Tag: family

  • Go outside – Nature heals

    Go outside – Nature heals

    We aren’t wired to sit inside all day.

    As humans, we need sunlight on our skin, fresh air in our lungs, the rustle of trees and the sound of birdsong. These things aren’t luxuries—they’re essential.

    Time outdoors brings us back to ourselves. It grounds us, steadies our thoughts, and reminds us that we’re part of something bigger. Quite simply, nature helps us feel human again.

    Why the Outdoors Matters for Our Health

    Spending time outside doesn’t just feel good—it has real, measurable benefits for both our mental and physical wellbeing. Here’s why:

    Boosts mood and reduces stress – Exposure to natural light helps regulate our circadian rhythms and increases serotonin levels, which can improve mood and reduce anxiety. Even a short walk outdoors can lower cortisol (the stress hormone).

    Improves focus and mental clarity – Nature gives our overstimulated minds a break. Studies show that time in green spaces can improve concentration, creativity, and even memory—for both adults and children.

    Supports physical health –
    Fresh air and movement go hand in hand. Whether it’s walking, climbing, or simply exploring, being outdoors encourages gentle exercise, supports heart health, and can improve sleep quality (meaning the little sleep that parents and children do get, is more restorative).

    Strengthens the immune system – Exposure to natural environments—especially woodland areas—has been linked to improved immune function, thanks to cleaner air and beneficial plant compounds. So there’s no harm in letting your little ones dig around in the mud collecting sticks and stones!

    There’s also something powerful about physically connecting with nature. Touching soil, trees, and plants isn’t just sensory—it can trigger real chemical responses in the body. Soil contains a natural microorganism called Mycobacterium vaccae, which research suggests can stimulate the release of serotonin, helping to lift mood and promote a sense of calm. Similarly, contact with plants and trees exposes us to natural oils and compounds—often called phytoncides—that have been linked to reduced stress levels and improved immune function. Even something as simple as walking barefoot on grass or running your hands through leaves can help regulate the nervous system, lowering stress and creating a feeling of balance.

    Living in the New Forest National Park, we’re incredibly lucky to have nature right on our doorstep. Long woodland walks, open skies, and winding trails are part of our everyday life. We spend hours wandering, noticing the seasons change, and letting the children explore freely. But I know that not everyone has access to forests or open countryside—and that’s okay. There are other ways to enjoy the outside no matter where you live.

    How to Bring the Outdoors to You

    Even if you live in a city or don’t have easy access to green spaces, there are simple ways to recreate those benefits wherever you are:

    Create a mini green space at home – Add plants to your home, balcony, or garden. Even a few pots of herbs or flowers can make a difference. Caring for plants can be calming and grounding in itself.

    Prioritise natural light – Open curtains, sit near windows, or take breaks outside during the day. Morning sunlight in particular helps regulate sleep and boost energy levels.

    Bring nature to your routine – Walk a different route to school, visit a local park, or spend time outside after dinner. Small, consistent moments outdoors add up.

    Engage your senses – Play nature sounds, light a natural candle, or use essential oils like pine or eucalyptus. It might sound simple, but sensory cues can help mimic the calming effects of being outdoors.

    Slow down and notice – Whether it’s watching clouds, listening to birds, or feeling the wind, take a few minutes to be present. Nature isn’t just a place—it’s a mindset we can access anywhere.

    Why the Outdoors is So Important for Children

    Children are naturally drawn to the outdoors—it’s where their curiosity thrives. Giving them time outside isn’t just beneficial, it’s vital for their development. Here’s why:

    Encourages imagination and creativity – Nature doesn’t come with instructions. A stick becomes a wand, a den, or a fishing rod. Outdoor play sparks creativity in ways screens simply can’t.

    Builds confidence and resilience – Climbing trees, navigating uneven ground, and exploring new spaces help children learn their limits, solve problems, and build independence.

    Supports emotional wellbeing –
    Time outdoors can reduce anxiety, improve mood, and help children regulate their emotions. It offers space to breathe, move, and simply be.

    At its heart, spending time outdoors isn’t about grand adventures or picture-perfect days. It’s about small, meaningful moments—muddy boots, rosy cheeks, shared laughter, and quiet pauses under open skies.
    Wherever you are, there’s always a way to step a little closer to nature.

