By 5pm, the house is twinkling. The tree, my mother’s masterpiece, gleams in golds and reds, each decoration perfectly placed (I’ve long since given up trying to compete). Every year, I take the same photograph of my son, standing in his pajamas, gazing up at it in awe. It’s become our little ritual; a captured moment of stillness before the evening’s magic begins.

While the men look impossibly dapper in velvet jackets, champagne glasses in hand, we nibble on oysters and wait for the knock on the door. And then it happens, that gentle tap tap tap that makes everyone freeze. We rush to the hallway, hearts racing, to find a large sack of presents and, in the distance, a mysterious figure disappearing into the night, lantern swinging. It’s Father Christmas, of course, or rather, the latest family member to don the beautifully old Santa suit that’s been worn by uncles, cousins, and my father before them. It’s a tradition so woven into our family fabric that I can’t imagine Christmas without it.

Once my son’s tucked up in bed, the grown-ups gather by the fire. There’s laughter, more champagne, and the delicious supper that always follows, the perfect, sparkling close to our Christmas Eve.

Christmas Day begins gently,with stockings, lussebullar (also known as saffron buns)  and cinnamon buns over a cosy breakfast, and the smell of coffee filling the house. After a brisk walk in the cold, rosy-cheeked and hungry, we come home to the most glorious Swedish smörgåsbord. Herring, gravadlax, meatballs, ham, red cabbage, potatoes and, of course, aquavit and songs. It’s a wonderfully merry chaos of toasts, laughter and music, the kind that makes your heart swell.

Boxing Day is a big family affair, with aunts, uncles, and cousins everywhere, children running wild, and the unmistakable hum of family togetherness.

And every year, as I look around, I’m reminded just how beautifully my parents have shown us what it means to celebrate, not just Christmas, but life itself. The traditions, the attention to detail, the joy in every ritual, it’s all thanks to them. My mother, in particular, is the beating heart of it all. In her late 70’s and still the chicest woman I know, she is my forever style icon. She has this effortless cool that time simply hasn’t touched. She still wears leather trousers (yes, really) not dissimilar to the Citizens of Humanity, Ayla leather trousers and somehow makes them look as classic as cashmere. There’s something about that looser fit, that relaxed elegance, that makes it so timeless especially when paired with something oversized on top.

So, in her honour, this year’s Festive Edit is a little tribute to her and to the beauty of tradition, Swedish magic, and understated style. I’ve included a few nostalgic favourites.

For The Home: 

The Christmas Goat  
A nod to the Swedish Julbock, the Christmas goat traditionally believed to guard gifts and bring good fortune. Rooted in Nordic folklore, the Julbock symbolises protection, generosity and the spirit of giving. A quiet reminder of the magic and meaning behind the festive season.

Swedish gnomes or tomte. Inspired by Swedish folklore, the tomte is a small but mighty guardian of the home, believed to protect households and bring good fortune throughout the year. These little gnomes were said to watch over families and farms, as long as they were kept happy with a bowl of porridge.

My Festive Style:

The Citizens of Humanity Ayla Leather Trousers
I can’t wait to pair these with an oversized crisp white shirt or a chunky knit and heels. Seeing my mother wear hers with such confidence makes me realise that true style never fades; it just evolves.

Stories Mohair Blend Jumper
I love this soft white and brown Fair Isle pattern, oversized and utterly cosy,perfect for Christmas Day

From the glimmer of a champagne glass to the soft glow of a swinging lantern, these little details old and new make up the tapestry of my Christmas. A celebration of family, style, and the comforting rhythm of tradition. And just like my mother, who wears leather trousers at 78 and still makes them look fabulous, I hope to carry these traditions forward with the same grace, joy, and slightly mischievous sparkle.

Merry Christmas and God Jul!

The post Lou Loves: The Festive Tradition Edit appeared first on Hip & Healthy.

The Skin-Stress Connection: Why Your Complexion Needs Adaptogens

Just like your internal system, your skin faces constant aggressors – from UV radiation and pollution to the invisible impacts of cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone. This daily onslaught can lead to a weakened skin barrier, increased sensitivity, dehydration, and accelerated ageing. No thank you.

