Now that parks are the new restaurants and romance is strictly prohibited to the great outdoors, we’re finding new ways to ramp up our winter-walk style this Valentine’s Day.
If you still haven’t found THE gift for your beau, then our editors have hand-picked some timeless and functional pieces to impress even the most discerning outdoorsman.
Valentine’s Day is all about love so make sure to show yourself some this year. Treat yourself, pamper + preen and raise a glass to the número uno …you.
Be your own mixologist this Valentine’s Day with PERLcosmetics. Self-love activists this 14th February can tailor the DIY clay mask to their skin needs without the worry of the clay being too oily, too dry or not the right texture. Using ingredients such as kaolin clay, for detoxing pores, pearl powder for illuminating and brightening tired and dull complexions to pomegranate seed oil, which works to calm and soothe irritated skin, PERLcosmetics will help stressed skin and help your skin fight hyperpigmentation. Run that bath, light those candles and allow yourself to be totally pampered. £29.50
A half bottle of this sensational Rosé Champagne is the perfect size to enjoy all to yourself this Valentine’s Day. If more is required and you want to upgrade to a full bottle? No judgement here. The fresh fruit flavours make this fizz a delicious accompaniment to fruit desserts and selected cheeses. Stocklists include Champagne Wine Company, Partridges of Sloane Square and Amps Fine Wine Merchants. £28.85 per half bottle.
The luxury red velvet brownies from Jack and Beyond, an online cake shop with bakery and café in London are a sight for sore eyes. Made with silky dark callebaut chocolate and finished with beautiful patterns, they achieve the perfect balance of sweetness and intense chocolate, ideal for the day of love. The lavish red velvet brownies melt in the mouth and are the perfect indulgent treat to gift yourself this Valentine’s Day. The full range of brownies includes white chocolate and pistachio, salted caramel, peanut butter and vegan chocolate and raspberry brownies. The treats can be delivered straight to your door. £28.00 per box of 8.
The tipple of Valentine’s Day 2021 is the pink-hued Strawberry Gin Liqueur. Bottle Bar and Shop are an independent company based in Catford South East London creating all their own delicious infusions and cocktails. The Rock Rose Gin infused with fresh English strawberries makes for the perfect drink on its own with ice or mixed to create a fruity cocktail. For something more decadent, pour in some bubbles of your choice, add a strawberry and raise a toast to YOU this Valentine’s Day. £28.00 per bottle.
2020 was the year of change. Coronavirus disrupted routines, bringing with it uncertainty, home schooling and Zoom fatigue as we juggled working from home, lockdowns and isolation. This year, it is no surprise we are looking for ways to get ahead of the game and proactively manage our wellbeing. If you haven’t yet introduced adaptogens into your wellbeing regime now is the time to get on board.
Adaptogens are non-toxic plants and herbs that claim to help the body’s resilience in dealing with physical and emotional stresses. They have been used for hundreds of years in Ayurvedic practices but are quickly becoming a big hit on the wellness scene, popping up in everything from supplements and tonics to herbal teas and smoothies. Some are also said to have anti-aging properties and are featuring in skin care products.
Adaptogens literally help the body to adapt, adjust and recalibrate itself depending on our emotional and physical surroundings. They normalise bodily imbalances by supporting adrenal function, regulating hormones, and counter the negative effects of stress. Different adaptogens have unique properties that play an essential role in supporting the mind and body and this can include aiding sleep, boosting energy and improving the immune system.
With another UK lockdown in full swing, I wanted to give myself the best chance of thriving rather surviving so started taking Ionix Supreme, a wellbeing elixir that is crammed with B vitamins and adaptogens like eleuthero, schisandra, wolfberry, red ginseng, bacopa and amla, which all support mental wellness, helping you tackle the challenges of everyday life.
Six weeks in and my sleep has improved, I have more energy and clearer skin. Unlike some supplements, this one is jam-packed with adaptogens giving your overall wellbeing an upgrade. If you are looking for more of a holistic approach to improving wellness, then this ticks all the boxes.
Here is the 6 adaptogens that you need on your radar.
Schisandra
Schisandra berries are packed with antioxidants including vitamin C, which contributes to maintaining normal function of the immune system. This is a powerful herbal adaptogen typically used to build resilience to stress and to balance energy levels.
