your face. These days it just sweats off me anyway. This charcoal mask is a weekly treat I can use to enable me to have a fresh face for summer outings.

Almond Milk Body Butter

I must admit, I love the fruity body butter from The Body Shop. But they do tend to be a little thicker in consistency. This one is my new favourite. Simply because it’s so light on your skin and totally refreshing for summer. I can imagine taking it on holiday abroad with me and feeling extra moisturised after a day in the sun.

Hemp Hand Protector

We’ve all heard of this one. I would say it’s one of the most iconic Body Shop products. I’ve wanted to try it for a while and my hubby is in need of some because he works outside in all weather conditions.

The texture is lovely and it smells amazing. You can literally feel it immediately helping your skin. And I love that feeling.

Ginger Anti-dandruff Shampoo

This isn’t a product I would normally choose. I have dry, frizzy and unmanageable hair. However, the smell and the texture are so refreshing. And I actually really love using it now. It makes me feel cleaner than using my previous shampoo. Unlike other shampoos, you use a very tiny amount, which means it goes further than other products I’ve used in the past.

Discount code

If you would like to purchase any of these items, I have a discount code for you to use…

20% off discount code MCA20 until the end of the year (Including Advent Calendars)

(excludes the sale, gifts & gift cards)

Advent Calendar Of Treats From The Body Shop

20 August 2022 , 26 Comments

(AFF)

If you follow my blog, you will know I cannot resist a self-care treat from The Body Shop. Well, I have an extraordinary surprise to share with you today! Launching – 21 August 2022. TOMORROW!

20% off discount code MCA20 until the end of the year (Including Advent Calendars)

Body Shop Advent Calendar

For those of you saying it’s too early to think about an advent calendar, it isn’t. I am secretly really excited about autumn, Halloween and the countdown to Christmas. I am also mindful that I need to spend money wisely this year, maybe make some savings where I can, and definitely start buying some gifts earlier than usual. Just this morning, my little one had a huge smile on her face when we told her Santa is busy sorting out presents. I asked her what she wanted and the magic in her eyes made me emotional.

What a deal

The product I have to recommend to you today, allows you to receive £159.00 worth of products for a price tag of £95.00. It’s a great way to stock up on your essentials, treat someone you love, or treat yourself. We all deserve it!

Making a saving of at least £34.50 is great in my book – because I am always looking at ways of cutting costs.

The Box Of Wonders Big Advent Calendar

What’s inside?

Here to help you buff, slather and moisturise head-to-toe, our Big Advent Calendar is packed with 25 surprises, including some full-sized favourites. Unwind with our bestselling Face Masks, refresh with our zesty Shower Gels and nourish with our indulgent Body Butters made with Community Fair Trade shea butter from Ghana.

Contributing to great causes

With every Box of Wonders, you’ll also find little facts about our Community Fair Trade partners or an act of kindness, so you can share some wonder and joy with your friends, family and community. You can even reuse the pop-ups as gift tags, and the drawers are great for storing crafts and other little bits and bobs, long after Christmas.

And remember, this Advent calendar doesn’t just bring you and the people you love, happiness, it also supports our global partners in Ghana with fair and regular income opportunities and access to healthcare and education projects. So far over 600 women across 11 villages have seen improvements in their lives.

My personal favourites

I couldn’t let you go without including a full rundown of the contents and the all-important size guide – Length 31cm x Depth 22cm x Height 17 cm Weight 2.8 kg.