Adaptogenic herbs work by helping the body – and in this case, the skin –”adapt” to and resist these physical and emotional stressors. When applied topically, they don’t just sit on the surface; they deliver targeted benefits to help fortify your skin’s natural defences.

Meet the Power Players: Your Topical Adaptogen Arsenal

Ashwagandha: The Ayurvedic powerhouse known for its calming properties. For the skin, it helps neutralise free radicals from pollution, soothe inflammation, and strengthen the skin’s barrier, making it a surprising ally for those with sensitive skin.

Reishi: Known as the “mushroom of immortality,” this fungus is a hydration hero. It’s packed with triterpenes and polysaccharides that help calm redness and lock in moisture, creating a plumper, more resilient complexion.

Rhodiola: This root is renowned for helping the body resist fatigue. In skincare, its high antioxidant content helps protect skin cells from oxidative stress, preventing tired-looking, dull skin and promoting a more radiant glow.

SHOP THE STORY

Ready to integrate these powerful ingredients into your routine? We’ve curated the best in adaptogenic beauty. You’re welcome.

RMS Beauty ‘Kakadu Clean Cleansing Gel’ – £37

Start and end your day by washing away impurities without stripping the skin’s microbiome. This gentle gel cleanser is infused with wild mint leaf and RMS’s proprietary Adaptogenic Herbal Blend, which works to balance and hydrate the skin, leaving it clean, soothed, and perfectly prepped for the next steps in your routine.

Kama Ayurveda ‘Vanasara Ashwagandha Invigorating Essence’ – £53

 This is far more than a facial mist. Harnessing Adaptonyl (a potent Ashwagandha extract), it works to boost skin resilience and hydration. Infused with prebiotics and Ayurvedic floral waters, it’s a sensorial treat that instantly enlivens a dull complexion and strengthens the barrier.

Youth To The People Adaptogen Deep Moisture Cream – £54

This rich, yet non-pore-clogging, cream delivers intense, long-lasting hydration to dry, reactive, and sensitive complexions. Its hero adaptogen blend of Ashwagandha, Rhodiola, and Reishi works in synergy to soothe redness and irritation, helping your skin better cope with daily stressors. Meanwhile, squalane, jojoba, and Shea butter drench skin in moisture and a dedicated Calming Peptide Complex helps fortify the skin barrier and smooth the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Ranavat ‘Renewing Bakuchi Créme’ – £95 

A truly potent moisturiser where Ashwagandha plays a key role in protecting against environmental stressors. It works in harmony with bakuchi seed (a natural retinol alternative) to improve elasticity and soften fine lines over time.

Joonbyrd ‘Daydreamer Firming Body Serum’ – £78

Founded by leading dermatologist Dr. Alexis Granite, Joonbyrd fuses science with sensoriality. This hero serum is a perfect example, tightening and toning with 18 powerful actives. It features the adaptogenic power of Songyi mushroom (Reishi) to shield skin from stress, all within a nourishing, gourmand-scented gel-to-oil formula.

Words by Frankie Jabarkhyl

The post Adaptogens For Glowing Skin (They’re Not Just for Your Smoothie!) appeared first on Hip & Healthy.

Here are seven healthy habits (and the hero products that make them effortless) to help you feel energised, radiant, and grounded all season long.

Nourish Your Skin (and Gut) from within with Correxiko Collagen Powder.

Between colder weather, festive stress, and richer food, your skin and digestion can take a hit over the holidays. Collagen is your best friend here. Not only does it support smooth, supple skin, but it’s also fantastic for gut and joint health. Correxiko is a clean, high-quality marine collagen packed with amino acids that support elasticity, hydration, and digestive balance. Add a scoop to your morning smoothie, coffee, or even festive hot chocolate for a subtle self-care boost that keeps you glowing well into January.

Support Your Energy Levels (Even on Party Nights) with Higher Nature Multi Effervescent. 

The holiday season can be demanding with endless plans, late nights, and indulgent food which can leave you running on empty. A quality multivitamin can bridge the nutritional gap and keep your energy and immune system strong. Higher Nature Multi Effervescent is a refreshing, orange-flavoured drink that delivers essential vitamins and minerals in a single fizzy glass. Think of it as your daily wellness insurance policy for keeping you vibrant, even on the busiest festive days.