    And sometimes, that’s exactly what we need.

    Further Reading & Sources –

    Research has shown that a natural soil bacterium (Mycobacterium vaccae) may help boost serotonin levels and support mood regulation.
    (Lowry et al., 2007)

    Studies on “forest bathing” have found that trees release natural compounds (called phytoncides) which can reduce stress and support the immune system.
    (Li, 2010)

    Large reviews of multiple studies confirm that regular access to green space is associated with better physical and mental health.
    (Twohig-Bennett & Jones, 2018)

    Spending time in nature has been linked to reduced stress, lower anxiety, and improved mental wellbeing.
    (Bratman et al., 2015)

    Time outdoors can also improve focus, memory, and overall cognitive function.
    (Berman, Jonides & Kaplan, 2008)

    Even simply seeing natural environments has been shown to support healing and recovery.
    (Ulrich, 1984)

  • Screen free – Family time

    Screen free – Family time

    If you’ve ever sat in a restaurant, looked around, and noticed how many little faces are lit up by screens instead of conversation—you’re not alone. It’s become the norm, hasn’t it? And with the UK government recently introducing new guidance around children’s screen use, it’s clearly something many of us are thinking about. The advice suggests no screen time at all for children under two (aside from things like video calls), and limiting it to around an hour a day for those aged two to five. It also encourages families to avoid screens during meals and instead focus on interaction—talking, playing, and spending time together. And honestly, that part really resonates with me. Time spent at the table with my family is precious to me.

    We’re deep in the digital age. Our children are surrounded by screens whether we like it or not. At home, at school, and almost everywhere in between, as well as seeing adults glued to their phones. While technology has its place, it also has the potential to impact their mental health if we’re not mindful. We know how too much screen time affects us as adults so imagine what it’s doing to a young person’s brain!

    As someone born in 1990, I’ve watched technology evolve rapidly. But I was also lucky enough to grow up in a time when screens weren’t part of family gatherings, dinner tables, long journeys, or meals out. Some of my fondest memories are of meals out and holidays with my family—trying new foods, meeting new people, and just being part of the world around me.

    Me, my brother and mum 1996

    My mum used to say, “Use your manners, let’s pretend we’re eating at the Queen’s house.” My brother and I would sit up straight, pinkies raised as we sipped our drinks, fully committed to the idea that we were in royal company. It was simple, a bit silly—but it made those moments feel special, and they’ve stayed with me.

    My dad was always the one encouraging us to be brave with food—especially seafood. On holidays, he’d show us how to peel prawns or debone fish. Things that might make some children squirm somehow fascinated us. It turned meals into little adventures and made trying new things feel exciting rather than intimidating.

    Of course, it would be naïve to think we can eliminate screens from our children’s lives completely. The world is digital, and they need to be confident using technology. Screens can educate, inspire, and support learning—so rather than seeing them as a hindrance, it’s more helpful to think of them as tools. Tools we can pick up and put down with intention. Teaching children that balance is invaluable.

    But what we shouldn’t do is let devices replace human interaction. Let them experience the world—and see you experiencing it with them. Bring them along with you, share what you love, and show them the world through real experiences. Accept that things will look different with children in tow. Swap long, uninterrupted dinners for noise, laughter, mess, and the occasional meltdown.

    Dining Out Without Screens

    If you’re heading out for a meal with children, it helps to reset your expectations. A calm, uninterrupted dinner might not be realistic—and that’s okay.
    Restaurants are full of stimulation: new faces, sounds, lighting, music, and décor. It’s natural for children to want to explore. Let them. Follow their lead (safely), show them things, and embrace their curiosity.

    Here are a few things that help us when dining out as a family:

    Come prepared –
    Pack small activities—toys, colouring, or fidget items. They’re great for keeping little hands busy while waiting for food.

    Choose your timing wisely –
    Avoid booking too late, especially for evening meals. Tired children and long waits rarely mix well. Earlier sittings are often quieter and quicker.

    Make the table interactive –
    Play simple games like “What can you see?” or “What can you smell?” Tailor it to your children’s ages—we have a one-year-old and a ten-year-old, so creativity is key!