Eleuthero
Eleuthero is commonly known as Siberian ginseng. It provides extra energy when you are run-down. Traditionally used to rebuild Chi energy, it is often used to help recovery from cold and flu. Eleuthero also helps the liver detox from harmful toxins.
Wolfberry
Thanks to its high antioxidant levels, wolfberry can help prevent anti-ageing. It supports healthy vision and healthy bowel flora and can strengthen weak muscles and ligaments.
Amla
Often used to reduce inflammation and support blood sugar control. It is a rich source of vitamin C and iron. Amla’s antibacterial and astringent properties mean it is great for the immune system.
Maca
Maca is a nutritional powerhouse that is dense in amino acids, vitamins and minerals. It is said to improve your mood and boost your libido. It is a natural energiser so increases your energy.
Ashwagandha
I can’t talk about adaptogens without mentioning the jewel in the crown, Ashwagandha. Known as the superpower amongst adaptogens, it’s taken mainly for reducing cortisol levels and lowering stress and anxiety.
As with all supplements, it is important to be aware of risks and run them past your GP if you are taking any prescribed medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding.
The instantly recognisable Anglepoise lamp started out as an engineering invention back in 1932 yet remains a covetable desk accessory today. When looking to level up our own wfh desks, what better place to start.
We chat with MD, Simon Terry about the design icon and its relevance to that corner of our home we call “the office”.
HOC: Anglepoise is a design classic. Why do you think it’s so iconic?
Simon: It is so instantly recognisable that it very much deserves its iconic status. There’s a multitude of reasons why: its anthropomorphic design (so many people give their Anglepoise a name!), it lasts forever and, perhaps most importantly, it works. It is above all else a truly functional design. It doesn’t matter if you’re working, want to get absorbed in a book, need focused light in a workshop or want to create a better ambience in your living space, Anglepoise can do it all.
HOC: How much has the design evolved over the years?
Simon: A bit like other trailblazers in business such as Brompton Bicycles and Hiut Jeans, we ascribe to the notion that it is best to do one thing well. So at our core, we are still a task lighting business and we are choosy about the direction we take in terms of design. It hasn’t, in essence, changed much at all, although we have constantly reinvented what we do to stay relevant. So we have now had a longstanding relationship with Sir Kenneth Grange as well as collaborations with other icons such as Paul Smith and Margaret Howell.
HOC: There’s a horrible temptation with homewares to be “on trend” leading to unnecessary purchases and waste. We see Anglepoise offers a guarantee for life – can you tell us more about that ethos?
Simon: We know from our customers, who often have lamps that have been passed on through generations, that they last and we have always offered spares and repairs when possible but it’s always been a very informal process. With the Guarantee for Life we are making a real commitment for now and the future because we want people to know that when you buy a new Anglepoise, they are not buying into a trend – what they are investing in is a lamp or light that will see them through for years to come. It’s really just the right thing to do.
“With the Guarantee for Life we are making a real commitment for now and the future because we want people to know that when you buy a new Anglepoise, they are not buying into a trend – what they are investing in is a lamp or light that will see them through for years to come. It’s really just the right thing to do. “
Simon Terry, MD, Anglepoise
HOC: Investing in the right home set up is more important now than ever. How should we go about lighting our desks/home offices?
Simon:A well lit workspace is good for your eyes, makes it easier to focus and is also just great for general wellbeing. Natural light is always best but as we find ourselves jostling with parents, kids and partners for a decent spot to work, making sure we’re near a window can be nigh on impossible. A decent light is definitely a worthy investment – make it a task light that can move and adapt to the job I hand. Tight on desk space? See if a floor lamp is better. Maybe even a wall light is more suited to your needs – there are plenty that are ‘plug and play’ – thus reducing the need for any tricky installation works.
To find out more about the design history of Anglepoise – or perhaps invest in your own piece of that history head to Anglepoise.com.
I have never been so very glad to see the back of January. Already in this month the days feel that smidge longer, the air that bit fresher and the space I spend c. 40 hours a week staring at is looking that bit more creative. The latter is because I’ve taken on an unofficial 2021 resolution to keep pimping my desk and making that work-life balance work for me.