Strengthen Your Immunity Naturally with Hifas de Terra Lentinan Shiitake Extract. 

Coughs, colds, and winter fatigue don’t have to be part of your December routine. Mushrooms are nature’s immune superheroes and Shiitake in particular is known for its high beta-glucan content and ability to support immune resilience. Hifas de Terra Lentinan Shiitake Extract is a potent, easy-to-take extract that works to balance immune function and support your body’s natural defences. It’s your quiet shield against 

Glow (Literally) with Light Therapy Bon Charge LED Red Light Face Mask 

The dark days of winter can leave both your skin and mood a little lacklustre. Red light therapy helps to boost collagen production, even out tone, and leave you looking fresh and rested, even after a few too many festive nights. Bon Charge LED Red Light Face Mask is the ultimate at-home skin treatment that stimulates cell renewal and boosts radiance in just 10 minutes. It’s like giving your face a little sunshine when the skies are grey. The self-care moment that nourishes your skin and relaxes your mind.

Balance Your Hormones & Support Your Cycle with Sisterly Lab Supplements

The festive season can be full of joy, but it can also throw your hormones completely off balance thanks to late nights, stress, disrupted routines, and richer food. Sisterly Lab creates targeted, science-led supplements designed specifically to support women’s hormonal health, mood, energy, and cycle harmony. Whether you’re dealing with bloating, PMS, breakouts or dips in vitality, their blends work to rebalance from within and bring your body back to its natural rhythm. It’s the kind of quiet, consistent support that helps you feel grounded, centred and more you, no matter how busy December gets.

Unwind & Sleep Beautifully with Welleco The Evening Elixir

Late-night events and sugar spikes can disrupt your sleep, which in turn affects your mood, metabolism, and skin. A soothing evening ritual can make all the difference, especially if it feels this luxurious.Welleco The Evening Elixir is a decadent, nutrient-rich hot chocolate that supports deep sleep, skin repair, and overnight restoration. It’s the perfect switch-off drink: indulgent yet functional and let your body (and mind) truly rest.

Move Mindfully, even when you don’t feel you have time with the  Yoga Collective Oval Mat 

You don’t need to hit the gym to stay active over Christmas. A few minutes of yoga or stretching can reset your energy, ease tension, and support digestion, especially after big festive meals. This mat is beautifully designed, non-slip, and made for all forms of movement. Its curved edges and luxe texture make rolling it out feel like an act of self-care, not a chore.Keep your mat visible, in the bedroom as a daily reminder to pause, breathe, and stretch. Even five minutes counts.

Cleanse and Rebalance with de Mamiel Restorative Cleansing Balm

All those late nights, makeup, and festive indulgences can leave skin feeling dull and tired. A nourishing cleanse can completely reset your complexion and your mind. de Mamiel Restorative Cleansing Balm transforms cleansing into a ritual. Infused with plant oils and calming botanicals, it melts away impurities while restoring your skin’s balance and radiance. The scent alone feels like a deep breath of calm after a busy day.

Healthy habits don’t have to mean restriction. They can be small, joyful rituals that make you feel better instantly. This Christmas, choose nourishment, movement, rest, and self-care that fit easily into your lifestyle. Because when you take care of yourself, inside and out, you’ll have the energy, confidence, and glow to enjoy the festive season even more. 

The post Healthy Habits You’ll Actually Keep Over Christmas (because the best festive rituals are the ones that make you feel amazing) appeared first on Hip & Healthy.

“This hot chocolate has become a little daily ritual for me. It tastes gorgeous, but it also gives me something extra — the collagen helps support my skin and joints, and the raw cacao gives me a lift when my energy or mood dips. During menopause, you really notice the difference when you add in things that support your body, and this is such an easy, delicious way to do it.” Lisa Snowdon

Raw cacao provides minerals and mood support, whilst collagen adds protein and benefits skin, hair, and joints — making this more than a cosy drink. It’s a genuinely functional treat. It is naturally low in sugar and contains magnesium and iron, which are excellent for supporting energy, mood and relaxation. It also has antioxidant properties that help keep skin bright and healthy. 

Collagen levels naturally drop during perimenopause and menopause. Adding Correxiko Marine Collagen provides easily absorbed peptides that support skin firmness, joint comfort, hair strength and gut health. It blends smoothly into warm drinks, making it an effortless daily supplement for beauty and wellbeing. 

