A Change Of Pace

A Change Of Pace

Bobble Hat: Barts Otis Beanie via Roos Beach c/o | Jacket: Warehouse Old Similar On Sale 

Hey guys! Happy Mondayyy!

It's an Insta-fact according to me that word play is one of the most fun things on Instagram. 

FRIYAY? Genius. 

Mondaze? I think we can all relate. 

Recently I've been taking things slower, and I am sure some of you have noticed that I have been posting a little less frequently on the blog. It's been around a year since I've been blogging full time, and I've felt the need in recent weeks to take time to stop, reflect and plan. With the year coming to an end, it's felt like a natural time to do this. 

The extra time I am dedicating to research (thank you Kindle app), sleeping, and generally feeding the inspiration part of my brain (which y'know, has a filing system and everything), has got me bursting with ideas and plans. 

Bag: Russell & Bromley Similar Clutch Version 

A couple of weeks ago, Oli and I travelled to Swanage with some friends for the weekend. The change of scene was just what we needed to recharge our batteries. 48 hours of laughter, long walks and many many "oh my gawwwd do you remember when . . . " recaps (local cider. Killer.) had us driving home on the Sunday with smiles all round. 

Jeans: Frame c/o | Muddy Trainers: Converse Jack Purcell

| Shop The Look | 

In times gone by I wouldn't have allowed myself time to slow down and reflect, but I've come to learn how important it is, both personally and on a business level. I'm embracing the slower pace, and yes, it actually feels really good. 

I'd love to know if you have any thoughts on changing up the pace? Do you take time to do the same?  And are you looking forward to the New Year too?! 

Love, 

MB x 

5 Ways To Start Your Day Well

5 Ways To Start Your Day Well

Pic from my Instagram

The other day I got to thinking about what made my mornings tick. The routine that can get me out of bed and onto a 7.30am train (mostly) with a bounce in my step. Or make me feel inspired before sitting down for hours of desk time. Here are five, tried and tested, ways to begin your day with a smile. As the saying goes, start as you mean to continue . . . !

Go for a walk. Even if it's for ten minutes around the block, getting out into the fresh  air before heading to the office is a brilliant way of stimulating your body and mind. Recently, Oli and I have taken 15minutes or more outside every morning. It's amazing how much more HUMAN you feel for having some you time before work. 

Wait on the login. I try not to log into any technology for the first couple of hours of my day; that way when I start at my desk at 9 I feel fresh. If I have to check urgent e-mails, I flick over them and flag them for work time. And . . . 

Logout before bed. I read an article a while ago which said that looking at a computer or phone screen before bed stimulated your mind into thinking it way daytime - hence making it difficult to fall asleep. I always have a magazine or paper book beside the bed to read until my eyes get tired. At the moment I'm reading the third Bridget Jones - Mad About the Boy - ugh addictive! OH and I always write down a to-do list before sleep, that way I feel unburdened of any pressing issues as I know I can deal with them tomorrow. 

Have a hot towel waiting. This is such an old-lady tip, but I've found as the days are getting chilly that a warm towel makes getting in and out of the shower DREAMY. We don't have a radiator in our bathroom so I pop my towel in the drier for a few minutes, and love the feeling of it as I step out. I also got a beautiful new towel from Roos Beach Shop which makes me smile.  

Listen to your body. I used to get anxious if I left the house in a rush, grabbing a coffee and croissant on my journey to work and generally feeling sluggish, and well, crap. Now I make time for a balanced breakfast, a flick through the news, and a comfortable time frame to get ready in. If I have a particularly early morning I'll pack my bag, laptop case, and iron my clothes before bed too. 

I hope these tips help you kick start your days too lovely ones! Do you have any tips on how to get going with a smile? 

Here's to a great week!

Love, 

MB x