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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

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

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Stress-Free Guide to Cuba | Havana

Thinking about travelling to Cuba?

Here is my little guide to the places I visited.

My hints and tips. All the things I wish I knew before I went.

I hope you enjoy and if you have any further questions please don’t hesitate to ask.

Learn Spanish

This is a big one – people don’t always speak English.

Flight

First and foremost this is a biggy. There are not many flights that go directly to Cuba. This may improve over time now the country is opening up.

However, that said – make sure you get the direct flight from London. We did the split going via Spain. Not only was it like stepping back in time on the plane (no personal screens) but it is a LONG flight. It may be more expensive but trust me it’s important.

Airport

You are not going anywhere quick.

Havana airport is renowned for being one of the slowest airports in the world. It is disorganised, chaotic and slow. You will be waiting for your bags a long time. If you are travelling with a tour operator they are well versed in this delay but if you are booking your own onward travel please keep this in mind. Bring a book – there is NO 3G and NO WIFI.

Taxis

There are lots of taxis waiting and available from the airport. Don’t be scared to haggle the price. They know you have just landed. If you can get a classic car I would highly recommend.

Accommodation

This is up to you how you do this. Some things to consider… There is no beach in the city, the closest beach to Habana is about 20 minutes away, at Playa del Este. There are daily shuttles, I think for 3CUC/day.

With this in mind if you are a beach bae then I would try and book a hotel with a pool for the first couple of days to get over the jet lag before moving on to a casa.

I stayed at NH Capri La Habana

Nestled in the heart of downtown, rooftop pool, great views and in a cool area.

If you are staying in Havana for a while I would highly recommend you seek out a casa to stay in. Effectively these are B&B’s where the hosts generally look after you. They cook, clean, feed and water you. It’s an amazing way to immerse yourself in Cuban culture, meet Cubans and also help the community. This way you are helping the locals out.

Here are some great recommendations: Best Casas in Havana

What to wear?

Key pieces:

Trainers:

I wore Adidas Superstar.Havana is a casual place but also a place you want to explore. The roads are cobbled, the streets full of life. You want a trainer that looks stylish yet is practical for allowing to you to get stuck in.

Shorts:

This is the perfect climate for shorts. The Cubans are lively and bold dressers so don’t be afraid to go with colour. It’s not widely conservative – so you can wear what you would wear at home. Females are warned though – be careful if alone – you will get attention. My American Apparel shorts were a godsend. Chic and comfy.

Tops:

Short, long, flowy – anything goes. Play with colours and be vibrant. Its hot during the day but there is a cool wind at night so bring a light sweater or scarf.

Accessories:

Think hippy and creative. This town is full of colour and art. Be part of the creativity.

Bags:

Bring bags with lots of pockets. This is still a foreign country and you are a tourist. There are a lot of opportunists in this world.

This is a cool, casual, artistic and vibrant part of the world. Like most Caribbean islands it’s full of life. In the evening for dinner its casual with a little elegance if you feel.

What to see?

Havana is a historical and political hotspot to explore.

Cuba Direct was our tour operator as we only had a limited time there. We had a bespoke private tour and saw the whole of Cuba from the comfort of an old American car. If you are short on time then a tour is the way forward otherwise have a look around when you get there.

Top Visits

Hemingway House

Old Havana

El Malecon

Havana Catedral

Plaza de la Revolucion

El Cristo de La Habana

Places to Eat

Something you will work out quite early on is that when you buy food out – its well erm ok.

Their avocados though are off the fricking chain!

The best food you will have is cooked by Cubans in their Casa’s

Here is one of the restaurants I will recommend in Havana Old Town.

Good food – peaceful atmosphere – good price.

Watch the prices in Havana Old Town – they are expensive.

Coppelia

This is a must visit Havana’s Coppelia building is one of the largest ice cream parlours in the world. Holding 1000 guests, it is located on the part of Calle 23 known as La Rampa in the Vedado district.