Lisa’s Collagen Hot Chocolate Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 cup milk of your choice (dairy, plant-based or goat’s milk)
  
• 2 tablespoons Correxiko Marine Collagen (this collagen is unflavoured and mixes perfectly with the cocoa to make a creamy drink)
  
• 2 heaped teaspoons raw cacao
  
• Optional: honey or agave
  

Method

1. Warm your milk gently on the hob.
   
2. Add 2 x tablespoons of Correxiko marine collagen powder and whisk until dissolved
   
3. Stir in 2 x heaped teaspoons of raw cacao
   
4. Sweeten lightly, if desired.
   
5. Whisk again until creamy and well combined.
   

Serve warm. It’s rich, chocolatey and takes only a couple of minutes — ideal for mornings, afternoons or anytime you want a nourishing, midlife-friendly treat. I have been making this drink with Correxiko marine collagen for years, and I love it. It’s such an enjoyable and super simple way to experience the benefits of collagen, and it tastes so good.

The post Lisa Snowdon’s Collagen Hot Chocolate Recipe to Boost Mood and Glow appeared first on Hip & Healthy.

SHAKSHUKA with greens, lentils & feta

I love anything that I call ‘one-and-done’, by which I mean it uses just one pan to cook and serve. The base of this shakshuka is lentils, which bring such substance to the dish. You can add any greens; I’ve suggested chard, but spinach, cavolo nero or kale are great, too. It’s a fantastic sharing dish for when you’ve got a full house: just pop it in the centre of the table with a pile of toast and it keeps everyone going for the day. The perfect brunch.

SERVES 4

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 onion, finely sliced

3 garlic cloves, crushed

1 tablespoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 tablespoon harissa paste

10 chard stems, leaves and stalks roughly chopped

2 small courgettes, coarsely grated

400g (14oz) can of green or brown lentils, drained and rinsed

Finely grated zest of 1 lemon

500ml (18fl oz) hot vegetable stock

4 large eggs

100g (3½oz) feta cheese, crumbled

1 tablespoon chopped flat leaf parsley leaves

Sea salt flakes and freshly ground black pepper

Sourdough toast, to serve (optional)

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C fan (400°F), Gas Mark 6.

2. Set a shallow flameproof casserole or large frying pan over a medium heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil has warmed, stir in the onion and garlic. Reduce the heat to low and allow to cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in the paprika, cumin and harissa paste and cook for a further minute.

3. Add the chard and courgettes, stir, then cook for 5 minutes to wilt the greens. Next, stir in the lentils, lemon zest and hot stock. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally and seasoning with salt and pepper.

4. Make 4 wells in the pot with the back of a spoon and crack an egg into each. Cook until the whites are set but the yolks are still runny, about 8 minutes.

5. Scatter the crumbled feta and parsley on top, then serve, with toasted sourdough, if you like.

INSTANT BENTO NOODLES

This is so fun! For all of us who lead busy lives and need a lunch on the go, here is a recipe that will be so useful. All you need to cook it at work is a kettle. I switch out the vegetables for whatever I have, as it’s great for using up leftover greens, peppers, mushrooms, tomatoes, green beans and so on. I’ve specified using brown rice noodles here. That’s because I’ve recently been moving more towards eating nutritious whole grains, such as brown rice and wholewheat couscous, rather than their refined equivalents, as well as using more wholemeal and less white flour in my baking. You can, of course, use any noodles you prefer, or that you have in the house.

SERVES 1 BUSY PERSON

50g (1¾oz) nest of noodles, ideally brown rice noodles

½ carrot, peeled and cut into thin matchsticks

1 spring onion, sliced

4 spears of purple-sprouting broccoli, halved lengthways

50g (1¾oz) greens – spinach, chard or kale – coarse stems removed, leaves finely sliced

Pinch of chilli flakes

2.5cm (1-inch) piece of root ginger, peeled and grated

1 tablespoon chopped flat leaf parsley leaves, or coriander leaves

1 tablespoon miso paste

1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil

METHOD

1. Place the brown rice noodles, slightly broken, in an airtight lunch box or glass jar, or whatever you have. The only important thing is that you want it to be leak-proof for this.

