This year, I’ve heard so many people talk about slow living and, as I’ve been feeling a bit frazzled of late, this is something that has resonated with me. So, what is slow living and how can it help to improve our overall health and wellbeing? While slow living can mean different things to different people, proponents of this mindset believe that by slowing down and intentionally placing your true values at the heart of your lifestyle, you can live a more contented life. The slow movers amongst us breathe more deeply – thus feeling calmer and less anxious – and are able to focus their minds in a way that allows them to appreciate the world around them. It’s about making self-conscious decisions for the benefit of your wellbeing and that of the planet: eating better, consuming less and considering how to live sustainably. Added to this, is the idea that we should preserve traditions and connect with others more deeply. In a nutshell, slow living means living better, not faster. As life becomes more and more fast paced, this is perhaps the reset that we all need. The recent Easter break gave me the perfect opportunity to put this way of thinking into action. I scheduled fewer structured activities to do with my daughters – opting to sometimes just see where the day would take us – and prioritised the things which are important to me: being outdoors, home-cooked food and quality time spent with the people I love. To add to my newly relaxed state, I also threw a little sprinkling of self-care into the mix. |
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As part of my routine, I have been enjoying lovely long soaks in the tub which, thanks to the increase in energy costs, can feel like a real luxury now. If I’m feeling achy or suffering from metal fatigue, I use a capful of our Restore Therapeutic Bath Oil, which contains a restorative blend of pine, fir needle, rosemary, cypress, juniper berry, eucalyptus, lemon verbena and lavandin. If I’m in need of a good night’s sleep, I opt for our Relax Therapeutic Bath Oil which is hand-blended with essential oils, such as chamomile, vetivert, lavender, patchouli, sandalwood and clary sage, that all work together to soothe the body and mind. |
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Not that I need any excuse to soak in the tub, but do you know that having a bath can also have the following health benefits? Soothing sore muscles and joints Improving heart health by lowering blood pressure and boosting circulation Quietening the mind and reducing symptoms of anxiety Encouraging easier and deeper breathing Helping to soothe skin irritation Improving sleep duration and quality
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I’ve been listening to: ‘In Praise of Slowness’ – a Ted Talk by Carl Honoré. This insightful talk warns us that the Western world’s emphasis on speed can erode health, productivity and quality of life. I found his insights into the detrimental impact of over-scheduling our kids with too much homework, tutoring and extra-curricular activities particularly interesting. He argues that this can inhibit their ability to be creative and think outside of the box. His main message is that less can be more, and that we should all try to get in touch with our inner tortoise. |
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I’ve been cooking: Lots of rhubarb cake! Several years ago, a good friend shared her family recipe (thanks Marian & Rita) and I must have made it over 100 times since. It’s my go-to recipe during rhubarb season because it is easy to make and never disappoints. Ingredients:
8oz self-raising flour mixed with a pinch of salt 4oz butter 4oz caster sugar 2 large eggs, lightly beaten 12oz chopped rhubarb (approx. 1cm pieces) |
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Method:
Rub the butter into the flour until you reach a breadcrumb like consistency. Mix in the sugar and rhubarb, and then add the beaten eggs (the mixture will be fairly dry and heavy). Add to a 1lb loaf tin and cook for 45-55 minutes on 180°C. Leave in the tin for approximately 30 minutes to allow it to firm up, before turning the cake out. Sit back and enjoy a slice with a cup of tea – now that’s slow living for you! |
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RHS Malvern Spring Festival, 11-14th May 2023 |
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We’re super excited to be back at the RHS Malvern Spring Festival again this year. Visitors will be able to find us in the Bloom and Grow area, where we’ll be running complimentary lip balm and gardener’s hand balm workshops. It’s a wonderful show and we’d love to welcome you to our stand! |
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John Lewis Workshop, Saturday 10th June, 3-4pm |
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Following the success of our recent workshop in the Cheltenham branch of John Lewis, we’ve scheduled another one for June. During this fun workshop, you’ll have the opportunity to make your own lip balm and lip/cheek tint using natural ingredients such as beeswax, shea butter, honey and a range of carrier oils – jojoba and apricot kernel oil are two favourites of mine. You'll also be able to blend your own colour for the lip/cheek tint to perfectly complement your skin tone. There will also be an in-depth discussion on the various natural ingredients used and a chance to learn more about their function and how they work to keep your skin looking healthy. Whether you're a novice or an expert, this workshop is perfect for anyone wishing to explore their creativity in making natural skincare products. It’s also a lovely way to create unique gifts for friends and family. The cost of the workshop is £20 per person. To book a place you can call the John Lewis Cheltenham Experience Desk on 01242 544 042. Should you have any questions about the workshop, you can email me at helen@cotswoldremedies.co.uk. |
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Enjoy the remainder of April and I’ll look forward to writing to you again next month. |
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Cotswold Remedies, 58 Albert Road, Cheltenham GL52 2QX |
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