by Mollie Millington | Dec 3, 2019 | gift guide, holistic, relax, self care, yoga
This year, as I was injured, I tried to focus a lot on self-care, which is something I don’t usually prioritize when I am physically able. As I couldn’t run to release my stress and frustration, so I had to come up with other ways to keep myself occupied. I read a lot of books, we adopted a sassy dog, I practiced more yoga at the local gym I work at (but not as much as I should of) and watched a lot of Grey’s Anatomy.
Here are some gift suggestions for people in your life who could use more work-life balance, aren’t in to high impact exercise, or just need some encouragement to be happy. Anything with a * I was given to review and I think is pretty great. Other items were suggested to me but I have not tested them out. Is there anything else I should add to the list?
Yoga Matters natural linen eye pillow*- I had never used an eye pillow before I received this in a goody bag. It is actually heavier than I thought it would be, yet somehow relaxing when placed over my eyes. It is filled with lavender-scented linseed and has a removable linen outer cover in case you get eye make-up on it. You can even place over your hands to ground you in savasana, making it very versatile in its use. It is handy to carry with you wherever you go. I will be bringing mine along to my next sports massage.
Run Up 2 Christmas event– This might actually be a gift for yourself, but why not join my Run Up 2 Christmas team as we aim to run 50Km together in December? All proceeds go to Mind Charity and you will receive a medal at the end of the month. Get your friends and colleagues to sign up to for added motivation to keep moving this month.
Run Things Run Club (RTRC) membership*- This virtual run club is a supportive and friendly space online and across social media which can help hold you accountable on the days you don’t want to run. They are also the folks behind RU2C above. Whether it is your work schedule or location that prevents you from joining a local run club, this is a fantastic alternative. It is a one-off payment for a lifetime membership, emails, and access to a private Facebook group.
Barrecore on demand and Barrecore accessory pack- London’s original boutique barre collective and the workout synonymous with the lithe bodies of Jourdan Dunn, Pippa Middleton and Claudia Schiffer are now available for you to do at home (if running isn’t your thing). The brand has an ON Demand online workout membership for which you will need a few accessorizes. At just £25 per month, the online-workout programme is the chance to stream The Barrecore Method from any device and in any location, to create lasting change in your body in just a few weeks. The accessory pack (£39, shown here) contains everything you’d need to keep your barre-training going, no matter the time or location.
Sea Soul box set- Sea Soul Blessings are mindfulness tools that awaken the ‘blue mind’ benefits of being in or around water. The simple daily practice of drawing a card each day to evoke the sea can be as rejuvenating as a trip to the beach. In Wallace J Nicholls’ bestselling book, “Blue Mind”, Nicholls explains that spending time in and around water has the power to calm us when we’re anxious and overwhelmed. It also boosts our focus and sense of wellbeing, lowers stress and anxiety, builds resilience. I know the moment I enter warm water (not the 10 degree C kind), I can feel the tension in my body melt away. Just like sea swimming, the cards clear the mind, encourage reflection, help us to release tension, and boost wellbeing. Regular use helps to shift unhelpful thoughts, develop greater self compassion and move towards positive life changes – while also building a sense of connection to the world around us. Sea Soul Blessing also donate to environmental projects from every sale, protecting the natural world for future generations. A great gift to help ground someone you love.
Dook soap making workshop– Sure, smelly soap makes a great gift (and this product is exceptional!), but why not go a bit further and gift a soap making experience? My friend, Helen, founded Dook and puts a lot of thought into her products to make them luxurious and eco-friendly. She recently added a shampoo bar to her range (bye bye plastic bottles!). If you live Edinburgh or want a weekend away, book in for this unique learning opportunity.
Body and Soul gift box- This is perfect for someone who needs to be pampered in a more traditional way. The gift box includes bath salts, a face mask and jade face roller – perfect for that much needed me-time while enjoying the candle to create a calming atmosphere. A Body and Soul journal and pen also provide support for well being and self-development over time.
