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Healthy Options in Amsterdam | Travel

Healthy In Amsterdam

IAMSTERDAM

From the second you step off the train at Amsterdam Centraal you are thrust into the middle of the tram and cycle highway in the hustle and bustle of Europe’s eclectic cities.

Each of the little alleyways leading to a new corner to explore.

It can be a little daunting when you first arrive in Amsterdam as it is highly catered for tourists and you may end up in the equivalent of pizza hut in a crap part of town just because you don’t recognise the chain.

On my last trip I searched high and low to find the creme de la creme of what Amsterdam has to offer for the more health conscious traveller.

Here we go…

First: Coffee

Screaming beans

Hartenstraat 12, 1016 CB Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam has a plethora of amazing coffee shops but Screaming Beans really hits that caffeine spot.
Its a cute little spot to grab your morning fix while taking in the city. If you are a serious coffee lover you can also purchase their beans to take home to make your own cup of Wake Up!

Head First

Westerstraat 150, 1015 MP Amsterdam, Netherlands

Get on down to Headfirst for a wonderful coffee experience. They offer two different roasts for differing coffee palettes.

With a fine selection of freshly made food and cakes which appeal to those who follow more specific diets or Raw, Gluten Free and Alternative.

Their flat white was divine – a true blessing when you need a little perk in your day.

Friendly and helpful staff.

Second: Food

Dr Blend

Herenstraat 23 1015 BZ Amsterdam

This is DEFINITELY for the HEALTH CONSCIOUS

My wonderful followers on Instagram recommended Dr Blend.

If you are in Amsterdam on business – I would highly recommend this is where you stop in to make sure you stay on top of you health goals.

Even if you’re not on a strict plan – when living out of a hotel it can be hard to get those necessary greens in your system therefore its worth having a health cafe on the radar to make sure you keep on top!

Their menu has every kind of juice from Green to Fruity and will help you wake up to a really healthy start to the day.

The staff are delightful and are really keen to meet any dietary need. For those who are allergic to wheat Dr.Blend uses rye bread so you can enjoy some traditional dutch sandwiches

Their Dr Green Metal is a sure fire way to boost your body alkalinity and make sure you are starting the day as you intend to go on.

If you are staying in Amsterdam for an extended period of time and fancy doing a detox – check out their range on their website. If you have overdone it and your body needs a break this is the perfect way to re-balance. Just because you’re not at home don’t let those standards slip.

Bagel & Beans

Various locations

You will find this chain popping up all over the city. The reason I have called it out is because they have gluten free and wheat free bagels. This means if you’re in a rush and need to grab a quick bite to eat but are panicking due to allergies – then run on into one of these and choose a savvy snack to take with you

The Hoxton Hotel

Herengracht 255, 1016 BJ Amsterdam, Netherlands

For home away from home.

If you travel a lot for work sometimes you just want a little bit of familiarity… well the Hoxton Hotel has it for you.
Immediately after you walk in… the decor, sights, smells and service has a Shoreditch vibe to it which immediately brings you home.

The Hoxton Hotel has a cute bar to catch up with friends, a restaurant with delicious classics and also hosts events for you to attend.
This is great if you are in this city alone and want to meet new people. You should make an effort to get yourself out there and enjoy new things. There is nothing worse than sitting in a hotel room by yourself. The events cover a plethora of activities from yoga to vodka infusing so the perfect excuse to burn some calories and make some friends!

p.s. When you go to the restaurant there is a photo booth upstairs! Needless to say I was in there like swimwear!

Third: Workout

Well you have a very obvious two options here:

Get a bike
Walk

This city has the most amazing architecture, hidden alleys, cool shops and local spots so get out there an explore. Don’t get a tram card and use those legs!

The city is run by bikes so if you are staying here for a while make sure you rent or buy a bike

For renting bikes check out: http://www.iamsterdam.com/en/visiting/plan-your-trip/getting-around/rental/bike-hire

If you are staying in Amsterdam for a long term project or trip then sign up to F45 or VondelGym

Fourth: Accommodation

Again, The Hoxton Hotel ticks all the boxes for me

If you live in Amsterdam and have an recommendations please comment below! I will definitely check it out!

Recipes

Coconut Tofu Curry With Courgetti | Recipes

Delicious, Nutritious, Low Calorie, and Full of Good Fats and Protein!

Coconut Tofu Curry

This meal is perfect to throw together when you get in from work! Its really easy and takes no time at all. There are little shortcuts which make this recipe perfect to make your family, friends or housemates without breaking the budget! Its completely clean, gluten free, dairy free and sugar-free – so you are ticking all the healthy eating boxes with only a handful of ingredients!

Difficulty: Medium

Lasts: 1 day

Travels: In Tupperware

Storage: Fridge

Ingredients:

Courgette – 1 spiralized (to make this easier you can buy prepared from Courgette Spaghetti from Tesco)
Tofu – 1 Pack
Sugar Snap Peas – Few handfuls
Peppers – 1 red
Onion – 1 white
Garlic – 1-2
Coconut Milk – 1 400g can
Chilli – 1 red
Ginger – 1 knob
Coconut Oil – 1 tbsp
Lime – 1 lime

Method:

#1 Heat a wok to a medium heat and add your tbsp of coconut oil

#2 Chop Tofu into small squares and shallow fry in the coconut oil until slightly crispy. Remove from wok and place in a bowl on the side. (try not to pick 😉 )

#3 Chop up your onion, pepper and garlic into small chunks and put in the wok. Simmer these on a low heat for a few minutes.