2. Add the prepared vegetables, chilli flakes, ginger, herbs, miso paste and sesame oil. Close the box or jar.

3. When you are ready to eat the bento noodles, pour in enough boiling water to just cover the veg and noodles. Place the lid back on and leave to steam for 5 minutes, giving it a good shake every minute, then dig in!

BEETROOT-CHOCOLATE CUPCAKES WITH COCONUT ICING

MAKES 12

If you’ve never tried a beetroot-chocolate cake, then you are in for such a treat! The beetroot brings a delicious moist texture and the cakes are majestically rich and deep in flavour, while remaining very light in texture. Topped with the exotic coconut icing, these are complete heaven!

300g (10½oz) cooked beetroot, peeled and cut into chunks

230g (8oz) pitted dates, chopped

115g (4oz) unsalted butter, melted

1 tablespoon tamari

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

85g (3oz) cacao powder

4 eggs

FOR THE ICING

165g (5¾oz) full-fat cream cheese

50g (1¾oz) coconut cream

2 tablespoons maple syrup

METHOD

1. Preheat the oven to 170°C fan (375°F), Gas Mark 5.

2. Blend the beetroot in a food processor with the dates, melted butter, tamari and vanilla extract until smooth.

3. Add the cacao, then the eggs (adding them at the end helps stop the cacao travelling up the sides of the machine). Blend until smooth and creamy.

4. Line a 12-hole muffin tray with paper muffin cases and transfer the mixture into the cupcake cases. These don’t rise and puff up, so fill them almost to the top.

5. Bake for 17–19 minutes. The cakes are ready when still slightly soft in the middle and will firm up as they cool. Cool on a wire rack, then transfer to the refrigerator.

6. To make the icing, whisk all the ingredients together and place in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to thicken up.

7. Now spoon the icing on the cupcakes and eat. Pure bliss!

VEGGIE-VIBES POWER BOWL

SERVES 2

When I am feeling overworked and not taking the best care of myself, I make this salad in a big batch, to keep me going (it lasts three days in the refrigerator). When I fuel my body with fresh vegetables and proteins, I feel the difference after a few days, both physically and mentally.

2 beetroot, cooked, peeled and grated or julienned

2 carrots, peeled and grated or julienned

6 large chard leaves (or use kale, spinach or cavolo nero) finely chopped, all leaves chopped

10 broccoli florets, or spears of purple-sprouting broccoli, either slim or halved lengthways

400g (14oz) can of chickpeas, drained and rinsed

1 tablespoon roughly chopped flat leaf parsley leaves

1 tablespoon torn or whole mint leaves

FOR THE LEMONY DRESSING

Finely grated zest and juice of 1 lemon, plus lemon wedges to serve

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1 teaspoon honey

100ml (3½fl oz) extra virgin olive oil

Sea salt flakes and freshly ground black pepper

METHOD

1. Place all the ingredients for the lemony dressing in a large mixing bowl and whisk together, seasoning well.

2. Tip the prepared beetroot, carrots, chard or other greens, broccoli, chickpeas and herbs into the mixing bowl with the dressing. Season with salt and pepper and toss well, then serve, with lemon wedges on the side.

The post Clodagh McKenna’s Happy Cooking Recipes That You’ll Love (think bento noodles and beetroot cupcakes)… appeared first on Hip & Healthy.

As a sound healing practitioner and founder of a True North Sound Studio in Soho, I’m drawn to gifts that blend calm, quality, and quiet luxury, things that soothe the senses and celebrate mindful living.

My Christmas wish list begins with the Pañpuri Advent Calendar, new to the EU and brings fragrant touch of Thai indulgence, and the Moleskine Snoopy Journal for journaling by the sea. In my studio, I’d love more crystals from Venusrox that would be perfect for my meditation and sound work.

For some luxurious self-care, I’m dreaming of the Asaya Spa at the new Rosewood Mayfair or an annual membership at Six Senses London
a brand new wellness sanctuary in the heart of the city. For some special Christmas scent and body treats, the Cire Trudon Holiday Candle in the rereleased Nazareth, The Newt in Somerset Commune Body Cream  and Joonbyrd “Moon Swim” Body Wash – an indulgent and a dreamy treat on Christmas Day!