I am so excited to go through this list:

Shea Hand Balm 30ml
Avocado Lip Care Stick 4.2g
Strawberry Shower Gel 60ml
Camomile Muslin Cloth
Camomile Sumptuous Cleansing Butter 20ml
Aloe Calm Hydration Sheet Mask 18ml
British Rose Shower Scrub 50ml
Bath Lily Large Ramie Gift
Himalayan Charcoal Purifying Glow Mask 15ml
Shea Intense Repair Shampoo 250ml
Avocado Shower Cream 60ml
Mango Body Butter 50ml
Almond Milk Shower Cream 60ml
Tie Front Headband
Nicaraguan Coffee Intense Awakening Mask 15ml
Almond Milk Soap 100g
Pink Grapefruit Shower Gel 60ml
Vitamin C Glow Sheet Mask 18ml
Avocado Body scrub 50ml
British Rose Shower Gel 60ml
British Rose Hand Cream 30ml
Vitamin E Quench Sheet Mask 18ml
Shea Body Butter 50ml
Himalayan Charcoal Skin Clarifying Night Peel 30ml
Breathe Massage Melt 75ml

I am so happy to see the good old Strawberry Shower Gel included. Since reviewing a recent bundle from The Body Shop, I am also in love with the Almond Milk products and love the sound of the Almond body scrub.

Final thoughts

I need to toddle off and send this post to everyone who knows and loves me, in the hope someone purchases it for Christmas for me. Sending this thought out into the universe in the hope it manifests.

Will you be buying this?

Which are your favourite products? I would love some recommendations from you on my next purchases from The Body Shop.

You can check out my two previous posts about The Body Shop.

Gift Guides, Gifting, The Body Shop, wellness

I Have More Advent Calendars To Share From The Body Shop

13 September 2022 , 20 Comments

Because you all loved my last post featuring The Box Of Wonders Big Advent Calendar, I have TWO additional advent calendars to share with you today.

20% off discount code MCA20 until the end of the year (Including Advent Calendars)

LAUNCHING – 18 September 2022

Quick note: Some of the links contained on this page are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. I only recommend products I use myself and think would be useful for other people.

Box of Wishes Advent Calendar

Buy for £55 Worth £89.50

Launching 18th September

Small in size but packed full of treats – the Box of Wishes Advent Calendar contains skincare, face masks and beauty tools. Hydrate with our Shower Gel before nourishing your skin with our Body Butter infused with Community Fair Trade Mango Seed Oil from India.

This calendar celebrates the women of Chhattisgarh, India, and through our Mango Seed Oil, we continue to support them with job prospects and opportunities for independence.

What’s included?

STRAWBERRY SHOWER GEL 60ML
BRITISH ROSE HAND CREAM 30ML
RASPBERRY BORN LIPPY 10ML
MINI RAMIE BATH LILY
BRITISH ROSE SHOWER GEL 60ML
TEA TREE FACE WASH 60ML
SATSUMA SOAP 100G
MANGO BODY BUTTER 50ML
SHEA HAND BALM 10ML
VITAMIN C SHEET MASK 18ML
SHEA SHAMPOO 60ML
SHEA CONDITIONER 60ML
PINK GRAPEFRUIT SHOWER GEL 60ML
STRAWBERRY LIP BUTTER 10ML
MANGO SHOWER GEL 60ML
HIMALAYAN CHARCOAL MASK 15ML
HAIR CLAW
ALMOND MILK SHOWER CREAM 60ML BRITISH ROSE SHOWER SCRUB 50ML
VITAMIN E SHEET MASK 18ML
SHEA SOAP 100G
STRAWBERRY HAND CREAM 30ML
AVOCADO SHOWER CREAM 60ML
ALMOND MILK BODY BUTTER 50ML

Box of Wishes & Wonders Ultimate Advent Calendar

Buy for £145 Worth £219

Launching 18th September

Our Ultimate Advent Calendar is bursting with iconic full-sized bestsellers as well as exciting new products, beauty tools and everything you need to nourish your body and soul. Scrub, soften and slather your way to your most beautiful Christmas yet with our luxurious Sheet Masks, nourishing Body Butters, and rejuvenating Body Scrubs.

What’s included?