    Let them explore –
    With younger children, take a walk around. Let them get familiar with the space, say hello, and practise simple manners like smiling, waving, and saying “please” and “thank you.”

    Give older children responsibility –
    Encourage them to read the menu, choose their meal, and even order it themselves. It builds confidence and independence.

    Share food –
    Ordering picky bits or tapas-style dishes makes it easier for everyone to try new things. It also works well when meals are interrupted by the occasional wander.

    Take turns –
    If there are two of you, swap roles—one engages with the children while the other gets a moment to sit and relax.
    Follow their energy
    Let them move, laugh, and explore. Children mirror your mood—if you’re stressed, they’ll feel it too.

    Pause and take it in –
    Every now and then, sit back, sip your drink, and soak it all up. These are the moments they’ll remember. Be sure to cheers with your family too! Every outing should be celebrated.

    A Gentle Reminder

    It’s also important to remember that every family is different. It’s easy to look around and make quiet judgements when you see children with screens at the table or on outings—but the truth is, you don’t know their reasons or their circumstances. Focus on your own family, your own values, and what works for you. And be kind—to others and to yourself. The world needs more of that.

    When It Doesn’t Go to Plan

    Sometimes it won’t. There might be tears, tantrums, or food everywhere. You might find yourself crawling under the table, quietly cleaning up the aftermath. But that’s part of it.

    Consistency is key.

    Choosing to leave devices behind during family outings creates space for connection. The more you go screen free, the more it becomes the norm. Your children will look back on the moments you spent together and thank you.

    The Bit That Matters Most

    One day, these dinners won’t be noisy. There’ll be no crayons rolling off the table, no little voices asking a hundred questions, no tiny hands reaching for yours. And you won’t remember the meals where everything went perfectly—you’ll remember the ones filled with laughter, chaos, and connection. So leave the screens behind when you can. Be present. Let them explore, make a mess, ask questions, and be part of your world.
    Because that’s where the magic is.

  • Slowing Down This Easter

    Slowing Down This Easter

    The Easter holidays have arrived. No school runs for two weeks—hoorah!

    But does anyone else feel a little derailed by the change in pace? Suddenly, the diary begins to fill with trips here, there, and everywhere. Playdates roll in, and the “keep them entertained” activity list starts piling up along with the chocolate eggs!

    This year, I’m taking a different approach. A slower one.

    It’s rare that we get to enjoy slower mornings without needing to be up, ready, and out the door by 8am. I’m choosing to see this time as a break—a chance to rest and move at a gentler pace. Yes, I still have to work, exercise, plan meals, and keep the house in order, but there’s no rush.

    And actually, our children deserve this break too. A break from the school routine, from being hurried out the door, from structured learning. This is their time to take a breath and just be. To be at home with you. To watch, observe, and learn in a different way.

    I know I’m lucky to have work that fits flexibly around my family, and I’m aware that not everyone has that luxury. But here are a few small, simple things you can do during the school break to make it feel a little more special—most of them at no cost.

    A morning in bed
    Not the whole morning, but perhaps 30 minutes before you all get up. Let your children climb in, cuddle, and chat. No rushing—just being present.

    A special breakfast
    Something you wouldn’t usually have on a school day. Make it together—chop some fruit, scramble some eggs—and sit down to eat as a family. If time is tight, prep something the night before or wake slightly earlier. These are the moments they’ll remember.

    A walk a day
    Head out for a walk around your local area and see what you can discover together. Whether it’s short or long, it all makes a difference. Fresh air really is good for the soul.

    Plant some seeds
    It’s the perfect time of year to grow something together. Sunflowers are a great choice—plant one each and see whose grows the tallest!

    Let them choose
    Give them a few dinner options for the week and let them write the menu. Involve them in the process and let them help prepare the meals they’ve chosen. It builds independence and gives them a sense of purpose.

    Three facts a day
    Each evening, ask your children to share three facts about their day. We’ve done this for a while now—it’s often entertaining and gives you a glimpse into their world from their perspective.

    These are simple things, but they can make the holidays feel special—and you might even carry them into everyday life.

    It doesn’t have to be a schedule full of back-to-back activities that cost money and leave everyone feeling burnt out. Sometimes, the best thing we can do is slow down, step back, and breathe.