Voucher for Wellness appointments (female) or Wellness appointment (male)- How often do we stop and take time to access our health? This in-depth private GP appointment can help your loved one establish a baseline level of health and if any action is needed in terms of nutrition, exercise, or stress reduction. There are several different levels of appointment service that may include a thorough consultation and examination with an experienced doctor, a resting electrocardiogram, extensive blood testing, and a follow-up consultation or a written report summarizing the medical as well as giving recommendations for future care. Blood tests may include a full haematology profile, infection and inflammation markers, full cholesterol screen, kidney function screen, iron profile, glucose level, vitamin D level, thyroid function screen and more depending on what you are worried about. I have worked with the Walk-In Clinic in the past, and have been impressed with what they have to offer. There is always enough time to sit and chat with GP, you are never rushed, which is why I love this practice. Their clinic also offers a travel vaccination clinic* and marathon medicals.*
Function360 vouchers*- If your friend or family member is a weekend warrior and lives in London, why not treat them to a gift voucher to Function360? Located near Moorgate Station, the team does it all, from prehab to post-hab, sports massage, dry needling, physiotherapy and more. New clients also get 15% off their first appointment with my code #F360MM15. I have been going there for several years now and have absolutely seen an improvement in my body mechanics and use #challenge52 to find us on social media.
52 Weekend Challenges: Cultivating health and happiness– You might not have seen that I wrote a book which came out in January of this year. Available as an e-book or in print on your local Amazon website (it is free for those with Kindle Unlimited in UK). It is a great way to spend a year gently exploring different aspects of life just outside your comfort zone. There is a private Facebook group too. Message me to join!
Gratitude and resilience journals by Awesome Inc– My friend, Nicky, has built a pretty cool business up over the years using her skills in graphic design. Her products offer readers ways to build a healthier and happier life. Who doesn’t want that? There is a range for kids, adults, and case studies of schools incorporating her products into their curriculum with amazing results. Simply writing down three things a day you are grateful for can have a large impact on your mindset.
Float session at Floatworks*– This experience makes a great gift as the price tag might deter some folks from giving it a try. For 60 minutes, you float in a salty bath in an enclosed pod to let your mind drift away without any distractions from the outside world. It may take a few sessions for the full relaxation effect but the long-term benefits of better sleep and less anxiety are worth it. (I will be writing up a full review of my experience later this month). This is a great gift idea for the person who has seen and done it all as it is pretty new on the health scene.
What are you asking Santa for this year to improve your health and wellbeing?
by Mollie Millington | Dec 2, 2019 | fitness, gift guide, outdoors, product review
This year, I have put together four gift guides to help you sort out what to give others and what to ask for yourself. Today’s list is for anyone who enjoys keeping fit and/or being outdoors. My other guides include self care and well-being, active and adventure travel and fun sweatshirts. Please keep in mind, any product with a * I was given to review and feel it is an excellent product to recommend. Others were suggested to me but sound like something I would find useful. Hopefully this gives you a little inspiration on what you might want to ask Santa for this year.
Chrome Industries merino cobra hoodie 2.0– You know I love merino. Put it in hoodie form and you have a winner. Run, walk, hike, ski anything is possible with this warm layer from Chrome Industries that will help regulate your body temperature and is resistant to becoming stinky. It is straight cut to allow for freedom of movement no matter what activity you are doing, along with a high collar and zipper back pocket.
KEEN Innate x Sherpa hiking boot– Tackle the outdoors in these limited edition hiking boots. With both brands sharing an affinity to take action, give back and create a better future for communities in a meaningful and immediate way, values are woven into the soul of this unique collaboration, with €15 being donated from the sale of every shoe to charity Room to Read®. Room to Read seeks to transform the lives of millions of children in developing countries by focusing on literacy and gender equality in education. These boot have some pretty cool design features, such as a distinctive endless knot embossed into the upper and subtle signature Nepalese flag detail to the heel loop, which pays homage to the Sherpa climbers and unsung heroes of the Himalayas. Constructed in premium, environmentally preferred Better Leather from a Leather Working Group (LWG) tannery, a PFC free Durable Water Repellent system and featuring Eco Odor Control, the KEEN Innate x Sherpa Adventure Gear looks good, feels good and does good. A PU midsole provides lightweight durability whilst KEEN’s trusted S3 technology and stability shank deliver reliable suspension and support when negotiating varied terrains. A KEEN.DRY waterproof, breathable membrane gives all seasons protection, with an EVA footbed providing step in comfort and superb arch support. Ready to explore any destination, a KEEN.ALL-TERRAIN outsole offers rugged traction, with KEEN’s secure fit lace system with robust aluminium eyelets ensuring a precise and supportive feel. Think of all the hills and mountains you can explore in these!