AVOCADO SHOWER CREAM 250ML
CAMOMILE CLEANSING BUTTER 20ML
EDELWEISS LIQUID PEEL 100ML
MANGO HAND BALM 30ML
BOOST HAND WASH 250ML
MORINGA SHAMPOO 250ML
STRAWBERRY LIP BUTTER 10ML
RAMIE BATH LILY
MORINGA CONDITIONER 250ML
VITAMIN E HYDRATING TONER 250ML
VITAMIN E SHEET MASK 18ML
MANGO BATH BLEND 250ML
BRITISH ROSE BODY YOGURT 200ML
ALMOND MILK LIP CARE STICK 4.2G
PINK CLAY FACIAL KONJAC SPONGE
HIMALAYAN CHARCOAL MASK 15ML
PINK GRAPEFRUIT SHOWER GEL 250ML
MANGO BODY SCRUB 50ML
AVOCADO LOTION TO OIL 200ML
BRITISH ROSE FACIAL MASK 15ML
ALMOND MILK HAND BALM 30ML
EDELWEISS SHEET MASK 21ML
HIMALAYAN CHARCOAL NIGHT PEEL 30ML
SHEA BODY BUTTER 200ML
SLEEP PILLOW MIST 100ML

Final Thoughts

If you follow the blog, you will know I am a huge fan of The Body Shop. You can check out my other posts featuring their amazing products below:

ADVENT CALENDAR OF TREATS FROM THE BODY SHOP

MY FAVOURITE SELF-CARE PRODUCTS FROM THE BODY SHOP

THE REASONS I PURCHASE WITH ONE TRUSTED BRAND FOR GIFTS & SELF-CARE PURCHASES

Gift Guides, self-care, The Body Shop

The New Edelweiss Range From the Body Shop

19 October 2022 , 12 Comments

AFF – products gifted in exchange for a review

I’m so excited to talk about the new Edelweiss Range from The Body Shop.

20% off discount code MCA20 until the end of the year (Including Advent Calendars)

The Edelweiss range – what is it all about?

Discover the secret to smoother skin with Edelweiss skincare. Just like Drops of Youth™, but even better, now enriched with double the concentration of edelweiss. Our formulas help to gently clear pollutants and help protect skin against pollution. Made with 99% natural-origin ingredients, it helps to smooth and protect the skin, delivering 24hr hydration.

A master of resilience, edelweiss is a tiny flower with all the power to survive and thrive on the mountainside. This magic marvel protects itself against harsh environmental conditions by producing its own antioxidant, leontopodic acid. That’s why we made this mighty little plant the star ingredient of our Edelweiss skincare. Enriched with edelweiss extract, our clever formulas help maintain skin’s natural moisture barrier and smooth the way to glorious, fresher-looking skin.

Why do I need to look after my skin?

No human being is getting any younger, sorry. And I’m personally showing signs of ageing. Including pulled muscles from sleeping, fatigue and sometimes problematic skin.

At this time of year, it’s even more important for us to look after our skin. And I’m so happy I now have a daily routine to complete with these products.

The packaging is great and seeing the items in my fancy little bathroom basket, encourages me to look after my skin. As a busy mum, it’s important to have a routine you want to do each day. Because let’s face it, some days I barely get time to go to the toilet alone. Skincare seems to come much further down the list of priorities. And from now on, I plan to bump it up the list!

Let’s dive into these amazing products from The Edelweiss Range

Edelweiss Cleansing Concentrate

My thoughts on this product

This cleanser from the Edelweiss Range is lovely to use. I sometimes don’t like using them, because washing the cleanser off with water can make my skin dry. But the consistency of this product is perfect. Just the right amount of foam when mixed with water. And it starts as a gel – something I have never seen before.

It leaves my skin feeling fresh, without feeling dry!

What does it do for you?

Made with 95% ingredients of natural origin, our new Edelweiss Cleansing Concentrate washes away impurities and pollution, leaving skin feeling smoother, fresh and luminous – just ask the 119 women who tried (and loved!) our new cleanser in an independent user trial*.