    I have a busy week ahead with work, family birthdays, and visitors—but I’m starting as I mean to go on: calm, present, and unrushed.



    And if everything doesn’t go to plan, that’s okay too. Some days will feel calm and connected, others might feel a little chaotic—and that’s all part of it. I’m reminding myself not to chase perfection, but to notice the small, quiet moments in between. The cuddles, the conversations, the slower pace. Because really, that’s what this time is about. Slowing down, soaking it in, and just being together.

  • Stepping Back Outside: Embracing the Slow Return of Spring

    Stepping Back Outside: Embracing the Slow Return of Spring

    It’s time to dust off the walking boots and get back outside. It’s been a long, wet and windy winter, and for some reason this year it felt harder than usual. Time spent inside can become taxing on your mental health, and when the weather doesn’t allow for outdoor adventures, the feeling of being cooped up can become overwhelming—especially when you have little people to entertain.


    The Gentle Shift Into Spring

    The remnants of winter are still very much present. The mud, the semi-naked trees, the cold nip in the air, and the unexpected rain showers haven’t quite left us yet. But day by day, the sun is creeping back in, bringing light with it. Flowers are beginning to bloom, blossom is blossoming, and the days are slowly stretching out.

    At the same time, there’s that growing urge to get the garden “summer ready” and refresh your wardrobe with something more weather-appropriate. Before you know it, the to-do list starts to spiral, and that sense of overwhelm creeps back in.
    Slow Down and Soak It In
    Coming out of hibernation shouldn’t be rushed. As humans, we need time to adapt to changes in our environment.


    Start small—let fresh air into your home. Take unrushed walks surrounded by nature. Connect to your breath and let the sun touch your skin. Allow yourself the time to truly absorb the changing season.


    When you get outside with your little ones, watch their faces as they take in the new sights and smells that spring is offering. Move, stretch, and listen to what your body needs. Your children are always watching and learning from you. One of the greatest things you can teach them is self-awareness and how to be kind to themselves.


    Finding Joy Close to Home


    Living in the New Forest National Park, we feel incredibly lucky to be able to wander straight into the forest and explore. There’s something so special about watching the woodland come back to life at this time of year.


    Here are a few simple things we like to do as a family to help shake off the winter blues:


    1. Start the Day with Sunlight
    We open the curtains first thing and watch the birds. Morning light helps regulate our circadian rhythm—our natural body clock—and sets the tone for the day ahead.


    2. Make Time for a Daily Walk
    Walking has so many benefits, but at this time of year it feels especially powerful. It lifts your mood, boosts energy levels, and gently eases you out of that winter slump.


    3. Prioritise Sleep
    We try to keep a regular bedtime and wake-up routine, which again supports our circadian rhythm and helps us feel more balanced. Of course, this isn’t always perfect (especially with a teething one-year-old), but consistency where we can manage it makes a big difference.


    A Season to Reconnect


    Spring isn’t something to rush into—it’s something to grow into. Let it unfold slowly, just as nature does. There’s no need to do everything at once. Open a window, take a walk, pause in the sunlight, and let yourself adjust.


    The garden can wait. The wardrobe can wait. What matters most is how you feel as you step back into the world again—grounded, present, and ready in your own time.

  • A pre Christmas break in the New Forest

    A pre Christmas break in the New Forest

    Ormonde House Hotel

    A Winter Escape at Ormonde House Hotel, Lyndhurst

    Highlights from our stay

    Tucked beside the gentle edges of the New Forest National Park, where wild ponies wander past and the trees seem to exhale calm, Ormonde House Hotel is the kind of place that immediately slows your pace. It’s close enough to Lyndhurst’s high street for convenience, yet close enough to the forest that you can be among the trees within minutes. It’s comfort and countryside side by side — exactly what you want from a short winter break.

    Our room for the night (room 6)

    From the moment we arrived, the atmosphere was warm and welcoming. All the staff were friendly, the service was fantastic, and as a family travelling with a baby, we instantly felt looked after. Our little Ivy had everything she needed, from a travel cot in the room to a highchair waiting at breakfast. It made our stay feel easy and stress-free — a huge win for any parent. She slept literally like a baby too, so we know she felt comfortable.

