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wellness

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Life. It’s such a beautiful but busy thing, full of rules, schedules, plans and sometimes, problems. Naturally, it’s easy to get caught up in it all, which can end up in us feeling a little lost within ourselves.

Whether you’re going through a painful break up or have some serious career confusion, there are many aspects of life which can leave us with a mind full of questions, taking us on a crazy journey of self discovery.

When finding oneself, many of us are happy to stay put and embrace it from our own town, whereas others may feel the need to spread their wings, pack a case and fly as far away as humanly possible! Now, this may seem dramatic, but sometimes it may be one of the best things that you can do. Here’s why.

YOU GIVE YOUR BRAIN A BREAK

If your mind is stuck in a rut, staying in the same place can sometimes do more harm than good. If your brain needs a breather, having the same routine and surroundings may mean that it doesn’t get the chance to see things from a different perspective.

Whether you book a weekend break or relocate to a new city altogether, leaving what you know and moving away gives your mind the chance to rewire and recharge. Putting yourself in an unfamiliar environment brings a new schedule. This means new experiences, memories and your overall day to day life will change. This alone can uncover a whole new you, giving you the chance to learn things about yourself. It’s amazing what can happen when you take a step back from what you feel to be normal.

YOU LEARN TO STEP OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE

Stepping out of your comfort zone by choice isn’t easy, but that’s what self discovery and development are all about right? Learning about oneself is a lifelong endeavour, lessons full of twists and turns. Although these can sometimes be confusing and stressful, these are the things which teach us and bring growth. Stepping out into the unknown may give you a belly full of uncertainty, but in the end, it can only bring positivity and strength, and embracing those moments can only result in great change. Being uncertain gives you the chance to re evaluate and re discover. You will have to do everything, from hiring a long distance moving company to choosing the right place to live.

YOU FEEL SELF ADMIRATION AND PRIDE TOWARDS YOURSELF

When on the road of self discovery, bold and brave choices are made which can lead to some serious self love and admiration. It’s not easy making choices which feel as if you’re throwing yourself straight in the deep end! Trusting your own instincts and sticking by your choices can really help you to grow and appreciate who you are. When making these big decisions, feelings of worry and anxiety can tag along too, but all of that simply shows bravery. When I packed up and moved my life to Brighton, many people tried to convince me that I was making a silly and unrealistic choice. Brighton has now been my home for two years and I’m very proud of that!

YOU MEET NEW FRIENDS AND INFLUENCERS

New location means new friends. Although this can be a scary thought, meeting new people is one of the most beneficial things when learning about yourself. People aren’t just people, they come with many different layers, full of personalities, goals, stories and interests. Imagine how much you can learn from meeting just one person. Now imagine how much you can learn from meeting a whole bunch! Being around a different group of individuals will automatically propel you into a new world of experiences, helping you to discover yourself along the way. Sometimes all it takes is one person to uncover a huge chunk of you which you didn’t know existed.

So, what do you think? Could you move city?

 

Here at House of Coco, we’re all about discovering, celebrating and supporting our fellow boss babes running their own businesses, particularly when they’re also working to respect and preserve our planet. We sat down in the oh-so-chic surrounds of prestigious women’s private members’ club the AllBright in Mayfair, for She Speaks – an evening with the female founders behind the luxury brands championing sustainability. From eco-friendly design to accountable production processes and a focus on fair craftsmanship – these are the environmentally friendly #girlboss brands you need to know about.

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Game face on. Ready for you Monday! Let’s do this. ? . @ziorva jewellery modelled by the stunning @silkehajunga , make-up by @catparnell , photography by @rossellavanon. . #mondaymotivations #gameface #readyforwork #workwear #workwearstyle #styleinspo #workwearjewellery #jewelleryoftheday #daintyjewelry #jewelerylover #ethicaljewelry #sustainablefashion #sustainablelifestyle #slowfashion

A post shared by Ethical Jewellery | Made in UK (@ziorva) on Mar 4, 2019 at 12:48am PST

ZiorvaInspired by the natural beauty of her home country, Irish designer Lorna seeks to help to preserve the landscapes that are so close to her heart by creating ethical jewellery which minimises adverse impacts on the environment. Cast from fully recycled gold, every Ziorva piece is crafted in the UK, reducing the carbon footprint and ensuring high-quality standards. Her pieces are designed to last, from the daintiest of stacking rings featuring responsibly sourced gemstones to all-out diamonds which fully adhere to the Kimberley process, all packaged in FSC certified card to protect forests for future generations.