Fidel Castro had it built to bring Ice Cream to Cuba but also rival the Americans in Ice Cream production.

Its a weird looking building but in a really cool area where loads of Cubans hang out so it’s nice to get away from the tourist humm that will drive you nuts in Old Town Havana

La Rampa

where the Coppelia is located in a cool area.

It has the big hotels that once were booming in the 50s and also the old Mafia hotel (you cannot miss it)
It is also the home to one of the best Jazz Clubs I have been too.

Head to the British Telephone Box and head down the stairs.

YOU HAVE TO EXPERIENCED CUBAN MUSIC!

Enjoy

Keeping Healthy

Cuba is not a health hot spot in the world. A lot of the food is high carb, fried and meaty. It’s not the best place for vegetarians.

A lot of the cocktails have a spoonful of sugars added.

With this in mind think outside the box.

Havana Old Town is a nice walk away from most places – so opt for walking rather than cabs.

Try and top on veggies and fruit where possible.
You will often find vegetables come in a sauce – so in your best Spanish try and ask for them plain.

Swim, walk, run, and get active.

You don’t want to restrict your enjoyment but remember there is a Yin to every Yang – so balance it out.

Cuba is a wonderful place and will be ever changing now they are becoming open to the world.

Try and get there before it loses all its original value.

Words of warning

Do not buy cigars from anywhere other than state-run shops. You may think you’re getting a deal but you’re not they are fake and you do not know what is in them. You will meet sweet Cubans who have a friend, or know someone who can get them cheap, or will tell you about a national day where they are cheaper…unfortunately it is all lies. Sorry – but stick to the rules if you want cigars.

For More Stress-Free Travel Guides Click Here: Travel

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

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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!

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.

Balance/ Recipes

Q&A with Pollen + Grace

Making lunches can be so difficult when you are trying to eat healthy. Sometimes you open your lunch box and you have a bit of kale and quinoa looking up at you and you start to feel slightly depressed…

Well let me introduce you to Pollen + Grace this beautiful little company that serves gluten free, dairy free and free from refined sugar beautiful lunches to keep our stomachs happy and full of flavour.

I wanted to find out more about this wonderful company so I met with Steph the founder to have a Q&A

1) How was Pollen + Grace born – where did the idea come from?

Pollen + Grace came foremost from a love and passion for cooking healthy, delicious food but secondly from the frustration of never being able to find a healthy, free from lunch option when working in London and having to prepare lunch each night.

2) What makes you passionate about Pollen + Grace, did you start by eating that way and became a passion…?

Pollen + Grace was such a huge risk to take, but it was something I(Steph) had to do as I felt it was what I was meant to do. I started eating this way due to gluten and dairy intolerances, then learnt how exciting it was to make delicious options that actually made you feel good.

3) Who was your first customer?

Our first customer was the brand events office, but our first customer who found us without being a friend was Amanda Cauldwell – she would order 3 lunches a day from us, one for her lunch then two for dinner (one for her and one for her daughter)!

4) Where was your first pop up?

The Old Street pop up has actually been our first, but we definitely plan on doing more now!

5) Where are you based – how big is your team?

Our kitchen/office is based in clapham junction and we have a full time team of 6 now – 3 office and 3 kitchen!

6) What is your favourite product?

This one’s easy, definitely our paleo banana bread, it’s delicious!

7) If you could give people one piece of health advice – what would it be?

Focus on eating delicious wholesome food that makes you feel great, but learn that it’s also about balance – if you want the ice cream, eat the ice cream!

If you have a bit of time at lunchtime and you are near Old Street Station you must pop on down and meet the lovely Steph and try out her delicious food.

If not check out their beautiful website over at Pollen + Grace

Recipes

Delicious Spinach and Aubergine Parmigiana

DELICIOUS SPINACH AND AUBERGINE PARMIGIANA

This little dish fills me with so much warmth. It is the perfect winter warmer which just keeps getting better. The ingredients cost little but the flavour is insane.