Here are 5 desk items that are making my February that little bit brighter…all with a slight sustainability edge because I’m not a monster!
Even after working remotely for House of Coco for half a decade, my desk still becomes a state by Wednesday afternoon. Lockdown life has really reminded me of being a teenager and resisting tidying up and then realising that my mum was right all along when I feel much better after a quick spruce.
I wasn’t sure how much joy this beautiful but practical set from adorable home made brand Crack Pots would bring me. I shouldn’t have doubted it. Their cheerful creations are crafted from recycled FSC Certified wood.
My desk is tidy – and my mind is getting there. Feeling like Elle Woods in terms of cute organisation is my February vibe. Pass the scented paper.
When it’s starting to get dark and the craving for a G&T gets real….and an unexpected Zoom gets booked in; I reach for this candle from delicious gin distillery, Silent Pool.
Each candle is made using an upcycled Silent Pool Gin bottle so we’re doing something good here, folks. The flavours draw from the 24 botanicals in the gin and the cedar wicks make for a comforting, crackling, fireside glow. You, too, can channel the calm of a country pub when wading through project meeting notes!
Ugh, tap water. That could be all I write for this one, right?
Live Wanda is a London based start up which cares about providing an eco-friendly source of tasty tap water.
Bamboo charcoal is incredibly porous, great at trapping impurities and fully compostable when you are done with it. Pairing the Wanda Bamboo Charcoal with the sleek carafe they designed with British designers Ralli Design is enough to make me want to stay hydrated.
I promise that I’ve not lost my mind. I was so excited to get my hands on these cosy, long compression Flight Socks from This Way – who ‘create travel products and guides for your journey to make it more sexy and convenient.‘
While my next long haul flight might be a while away, I’ve read some interesting articles about how compression socks can help if you get stuck sat at your desk for too long. If nothing else, they are damn cute.
What is February without chocolate? Or lovingly sent parcels?
With dark chocolate this pure and an all vegan selection, the Willie’s Cacao subscription box is the perfect thing to have on hand when you need a desk based pick-me-up.
Each month, you’ll get 10 specially selected chocolate bars, all in inividual beautiful packaging. So, if you did want to share the love and post one through your friend’s letterbox you can.
Or you could just eat them all yourself. No judgement here.
A year of tier changes, lockdown, and a constant need to adapt has meant we have all had to create new routines. Like everyone else, my world today is very different to how it was 12 months ago and as a result I have had to be kind to myself, remember that I am not operating at the same level I was pre-COVID-19 and adjust my wellness routine to reflect this.
Making small changes to your daily routine can help boost your emotional wellbeing and support your mindset in tricky times. Here are my top five wellness routines to help get you through lockdown.
Slow Mornings
Gone are the days of dashing for the train to work and grabbing a coffee on the go. Make the most of being at home and create a slow morning routine that will set you up for the day and put you in a calm space. Wake up at the same time but instead of spending 90 minutes commuting, use that time for a workout or to make a tasty nutritious breakfast. Plan your day with a cup of tea in bed, write down your to-do-list and set your intentions for a dose of clarity and positivity.
Tune out
Tune out from all the negative news and instead get lost in a good book. Reading relieves stress as it diverts your attention and stops you from thinking too much. Try and take some time out over lunch to read a few chapters and relax.
Taste the World
While we currently cannot travel, experience new cultures through cuisine. Use your evenings to cook up delicious, dishes from around the globe. Recreate that amazing Paella from Seville or transport yourself to a bustling Jamaican beach bar with some home cooked Jerk Chicken. Cooking is also great way of being mindful as it requires you to focus and be present. Global cooking might even inspire you to book your next trip.
Exercise to Reflect your Mood
WFH can leave you sedentary so getting 30 mins of exercise a day is essential to boosting your wellbeing. Build your exercise around your mood and listen to your body. If you need to wind down after a busy day then try yoga or if you are feeling tense from back-to-back Zoom calls, lace up your trainers and hit the street for a run.
Night Walk
After dinner wrap up and take a brisk 45-minute walk. This is a great way to decompress and clear your head. Listen to a positive podcast, some of my favourites include On Purpose with Jay Shetty or Oprah’s SuperSoul Conversations. If you do not fancy a podcast use the walk to focus on all the things you are grateful for. A night walk will help you wind down and tire you before bed.