This skin-loving facial wash works its magic, leaving skin feeling awakened and purified, yet soft and comfortable – no tight feeling here!

Ready for the best bit? We’ve enriched it with edelweiss, which is naturally (and rather uniquely) strengthened with leontopodic acid known for its antioxidant properties. The tiny edelweiss plant is so resilient and powerful that its extract has 43% more antioxidant power than retinol. Pretty extraordinary, right?

This lightweight gel-to-water cleanser transforms from a translucent formula to a gentle bubbly foam suitable for all skin types. Our packaging is also 100% recyclable too. What’s not to love?

How to use this product

Massage a small dollop onto wet skin, lather and rinse.

Daily cleanser
Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin
Leave skin feeling purified and renewed
Made with 95% ingredients of natural origin
Enriched with edelweiss
Certified by The Vegan Society
Dermatologically tested

Edelweiss Daily Serum Concentrate

My thoughts on this product

I love a good serum. You just know it’s doing your skin the world of good and this one is lovely. The bottle and pipet just make me feel great like I am investing in my skincare routine (made with recycled glass too).

The actual consistency of the serum is lovely on your face. Probably the best face serum I’ve ever used.

What does it do for you?

Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin
Leaves skin feeling fresher and smoother
Helps protect the skin from pollution
Made with 99% ingredients of natural origin
Now enriched with double the concentration of edelweiss
Certified by The Vegan Society
Non-comedogenic (doesn’t block pores)
Dermatologically tested

Our bestselling Drops of Youth™ Concentrate just got even better.

Made with 99% ingredients of natural origin, it only takes a few drops of our new Edelweiss Daily Serum Concentrate to leave skin looking smoother, fresher, stronger* and plumped with 24hr moisture.

But what makes our new concoction so exceptional? We’ve now enriched every bottle with double the concentration of edelweiss, which is naturally (and rather uniquely) strengthened with leontopodic acid known for its antioxidant properties.

We’ve enriched our vegan serum with natural-origin peptides too, just for good measure. Derived from rice, peptides are known to help maintain the skin’s natural moisture barrier.

This light, non-sticky, fast-absorbing formula also forms an invisible layer over your skin to help protect it from indoor and outdoor pollution (perfect for all you city types), which can lead to dehydration, dullness and premature skin ageing.

How to use this product

First up, have a good cleanse with our Edelweiss Cleansing Concentrate. This will help wash away all that grime, pollution and makeup, so your serum works even more effectively.

Squeeze 2-3 drops of our serum into your hand and gently massage it into cleansed skin every morning and night.

Give it a few seconds to sink in before slathering on our Edelweiss Smoothing Day Cream or Edelweiss Intense Smoothing Day Cream.

Edelweiss Intense Smoothing Day Cream

My thoughts on this product

This product from the Edelweiss Range, is a light cream when it’s applied to your face and has a very subtle scent. Totally refreshing after a hard day at work, or in the harsh cold of the autumn months.

What does it do for you?

Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin
Leaves skin looking smoother and stronger
Leaves skin feeling ultra-soft
Helps maintain the skin’s natural moisture barrier
Helps protect against indoor and outdoor pollution
Made with 97% ingredients of natural origin
Enriched with edelweiss
Certified by The Vegan Society
Dermatologically tested

Give your complexion a deeply nourishing treat with our new Edelweiss Intense Smoothing Day Cream – it’s the ultimate hydration boost.

Made with 97% ingredients of natural origin, it only takes a tiny dollop of our new Edelweiss Intense Smoothing Day Cream to leave skin looking smoother, fresher, stronger and plumped with 48hr moisture.

An intensely rich and nourishing cream, this non-greasy formula has a silky texture and melts into the skin effortlessly, helping protect against indoor and outdoor pollution and leaving skin feeling deeply nourished, firmer and ultra-soft.

It helps retain moisture and maintains the skin’s natural moisture barrier.