    Ivy loving the hotels Christmas tree

    Where the Forest Adventure Begins

    The New Forest spreads out from the hotel’s doorstep like an invitation. You can wander through ancient woodland, spot ponies at the roadside, or simply enjoy the fresh air as you stroll along quiet paths. Whether you’re an enthusiastic hiker, a casual walker, or a family looking for gentle outdoor adventures, this area has something for everyone.

    Sundays Hike

    Festive Forest Feels

    Visiting during the festive season adds an extra layer of charm.

    Ivy and Daddy enjoying the Christmas displays

    During our stay, we enjoyed the Christmas light switch-on in Lyndhurst. A couple of mulled wines and a firework display later, we headed to The Forage for a delicious wood-fired pizza and Ivy’s favourite – Spaghetti bolognese! The ideal comfort food for a winter evening and the staff were very attentive. Back at the hotel, we wrapped up the night with a hot drink and some quiet time — simple, cosy, and exactly what we needed before the busy Christmas rush. We even watch The Snowman in bed with Ivy and seeing her little face filled with excitement was precious.

    A Pre-Christmas Escape Worth Taking

    If December tends to feel frantic, this is the kind of escape that helps you reset. Mornings at Ormonde House start slowly, with spot-on coffee and a hearty breakfast to ease you into the day. Even with a baby in tow, everything felt calm and manageable.

    Photo credit – Ormonde House Hotel

    Afternoons can be spent exploring the forest, browsing local shops, or dipping in and out of festive events. Evenings are peaceful — relax with a drink in the hotel bar, a perfect chance to unwind before heading back into the whirlwind of the holidays.

    It’s a getaway that reminds you how important it is to pause, breathe, and reconnect — with nature, with each other, and with yourself.

    A Reason to Return

    After a relaxed wintery morning, I joined the winter launch of New Forest Hikes — a guided walk that now runs regularly from the hotel. Starting and ending right at the front door, it’s an ideal activity for anyone wanting to explore the forest more deeply.

    Sundays hike

    Our guide, Amy, was brilliant. She knows the New Forest so well and took us along routes we never would’ve found on our own. Her passion for the area — and her fascinating backstory — made the experience even more memorable. If you’re staying at the hotel when one of her hikes is running, I’d highly recommend joining.

    With the staff’s kindness, the hotel’s comfort, the AMAZING post hike cake and coffee and the surrounding forest’s charm, we left feeling refreshed and already talking about the next hike on the 14th of December.

    Stay Connected & Book Smart

    Call to book directly –
    📞 Ormonde House Hotel: 023 8028 2806

    If you’d like to keep up with upcoming forest events, future guided hikes, and latest offers, be sure to follow both New Forest Hikes and Ormonde House Hotel on Instagram. It’s the easiest way to stay in the loop — and to benefit from any exclusive offers available when booking directly through the hotel.

    The hotel are also running a Giveaway! Follow the link below to enter 👇

  • The Slow Cooker — A Cheat Code for Parents

    The Slow Cooker — A Cheat Code for Parents

    The slow cooker is my speciality 🤣

    I don’t know about you, but deciding what to have for dinner every single day can be tedious. Don’t get me wrong — I love cooking. Feeding people has always been a kind of therapeutic practice for me. There’s something so fulfilling about putting love into food and watching it put smiles on faces.

    But when you’re in the midst of a crazy busy week — juggling work, school runs, laundry mountains, and a never-ending to-do list — cooking can stop feeling like therapy and start feeling like just another chore.

    Let’s be honest: time and parenting go together about as well as toddlers and white sofas. Between packed schedules and the nightly “what’s for dinner?” interrogation, the idea of calmly preparing a wholesome meal can feel like a fairytale.

    Enter the slow cooker — the unsung hero of family life and the best friend of anyone trying to keep the weekly shop on budget. You throw in a few ingredients before the day begins (or the night before), and by the time you’re home, your house smells like comfort. It’s basically culinary witchcraft, minus the cauldron — and bonus points, it’s cheaper than a takeaway (and healthier).

    Why the Slow Cooker Is Every Parent’s Secret Weapon

    Less decision fatigue. Dinner’s sorted before breakfast is over.