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It’s the season for prints ?? #HURRLoves ? @saasha_burns

A post shared by HURR (@hurr) on Mar 5, 2019 at 1:52am PST

HURR One of the most polluting industries on earth, fashion’s impact on both people and the planet is vast. Hoping to pave the way towards a more sustainable future for the industry, HURR’s wardrobe rental platform allows eco-conscious women to share their wardrobes with each other – making the most out of your wardrobe, maximising your fashion choices and reducing your environmental impact – a win-win.

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Only two more days left of our SS19 NYC Pop-Up Shop. Come visit us @oknospacesoho today 25/3 and tomorrow 26/3 from 11AM-7PM to shop our latest sustainable collection! ?68 Thompson St NYC . . . #fashion #circularfashion #NYC #smartwomen #sustainablefashion #luxury #ecofashion #bethechange

A post shared by DEPLOY LONDON (@deploy_london) on Mar 25, 2019 at 8:22am PDT

DEPLOY

Pioneering slow fashion, clothing brand DEPLOY offers an ethical and intelligent approach to style, crafting tailored designs you can wear season after season, alongside their zero waste philosophy. Fabrics are sourced from environmentally certified textiles suppliers in Britain and Europe and the collection is mostly produced in London by boutique production houses and artisanal craftsmen. The cut-offs are salvaged and re-used, or up-cycled into hats and headdresses for their sister company. It is this commitment to a mindful approach to fashion for life rather than for a single season, that DEPLOY is harnessing to reduce their impact in what is traditionally such a wasteful industry.

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Through careful consideration of our entire production cycle, we have combined pioneering design and innovative manufacturing with high quality natural and organic ingredients. Crafting expectational hygiene for the modern woman. Find out more about our premium range and ethics online. #WearGraceAndGreen #greenbeauty #ethicalliving #organicskincare #organiccotton #Womenshealth #naturalhealth #EthicalLiving #PremiumBeauty #NonToxic

A post shared by Grace & Green (@graceandgreen) on Jan 29, 2019 at 8:45am PST

Grace and Green

While it might not be particularly glamorous to chat about, the sanitary industry has a huge impact on the planet. Grace and Green manufacture high quality, organic and biodegradable period products – cruelty-free, vegan and made from 100% organic cotton, they are good for not only the planet but also your health.

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‘Nourish to Flourish’ We are sticking by this motto at 58. A skincare ritual could be that little bit of daily TLC your body needs. What’s your favourite skincare ritual? ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ #natural #skincare #naturalskincare #vegan #veganroutine #organic #wellness #ecofriendly #naturalremedies #naturalingredients #goodness #naturalbeauty #wellbeingthatworks #balancing #organicskincare #selfcare #goodskinbeauty #greenvegan #naturalcosmetics

A post shared by 58 Lifestyle (@58lifestyle) on Mar 13, 2019 at 12:01am PDT

58 Lifestyle A conscious choice when it comes to sustainable pampering products, 58 Lifestyle’s collection focuses on the benefits of transitioning to natural-based products, as well the benefits of remaining mindful of personal and environmental wellbeing. Eco-soy candles not only smell warm, woody and deliciously inviting, but are hand poured using eco-friendly soy wax for a long lasting and clean burn that is free from pesticides and herbicides. Their balancing room mist is seriously soothing, as well as free from harmful synthetics and unnecessary additives.

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❤️ will you be my Valentine? All Natural Cotton & Sustainably made Towels, Throws & Blankets for her and for him. Last chance for 40% OFF for the best Valentines Gifts. Smart Cotton to take you beyond the beach. The Original Travel Towel! ? @mikeyfunn ? @coco.swim Hamamingo | Smart Cotton • Smart Life #hamamingo #smartcottonsmartlifie

A post shared by hamamingo.com (@hamamingo) on Feb 13, 2019 at 11:24pm PST

Hamamingo

From their towels down to their tote bag packaging, Hamamingo’s eco-friendly products are created with a focus on quality and slow production, to give consumers a piece that they will be able to use for years. Their producers share the same commitment to the garment lifespan, and through their production processes, the company is able to support local communities in Denizli, Turkey where they champion fair wages and respect the skills of the women who hand-tie the tassels in these communities.