Scoop out a pea-sized amount and smooth it all over your complexion day and night. Enjoy that feeling of supple, silky-smooth skin.

How to use this product

First up, have a good cleanse with our Edelweiss Cleansing Concentrate. This will help wash away all that grime, pollution and makeup, so your serum works even more effectively.

Scoop out a pea-sized dollop and massage into cleansed skin every morning and night.

Give it a few seconds to sink.

Check out all my previous blog posts… for The Body Shop

Fancy a discount code on any purchases you make? Visit The Body Shop – 15% OFF CODE MCA15 until 9 am on 12th November

Maybe you’re looking to start Christmas shopping. I have bought a few bits for my family already, but lots more to buy. Don’t forget the discount code when you shop…

THE REASONS I PURCHASE WITH ONE TRUSTED BRAND FOR GIFTS & SELF-CARE PURCHASES

MY FAVOURITE SELF-CARE PRODUCTS FROM THE BODY SHOP

ADVENT CALENDAR OF TREATS FROM THE BODY SHOP

I HAVE MORE ADVENT CALENDARS TO SHARE FROM THE BODY SHOP

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Planning Out Your Backyard

Procuring the Materials

Choose Your Plants Wisely

Keep It Sustainable

Bringing it All to Life

Let’s dive into the gifted items I was sent and why I love them so much

My thoughts on the gift set

Let’s dive into the trusted favourites I buy every year

Discount code

As promised, let’s reveal the discount code

Visit The Body Shop – 20% off discount code MCA20 until the end of the year (Including Advent Calendars)

Check out all my blog posts… for The Body Shop

1) Encourage Independence:

2) Celebrate Accomplishments:

3) Praise Effort Over Results:

4) Encourage Healthy Risk-Taking:

5) Model Confidence:

6) Have Realistic Expectations:

7) Be Positive:

8) Give Opportunities to Develop Skills:

9) Normalize failure:

10) Gentle parenting:

What happened on Christmas morning?

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Giving back

For anyone who needs it right now, feel free to sign up to my freebie library and download the self-care checklist

How it all started

My wish and the reason I am writing this

Final thoughts

Get a stack of beer mats for just £20 and offer a gift of £100 worth of food & drinks at ten amazing independent pubs across London

Keep reading for a discount code for free shipping

What do I get?

How does it work?

3 great reasons to purchase this stack

Socialising

Supporting local businesses

Discover new places

Discount code & free shipping

Use code MUMMY22 at the checkout to receive free shipping on your first order.

This coupon is available up to Christmas!

#AD #AFF

Let’s dive into my list of unique MenKind gifts

1. Fizzics DraftPour Beer Dispenser

2. BrewDog Punk IPA Beer-Making Kit

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3. Lazy Man Frying Pan

4. Marvel Logo Light – Only At Menkind!

5. Star Wars Ultimate Movie Challenge

6. Chess For Three

Check out my other gift guides

7. Escape Room: The Game

8. Magnetic Wristband

9. Bearded Man 24 Beard Oils Sampler Box Set

And finally…

10. United Oddsocks Sock Invaders Socks

Other sections on the MenKind website

Final thoughts

I hope you enjoyed reading this gift guide.

Unique MenKind gifts always make an appearance in my Christmas shopping each year and therefore I am so happy to be sharing this list with you.

Do you like any of the gifts on the list and will you purchase any? Let me know in the comments below.

Check out all my other gift guides here:

Here are some of the previous gift guides I created:

AFF – products gifted in exchange for a review

20% off discount code MCA20 until the end of the year (Including Advent Calendars)

I was overjoyed when The Body Shop sent me a package full of their best sellers to review

Let’s dive in

Discount code

20% off discount code MCA20 until the end of the year (Including Advent Calendars)

OTHER BODY SHOP POSTS…

20% off discount code MCA20 until the end of the year (Including Advent Calendars)

Body Shop Advent Calendar