This past month has been an absolute whirlwind. I greeted in the New Year with a broken foot and no job, fully expecting to have to have surgery on my tendons and be out of the game (and potentially the workforce) for quite some time. However on the first real day back in January, I was told my ankle would heal on its own, and about a week later i found a new job. What a turnaround! That being said, I’ve had some family shit hit the proverbial fan; I’d rather not discuss it here, but safe to say it’s been a tricky few weeks. What that has meant for me is that self-care has become a top priority to me more so than ever before, second only to taking care of the people I care about.

Anyway, less about me! I thought I’d share my January favourites with you; some products and things I’ve been loving recently. 

Vital Salads

Vital Ingredient has been where it’s at this month. The salads are expensive, but honestly I’ve been in treat yo self mode ever since I started my new role, and good nutrition is so important to me. It’s great to know I’m getting in some goodness at lunchtime, plus there are so many combinations to choose from that I rarely get tired! 

 

Chocolate PB Fit

I discovered PB Fit – powdered peanut butter with far less fat- when it was on offer in Whole Foods a few weeks ago. It’s an absolute game changer for someone who eats as much peanut butter as I do. I certainly don’t think regular peanut butter is a guilty food, but with PB Fit I get to eat twice as much for the same amount of calories… so I’m down for that! The chocolate flavour is my firm favourite, and my favourite way to eat it is either on toast or drizzled over frozen fruit. I’m on my third jar already- not even sorry. 

Walking

Now that I can actually walk, getting out and about has ben such a source of joy. Whether it’s walking my adorable pooch along the country lanes of rural Herefordshire, or just strolling into work with an audiobook in my ears and a gorgeous coffee clutched close to my chest; I’m just so grateful to be able to get outside and get fresh air – after all, this time a month ago none of that would have been possible! 

Half of a Yellow Sun

I just finished reading this stunning book by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, and was left with one of those book hangovers- when you’re not quite ready to leave behind the world you’ve been inhabiting for the past few days. Thankfully, I’ve now moved onto her next book, Americanah, which inhabits the same literary universe and embodies much of Chimamanda’s exquisite style. 

Funkita

The folks at Funkita were kind enough to send me some swimsuits and athleisure when they heard I was injured and would be spending a lot of time in the pool. Their swimwear is really distinctive and colourful, which I love; but what really got me excited was their workout gear. I have a pair of their Electric runner leggings, and honest to god they are one of the most comfortable pieces of activewear I have ever worn. The material is super soft, but also substantial enough that you don’t feel like you’re going to expose yourself every time you squat. Cheers, Funkita!  

Ohso Chocolate

In the past month my plant-based tendencies have driven me to a near-obsession with super dark chocolate; and that’s where Ohso comes in. It’s gorgeous dark chocolate enriched with live cultures that help maintain your gut bacteria. Whilst I don’t actually know how effective this is, I have to say the mini bars taste amazing. And they come in portion-sized bars which stop you from overindulging. They’re such a little treat that I’ve bought several just to give away to friends and family. 

I think that’s just about everything! One other thing I’ll add though is that my friends- all the people in my life, really – have been absolutely fantastic this month. I’ve been having a rough time and everyone has been amazing, whether that’s taking me and my poorly ankle out for a coffee, or just being on the other end of a WhatsApp conversation. Hearts all round. 

Tell me, what have you been loving recently? 

What’s been happening in your world?

Lots of love,

Pippa