#4 Add can of coconut milk and turn the heat up to a medium. Chop the chilli an garlic into small pieces and add to the wok.

#5 Grab the courgette spaghetti. Heat a frying pan to a high heat with a little drop of coconut oil and pan fry the Courgetti for about 2 minutes.

#6 When the mixture is simmering nicely – taste – if you have a well-rounded taste with hints of garlic, chilli and ginger – add your sugar snap peas.

#7 Once the sugar snap peas are looking cooked (they should still snap but not be raw) add the tofu and season with a squeeze of lime.

Dish out into a bowl and enjoy this little spicy healthy treat to warm your belly

Let me know if you try this recipe! @cyntra.in.the.city on Instagram or share with me on facebook! I love getting your feedback!

For More Stress-Free Recipes Click Here: Nourish

Balance

Natural Ways To Keeping Stress Free | Lifestyle

Are you sick and tired of well always being sick and tired?

I am!

Stress can impact us all in many different ways and it can creep up on us out of nowhere. With stresses lurking around every corner it is understandable we feel this way!

Living in a town and city there are ‘stresses’ everywhere. Rush hour in the morning, constant digital activity, sirens, crowds, coffee, too many things on our plate, notification after notification and the fact that life just keeps us – well – busy.

Many of the things listed above can’t go away. We all need to go to work, live our day to day lives and balance work + play – that is the way life is. However, there are small ways we can support our body to ensure that when the going gets tough we are prepared.

Natural Ways To Keeping Stress Free!

I thought I would share my top natural ways to keep stress free and hope that by introducing some simple swaps you can #girlboss your way into each week!

1) Meditation

The buzz word at the moment…but it works.

A simple technique practised for as few as 10 minutes per day can help you control stress, decrease anxiety, improve cardiovascular health, and achieve a greater capacity for relaxation.

If you have never done it before I would recommend Headspace or Buddhify. Great apps for guiding you and they have different meditations depending on how you feel. You have to pay £4.99 for Buddhify but I would definitely recommend the purchase.

2) Herbal Supplements

– Ashwagandha

Last year by a friend who introduced me to Ashwagandha. This root has been used for centuries to help those with adrenal and nervous system problems. Research shows that this root calms and energises and helps us adapt to stress in our modern day lives. I rRecommend: Pukka Ashwagandha

– Turmeric

Happiness is one thing you can never get enough of, and curcumin found in turmeric plays a powerful role in getting and keeping your mood high. Turmeric has also been linked to protecting against sleep deprivation, therefore if you find that you are a night worrier, including this herb/spice into your diet can boost your overall zen.

I find the best way to slip this little spice in my daily diet is via a supplement (again Pukka) or this delicious Turmeric Latte by Wunder Workshop

3) Get Outside

Out of the office, out of the city or just out for a lunch time. Moving your body and breathing in fresh air is good for the soul. You will find that any stressful encounter or phone call can leave you ready to burst but a 10 minute walk around

You will find that any stressful encounter or phone call can leave you ready to burst but a 10-minute walk with some deep breaths can restore you back to a normal place.

Ideally, if you can get to the great outdoors! Get some quality fresh air, long walks, good food and peace & quiet – Hygge if you will – you will reset ready to tackle the year head on!

4) Regular Massage

Massage can work wonders when you’re stressed out. We hold a lot of tension in our bodies and having someone work out those knots can really loosen you up.

One of my favourite apps to use is Urban Massage – you type in what massage you want, choose your therapist and they come to your home!! Yes! So after a long day all you need to do is get home, get comfy and let the professionals do the work.

If you sign up using the link on my home page… you’ll also get a £10 off your first massage 😉

The images in this blog came from Cleanse, Nurture, Restore with Herbal Tea by Sebastian Pole of Pukka Herbs – I would highly recommend a read!

I hope you enjoy my little tips. These are genuine tricks which I use to maintain my cool and ride through the stressful times. We all go through them and finding little coping mechanisms can truly ease you through.

Balance

5 Ways To Stop Mindless & Emotional Eating

Stress-Free Lifestyle Tips

You’re sat at your desk and all of a sudden your inbox is full to the brim, that colleague of yours is constantly asking questions, your boss is putting pressure on you… not to mention all the washing, chores and other odds and sods waiting for you at home.

5 Ways To Stop Mindless & Emotional Eating

You thought this week would be the week you start eating healthy and ditching the crap. You’ve realised you skipped breakfast for the caramel latte and all of a sudden its 11 am and you’re stressed, hungry and about 10 seconds from hitting the vending machine!

STOP!

Here are some top tips of how to stop emotional and mindless eating at work.

Say “No” and Supply Alternative

Stop yourself.

Pause and say to yourself – will this sugary sensation help?

Will it get me closer to getting my jeans to feel comfortable?

Will it make my day less stressful?

Saying no means sometimes eating what you know will make you happy later on even when you really want chocolate cake now.

Fill your bag and desk full of healthy alternatives. Pull out those carrot sticks and homemade hummus.

Go and get a glass of water or make a cup of tea. Get up and go for a walk. Distract that pang and focus on what will truly make you happy.

5 Ways To Stop Mindless & Emotional Eating

Chocolate Won’t Make Stress Go Away

The sweet sensation of sucking on a piece of chocolate may make you have a few minutes of taste but this will be followed by a sugar rush.