Some stocking stuffers for myself include a bit of glam: with Sisley’s Ginkgo Gua Sha, the Hermès Lip Care Balm, and Trait d’Hermès Red Mascara soft, festive, and easy to remove.

Evenings and airport travel call for organic Japanese Genmaicha from Harrods, the Kujten Baby Cashmere Blanket in pink, and Cosmic Dealer Botanical Chocolates  For inspiration, The Wellness Bucket List and for my practice, Heola Chimes and the Woojer MAT

I would love a gift certificate to Covent Garden’s own AIRE Ancient Baths London: candlelight, stillness, and sound to unwind for an afternoon to myself! 

This year, I’m also mostly wishing for serenity and the quiet joy with my gorgeous family and friends! 

The post Sound Healer, Nancy Trueman, Shares Her Mindful Christmas Wishlist And Why She Always Spends Christmas Abroad… appeared first on Hip & Healthy.

The post The Best Food + Drink Christmas Gift Guide for 2025 appeared first on Hip & Healthy.

For me, that means fine-tuning my nutrition, leaning into gentle movement, and adding a few tried-and-tested immune allies to my daily routine. From liposomal vitamin C and medicinal mushrooms to clever tinctures and gut-nourishing probiotics, here are the wellness staples I swear by when I want to feel my best through winter and beyond.

Higher Nature, Vitamin C Powder £22.95

If there’s one new product that has become a staple in my cupboard, it’s this one. I’ve tried so many vitamin C options over the years, but this powder hits differently. Wholefood-based, gentle on the tummy, and surprisingly easy to sneak into your daily routine. I usually mix a half teaspoon into my morning water. It’s bright, slightly tangy, and gives me that subtle lift without the crash. Perfect for those “I can’t afford to get sick right now” weeks.

Hifas da Terra, Lentinan Shiitake Extract Drops £35

I’m a huge believer in medicinal mushrooms, and these drops are my secret weapon. Shiitake contains lentinan, a natural compound known to support immune balance, but for me, it’s more about how grounded and steady I feel when I take it regularly. Just a few drops in water each morning; it’s earthy, calming, and quietly powerful. Think of it as your immune system’s deep breath.

Symprove from £34.99

Symprove is a total game-changer. It’s non-negotiable in my fridge for both myself and my son. I started taking it regularly last winter after some amazing advice on how it supports digestion as well as immunity, and I haven’t looked back. It’s a quick shot first thing in the morning on an empty stomach and it’s just a small ritual that somehow sets me up for the day. Give it a few weeks and your gut, immunity (and skin!) will thank you.

Artah, Immune Defence £36

Sometimes all you need is one simple capsule to feel a little more protected, and that’s exactly what ARTA H Immune Defence delivers. Packed with Reishi mushroom, zinc, selenium, and vitamins A & C, this little pill quietly works behind the scenes to support your immune system. just one capsule with breakfast and it’s reassuring to know I’m giving my body a gentle boost, especially during the busy autumn‑winter months. No fuss, no multiple supplements to juggle, just a thoughtfully crafted formula that helps me feel steadier and more resilient.

Altrient, C Liposomal Vitamin C £54.96

This is my “I’m travelling / running on empty / feeling run-down” emergency hero. Each sachet is a little powerhouse. Liposomal means it’s super absorbable, so you actually feel it working. It’s not the most delicious thing (think slightly citrusy gel), but I always notice a difference in how quickly I bounce back when I take it. A total non-negotiable in my carry-on or gym bag during the colder months.

Cloud Twelve, The Gamechanger Immunity Support Tincture £45

This blend is basically herbal alchemy in a bottle. I discovered it at Cloud Twelve in Notting Hill, and it’s become my go-to for those weeks when everything is a bit much. It combines immune-supporting herbs and adaptogens, the kind that help your body roll with the punches. I drop 20 drops into warm water and feel instantly soothed. It’s like a hug for your nervous system.

Correxiko, Vitamin D3 + K2 £10.95

We all know the UK sun isn’t exactly reliable, so I really try to take this daily in the winter. The combo of D3 and K2 means it’s well absorbed and supports bone, mood and immune health in one go. It’s such a simple addition that makes a huge difference, especially during those darker months when energy levels dip.