Looking For True Pampering Or A Little Head Space In The Capital?

#COCOBEAUTY Explores The Best Spas in London

Relaxation is good for body, mind and spirit and sometimes a few moments of pampering or even a full day of spa bliss is called for. With an incredible range of multi-sensory experiences available throughout the capital, #TeamCoco has pulled together a few of our spa favourites to fit any schedule. Seek sanctuary and……..relax.

1- BAMFORD HAYBARN SPA AT THE BERKELEY – BEST FOR A FULL DAY OF PAMPERING

Not only is The Berkeley a tranquil haven in the heart of Knightsbridge, it offers devastatingly beautiful views of Hyde Park. Stop in to watch the seasons slip by from its perfectly formed windows. Should you get tired of relaxing by the jewel box of an indoor pool, you can slip out into the courtyard secret garden. A year round option, it’s a relaxing and discreet area to sun yourself in the summer and a cosy gem in the winter to cuddle up with hot chocolate and enjoy the seasonal outdoor winter cinema. Bamford products keep the feeling quintessentially British and the therapists are knowledgeable and friendly.

2– SARAH CHAPMAN SKINESIS – BEST FOR FACIALS

Looking for the best facial in London, then look no further. Technically a luxury facial spa, this is isn’t a space for a full day out, however Sarah Chapman Skinesis is the location for facials individually tailored to exactly what your skin needs, on your treatment day. These bespoke facials rejuvenate and restore skin with a combination of facial massage, facial technology and the expert knowledge of the therapists. Pamper yourself in the beautiful surrounds of the Chelsea location and with an award winning line of products also under the Skinesis name, you can continue the beautification at home.

3– AKASHA SPA AT CAFE ROYAL – BEST FOR UNIQUE TREATMENTS

Akasha Spa offers an expansive wellbeing retreat lying directly underneath one of the most famous and well loved areas of London, Piccadilly. It’s a sanctuary of calm a world away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Located in Hotel Café Royal, the spa offers London’s first Watsu pool experience, tailored hydro treatments and guided meditations combining Western and Eastern traditions. A private Hammam for purifying scrubs and massages and a Vichy shower for cleansing hydrotherapy rituals ensure there are multiple unique experiences to try before stepping from the cool marble hallways back into the heart of London.

4– COWSHED SPA- BEST FOR SPEEDY BEAUTY TREATMENTS

Perfect placed for a quick and revitalising visit mid shopping spree, spring from the hustle and bustle of Carnaby Street into Cowshed for an express mani, pedi or massage. There is an uplifting and social atmosphere on the first floor, leading down to a more relaxed zen treatment floor below. Offering express treatments for those who need a quick fix, this is the place to refresh and revive yourself between meetings or whilst on the go. With varying locations around the UK you can indulge in a town or country Cowshed experience.

5– YOUR OWN HOME/HOTEL- BEST FOR AT HOME SPA SESSIONS

Can’t bear to leave the house for your pampering session or need a last minute blow dry? Try a mobile spa service straight to your bedroom, hotel room or even office. Beauty on demand, it’s the secret weapon of the time poor wonder woman. Just a click away, from massage to manicures, false lashes to the ultimate blow dry, turn your front room or boardroom into the ultimate beauty parlour at your convenience. With plenty of options to choose from and customer ratings to ensure quality and honest feedback give Blow Ltd a spin.

Jennifer Jane Young is the very definition of a successful 21st century multi-hyphenate. Founder of Injoy Living, she also works as a Virtual Business Manager and Strategic Consultant, writer, alongside running her own podcast called ‘The Art of Making Things Happen’.

According to Jennifer ‘The actions you are not willing to take or the decisions you are not willing to make are the ones that will change your life’ .This motto is the perfect reflection to her willpower and resilience to truly carve out the life she wants to live. Amidst a world of dull nine to fives, Jennifer helps people to turn their ideas into reality through her own self-started business, INJOY LIVING. Using her own personal experiences to inspire entrepreneurs the world over, to not settle, and to truly ‘injoy living’ their best lives.