You will have a brief period of increased energy followed by a severe low.

You may even go through the guilt cycle of “I shouldn’t have had that” “I was supposed to have a healthy week” etc etc.

Sugar is never the answer to a stressful situation – in fact, it can make it a thousand times worse.

Find out what is triggering your stress at that moment. Pause. Take 5 minutes to deal with it. Acknowledge the want for the chocolate and then let it go.

5 Ways To Stop Mindless & Emotional Eating

Don’t want to eat like a rabbit? Then don’t!

Unless you love salad, in which case, crack on, however, if you’re like the majority of the human race, we associate eating lettuce leaves with “being on a diet” and that automatically makes you feel restricted.

Instead, fill your lunchbox with some delicious whole food recipes. Try new things. Find out what you like and try out something off the wall. Get some new recipe books in and have a research.

5 Ways To Stop Mindless & Emotional Eating

Love Your Body Its The Only One You’ve Got

Right now is your prime! This second is the youngest you will remember.

You will look back at photos and look at this time and wish you still had that youth. When mindlessly eating or feeling stressed out and grazing… think about the future.

You are what you eat and you will want your body to be full of the most nourishing foods out there.

Think skin: avocados

Think hair: coconut

Think body: lean protein and these triggers will guide you

Think Cellulite… yes vending machine I am looking at you!

Get Support From Your Friends

Making the right choices can sometimes be hard if people around you are not making the same choices. Share with a friend.

Make yourself accountable to someone at work… someone who can stop you mindlessly reaching for the 3 pm biscuit tin, or when you’re out for coffee saying the no-way to the Hazelnut Latte!

5 Ways To Stop Mindless & Emotional Eating

For More Stress-Free Lifestyle Tips Click Here: Balance

Recipes

My Recommended Supplements | Stress-Free Health

There are often mixed responses when it comes to supplements but I truly think the right ones can support you against the natural stresses of our world.

Often, we are all so busy running around from meeting to meeting, client to client, work to the gym that we often miss out on vital nutrients and minerals. This is where I believe supplementation can support our modern lifestyles.

Here are my Recommended Supplements to give you that Vital Boost and Keep you Balanced!

VITL

VITL are a home delivery supplement service bringing to you all your vital vitamins and minerals in handy day packets which means no fussing with tonnes of pots of pills everywhere!

They have an app where you update your details, complete an assessment of your lifestyle and needs and then they recommend the correct vitamins and minerals for you.

Here’s How It Works…

1) In-App Consultation

Find out your wellbeing scores across five key pillars of health:

Digestion

Energy

Mood

Immune system

Detoxification status

This will pinpoint which area of your well-being to focus on to improve your health.

2) Bespoke Content & Reminders for You

Receive a free, fully personalised well-being plan with the latest advice and health tips relevant just to your scores.

3) Personalised Vitamin Packs

A nutrition pack will be formulated according to your unique nutritional needs. You can order your pack directly from within the app and you’ll be reminded to retake your consultation so your pack adapts as you progress.

4) Integrates with Your Apps

Connect the Apple Health App and your 23andMe profile to seamlessly integrate your sleep patterns, activity levels, and genetic markers to help our experts perfect their recommendations

All this for £10 for your first month with code: CYNCITY

You’ll get your first month supply of personalised vitamins on the monthly plan for just £10

VITL packaging is very easy to use and you can throw the daily packets in your handbag – I couldn’t be without mine!

Pukka

Pukka Herbs are an incredible brand who’s products, teas and supplements are organically created here in the UK. From Sleep to Stress they have a solution to support your daily needs. Due to Pukka’s phenomenal popularity, many people do not realise how committed they are to ayurvedic medicine and organically and naturally produced herbs. This is a company that cares.

Turmeric Lifekind

Is one of my favourite go-to’s to support my daily needs. It naturally supports my system with its anti-inflammatory properties. It comes in a handy little capsule that I pop in my bag to take just before breakfast and morning cup of Detox Tea.

The BBC did a report that found that increasing your intake of turmeric (curcumin) has shown to affect the cells responsible for depression, eczema, asthma and cancer.

“It was really exciting, to be honest. We found one particular gene which showed the biggest difference. And what’s interesting is that we know this particular gene is involved in three specific diseases: depression, asthma and eczema, and cancer. This is a really striking finding.”

There was evidence turmeric is lipophilic which means for it to be absorbed it is best taken with fat…roll on those coconut turmeric eggs!

Sönd Skincare

Have you heard about Sönd? Sönd is a new skincare system for sensitive skin, which harnesses the incredible natural power of silica. Their Energise + Activate supplements are incredible for dull skin and are formulated to replenish your skin with collagen forming silica, and to improve the overall health, function and appearance.

Their packaging is simple and chic and they pride themselves on looking after your body from the inside out as well as topically.

The tablets contain minerals which are also really good for promoting healthy sleep – which is also an added bonus for our skin.

I will keep you updated with my results but anything that will brighten my skin and help me sleep better is always a bonus.

(I showed the ingredients list to a biochemist who was impressed and said she would take these)

Conclusion

There are lots of brands out there pushing vitamins to us that are low quality or full of fillers. Do your research prior to taking supplements and make sure the brand you use know their ingredients.

I hope you find my recommendations useful and informative. I am open and honest with my suggestions and would only recommend products I have tested and used myself. I have run all ingredients past a qualified biochemist to investigate.