    One pot, minimal mess. Because who has time for a sink full of dishes?

    Budget brilliance. Cheaper cuts, tins, and cupboard staples become hearty family favourites.

    Family togetherness. Dinner’s ready, the table’s set (well, mostly), and everyone can actually eat together — screens off.

    So dust off that slow cooker and let’s dive into three recipes (beef, mince, and chicken) that busy, budget-savvy parents will love.

    Jump to Recipe

    1️⃣ Slow Cooker Beef Stew (BBC Good Food)
    2️⃣ Slow Cooker Chilli con Carne (BBC Good Food)
    3️⃣ Marry Me Chicken Pasta (Taming Twins)

    Photo credit BBC Food

    1. Slow Cooker Beef Stew (The Classic Crowd-Pleaser)

    BBC Recipe Link: 👉 Slow Cooker Beef Stew — BBC Good Food

    This is the kind of recipe that makes your home smell like a hug. Tender beef, soft carrots, herbs, and a gravy so rich it feels like a reward for surviving another weekday.

    Why parents love it:

    Works perfectly with affordable cuts (braising or stewing beef).

    Feeds a crowd — and leftovers freeze beautifully.

    Sneak in any veg you like — picky eaters rarely notice!

    Parent hack: Make double and freeze half for next week’s “I can’t even” day.

    Photo credit BBC Food

    2. Slow Cooker Chilli con Carne (The Family Favourite)

    BBC Recipe Link: 👉 Slow Cooker Chilli con Carne — BBC Good Food

    This one’s a total lifesaver: hearty, filling, and adaptable for the whole family. Mild for the kids (unless they like the heat, mine do!), spicy for the grown-ups — and it tastes even better the next day.

    Why it’s brilliant:

    Uses store-cupboard staples and inexpensive mince.

    Makes enough for lunchboxes or leftovers.

    Serve with some grated cheese, sour cream and nachos, if you’re feeling fancy!

    Photo credit – Taming Twins

    3. “Marry Me” Chicken Pasta (Taming Twins)

    Recipe Link: 👉 Marry Me Chicken — Taming Twins

    The name says it all — creamy, dreamy, and just romantic enough that you might fall in love (with your dinner). This BBC Good Food favourite is usually made on the hob, but it adapts beautifully to a slow cooker for hands-free comfort.

    Why it’s perfect for parents:

    Rich in taste, costs little.

    Chicken thighs or breasts both work.

    The sauce clings to pasta like a culinary love story.

    Serving tip: Add spinach for extra colour and nutrients (bonus points if your kids don’t pick it out).

    No slow cooker? No problem! Here are three budget-friendly options that will have you slow-cooking like a pro in no time:

    1. Crock-Pot CSC080 Slow Cooker
    Price: £14.99
    Capacity: 1.8L (Serves 1-2 People)
    Why it’s great: Compact and energy-efficient — perfect for smaller households or singles.
    Link: Amazon UK

    2. Daewoo 3.5L Slow Cooker
    Price: £20.99
    Capacity: 3.5L
    Why it’s great: Large enough for families, yet still affordable.
    Link: Amazon UK

    3. Morphy Richards Evoke Sear & Stew Slow Cooker
    Price: £29.99
    Capacity: 3.5L
    Why it’s great: Stylish design with a sear function — cook your meat before slow-cooking for extra flavour.
    Link: Amazon UK

    You Can Literally Chuck Anything in a Slow Cooker

    Recipe or not, it always seems to turn out well! (For me anyway… I’m not sure my partner would say the same!) The slow cooker is wonderfully forgiving. Leftover veg, a random tin of beans, a forgotten chicken breast — toss them in, add some seasoning, and let it work its magic. Dinner’s served, and your creativity gets a pat on the back.

    Slow Cooker Success Tips for Busy, Budget-Savvy Parents

    Prep ahead. Chop and measure the night before.

    Use cheaper cuts. Chicken thighs, beef shin, or turkey mince — all perfect.

    Don’t overfill. Leave space for simmering magic.

    Batch cook and freeze. One effort, three future dinners.

    Shop smart. Frozen veg and tins work wonders.

    Eat together. Even if it’s noisy, messy, or someone’s still in uniform — it counts.