On Cloud hoodie*– I got this hoodie in the spring and have been living in it ever since. The cut is boxy and therefore offers loads of room when I want to snuggle in front of a campfire or am cooling down after a long run. A cowl neck with asymmetrical zipper is a unique design choice which I use to keep me warm or to release some heat. There are also other design details, such as thumb holes, zippered pockets, rear vents, and a very unique color called beluga (the marine biologist in me loves this!). This hoodie is a must for rest days.
Zone 3 Aspire wetsuit– I wanted to get into open water swimming this winter but seem to have chickened out so far. A good wetsuit can make all the difference when you are swimming outside. The Aspire is one of the highest rated wetsuits of the last decade. With a new integrated one-piece shoulder and chest panel design, flexibility is increased as is distance per stroke. The Aspire features new aerodrome buoyancy panels on the legs and hips to allow for 30% more buoyancy than standard neoprene. It is designed for a fast, smooth and natural feel swim with different areas ranging from 4-5mm.
Canyon Pathlite fitness bike (I tried this bike but was not given one to keep)- Don’t let the name confuse you. Canyon calls their hybrid bikes a fitness range. In June, I was able to try this bike out in Richmond Park and and enjoyable the relaxes posturing and ease of riding on varied terrain. These bike have an adjustable air suspension, Shimano gears, comfortable hand grips and disc brakes. Cycling is one of the best cardio and endurance workouts you can get, and Canyon’s fitness bikes (there is a road bike version too) offer a great workout wherever you are, whether that’s on the road or off the beaten track. With Canyon, you can leave the ordinary behind and ride your workout.
Darn Tough socks* – See above (and many previous blog posts) about how I love merino wool. These socks have been added to my winter rotation, as I was given thicker hiking socks rather than something from their fitness range. James received a few pairs for cycling and he is enjoying them on his chilly morning commutes. The bonus is that this is an American company based in New England. They have 100’s of different styles and colors, all of which will keep you warm in winter and cool in the summer.
Mammut Broad Peak light jacket– What can I say? I want everyone to stay warm this Christmas! This jacket offers perfect insulation. The Broad Peak Light Jacket features an extremely soft, lightweight, wind- and water-repellent Pertex® Quantum material, which is complemented by a down and feather filling. This makes the jacket not only weather-resistant but also warm. It packs down small (into a side pocket) so you can store it away if you need to when on the mountain. It also means it won’t take up more room in your flat.
Ultimate Performance reflective gloves and hat- “Safety first” is one of my motto’s. It is incredibly frustrating when I see runners and cyclists out in the dark, dressed in black and with headphones on. Come on people! Ask for these matching reflective hat and gloves and stay safe while you train this winter. The back of the gloves are covered with an ultra-reflective and multi-colour print that reflects light, keeping you visible to others so you won’t be missed. The breathable fabric is abrasion resistant and doesn’t bobble, with high moisture diffusion and drying ability to keep you dry and comfortable during wear. The gloves even have touch pad index fingers, allowing you to keep your gloves on when using your phone and the silicon grip pattern on the palms and fingers provide a non-slip surface so that you can hold your devices with confidence.
SmellWell odor eliminator pouches– These i found on the Vibram website. Living in England, my shoes are often wet. Add some bacteria in there and you can smell my shoes a mile away! These pouches claim to remove the odor so I would love to see these in my stocking. Plus, the available patterns are a hoot.