Recipes

Anti-Inflammatory Vegetable Coconut Curry

Anti-Inflammatory

You may have heard the word Anti-Inflammatory thrown about. It usually comes in the same sentence of alkaline and alkalise but not really know what it means?

Do not worry you are not alone. However, if it is one new word you can put into your mind this month I would highly recommend

When we talk about inflammation and the body we are talking about: joint pain, chronic fatigue, acne, digestive issues or any amount of pain in the body.

Inflammation is one of the largest root causes of disease today. Diabetes, heart disease and other major health problems all stem back to inflammation in some way or another. When the body is out of balance, the pH levels of the blood are affected. This not only disturbs the body’s natural processes but also makes you feel pretty horrible in the meantime.

Many people are even suffering inflammation and possibly don’t even realize it.

What can you do to minimise Inflammation?

Well, first things first an alkaline diet helps with inflammation.

Filling your body with:

Ginger
Garlic
Turmeric
Broccoli
Avocado
Salmon
Walnuts
Almonds
and of course lots and lots of greens!

The main culprits that cause inflammation are the usual CRAP

C – Caffeine
R – Refined Sugar
A – Alcohol
P – Processed Food

So if you cut down on these and boost on the others your body will start to feel refreshed and vibrant.

Anti-Inflammatory Coconut Curry

Here is a little recipe I make when I am feeling a little inflamed to put my body back in check.

I cook this up, package it up and take it to the office with me to keep my body de-stressed even if it’s stressful at work!

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons coconut oil
1 onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, crushed
2cm root ginger, peeled and grated
3 tablespoons curry powder
4 teaspoon turmeric
1 fresh chilli, seeded and sliced
500g butternut squash, diced
400g tin chopped tomatoes
5 tablespoons coconut milk
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Method
Prep: 15min Cook: 30 mins Store: in fridge or freeze

Heat the oil in a large pan and fry onion, garlic, ginger, curry powder, turmeric and chilli for about 2 minutes.

Add in squash and allow to brown slightly.

Stir in tomatoes and coconut milk.

Simmer gently for 20 minutes until thickened. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

For extra leafy goodness – add some spinach at the end when cooling.

The Turmeric which I use for this recipe is Wunder Workshop Organic Golden Turmeric Powder.

A Notting Hill based food brand focussing on health promotion & disease prevention.

Set up by Tom & Zoe, WUNDERWORKSHOP is inspired by Ayurveda – the Science of Life, whose principles are based upon a preventive approach to health. WUNDERWORKSHOP uses functional ingredients to maximize life‘s potential, enabling you to live better, work harder and to be stronger (for longer!).

What are you waiting for! Tackle Inflammation head on!

For more stress-free recipes click here: Nourish

Recipes

Breakfast: Healthy on the Go

Travelling for work can sometimes be tricky while trying to follow your lifestyle rules. I don’t know about you but a lot of breakfast places I go to is the usual death by carbs or rush by sugar.

Many of us do our best to lead a healthy lifestyle but succumb to the poor choices available in most commuter stations.

I have been doing a bit of research and about the most important meal of the day and have tracked down my favourite healthy breakfasts on the go from some well-known chains.

I have given a Lean Option and a Good carbs alternative.

ITSU:

Yes, you read this right – our favourite sushi chain! Well ITSU has now brought out a breakfast range that is full of delicious and healthy breakfasts.

You can choose from Supreme Superseded: a delicious and hearty bowl of seedy jumbo oats sweetened with agave to the lean options of Fit Eggs: Poached eggs in miso soup with tofu and spinach. This one is low carb and great for those who are on a low carb on training day.

These can all be found in many train stations throughout the UK. Pair with a big bottle of water and an americano and that right there is the perfect start to the day.

PRET:

Pret is a great stop for brekkie – once you see past all the carb-loaded sandwiches, baguette and every other white based wheat loaded item on their shelves.
They have a 5 -Grain Porridge which is vegan and gluten-free. This means for those of you who dairy intolerant or wheat intolerant you can enjoy this with no risks.

Apart from that it gets a bit more difficult for a standard breakfast with Pret as most of their products come in a brioche or croissant but you can pull together a lean option by grabbing an Egg and Spinach pot and one of their fruit pots.

Pair this with a green juice and an Americano. Breakfast of champions.

VIRGIN TRAINS:

The fastest train! On here they do have some good gluten-free options – if you ask.

Travelling First Class: Ask for gluten-free alternatives when they take your order – if you do not ask you will not get

Travelling standard: There are gluten-free packs available in the shop on board.

There is also a hummus and crudite option and occasionally fruit. It is nothing special but if you are in a rush and do not have the time it is available. They also have soy milk too for dairy-free alternatives.

Vega Protein:

If I am getting up really early in the morning for a long trip I will quite often bring a protein shake with me. The delicious Vega Essentials Proteins from Vega can be mixed with water on the go and is so tasty and delicious snack that keeps you fuller for longer.

It’s tasty and completely Organic and Clean. This company really makes sure they go beyond to make sure that everything in their Proteins is Organic, Natural and Delicious.

Check them out online or Instagram for more info.

Travelling

for work shouldn’t have to make poor food choices and see the pounds creep on. Careful planning and a little extra time to research you can maintain all your goals without having to spend much money or be unsatisfied.