    The slow cooker doesn’t just save time; it saves money, energy, and your sanity. It turns affordable ingredients into meals that feel like home — and gives you the one thing we all crave most: a quiet moment to breathe (and maybe even sit down).

    Final Thoughts

    With winter creeping in, there’s no better time to let your slow cooker shine. It’s comforting, budget-friendly, and basically the culinary equivalent of a warm hug. Toss in your ingredients, press a button, and let dinner take care of itself — because, let’s face it, you’ve earned it!

    Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means that if you click on a link to a product and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support my blog and allows me to continue sharing honest reviews and recommendations. Thank you for your support!

  • The magic of Sauna for busy parents

    The magic of Sauna for busy parents

    Parenting is a wild, wonderful adventure. Some days are sprinkled with laughter, messy kisses, spontaneous dance parties in the kitchen, and stories that get sillier with every retelling. Some days feel like trying to wrangle a tornado of tiny humans, snacks, and runaway socks — but still full of joy, in the best possible way.

    Amidst all this delightful chaos, every parent deserves a little pause — a tiny, warm escape where you can take a breath, reconnect with yourself, and just be. Enter the sauna: your hot and blissful hideaway.

    Why Parents Deserve Saunas

    Whether you’re a mum, dad, grandparent, or the lucky adult in charge of bedtime, caring for children is full of moments that make your heart soar. But even the most joyful adventures can leave you a little tired, a little achy, or a little frazzled.

    Saunas are a place to slow down, let the day melt away, and reconnect with yourself — a gentle reminder that you CAN put yourself first, it’s not a crime. Self care is vital.

    What a Sauna Does (and Why Families Love It)

    Step into the warmth, and instantly… ahhhh. Your muscles sigh, your circulation perks up, and those happy little endorphins start doing a tiny dance.

    You’ll sweat, yes — but the good kind of sweat. The kind that makes you feel like you’re melting away the little stresses and carrying the lightness of the day ahead with you.

    Here’s what that heat brings to busy parents:

    Stress relief: Press pause on the endless planning and enjoy a rare moment of stillness.

    Better sleep: Even if little humans wake you at 2 a.m., the sleep you do get is deeper and more restorative.

    Muscle and joint relief: From carrying children to squatting up and down all day, picking toys and clothes up off the floor — the warmth eases and restores tired muscles.

    Energy boost: Circulation improves, your body feels lighter, and you step back into life with renewed sparkle.

    Skin glow: Sweating flushes out impurities, leaving you with that fresh, radiant glow that says, “I’ve got this — mostly.”

    Immune boost: The heat gently strengthens your immune system — perfect for parents constantly surrounded by coughs, colds, and the dreaded ‘back to school germs’.

    Beaulieu River (yoga retreat) – 📷 my own

    Family time

    If your children are older – why not visit a sauna together? It could be incredibly beneficial for you all. Taking that time to unwind together and create space for conversation all while improving your health and well-being, sounds like a great example to set for future generations.

    Quick Reality Check

    Pregnant? Skip the sauna for now — high heat isn’t safe during pregnancy.

    Health conditions? Check with your GP before using a sauna.

    Hydration: Keep sipping that water! Nobody wants to be dehydrated!

    Croyde Bay – 📷 my own

    My Favourite Saunas

    Now, full honesty: saunas themselves aren’t for everyone — but views? They’re irresistible.

    I’ve visited saunas across the country, and the scenery always adds something extra to the experience. Some of my favourites include Croyde Bay, where the coastal air meets the heat perfectly, and The Lime Wood Hotel, where you can unwind while looking out over serene forest views.

    Photo credit – Limewood

    Closer to home – Solace Sauna on Lepe Beach is my happy place. With wood-fired heat, Bailey’s warm welcome, and the forest and sea stretching out around you, it’s a place where you can laugh, exhale, and remember who you are!

    What really sets Solace Sauna apart is the attention to detail. The little sauna hats keep your head cool in the heat, and the traditional whisking practice is a rejuvenating ritual that boosts circulation and enhances the experience. (Follow Solace Sauna on Instagram!)

    Beyond the sauna itself, Solace Sauna feels like part of a wonderful local community focused on wellness and connection — a place where people come together, recharge, and share the experience.