While #TeamCoco may be hunkering down at home, we’re still on the hunt to find new ways to inspire you even in lockdown.
We know you’ve probably been living in pyjamas for the better part of three weeks (heck – so have we), but there’s also nothing wrong with dressing up and cosying up in style too. In fact, mindfulness experts say that dressing up at home (comfortably of course) can be just the trick to beating the Blue Monday blues.
So, whether you’re exploring new ways to create #stayathome content or just wanting to look like a human being on your next Zoom meeting, here’s a few of our favourite loungewear pieces to get you through lockdown 3.0 in style.
A new year does not mean a new you. But, it can mean new luxuries. Usually I am all over the fresh diary, the wall planner to be filled with plans but we all know how that is this January. To help with my resolution of each day, each week, each month at a time, I’m setting my home office up for success with these little treats.
We all need to drink more water. Help yourself stay hydrated with beautiful tableware (deskware?). Onyx Pitcher, £50, Monoware.com
Keep your home office stocked with delicious coffee – and learn about your beans – with a Discovery Coffee Subscription, £7.50/month, ChimneyFireCoffee.com
In 2020 I grew out my hair, 2021 is all about my nails (small goals, eh!) and rubbing hemp seed oil into my cuticles on Zoom calls will certainly help with that. We love the Full Spectrum Cold Press Hemp Seed Oil, £45, BluntBeauty.co
Cosy warmth is not just for sofas. Give some love to your body when sat at your desk with a British alpaca and wool hot water bottles with Chilcott Lavender, £45/55 (small/large), ChilcottUK.com
Lemon curd is my secret weapon for 2021 (on toast, porridge, you name it) and Cherry Tree Preserves have the best one around. Lemon Curd, £4.50, CherryTreePreserves.co.uk
This candle is designed to promote emotional wellbeing by infusing your space with positive energy. Goodness knows, we all need a bit of that. STILL candle, £38 (50hr burn time, minis available), TheUniversalSoulCompany.com
Christmas is right around the corner and we have curated the best of British stocking filler ideas for you to give to loved ones. Stuck on a last-minute present? We have got it sorted with a selection of cosy comforts, delicious food and the classic British stocking filler – the sock of course! 2020 has been like no other and thoughtful gifts are the order of the day this holiday season. It’s time to support small and local businesses. After all, good things come in small packages.
(1)Thomas Tipple Mixed Gift Pack: Drinking festive cocktails at festive bars is a little further down on the agenda this year but Thomas Tipple have provided ready-made heavyweights for you enjoy at home. Thomas Tipple set out to create Britain’s finest canned cocktails, replicating the high quality of drinks served in bars around the world. The gift pack includes 2x Raspberry Bellinis and 2x Passionfruit Mimosas (move over Christmas morning bucks fizz). Simply pour into a cocktail glass and decadently enjoy from the comfort of your own home this yuletide – decked out in a gorgeous Union Jack design, drinking from the can is also not to be missed! The set is the perfect gift for any cocktail connoisseur. Priced from £25.00.
(2) Bedroom Athletics – Cole Short Luxury Faux Fur Boot: Treating family and friends couldn’t be easier this Christmas with Bedroom Athletics’ new Autumn/Winter collection of British designed luxury slippers to give feet some serious love and attention. After a long year, everyone deserves to sit and back and relax. Showing appreciation to your nearest and dearest can be as simple as gifting them a new pair of slippers to start 2021 on the right foot. Bedroom Athletics’ Colestyle offers utter indulgence with soft faux fur, the ultimate treat for your feet for the last month of 2020 and into the near year. The boot comes in a range of styles including purple grenadier, flamingo, coyote and grey husky. Priced from £35.00.
(3) Jack & Beyond Mince Pies:Jack & Beyond, a cake shop and café in south west London has launched nationwide delivery of their heavenly mince pies which make tasty Christmas gifts or simply a luxurious way to entertain any guests this festive season. Jack & Beyond’s Mince Pies are handmade in the bakery-cafe with melt-in-the-mouth butter pastry and fragrant and fruity homemade vegetarian mincemeat – the perfect extra special gift. They can be delivered anywhere in the UK in boxes of eight with a personalised Christmas message. Jack & Beyond’s cakes are all made with top-quality ingredients including free-range eggs and British dairy. Never mind leaving some for Santa – these mince pies are so delicious they will be eaten in a heartbeat. Priced from £12.00.