What are your favourite places to grab brekkie on the go! Share with me as I would like to check it out.

Want more stress-free lifestyle tips? Click here: Balance

Balance/ Recipes

Healthy Homemade Hummus

Stress-Free Homemade Healthy Hummus

Delicious and stress-free healthy hummus recipes. These easy recipes are great go-to for lunches, snacks, dinner parties or just to have in the fridge when hunger strikes.

Beetroot Hummus

1can of chickpeas
4 beetroots – cooked and peeled
2 cloves of garlic
a squeeze of lemon
olive oil
1 tablespoon of 0% Fage yoghurt
cumin
salt and pepper

Put all in a pot and blend. Season to taste

Caramelised Red Onion hummus

1 can chickpeas
2 cloves of garlic
a squeeze of lemon
olive oil
1 red onion
Paprika, salt and pepper
Tahini
Water

Caramelise the onions in balsamic vinegar and olive oil.

Leave to reduce and simmer down. Blend all other ingredients together – season to taste.

Place in fridge to cool and when onions have cooled – add onions and leave to cool again.

For More Stress-Free Recipes for healthy snacks:

Recipes

Pumpkin and Chia Seed Protein Porridge

Let me introduce That Protein

Natural and organic, cold pressed and pure. Never processed by heat over 40 degrees.

Dairy free, no added sugars, non-GMO, no sweeteners, free from anything artificial – this is the range you have been waiting for! Developed by nutritionists with a true passion for plants and how to get the best from them to help you look and feel your amazing best!

Its perfect to combine into your daily life to hit those protein goals to build lean muscle, have luscious hair and keep yourself fuller for longer!

I literally could not have been more excited when my pouch came through the letterbox. Pumpkin seed and chia protein powder tick…

To have vegan, organic and supernatural protein powder is always the best option.

My brain started racing and the internal recipe maker switched on… what can I create to make this powder pop!

The below recipe is gluten free, dairy free and vegetarian…(sounds like dust!)… seriously it is beyond tasty!

Pumpkin and Chia Seed Protein Porridge

Ingredients:

That Protein I heart Pumpkin Seed Protein Powder: 1 scoop

Sprouted Oats: 1 Cup

Coconut Milk: 3/4 Cup

Water: 1/4 Cup

Toppings of your choice

Method:

Put all the contents (except the toppings) in a pan and put on low heat

Gently stir until consistency is how you like your porridge

Serve and add your toppings… I went for blueberries and honey – simple and delicious.

If you don’t have time to eat this before work – package up in some Tupperware and take with you to work.

Splash a bit of water on the top and microwave at work

For More Stress-Free Recipes Click Here: Nourish

Balance

Mid-Morning Snacks for the Office

It’s 11 o’clock and your stomach starts to grumble…what do you do?

Here is a list of healthy snacks which are my go-to to keeping hunger at bay and stress levels on point.

1. Water

Sometimes our minds do not know if our bodies are hungry or thirsty… before reaching for a snack – have a pint of water to quench your thirst. Easy Snacks for the Office!

2. Fruit

The super snack – fruit – tasty, easy to transport and satiate the smallest of grumbles. Easy Snacks for the Office!

3. Nuts

Don’t reach for crisps! Nuts are packed with good fats and protein, nuts are a sustainable alternative to crisps and other junk.

Always choose raw varieties and keep an eye on quantity because of their high-fat content. Easy Snacks for the Office!

4. Muesli, Natural Yoghurt and Berries

This combo is a great alternative to cereal bars which are often packed with sugar.

Berries provide a shot of antioxidants and are powerhouses of vitamins. I use Spoon Cereals to make my life more stress-free but you can also make your own muesli from oats, nuts, dried fruit and seeds which you can bake in large quantities so you always have to hand. Easy Snacks for the Office!

5. A Cup of Soup

When water is blended with food it stays in the stomach longer and keeps you feeling full.

To make your own soften a mix of veg in a little oil, add water, simmer until tender and blend.

I recommend asparagus soup! Easy Snacks for the Office!

Take the stress out of snacking with these little tips.

For more healthy snacks click here: Nourish

Explore

Review: The Retreat Kitchen, Richmond

A Delicious Vegan Brunch Spot nestled in the heart of Richmond – The Retreat Kitchen.

The Retreat Kitchen

Nestled in the quaint streets of Richmond you will find The Retreat Kitchen. This earth loving cafe, which opened in February, is run by duo Maggie and Claire. Maggie & Claire were on a BBC programme called The Retreat with DIY SOS’s Nick Knowles (now on Netflix if you want to watch it!) hey went to Thailand for a

They went to Thailand for a 28-day detox retreat and had their lives transformed. Prior to heading to the retreat, they were both burnt out.

The girls returned with a new lease of life. They wanted to spread the vegan love back in the UK. They launched The Retreat Kitchen to bring tasty plant based dishes straight to you.

“For us a plant based diet wasn’t about giving up meat, it was about taking up eating a wider variety of vegetables and putting in the time and effort to make them stand out. ” – Maggie

Healthy Smoothies

Their menu boasts a plethora of tasty coffees, juicy juices and smoothies for every occasion. The girls recommend the Green Giant smoothie to reduce tiredness, fatigue and maintain healthy skin – exactly what you need after a long weekend.

Green Giant: Spinach, Kale, Banana, Mango, Kiwi, Apple, Spirulina, Chlorella, Wheatgrass, Barley Grass.