Love Mush, Mush Stress Less £35

Reishi has become my evening ritual. I stir half a teaspoon into a mug of warm almond milk before bed. It’s earthy, a little nutty, and feels instantly relaxing. It’s known as the “mushroom of immortality,” but I just love how it helps me unwind and sleep more deeply. You can genuinely feel the difference in your body when you wake up.

together health, Zinc £11.49

Zinc is totally underrated when it comes to immunity. It plays a massive role in immune function, and Together Health’s version is food-grown, meaning it’s easier on the stomach and more absorbable. I keep a bottle on my desk to remind myself to take it daily. It’s one of those quiet, behind-the-scenes players that keeps everything running smoothly.

The Vitamin co, Beetroot Gummies £16.99

These supplements are fun and so yummy, but don’t let that fool you. Beneath the fruity flavour and cute gummy form, beetroot is a quiet immunity hero. It’s naturally rich in antioxidants and nitrates, which help improve circulation and oxygen flow, both key for keeping your immune system firing on all cylinders. I like to think of them as my “delicious defence.” They’re also a great mid-afternoon boost when I’m flagging, and far better for you than the emergency chocolate bar I usually reach for.

The post Boost Your Defences (Naturally): Our Favourite Immune Allies appeared first on Hip & Healthy.

I always do a little bit of yoga-based flexibility stretching – just for around 15 mins at the end of the day. I do it because it helps bring me back to a relaxed and positive mindset and also is great for relaxing my muscles. Like most women I know I am very busy and always on the go – and at the end of the day the stretching really helps me to ease all the tension away. Get away from the screen and get into my head and it helps me calm my mind. I also do weight training every other day to keep me strong and fit, sometimes it is just 25 minutes but it’s always worth it. I take my supplements every day as well – because we deserve to be as healthy as we can. I honestly feel like we owe it to yourselves.

I also am fanatical about looking after my gut health and have long realised the connection between gut health and brain health and so that is something I am really keen to protect. Serotonin, your feel-good happy hormone is produced in the gut so you need to keep your gut happy to keep yourself happy. I have always been interested in nutrition in general as I love food and I love that food can be a pharmacy in your own home. I eat a wholefood diet and avoid red meat (I have done since I was 16). I sprinkle seeds on everything from mashed potatoes to porridge – a variety of pumpkins seeds, flaxseeds, nuts just to get that fibre. I don’t deprive myself of chocolate, and I have a bit of what I fancy whenever I want it but ultimately I love wholefoods – so I am lucky that I enjoy eating well.

When I get home I instantly put my joggers on, wipe my face clean and put my hair up in a messy bun, making sure everything is sorted for the next day. Then speak to my best friend about our swimwear business, which is about to launch activewear that you can wear all day. 

As you get older you realise you need more protein otherwise your muscles suffer, and you need to look after your bones as well. I find that for me less impactful exercise is better for my health. I wouldn’t dream of going for a run – but I have never been that person really. I prefer working with light weights for muscle tonnage. I like swimming and I like yoga and I am a huge believer in you have got to enjoy the exercise you do – no matter what stage of life you are in.

When it comes to skincare – I find that as I get older I use less and less makeup, but don’t hold back on lots of dewy gorgeous glowy products, lots of highlighter on the cheekbones – anything that gives that my luminous skin I am down for. But my skincare ritual is actually very simple, I don’t use red light therapy – instead I opt for Sisley’s Hydrating Mask – which is great for flooding your skin with much-needed moisture. My skincare routine however has largely stayed the same for my whole life – it’s pretty basic – the only thing that has changed is that I have added an eye and a neck cream into the mix in recent years. 

Self care for me is not a luxury, it is a necessity. Without it, where would we be? We couldn’t do our jobs or look after our family without our health. Women are warriors – we are the great enablers and we show up for everyone in our lives in every area of our lives so we have to be able to look after ourselves as well.We deserve to look after ourselves and we need to replenish ourselves with a bit of self care – I really believe that even five minutes in the morning and five minutes at the end of the day is all you need to feel better. Whether that’s journaling, meditating, or just stretching. We’re all so time-poor but it is so important to carve out this time away from work or our families. That for me makes me feel so grounded. We need to give a little bit back to ourselves – and that to me is self-care.