(4) David Watson – William Morris Masks: 2020 was the year of the fabulous facemask. British family run silk accessories brand David Watson have collaborated with the William Morris gallery to create a collection inspired by the celebrated English textile designer’s most famous prints. The masks are available to buy individually or as part of a mix and match co-ord with a silk hair tie, pocket square or neckerchief (which come in a gift box) at £55. The perfect stocking filler and statement piece for 2020 – staying safe never goes out of style. Priced from £20.
(5) The London Sock Exchange 007 – The Chute: Socks are a classic staple in a Christmas stocking and nothing is more classically British than Jame Bond. The London Sock Exchange offer an exclusive 007 range and ‘The Chute’ socks are emblazoned with Union Jack parachutes – a perfect gift for any 007 fan and a lovely ode to the late Sean Connery this Christmas. Priced from £10.00.
(6) Perky Blenders Christmas Coffee: In need of a gift for a coffee fiend? Look no further. Perky Blenders have launched their much-anticipated yearly Christmas blend, featuring a beautifully illustrated pouch, for home delivery via the website, in-store throughout their cafés and across Eat17 Spar shops around the country. Freshly roasted in East London, the blend is comprised of Kenyan washed Mahiga beans with pulped natural Brazilian Fazenda Samambai beans showcasing delicious flavours such as fruit, orange, caramel, redcurrant, hazelnut and milk chocolate. Illustrated by fellow East Londoners, Tom & Jess Jones-Berney, a brother and sister design duo also known as Tomartacus, the packs depict an inviting snowy scene at Perky Blenders’ Project 660 Leyton Café in London. You can also gift caffeine aficionados with a letterbox friendly, regular delivery of Perky Blenders. Sign them up to a super simple, speedy and sustainably sourced subscription to the three, six or twelve-month Coffee Club (or opt for the brand new, six-weekly club). Priced from £7.50.
(7) Gun Dog Gin Miniature Gift Box:Gun Dog Gin is a gin brand which truly celebrates Britain. These delicious Herefordshire inspired drinks are perfect for mixing up in a cocktail, pimping out prosecco or champagne on Christmas morning or for simply enjoying over ice. These sweet and tangy liqueurs in a gorgeous gift box are the perfect size to slip into a stocking for the discerning gin lover. Take your pick from a delicious range of Damson, Blackcurrant, Quince, Rhubarb or Raspberry. Priced from £19.50.
(8) The Cherry Tree Preserves – Secret Santa Savoury ‘Tube To Go’ Pack: British artisan brand, The Cherry Tree, has been producing the finest Chutneys, Preserves and Marmalades and flavours to excite tastebuds everywhere since 1997. All products are hand cooked in small batches. This four-jar set includes Spicy Tomato & Caramelised Onion Chutney, Cheeseboard Chutney, Chilli Jam and Sweet & Spicy Garlic with Nigella Seeds Pickle and is the ideal stocking filler for the cheese enthusiast and the only accompaniment you will need on your festive cheeseboard. Priced from £6.99.
(9) Biscuiteers Ginger Elf Jolly Ginger: Biscuiteers award-winning biscuits are hand-iced by talented artists at their kitchens in London. Much like Santa’s workshop itself, every biscuit is lovingly handmade the old-fashioned way, one biscuit at a time. Biscuiteers offer a fantastic Christmas range – we have picked out the Ginger Elf Jolly Ginger, the ideal gift to send through the letterbox for loved ones, to enjoy during the Queen’s speech with a spot of tea or to slip into a stocking. Priced from £6.95.
(10) Luscombe Drinks Ginger Beer Christmas Gift Box Set: Luscombe Drinks offer beautiful organic vegan soft drinks and mixers that are sensational during this season of festivities. Hot Ginger Beer is the perfect beer alternative for the non-drinkers at Christmas. The Ginger Beer Christmas Gift Box Set which includes 1 x Hot Ginger Beer, 1 x Passionate Ginger Beer and 2 x Cool Ginger Beer is a great stocking filler for the non-drinkers and the drinkers alike and the ideal set of tipples to wash down the copious amount of delicious food that is consumed throughout the month of December. Priced form £12.99.