Vegan Breakfast

Enough about the smoothies… let’s get down to BREAKFAST!

As you all know, Brunch is my favourite meal of the day, with that in mind, I took ordering very seriously.

To start, we tucked into an English Breakfast Muffin (Spinach, Mushroom, Avocado and Vegan Hollandaise). Having never tried Vegan hollandaise I was pleasantly surprised and somewhat bewildered how they had managed to create such a delicious alternative. Zesty and fresh, I would recommend just to try the hollandaise.

Vegan Brunch

After mange-ing our way through our v-eggs benedict, we were presented with the Brunch Plate (Scrambled tofu, homemade beans, vegan sausage, tomato, mushrooms, hash brown and Sourdough).

Hands down one of the best veggie sausages I have tasted which paired beautifully with the homemade smokey beans! Delicious.

This vibrant plate really brings food alive!

Still not 100% convinced by the scrambled tofu (however my brunch date loved them) #eggsaremyfavouritefood – this tasty Brunch really hit the spot.

Pancake Stack

BUT and this is a big BUTT if you are going to have one thing on this menu… The Fresh Fruit Berry Pancake Stack with berries, coconut yoghurt and maple syrup is THE ONE.

Presented beautifully and with a little pot of maple syrup on the side.

This pancake stack needs to be served with a PG13 sticker… as it is naughty!

Ah the indulgence and flavour, the levels melted in your mouth. The fresh coconut ice cream paired perfectly with the berries and compote.

After making the people on the next table feel very uncomfortable from my excitement at every mouthful, I wandered up to the counter to chat with the girls and peruse their array of cakes.

Tasty vegan sweet and savouries to take on the go.

After picking up a delicious Polenta and Orange Cake I decided to get one last treat… a tasty black americano.

Roasted to perfection due to the delicious beans from Old Spike Coffee.

The perfect finish to an earth loving morning.

You can find The Retreat Kitchen at;
16 Hill Rise, Richmond TW10 6UA
Open Mon – Sun until 5pm!

Recipes

Easy Cream of Asparagus Soup

Asparagus Soup

Asparagus is a treasure trove of vitamin k, which your body needs to bolster bone strength and regulate blood clotting. The carotenoids found in asparagus make for its pretty green hue and double as anti-inflammatory compounds. Asparagus can also claim high levels of glutathione, a powerful antioxidant that guards against cell damage from intense exercise and everyday living.

To make this delicious and nutritious soup you will need:

Half an onion
Bunch of Asparagus
Pint of Vegetable Stock

This Asparagus Soup recipe is healthful and low calorie but filling all at the same time.

First, chop the onion and sizzle till soft.
Grill the asparagus to with a little salt a pepper to bring out that beautiful flavour.
When soft and slightly charred chop and add to onion
Add Stock, bring to boil, then simmer until all is tender
Whizz

There is no cream added as the asparagus soup does this all by itself

PER SERVING

• Calories: 74

• Protein: 6g

• Carbs: 7g

• Fat: 3g

• Fiber: 3g

For More Stress-Free Healthful Recipes Click Here: Nourish

Balance/ Stress Free Style

Do you check your Ingredients?

Do you check your Ingredients? Answer majority is usually Yes

However

Do you check your ingredients in your Beauty Products? This often leads to a few less in agreement.

Green for All Seasons is hosting a series of events to investigate, educate and discuss the importance of Clean and Organic living through in the products that we use on a daily basis.

First in the series was to discuss Organica and Clean Beauty. In attendance were a panel of experts to discuss Wellness and How your beauty regime is a key player when talking about holistic Wellness.

Victoria- Anne founder of Green for All Seasons opened the session by calling out some harrowing facts.

“11% of the 10,500 products approved by the FDA have actually been tested for safety”

“2000 new chemicals are registered daily in the US to be used in beauty products”

“An average woman uses 12 personal care items a day…exposing yourself to 168 chemicals daily”

We often spend time making sure the food we put inside us if of the top standard but may forget to check the finer print when it comes to our beauty regime. We went on to discuss the importance of skin and how we can make small and simple changes to thrive and seek wellness holistically in our day to day routines.

Looking after your wellness and well-being is a holistic action. It is all about living without extremes and operating in a balanced way. We often hear the remark that you can’t live a healthy life if you smash hours in the gym but fill your fridge full of processed food. We check labels, search for organic food, are on a quest to reduce sugar and fighting against the big companies to be honest with us yet we seem to be missing out on some crucial items that we put on our skin everyday.

Victoria-anne opened up her questioning to the expert panel – Here is what the experts had to say

The panel started with Tanya Hawkes from Therapi. Tanya was a bee keeper and found her passion for skincare and bee-keeping and combined these to create her product line.

“Honey is Nature’s liquid gold, a precious elixir containing the nutritious nectar and therapeutic essences of a thousand flowers in just a single drop. Our certified organic products combine honey with active botanical extracts in exceptionally pure and gentle formulations, using cold-pressed organic oils and nourishing plant butters to keep your skin looking beautifully radiant and healthy day after day”

She expressed Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food as she handed around a shot glass filled with Therapi toner which we proceeded to sip. One should not put anything on their face which one would not put in their mouth.

Tanya’s top skin tips: Radiate with Wellbeing: Balance Work, Love, Exercise. Secondly use Japanese Konjac Sponge and Honey Gel Cleanser to clean the face leaving your skin soft and hydrated.