    Bailey says it best:

    “Many families visit Solace Sauna to spend quality time together. In today’s socioeconomic climate and technology driven culture, sauna offers an accessible way for families to connect with each-other and nature year-round while experiencing the physical, mental, and social benefits of contrast therapy.
    In just an hour, you can feel completely reset and help regulate your nervous system. Be that with your family, or having a mindful break from the kids”

    “I have regular families who come to celebrate birthdays, spend time together, and activity to do away from screens and an outdoor activity all year round – winter dosent mean you have to stay in with the kids.”

    Book you visit to Solace Sauna HERE 👈

    The Simple Hack That Makes It Happen

    Here’s what works for me: I book ahead and pay upfront. That way, there’s no backing out — and I’m guaranteed my little window of peace.

    Even half an hour or an hour of sauna time can feel like a mini-vacation — a pause filled with calming heat and lightness — the perfect antidote to a busy family life.


    So…

    Next time life is filled with tiny hands, big imaginations, and spontaneous dance-offs in the living room that leave you slightly jaded, remember: a sauna isn’t just heat.

    It’s your pause button. Your secret hiding spot. Your little bubble of calm and wonder.

    Because even parents who can do it all deserve a moment to sparkle — and maybe a little warm indulgence too. ✨️🔥🍃

  • The Magic of a Nine-Year Age Gap

    The Magic of a Nine-Year Age Gap

    The Magic of a Nine-Year Age Gap

    When we decided to try for another baby — nine years after having my first — I’ll admit, it felt a little surreal. Life had found its rhythm. Henry was growing up fast, and for a long time, I thought my little family was complete. But something in me just knew there was still space for one more little soul.

    And then came Ivy. 💕 From the moment she arrived, she filled every quiet space we didn’t even realize was waiting for her. She completed us in the most beautiful, unexpected way.

    Watching Henry with her has been one of the greatest joys of my life. He tells me all the time how much he loves her. The other day he said, “Mum, Ivy’s the only person who doesn’t think I talk too much,” (He’s a chatterbox just like his Mum 👀) which pretty much sums up their relationship — full of sweetness, chaos, and a lot of giggles. He’s protective, patient, and so proud to be her big brother. Of course, there are moments of madness (a 9-year-old’s Minecraft world doesn’t always mix well with a baby who loves pressing buttons 😅), but somehow, it all works.

    If you’re worried about a big age gap between your children — don’t be. It’s one of the most amazing things ever. Sure, every family dynamic has its pros and cons, but a bigger age gap brings its own kind of magic.

    Here are just a few reasons why a bigger age gap can be so special:

    1. The bond is pure and intentional

    Older siblings want to help, to love, and to be involved. There’s no competition — just admiration and care. Watching that kind of love unfold is incredibly heartwarming.

    2. They balance each other out

    One brings the calm, the other brings the chaos — and somehow, it’s the perfect mix. You get the best of both worlds: the quieter, more reflective moments with an older child and the silly, unpredictable fun of a baby.

    3. Built-in role model

    Your older child becomes a teacher, a storyteller, a guide. Henry delights in showing Ivy how things work, and she watches him like he’s a tiny celebrity — which, to him, is clearly fame.

    4. A deeper appreciation

    Having another baby later often brings a sense of calm and gratitude. You realize how fleeting each stage is, and you soak up every moment — even the sleepless ones.

    5. A little helper (and part-time entertainer)

    Here’s one of the major perks: your nine-year-old can actually keep an eye on the baby while you dash to the loo or try to make dinner without burning it. It’s like having a built-in babysitter — unpaid, slightly dramatic, but surprisingly effective.

    Having children with a bigger age gap means the noise levels might fluctuate wildly — from teenage sighs to baby squeals — but somehow it all blends into the sweetest kind of soundtrack. There’s laughter in one room and lullabies in another, and in between it all, a growing friendship that melts my heart daily.

    So yes, our house is a mix of giggles, tantrums, homework, and naptimes — but it’s also overflowing with love.

    A nine-year age gap might not have been what I first imagined, but now I can’t picture it any other way. Ivy completes our family, and Henry reminds me every single day just how lucky we are. 💫