(11) PLAYin CHOC Six-Character Gift Set:Specially made for Christmas, PLAYin CHOC have created a new six-character gift set, filled with festive themed ToyChoc boxes. This chocolate brand is kind to both the body and the planet and their award-winning recipe uses just three natural and organic ingredients, so it is suitable for virtually everyone, including those with a dairy, soy, nut, gluten or sesame allergies. Each of the ToyChoc boxes contain a different cute festive character to build, two mini allergen-free chocolates and a fact card to explore the world of Christmas. Ideal for a stocking filler or as an alternative to crackers at the turkey dinner table (plastic and excessive packaging be gone) – perfect for both children and adult alike. Made in the UK, the chocolate is combined with creamed coconut sugar and Madagascan bourbon vanilla and is the ideal, sustainable addition to any celebration. Priced from £17.50.
(12) Camden Brewery Beer 2020 Imperial Pilsner: Just like the year it’s named after – Beer 2020 is unlike any other. Barrel-aged for eight months to create an elegant lager with white wine-like characteristics, it’s the perfect way to toast the end of a challenging year and the coming of 2021. This year, Camden have added special enzymes during the brewing process for a more ‘wine’ like flavour profile. Sophisticated in both taste and style, Beer 2020 is packaged in a gold screen-printed glass bottle featuring a jazz-inspired design by Camden’s Seasonal Illustrator Gaurab Thakali, perfect for gifting. Priced from £8.50.
(13) Brighton Gin Gift Set: When COVID-19 hit, Brighton Gin jumped into action producing not-for-profit hand sanitisers. Now, the innovative distillery by the seaside is bouncing back with a Christmas offering that will delight any gin lover – especially those that prefer small batch and ethically conscious drinks. The Brighton Gin gift set includes two embossed Brighton Gin copa bowl glasses with real gold rims, as well as a 700ml bottle of either the 40% Pavilion Strength or the 57% Seaside Strength Navy. Brighton Gin is Brighton’s first legal distillery and each bottle is filled, labelled and wax sealed by hand. Made from 100% organic grain spirit, juniper, fresh orange and lime peel, locally-grown coriander seed and milk thistle, this is authentic super-premium gin and is totally delicious. Cheers! Priced from £56.00.
Head into 2021 feeling refreshed and recharged by taking some much needed ‘time out’ to reset and restore your equilibrium.
If lockdown, dark nights and cold winter weather has left you in need of a wellbeing boost then the Six Senses Spa at The Alpina Gstaad has a wellness break designed to raise your vibes and up level your immunity.
Situated in the Swiss Alps, the spa is renowned for offering exceptional healing programmes, from ‘Yoga for Sleep’ and ‘Energy Sound Healing’, to ‘Holistic Anti-Ageing’ – think neuroscience meets ancient wisdom. Now, when we need it most, the spa has created two new programmes designed to put a positive spring in your step and kick start your new year.
Power Vibration Retreat
Turn negative energy into positive through a blend of vibratory sound and energy healing treatments, sophisticated daily mindfulness sessions and breathing techniques. The body’s subtle energy vibration is explored with different methods in order to rebalance, revitalise and reconnect with the inner self. A deep immersion into mindfulness, meditation and spiritual practices.
This retreat is ideal for anyone who needs to de-stress, this programme is about deep rest. It helps to build inner resilience and inspires more ease, peace and happiness. From £6,245, including 6 nights’ accommodation.
Purifying Cleansing Immunity Boost Retreat, 1 – 5 days
A focused cleanse which combines customised treatments and nutritional supplements with personalised face and body treatments and the latest anti-ageing technologies, including a skin analysis.
This cleansing programme helps to boost and support your natural immunity, raises energy levels and can prompt a shift in excess weight. From £4,932, including 4 nights’ accommodation and 3 lunches. A one-day taster is also available from £675.
For more information on the spa programmes and retreats available visit The Alpina Gstaad