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your background. What inspired you to start Injoy Living?

From a young age I had a ton of creativity and inspiration. My imagination was my safe space but simultaneously I was suffering. Up until I was about 25 I felt like I just didn’t fit anywhere in the world. Throughout my teenage years I suffered with severe anxiety, paralysing me in so many moments, making me feel like I was broken and unlike anyone else. It was a scary time for me because it felt like I was never going to be ok in my life.

I was the black sheep of the crowd, surrounded by people working 9-5 jobs or trying to find their dream program in school and none of that felt good to me. I needed freedom, I needed to do something with my creativity, and I needed to live a life of my own. At the time I could not quite understand all of that yet. In school, I was a little rebel, and I could never hold a job for more than a few months, as I found that it was physically and mentally excruciating. I would daydream of running away from it all and into a life that I would INJOY LIVING.

And so I did.My journey as an entrepreneur began by becoming a Yoga Teacher. I took my summer vacation to do intensive training and never looked back. I FINALLY felt at home in my life. I then went from Yoga Teacher, to Yoga-therapist, to Coach, to Virtual Business Manager & Strategic Advisor.What grew from that was Injoy Living. My company was built to help people craft out the life they are so deeply yearning for, because I believe that we should all be ‘injoying’ our life.

Injoy Living is where personal development meets entrepreneurship. It’s where I serve as a mentor to teach ‘The Art Of Making Things Happen’ by merging inspiration with practicality so people cannot only dream, but also make their dreams happen, one step at a time. I build deep, meaningful connections with people who come into my circle. I wear my heart on my sleeve and share my own journey in an honest way, so that I can use my life and lessons as a stepping stone for them.

The actual big picture vision for Injoy Living came to me when I was on vacation in Ireland, driving through the beautiful Wicklow Mountains. It was so strong that I took out a pad and paper and wrote until my hand was hurting and I could barely hold my pen anymore. I believe that the vision I had that day, was a preview of my life’s mission. Not all of it exists yet, but it’s coming to life, one chapter at a time.

What is Injoy Living all about? How does it help aspiring entrepreneurs the world over?

It’s always about creating a bridge between inspiration and making things happen, through mentoring and practicality. No matter how I’m mentoring someone, I always see myself metaphorically holding my peoples’ hands as I help them step forward. It’s about creating human connection and a community of people on a similar path. I felt so alone for so long, and I don’t want anyone to ever feel that way. There is a unique path for all of us and I want to help people find that path and actually walk it. Through clear intentions, intuitive and strategic actions and the capacity to relax and let go, I help people step forward towards their yearnings. When I am not doing that for myself, I suffer, so when I’m suffering I know that I’m not paying attention to where my intuition is trying to guide me.

Currently my company offers one-on-one services for people to start a business or grow their business with me as the Virtual Business Manager. I mentor through my podcast “The Art Of Making Things Happen” and I invite clients to come work with me under the coconut palms in Cancun Mexico for retreats, work-cations and intensives.

What’s next for you and Injoy Living?

I’m working on getting my book published, where you can read about my philosophy on The Art Of Making Things Happenand one of the biggest leaps I ever took in my life — packing my life and my dog to move to Mexico.

There is so much more to come. I used to get stressed because I wasn’t making things happen fast enough, but now I really appreciate each individual chapter and how they build on each other. If I can spill the beans a little, the next thing I’m working on creating is a caribbean co-working house in Cancun for creatives and entrepreneurs to come stay with me for work & relaxation. I love being a host and taking care of people. You can sign up to Jennifer’s VIP list to be in the first to receive an invitation here.

Talk us through how you help businesses with ‘The Art of Making Things Happen’

I help people connect the dots from their idea/desire to creation. My strength is seeing the big picture and all the pieces involved to make things happen. Where people get overwhelmed, is trying to sort out all the pieces and matching them with the big picture. I help people break things down, problem solve, put the pieces in order and prioritise what to tend to first (while knowing what will be coming next). I’m a natural born project manager.

I also serve by coaching people who are just getting started (or wanting to take their own path) and offering strategic consulting to entrepreneurs. My approach with everyone is highly intuitive.