SOS ear buds– These wireless ear buds are rechargeable and much more affordable that AirPods. Running without wires can be freeing so why not give these a try? They offer a super deep bass sound experience; single multi-function button to answer/end/reject a call, music play/pause/skip and last number redial; can support 3D Game Mode, low latency to 60ms; have a microphone. In addition, they are compatible with Bluetooth, are waterproof, and noise cancelling. Small and light-weight, you can keep these handy no matter where you are.
Smith Optics Ruckus sunglasses*- Smith Optics knows what they are doing when it comes to eye wear (hence the name). I have had a few pairs of Smiths and love what they offer. The Chroma Pop makes my view of the world more vibrant. Larger lenses provide excellent eye protection, not just from the sun, but from sand, wind, and dirt too. Each set comes with two set of lenses so you are prepared for the changing conditions. The raised brow design increases peripheral vision in the riding position, and top bar venting and two-position nose pads provide proper fit to help minimize fogging and maximize comfort. If having a clear view of what is in front of you while out exploring, ask Santa for a pair of these.
Two Bare Feet bamboo skateboard- Did you know that Two Bare Feet not only make SUP boards, but they also make skateboards and scooters? What not bring back your childhood memories of skating down the street by treating yourself to this bamboo longboard “The Deacon”? Forty inches long with clear spray on grip tape, you will certainly turn heads as you glide by. It comes with orange wheels but Two Bare Feet offers a range of colors if you dare to be different.
Those are just a few ideas from me. What is on your Christmas list this year? Were you naughty or nice?
by thinkmarsh | Feb 12, 2019 | gift guide
So far, February has been all about my 40th birthday. It wasn’t until yesterday that I remembered Valentine’s Day is this week. My husband isn’t really into all of the V-day hype but we do get each other cards and have a nice meal in. If you are still looking for ideas on what to get your loved one, check out my Amazon storefront for last minute gift ideas (all available with Prime shipping!). There is something for everybody with over 30 items to choose from.
Let me know in the comments below what you think the perfect Valentine’s Day gift is if you don’t see it below.
by Mollie Millington | Feb 12, 2019 | gift guide
So far, February has been all about my 40th birthday. It wasn’t until yesterday that I remembered Valentine’s Day is this week. My husband isn’t really into all of the V-day hype but we do get each other cards and have a nice meal in. If you are still looking for ideas on what to get your loved one, check out my Amazon storefront for last minute gift ideas (all available with Prime shipping!). There is something for everybody with over 30 items to choose from.
Let me know in the comments below what you think the perfect Valentine’s Day gift is if you don’t see it below.
by thinkmarsh | Dec 17, 2018 | gift guide, product review, running, travel
I am so excited I found some time to share with you some of my favorite kit from this year. A few pieces (marked with *) I was gifted to try out, while others I discovered on my own. This year, the items selected fall into travel, active, and/or eco-friendly categories. Hope you discover a few new things to put under your Christmas tree.
Hydroflask True Pint* – This item falls into the eco-friendly category. The True Pint holds beer, coffee and even soup. Fantastic vacuum insulation means your drink stays the temp it needs to and so do you hands. Great for camping and festivals.
Venus Gillette Precision Bikini Trimmer*-This small battery-operated electric razor keeps your bikini line tidy from all angles. It includes a 5mm plastic comb to ensure uniform hair length too. I think it would work on trimming hair on the back of your neck too but my husband won’t let me try it out on him. The perfect size for your travel bag.
B-twin hydration bladder cleaner*- Lots of runners and cyclists have water bladders but don’t take the time to clean them properly after use. This is a great gift because it isn’t something the athlete in your life would buy for themselves, but they will definitely use it.
Salomon Agile 6*– A great little backpack to hold a lightweight jacket, book, sunscreen, and whatever else you will need for a day exploring a new city. It includes two 500ml soft flasks in case you decide to run instead of walk. This bag’s capacity is only seven liters so your kids can use it too.
SKINS Compression calf tights*– Wear these calf tights on the plane or under your trousers if your legs ache from too much walking on your holiday. You can also wear them when out on a run or for recovery. I wore mine during my five day desert ultra back in October. There is a large range of colors available.