You can have it hot and eat it straight away or you can package this little delicacy up into some tupperware and take into work for a healthy treat.

My recipe has been updated to have all the flavour but less calories, hope you enjoy!

Ingredients:

2 x Aubergine
Glug of Mellow Yellow Rape Seed Oil
1x Red Onion
3 x clove Garlic
1 x 400g chopped Tomatoes
4x sprig of Basil
1/2 bag of Spinach
Splash of White Wine Vinegar
Grated Parmesan

Method:

Grab a griddle pan and heat up with a splash of Mellow Yellow Rape Seed Oil. Slice the aubergines and add to the pan to get a nice charred effect.

In another pan add another glug of Mellow Yellow Rape Seed Oil and chop the onions and garlic and add to the pan. Add some salt and pepper at this point and leave to soften. After 5-10 minutes add the spinach. Leave a few more minutes and add the tomatoes, basil and a splash of white wine vinegar and simmer to reduce.

Heat the oven to 190c and grab a over proof dish.

Take the charred aubergine and place a layer on the bottom. Add layers of tomato mix and aubergines until it is all used up. Sprinkle some parmesan on top of the mix for a nice crispy topping. This is up to you how much you add – but this is where the calories come from – so you can have too much of a good thing – however if you burn it off in the gym the next day – go nuts.

Crack some black pepper on top and place in the over for 30 minutes

Leave to stand for 5 minutes before serving

A delicious meal to keep you warm this chilli winter. Perfect as a main with a side salad or to accompany some baked chicken.

In this recipe I have used Mellow Yellow Rapeseed Oil. Not many people know but using the right cooking oil has a big impact on health. Olive oil should be had cold and never heated. Coconut Oil can be heated but also leaves a subtle flavour. So I have been trying out this delicious cold pressed rapeseed oil. It has the lowest saturated fat content of any commonly available cooking oil – it contains less than half the saturated fat that is found in olive oil and is packed full of Omega 3. Mellow Yellow has a wonderful subtle nutty taste, it is ideal for salad dressings, while its high smoke point makes it perfect for high temperature roasting and stir-frying oil.

Enjoy xx

Balance

BOXING: Work Out like Gigi Hadid

GIGI HADID

Right…who hasn’t heard of Gigi Hadid? The beautiful blonde with legs up to the heavens who turns her middle finger up to those who fat shame!

This gorgeous goddess – daughter of Yolanda Foster – is the focus for this blog post.

One of the things that is inspiring about Gigi is that she is not your average model. She walks high end fashion runways and is a Victoria’s Secret Model yet she sports a curvy lean physique with strong thighs.

Hell Yes – a real woman!

This world is full of images that lead us to believe that our shape isn’t good enough. Unrealistic images are pumped into our day to day lives. It is refreshing to see someone strong bold and well relatively normal – storm the top runways.

So I dug a little deeper and looked into what this young lady is doing to look so gorgeous yet remain lean and strong

The answer: BOXING!!!

Boxing as a sport requires a high level of athletic prowess: strength, speed, agility, hand-eye coordination, endurance, nerve, and power, just to name several required attributes.

Gigi trains with a boxer to burn through calories, shed excess fat, and remain agile which all leads to her lean physique.

Boxing can be off-putting as it is deemed a male sport – but this empowering exercise really can attribute to some serious body changes!

Here are some reasons why you should try out boxing

Total-Body Strength

All that punching, kicking, and jumping requires a surprising amount of strength. Think about it – most professional heavy bags weigh at least 100 pounds. During a boxing workout, you may punch or kick a bag hundreds of times, requiring your upper body, lower body, and core to engage as you make contact with the bag.

Cardio

You hear it all the time: You need to do cardio to protect yourself from heart disease, burn calories, and lose or maintain your weight. But “doing cardio” doesn’t have to mean hopping on a treadmill to log your required minutes – how boring is that?