Communication is the key vehicle to any work or mentoring I do. I offer high-touch support to my community and clients. Unlike so many businesses now online, I want people to feel close to me and have access to me.

What has been the biggest challenge you’ve faced as a GirlBoss so far?

Taming my creativity. I’ve had to learn that not all ideas are good ones. When creativity hits now I write and write and write. Then I let it sit and see how it feels the next day. I’m a little woowoo so sometimes I’ll pull tarot cards or get a reading from my tarot reader. I trust now that if something is meant to be on my path, it will continue to come bite me in the ass. I use my podcast and writing to channel my creativity, instead of trying to create a new service or a new business with every single blitz of inspiration.

I have to be fully transparent also (because it’s part of my core values as a mentor) and say that money used to be a big challenge for me. Starting at a young age, I had very stressful and scary experiences with money, and those patterns repeated into my adult life. In the last few years, I’ve fallen in love with taking care of my money, with making it, with using it and managing it. It was a long journey, but I finally feel empowered with my finances, which has had a huge impact on my business, success, and peace of mind.

What advice do you have for aspiring GirlBosses who would like to become a Girlboss like yourself?

Connect, connect, connect. You need a community. You need other Girlbosses in your circle. People to talk to and share with. Find a coach or a mentor. Invest in getting help. There are options for support for all different budgets. I would NEVER be where I am today, without the support and connections I have had with other amazing girl bosses. They have helped me become the person I am today. They will share resources with you, connect you with the right people, call you on your bull shit, through your value in your face when you can’t see it yourself. Find your crew is my best advice. No one builds success on their own, not even Oprah. We all need our Gayles!

WWW.INJOYLIVING.CA

So you’re thinking about going green huh? That’s great news! Let me fill you in on the benefits of making the switch.

NO HARMFUL CHEMICALS

Our bodies are like sponges, we absorb. In fact, we absorb 60% of what we put on ourselves. Now, think about the products you would normally grab from the shelf. Shampoo? Body wash? Body lotion? If you look on the back of these bottles, what do you see? Yep, a long old list full of ingredients that make no sense and are unpronounceable. These aren’t good for your health and can be known to cause skin irritation, hormonal distruptancies and a variety of health issues. For example, Parabens, which are used as preservatives are in the majority of our products and are linked to all sorts of health problems such as breast cancer. Sodium Lauryl Sulphate is another common ingredient which enables liquid to foam. This has been known to cause irritation to the skin, eyes and scalp.

Don’t be fooled by the wonderful colours, smells and textures. How do you think they get that way? It’s by the use of synthetic fragrances, artificial dyes and God knows what else!

From going green, you’re instantly being kinder to yourself, as you’re only feeding your body goodness, such as natural botanical ingredients. Some of these may include tea tree, rosemary extracts and green tea. Mainstream products use toxic chemicals, while natural and organic use plant based ingredients. From harvesting to manufacturing, the whole process is clean, with no harsh chemicals in sight. Remember, you don’t just feed your body through your mouth!

BYE BYE BAD SKIN, HELLO NATURAL GLOW

As a kid up until recently, I suffered from eczema. I tried every lotion on the shelf and saw a bunch of doctors who would always prescribe me a variety of creams. Although these would sometimes help temporarily, they never truly worked and the eczema would always return. This is because mainstream products don’t truly include anything which can benefit your problems, as they are just filled with chemicals and temporarily mask any issues you may have.

From making the switch to natural and organic skin care, I’ve noticed such a positive difference and have never seen my skin so clear. It’s not itchy, patchy or irritated and I actually have a little glow going on! This is because I’ve started to introduce myself to natural ingredients, which are genuinely beneficial to the body and soothe the problem rather than mask it.

This just proves that what you put on your body is just as important as what you put in it, and nourishing yourself from the outside in can do you the world of good.

NO ANIMAL TESTING

Animal testing is the more darker side to the beauty industry, and I hate to think about what their involvement is when trying to create the ‘perfect’ product. From making the switch, no animals are harmed or tested on, which is a win win because not only do we still get to look good, we can leave our beloved animals alone!