Rite in the Rain notebook -This is a travel essential for keeping track of what happens each day you are away from home. It doesn’t matter if it gets wet, which makes it all the better for outdoor adventures. I brought one with me when I climbed Kilimanjaro and to Jordan because I knew there wouldn’t be electricity or wifi. I had to go old school with a pen and paper. My preferred nnotebook style is A5 with a spiral spine but there are many to choose from.
Smith Overtake bike helmet*- With their MIPS system and Koroyd(R) honeycomb insulation, this will protect your brain during a collision, which is the point of a helmet (think about how much money and time you have invested in your brain!). There is still maximum ventilation and excellent aerodynamics in the design. Nothing is compromised.
Wonderbag slow cooker*- This portable slow cooker was developed to help women in developing countries cook without tending a fire. It saves them time as not as much fire wood needs to be collected. It is also better for their health because they are not inhaling smoke while tending a fire. I think it is perfect for camping, tailgating, and hosting dinner parties as it retains heat for up to 8 hours. Full review will be up later this week.
Bamboo straws from Bare Vida – Plastic straws are a hot topic right now, so why not start carrying your own reusable straw? I have one made from bamboo and another from stainless steel. I keep one in my lunch box and one in my purse so I am always prepared for my next beverage.
Sarah Marie Design Studio sweatshirt – At the start of 2018, I really embraced Track Tuesdays with Advent Running. I felt stronger and faster. Therefore, the ‘Well Rounded’ sweatshirt is perfect for me (as is the Kinda wanna run… holiday one). Size small please 🙂
Margaret Dabbs foot cleansing wipes and foot hygiene creme*- I was sent some lovely foot wipes and lotions to help my feet prepare and recover from my desert ultra. These are a nice treat for those who spend a lot of time on their feet but aren’t necessarily into pedicures. The wipes are perfect for travelling to climates where you will want to wear sandals or flip flops too.
On Cloud lightweight running hat– A lightweight and ventilated cap to help keep your head cool and dry in sunshine or in the rain. The perfect stocking stuffer for just about anyone.
Icebreaker merino wool base layers– As my regular readers know, I live in merino socks year-round and have a heavy rotation of tops for the winter. Both the 150 Zone long sleeve crewe top and BODYFITZONE (TM)150 Zone leggings are designed to help you regulate your body temperature so you are not too hot or too cold no matter what you are doing. Icebreaker garments are also biodegradable when buried in a landfill, making them a eco-friendly gift choice.
Black Diamond Creek 22L rucksack– A super stylish way to carry everything you need for work and the gym while day commuting. It has a waterproof shell and holds a 15″ laptop. Lots of internal organization options too so you can easily find what you need.
Stolen Goat gym towel with sharks on it. I found this over on VeloVixen and love it! Santa Jaws, anyone?
Leki Hot Shots ski poles– How crazy is this? These ski poles hold your favourite drink inside the pole, up to 200ml. They even have their own funnel to help you pour. Please remember to drink responsibly when participating in sport.
What is on your Christmas list this year? Let me know in the comments below and I will put in a good word for you with Santa.
Thanks to Hydroflask, Venus, Decathlon, Salomon, Skins Compression, Smith, Wonderbag, and Margaret Dabbs for gifting me the items above. All opinions are honest and my own. This post also includes affiliate links, which costs the buyer nothing but helps run this website.
by Mollie Millington | Dec 17, 2018 | gift guide, product review, running, travel
I am so excited I found some time to share with you some of my favorite kit from this year. A few pieces (marked with *) I was gifted to try out, while others I discovered on my own. This year, the items selected fall into travel, active, and/or eco-friendly categories. Hope you discover a few new things to put under your Christmas tree.
Hydroflask True Pint* – This item falls into the eco-friendly category. The True Pint holds beer, coffee and even soup. Fantastic vacuum insulation means your drink stays the temp it needs to and so do you hands. Great for camping and festivals.
Venus Gillette Precision Bikini Trimmer*-This small battery-operated electric razor keeps your bikini line tidy from all angles. It includes a 5mm plastic comb to ensure uniform hair length too. I think it would work on trimming hair on the back of your neck too but my husband won’t let me try it out on him. The perfect size for your travel bag.