The whole point of cardio is to place a moderate amount of stress on your heart and lungs so that they’re challenged enough to make beneficial physiologic adaptations to support the higher level of physical activity. As long as you keep your heart rate up during your workout, there’s no reason you can’t punch, kick, and jump your way to a healthy heart at your local boxing gym.

Body Composition

Boxing is great for improving body composition – and some might say it’s great for weight loss. The technique means you are pushing your body burning up to 13 calories a minute!

Less Stress

Almost any form of moderate to intense physical activity can decrease stress. Exercise increases endorphins, boosts mood, works as a form of meditation, and improves sleep, all of which help reduce stress.

Boxing is a great outlet for stress! You can literally fight your way out of the stress zone!

It’s a win win situation!

Be inspired by the strong women in this world and learn from their tricks. If she can do it so can you.

Go and find your nearest boxing centre or get into the gym find those gloves and get practising!

Speaking of BOX – ing… I am very excited to open my new FITTY London box!

Packed to the brim with Healthy Goodies to start February the right way!

From Spiralizers, to coconut oil to delicious superfoods to sprinkle on my breakfast. This perfect little box never ceases to surprise me. So chic and beautiful – its really does give you that monthly buzz to keep on track!

Delivered to my door every month (along with my Vogue) its like my birthday happens every month!

Happy February!

Check out Fitty London here

Recipes

Neat Protein: Tasty, Vegan, Delicious and Nutritious

January 2016 has landed and the recurring conversation I am hearing around the office is which Health Plan people are joining. From Joe Wicks The Body Coach, Clean and Lean, That Sugar Diet to a whole host of plans that are swimming about there – people are really pulling their socks up to knock off that winter bulge.

However, when reading through the plans I hear people shriek!

THEY WANT ME TO ADD PROTEIN SHAKES!

Many of the plans contain protein shakes!

“Hang on a second isn’t that the stuff that body builders drink to make you bulky!”

No ladies it is not. Protein shakes help support you in enabling your body to build lean muscle when doing exercise and following a high protein diet plan.

Lean muscle is what makes you less wobbly and helps you work toward a bikini body with less jiggle and more wiggle.

Genetically we are not built to be body builders..so do not fret adding a protein shake to your diet will not end up with you waking up like Arnie!

So back to the protein shakes. The market is saturated with protein shakes that are FULL OF CRAP! Excuse my language but some contain all sorts of chemicals, sugars, artificial god knows what and taste like a chemical s**t storm.

I usually like to stay close to the Vegan Proteins as I find they are easier on the stomach and not full of animal whey (milk basically) so if you are trying to cut out dairy are better for you.

Let me introduce: Neat Nutrition Whey Protein

This little taster packet was delivered in my gorgeous Fitty London Blake Box

I had been to the gym after dinner and had a little itch for something before hitting the bed to keep my muscles going so I thought “why not”.

I AM NOT KIDDING YOU WHEN I TELL YOU THIS TASTED LIKE A CROSS BETWEEN A MCFLURRY AND DAIRY QUEEN FOR 130KCAL!

My Protein Shake Recipe

I had the Vanilla flavour (always my favourite as you can mix it with anything and the flavour suits) and I opened the sachet and emptied into my blender .

I added 250ml of Alpro Coconut Milk (20kcal per 100ml)

Then a massive hand full of ice

Finally a tsp of Vanilla Essence

and BLITZED!

It made two portions which I shared with my Boyfriend and we were gobsmacked how good it tasted. So gobsmacked I think I whatsapp’d my friends the world over to share the news!

So if you are starting on a health plan this January and need to add some extra protein I would really recommend trying out this brand.

If you are worried about not liking it and spending £34 – why not try one of the FittyLDN boxes so you can receive a variety of other health goods and try out the protein?