Next to discuss Clean Beauty was creator and founder of Twelve Beauty: Pedro Catalá

Pedro started as a pharmacist and through his passion created Twelve beauty. Pedro used his extensive research and knowledge of plant extracts to develop and create TWELVE BEAUTY, his revolutionary range of nine skin care products which are highly suitable for various concerns, especially stressed, sensitive and reactive (allergy-prone) skin.

His values revolved around: Simplicity.

He expressed how you should keep it simple with only a few products that your skin likes. There is no need to own a whole range of products. Find something that works and keep to the basics.

TWELVE Beauty range is a divine and has a simple yet sophisticated branding. Using powerful anti-oxidants and beautiful elixirs – his products are recommended by experts. You can find him online or at Content Beauty in Marylebone.

Pedro’s top skin tips: Don’t be stressed. Relax – and be happy and your skin will Glow

Next on the panel Natalie and Marie from Aevi

They are the ladies behind a beautiful Wellness Box (see above). Filled with gorgeous products which are natural and good for your skin.

Marie was very passionate about Wellness. She and Natalie created the boxes having both suffered from skin problems caused by high street products.

Look after your heart, mind and skin
You have to be the healthiest version of you

This echoed the feeling of the day where it was not about forcing you to take on certain products but find something kind and natural for your skin in order to flourish.

Aevi’s top skin tips: Stay Hydrated, Eat foods high in Vitamin E (nuts, avocados) Exfoliate – all over

Finally we moved to our last panelist Sjaniel Turrell from Chemistry of Wellness

A nutritional therapist and holistic make up artist she spoke of the importance of making sure your products are a reflection of health and not chemicals.

She gave us a live demonstration on Chessie King and showed us products that will make you glow without putting harmful chemicals on your skin.

If you are un-sure where to go with making your make-up more natural and kind to your skin you can book consultations with Sjaniel Turrell here

The day was rounded off with some light refreshments and divine teas provided by Pukka Tea and Charlotte Pukka discussed with us their new Turmeric range and the power of healing herbs such as Matcha and Turmeric. Their new Turmeric range is in store now.

Join the turmeric revolution.

Caring about your skin from the outside in can really make a change to your overall well-being. From a mental health point of view: when you feel and look tired it can often bring you down. You may eat all the right foods and hit the gym but if you expose your skin to the wrong and harmful products you can lose your radiant glow and be left feeling dreary and washed out.

Don’t feel you have to go to your cupboards and throw everything out, this should be a transition. Start by reading the labels, asking the questions and sourcing the right products.

The Soil Association has a list of products which have been certified clean and organic to start your education here.

Check out some of the Chemicals to look out for and where you will find them!

Love the skin you’re in

If you have any questions surrounding clean beauty or any other questions raised in this article please feel free to comment below and I will get back to you or put you in contact with the right people

Balance/ Recipes

Guide to Wedding Guest Season

Wedding Season has begun.

Our diaries are populated throughout the spring/ summer with engagement parties, hen doo’s and weddings.

The first things that comes to mind when I get the invite is What to Wear and Wedding Gift.

This can be quite stressful – especially if you have more than one wedding and it’s the same group of friends.

This is my little guide to staying on it this season and without blowing the budget.

The Outfit

This is always hard for me because – guess what – it’s not ok to wear black to a wedding.

An occasion dress is like no other dress. It’s not partywear it’s not workwear. Its finding that graceful balance between the two.

My suggestion is to keep it simple and accessorize.
This means you can wear the same dress to a couple of weddings and mix up the shoes, bag and fascinator.

Monsoon is fantastic for jackets, fascinators and accessories to change the look of a dress.

Beautiful and really effective in dressing up a simple dress.

You have to make sure you are comfortable as Weddings are a long and often move from Church to Reception to Dancing – so plan ahead with those shoes.

My go -to’s for Weddings are: New Look and Louboutin ( I know a bit of a difference but they really make the comfiest shoes)

Dresses: House of Fraser, Monsoon, ASOS, Reiss.

The Alternative Outfit

Now this is another great trick using the best network you have: Your Friends.

Team together with your best friends. If you have similar styles and shapes to your friends – then reach out – share! Everyone looks different in a dress so if your summer is choca block with Weddings and you’re saving for other occasions – then bring your network together use your resources!

Stylish and Saving money = win/win

Wedding Gifts

This is a tricky area. Most couples these days have already set up their homes so wedding lists are often to guide those who want to get them a gift but not end up with duplicates.

Again these can often be costly.

If you’re not sure what to buy the newlyweds: sometimes the token of a little bit of money in a card would be greatly appreciated to put toward the honeymoon or their new life together. Weddings are expensive and honeymoons too. Every little helps.

DIY Wedding Gifts

These are the cute touches you can do for someone special if you want to give a personal touch. Something homemade something original.

A close family relative is getting married this weekend and has strictly said no gifts. But I am bending the rules a little bit.

I have made her Wedding Breakfast Granola

Ingredients:

Coconut Oil: 1tbsp
Oats: 400g
Coconut Milk: 200ml
Honey: 1tbsp
Cinnamon: Sprinkle across
Dried Fruit: Handful
Flaked Coconut: Handful
Edible Gold Dust

Method:

Preheat your oven to 200°C. Line a baking tray with greaseproof paper.