B-twin hydration bladder cleaner*- Lots of runners and cyclists have water bladders but don’t take the time to clean them properly after use. This is a great gift because it isn’t something the athlete in your life would buy for themselves, but they will definitely use it.
Salomon Agile 6*– A great little backpack to hold a lightweight jacket, book, sunscreen, and whatever else you will need for a day exploring a new city. It includes two 500ml soft flasks in case you decide to run instead of walk. This bag’s capacity is only seven liters so your kids can use it too.
SKINS Compression calf tights*– Wear these calf tights on the plane or under your trousers if your legs ache from too much walking on your holiday. You can also wear them when out on a run or for recovery. I wore mine during my five day desert ultra back in October. There is a large range of colors available.
Rite in the Rain notebook -This is a travel essential for keeping track of what happens each day you are away from home. It doesn’t matter if it gets wet, which makes it all the better for outdoor adventures. I brought one with me when I climbed Kilimanjaro and to Jordan because I knew there wouldn’t be electricity or wifi. I had to go old school with a pen and paper. My preferred nnotebook style is A5 with a spiral spine but there are many to choose from.
Smith Overtake bike helmet*- With their MIPS system and Koroyd(R) honeycomb insulation, this will protect your brain during a collision, which is the point of a helmet (think about how much money and time you have invested in your brain!). There is still maximum ventilation and excellent aerodynamics in the design. Nothing is compromised.
Wonderbag slow cooker*- This portable slow cooker was developed to help women in developing countries cook without tending a fire. It saves them time as not as much fire wood needs to be collected. It is also better for their health because they are not inhaling smoke while tending a fire. I think it is perfect for camping, tailgating, and hosting dinner parties as it retains heat for up to 8 hours. Full review will be up later this week.
Bamboo straws from Bare Vida – Plastic straws are a hot topic right now, so why not start carrying your own reusable straw? I have one made from bamboo and another from stainless steel. I keep one in my lunch box and one in my purse so I am always prepared for my next beverage.
Sarah Marie Design Studio sweatshirt – At the start of 2018, I really embraced Track Tuesdays with Advent Running. I felt stronger and faster. Therefore, the ‘Well Rounded’ sweatshirt is perfect for me (as is the Kinda wanna run… holiday one). Size small please 🙂
Margaret Dabbs foot cleansing wipes and foot hygiene creme*- I was sent some lovely foot wipes and lotions to help my feet prepare and recover from my desert ultra. These are a nice treat for those who spend a lot of time on their feet but aren’t necessarily into pedicures. The wipes are perfect for travelling to climates where you will want to wear sandals or flip flops too.
On Cloud lightweight running hat– A lightweight and ventilated cap to help keep your head cool and dry in sunshine or in the rain. The perfect stocking stuffer for just about anyone.
Icebreaker merino wool base layers– As my regular readers know, I live in merino socks year-round and have a heavy rotation of tops for the winter. Both the 150 Zone long sleeve crewe top and BODYFITZONE (TM)150 Zone leggings are designed to help you regulate your body temperature so you are not too hot or too cold no matter what you are doing. Icebreaker garments are also biodegradable when buried in a landfill, making them a eco-friendly gift choice.
Black Diamond Creek 22L rucksack– A super stylish way to carry everything you need for work and the gym while day commuting. It has a waterproof shell and holds a 15″ laptop. Lots of internal organization options too so you can easily find what you need.
Stolen Goat gym towel with sharks on it. I found this over on VeloVixen and love it! Santa Jaws, anyone?
Leki Hot Shots ski poles– How crazy is this? These ski poles hold your favourite drink inside the pole, up to 200ml. They even have their own funnel to help you pour. Please remember to drink responsibly when participating in sport.
What is on your Christmas list this year? Let me know in the comments below and I will put in a good word for you with Santa.
Thanks to Hydroflask, Venus, Decathlon, Salomon, Skins Compression, Smith, Wonderbag, and Margaret Dabbs for gifting me the items above. All opinions are honest and my own. This post also includes affiliate links, which costs the buyer nothing but helps run this website.
Recent Comments