Please comment below if you try this! I want to hear what you think and also share any recipes!

START THIS 2016 AS YOU MEAN TO GO ON: STRONG, LEAN AND FULL OF PROTEIN!

This post is in collaboration with fittyldn but all opinions and recipes are my own.

Recipes

Post Christmas Alkalising Green Smoothie

Ingredients:

Spinach
Broccoli
Celery
Ginger
Lettuce
Banana
Lemon
Parsley
Mint

Method:

Blitz – Drink

Reset and re-alkalise after the festivities of Christmas Day. This smoothie will aid with digestion, help the hangover, tastes the delicious and start your day in an alkaline way.

Enjoy x

Explore

Brunch Cafe Fleur, Wandsworth

Cafe Fleur

The weekend is here and it is time for Brunch!

I would say this is one of the most important meals of the week – up there with the Roast.

Well let me introduce to you Cafe Fleur, Wandsworth
198 St Ann’s Hill, London SW18 2RT

Cafe in Wandsworth

This beautiful little cafe is nestled just off Wandsworth High Street is the perfect little stop for a weekend brunch.

As you enter the cafe you are welcomed by warm and friendly staff and cute decorations which invite you in… ready for the treats ahead.

As we sat down we were welcomed by Lucy, the owner and manager of the cafe, who talked us through the menu.

We started with some smoothies to get the juices rolling…

Banana Espresso Smoothie

As a lover of coffee, I had the Banana Espresso Smoothie

Delicious and flavourful – a perfect way to start the meal

Clean Coconut Smoothie

My partner in crime went for the Clean Coconut

If I could devote a song… “so fresh and so clean”

We asked Lucy to recommend the best dishes on the menu…

Fleur Bubble & Squeak

We had The Fleur Bubble with a twist of salmon instead of bacon

Nothing better than a runny yolk…

Next, to delight, our senses were the Avo, Chilli and Feta on Toast…

There are no words to describe the beautiful mix of flavours. Bold, colourful and delicious – this is an absolute must when visiting.

About Cafe Fleur

I chatted to Lucy further to find out the origins of the cafe…

It was first established in May 2013. Lucy was always fascinated by food from a young age. Growing up in a family where her father was a raw foodist, mum a veggie and brother a vegan – she learnt to use food in a different way to the usual “meat and two veg”.

She provides her customers with a variety of flavours from the typical “full English” to vegan pleasures to cater to every client.

She aims to cater to all her customers… so if you fancy a variation let her know… she is more than willing to help.

I asked her what she would recommend to any new customer “Fleur Bubble with a Ginger Tea… and if you’re still hungry the Clean Coconut Smoothie”

SouthWest London

If you are in South West London, this cafe is a must!

And for those who fancy a naughty brunch… Cafe Fleur are now stocking Organic Wine, Locally Crafted Beer and the old favourite Bloody Mary to start the day right!

We left Cafe Fleur with full bellies and big smiles and decided to walk off our meal walking back to Brixton.

Needless to say… When I saw the gorgeous Autumn Leaves I re-visited my 5-year-old self and ran around kicking leaves in pure joy!

5 stars for this cafe! Get involved!

For More Top Brunch Spots in London Click Here: Brunch

Older Posts

veggie

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

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

Thinking about travelling to Cuba?

Learn Spanish

Flight

Airport

Taxis

Accommodation

What to wear?

Key pieces:

Trainers:

Shorts:

Tops:

Accessories:

Bags:

What to see?

Top Visits

Places to Eat

Coppelia

La Rampa

Keeping Healthy

Words of warning

Let me introduce That Protein

Pumpkin and Chia Seed Protein Porridge

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

Cafe Fleur

Cafe in Wandsworth

Banana Espresso Smoothie

Clean Coconut Smoothie

Fleur Bubble & Squeak

About Cafe Fleur

SouthWest London

For More Top Brunch Spots in London Click Here: Brunch

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