Tess Daly’s Health + Skin Heroes:

NIVEA Crème Moisturiser for Face Hands and Body 75ml Tin, £2.29

Sisley Black Rose Cream Mask 60ml, £142

Simple Kind to Skin Moisturising Facial Wash 150ml, £4.60 

Weleda Skin Food, £15.95

Wellwoman Original, £21.15

Tess Daly is an ambassador for Wellwoman, the UK’s No.1 women’s supplement brand. Tess takes Wellwoman Max RRP £20.65 available at Vitabiotics.com

The post The Non-Negotiable Health + Beauty Habits of Tess Daly appeared first on Hip & Healthy.

Stretched Expands to Manchester

After winning over Glasgow and Edinburgh, Stretched,  the UK’s first clinically led one-to-one assisted stretching studio, is limbering up for its Manchester debut next month. Founded by physiotherapist Craig McHugh, the concept takes inspiration from the booming stretch studios of the US and Japan. Designed for every age, ability, and flexibility level, assisted stretching promises improved posture, mobility, and recovery and a little more ease in everyday movement. Whether you’re a gym regular or desk-bound, it’s the kind of self-care your body will thank you for. stretched.uk

Rude Health Goes Nutty (In the Best Way)

Rude Health is taking your coffee game up a notch with two indulgent new Barista Drinks: Pistachio and Hazelnut. Made with real nuts, oats, and natural spring water and nothing else these clean-label blends are frothy, silky, and completely free from flavourings, added sugar, or oils. Landing in Waitrose from 12th October, they’re the UK’s first barista drinks made with real roasted nuts, perfect for your morning cappuccino or a cosy pistachio hot chocolate moment. shop Rude Health

Doctor Seaweed® Endo+: A New Era for Hormonal Health

Created in collaboration with endometriosis advocate Carla Cressy, Doctor Seaweed® Endo+ is a targeted supplement designed to support hormonal balance, energy, and inflammation. Combining iodine-rich Scottish seaweed with vitamins B and D3, selenium, and turmeric, the formula is rooted in both science and lived experience, offering meaningful support for anyone navigating endometriosis or looking to optimise their hormonal wellbeing naturally. doctorseaweed.com

NAYDAYA Makes Vulva Care Chic

Say goodbye to clinical packaging and hello to elevated intimate care. The pioneering wellness brand NAYDAYA, creators of the cult-favourite Victory Oil, is redefining vulva care with the launch of Victory Glide and Victory Cleanse. These gynaecologist-approved, microbiome-friendly formulas are designed to support comfort, pleasure, and balance through every hormonal stage. Think hyaluronic acid, probiotics, and a pH-supportive base – all wrapped up in a bathroom-shelf-worthy aesthetic. naydaya.com

The Other Space Unveils Seven Dimensions of Wellbeing

At The Other House South Kensington, the wellness hub The Other Space is entering an exciting new chapter. This autumn, the sanctuary launches its Seven Dimensions of Wellbeing; a holistic framework that weaves together physical, emotional, spiritual, intellectual, social, environmental, and vocational health. Expect thoughtfully curated residencies, retreat-style packages, and workshops led by Mamma Wellbeing, alongside innovative treatments and talks. It’s London’s most forward-thinking approach to total wellbeing and one we can’t wait to experience. theotherhouse.com/south-kensington

Wild England: Sustainable Luxury Rooted in Nature

Born on the Dorset coast, Wild England blends countryside charm with eco-conscious design. The brand’s range of organic, refillable toiletries and fragrances from hand wash to candles and redefines sustainable luxury for hotels, homes, and conscious hosts. Expect elegant refillable bottles, natural scents inspired by hedgerows and sea air, and a focus on craftsmanship that proves sustainability and sophistication can (and should) go hand in hand. wildengland.uk

ARTAH Launchs Fibre+

Essential Fibre+ is the ultimate multitasker – supporting gut health, energy, appetite, and immunity – and shines a spotlight on one of the most powerful yet overlooked tools in modern wellbeing. ARTAH blend cutting edge science with high-quality, natural ingredients to help you see and feel real, lasting change. Visit ARTAH for more information.

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