Melt the coconut oil, either in a small pan on a low heat or in the microwave. Combine the oats, rice milk, coconut oil and honey in a bowl and mix together using your hands. You want to create little chunks and the mixture will naturally stick together.

Spread the oat mixture evenly in the lined baking tray and bake in the heated oven for 20 minutes.

Spread the pecans on another baking tray and put into the oven to toast with the oat mixture for the last 10 minutes of the cooking time.

Remove the oats and pecans from the oven and leave to cool. Once cold, mix them together and add the cinnamon, fruit and flaked coconut.

Once the mixture is cooled – sprinkle edible gold dust all over the granola for that extra special touch.

Get a cute Kilner Jar and a nice label and you have a personal touch present that the happy couple can enjoy in together in their new lives together.

Recipes

Healthy Easter Bunnies

Healthy Easter Bunnies

Easter is just around the corner and it is time to celebrate the end of lent and meet up with family. Easter weekend is the perfect weekend to spend with family and celebrate life but it is also the weekend that is also full of naughtiness with chocolate coming up to the eyeballs.

This year I am going to do something different.

Instead of chocolate, I am looking into healthy alternatives which are equally as indulgent.

So after some investigation I have selected two perfect alternatives:

Bloomon

and

Tabitha James Kraan

Bloomon

Bloomon cut out the middlemen, delivering straight from the grower to your home, in utterly modern, straight-to-vase arrangements.

They launched their flower delivery subscription service to London on the 4th February 2016. Spreading beautiful and unique flowers to us Londoners.

Bloomon began life in their hometown of Amsterdam, in the heartland of the flower-connoisseur. By using their own growers, Bloomon carefully select the best quality of flowers, they then use their own drivers to deliver fresher flowers that last longer.

Bloomon have created a delightful subscription where you can get these beautiful and original flowers delivered to your house without the hassle of sourcing them yourself. You can also order gorgeous vases that display the flowers magnificently. If you’re a flower lover like me then this is a no brainer. Each delivery is different and unique.

I just adore my blooming Bloomon Flowers.

Tabitha James Kraan

Tabitha James Kraan is a wonderful organic haircare brand that treats your hair with the natural love that it needs.

Her products span from haircare to skincare.

The products are designed to treat your hair with organic products – eliminating the chemicals you find in mainstream products. This helps keep the natural equilibrium of your hair and keep your locks luscious.

Their range is perfect for gym bunny’s as they have an amazing dry shampoo and hair perfume designed to keep your hair looking and feeling fresh – eliminating the need to wash it as often.

Believe or not – your hair is happier un-washed!

These products and gift sets are the perfect way to spread the love in the family – for both men and women. Tried and tested the hair oil transforms even the most prickly of beards into a soft and kissable chin.

Check out their gift sets on www.tabithajameskraan.co.uk

Big smiles from my locks!

Easter doesn’t need to be the time you fill up on calories and spend huge amounts on chocolate. Do something different. Be original. Buy a lasting gift that puts a smile on someones face longer than chocolate does.

Or…treat yourself… spends the pounds you’ve saved on a treat for you.

Older Posts

vegan

Healthy In Amsterdam

IAMSTERDAM

First: Coffee

Screaming beans

Head First

Second: Food

Dr Blend

Bagel & Beans

The Hoxton Hotel

Third: Workout

Fourth: Accommodation

Delicious, Nutritious, Low Calorie, and Full of Good Fats and Protein!

Ingredients:

Method:

Dish out into a bowl and enjoy this little spicy healthy treat to warm your belly

Are you sick and tired of well always being sick and tired?

Natural Ways To Keeping Stress Free!

1) Meditation

2) Herbal Supplements

– Ashwagandha

– Turmeric

3) Get Outside

4) Regular Massage

Stress-Free Lifestyle Tips

STOP!

Here are some top tips of how to stop emotional and mindless eating at work.

Say “No” and Supply Alternative

Chocolate Won’t Make Stress Go Away

Don’t want to eat like a rabbit? Then don’t!

Love Your Body Its The Only One You’ve Got

Get Support From Your Friends

Here are my Recommended Supplements to give you that Vital Boost and Keep you Balanced!

VITL

1) In-App Consultation

2) Bespoke Content & Reminders for You

3) Personalised Vitamin Packs

4) Integrates with Your Apps

All this for £10 for your first month with code: CYNCITY

Pukka

Turmeric Lifekind

Sönd Skincare

Conclusion

Anti-Inflammatory

What can you do to minimise Inflammation?

Anti-Inflammatory Coconut Curry

Ingredients:

Method Prep: 15min Cook: 30 mins Store: in fridge or freeze

ITSU:

PRET:

VIRGIN TRAINS:

Vega Protein:

Travelling

Stress-Free Homemade Healthy Hummus

Beetroot Hummus

Caramelised Red Onion hummus

Let me introduce That Protein

Pumpkin and Chia Seed Protein Porridge

It’s 11 o’clock and your stomach starts to grumble…what do you do?

1. Water

2. Fruit

3. Nuts

4. Muesli, Natural Yoghurt and Berries

5. A Cup of Soup

A Delicious Vegan Brunch Spot nestled in the heart of Richmond – The Retreat Kitchen.

The Retreat Kitchen

Healthy Smoothies

Vegan Breakfast

Vegan Brunch

Pancake Stack

Asparagus Soup

To make this delicious and nutritious soup you will need:

Method
Prep: 15min Cook: 30 mins Store: in fridge or freeze