Over 100 million animals are poisoned and abused each year and the horrific thing is, is that none of these experiments are illegal. It’s not just rats, rabbits and mice, it’s cats and dogs too. Just think how pitiful it feels when you see dead rats or mouses in your mouse traps which kills them almost instantly and yet how harsh it will be to experiment on them every day as long as they are needed alive.

Going green means we can support our fluffy friends and give the finger to animal testing.

EARTH FRIENDLY

Have you ever wondered why your skin care and beauty products have an effect on the environment? From the off set, whether it be the packaging process, manufacturing or waste created, all of these steps cause a lot of environmental damage.

From chemical fumes getting leaked into the air to our products being washed down the plug in to the ocean, it all has an effect on our planet. I used to be absolutely obsessed with facial scrubs that were jam packed with micro beads, and I hate to think how many of those ended up in the ocean affecting marine life.

Organic beauty is less harmful to the environment because organic farming eliminates the use of synthetic and harmful chemicals. These pollute everything such as our air, plants and water supply, affecting health, earth and animals.

Making the switch isn’t as tricky as it may seem and can be easy to apply to our day to day lives one step at a time!

LaLaLand was explored Part 1 of this mini series where I walked you through my first mad weekend in Los Angeles at the Girl Boss Rally and exploring the retro Farmers’ Market. Come with me as I fill you in on the new rural escape giving Palm Springs a run for its visitor-friendly money.

Introducing… Ojai.

TUESDAY

7am: Up early with purpose this morning as we were off to spiritual city Ojai, in Ventura County, north of Los Angeles. Despite the looks of utter confusion on Angelenos’ faces, it is very easy to get to on public transport.

11:30am: A $25, 2 hour Amtrak train ride took us from Los Angeles‘ epic and film-famous Union Station, through stations that were almost definitely from WestWorld, past film sets to Ventura where an easy Uber ride dropped us at another accidental hip vegan lunch spot The Farmer and The Cook.

1:00pm: Arrow Heart Yoga in Ojai has a resident masseuse, Lauren who is beyond incredible. We went in feeling like death reheated and came out dancing on rainbows. What was in that tea?

5:00pm: We checked in at great value and super comfy The Hummingbird Inn on the outskirts of downtown Ojai after taking the local old fashioned shuttle from the yoga studio. Changed for dinner we wander the cute main street, checking out thrift stores for the next day and eat the chef’s special tacos at Agave Maria with a local mandarin frozen margarita. This has to be living the dream.

7:00pm: An ice-cream night cap at retro parlour Ojai Ice Cream

WEDNESDAY

9:00am: After a restorative night’s rest we are back on the path again, first thing checking out our hotel’s neighbour the gorgeous 70s style The Capri Hotel with our complimentary morning coffee in hand. In fact, our hotel and The Capri have been purchased by small chain Shelter Social Club who have great plans to bring the hotels back to their former glories with chilled pool parties and super comfortable suites from which to explore the local nature.

12:00pm: Having smashed through the goodies in amazing local thrift stores (2nd Helpings, New 2 You) We fall upon the biggest cinnamon bun we’ve ever seen in Ojai Cafe Emporium with a box salad to enjoy later.

2:00pm: Continuing down the main street we visit gorgeous interior shop DeKor and end up in local outpost of Beacon Coffee for a nitro cold brew (yes, we thought they were making it up too but apparently not, it’s everywhere.)

3:00pm: Now for our real secret and you’ve got to promise that only the truly worthy will hear of this…. To use the stunning spa at the Ojai Valley Inn and Spa, yes, the 5* one where Audrey Hepburn used to stay and real life silver screen legends like Brad Pitt and Julia Roberts frequent …you don’t need to be a hotel guest, just book a treatment and you can spend all afternoon in the Spa. Mic drop.

We opted for the Kuyam, a treatment inspired by the local Chumash Native American Indians, then read magazines and drank local herbal tea to our hearts’ content.

6:00pm: Sitting on the spa terrace we witness Ojai’s famous ‘Pink Moment’ when the sun sets and turns the mountains pink as it does so. We had no camera on us in the spa to capture it for you, you should probably just go and see for yourselves.

7:00pm: We round off our 5* experience with a local beer at Jimmy’s Pub gazing at the outlines of the mountains and all the stars we never get to see at home.

THURSDAY

9:30am: We check out new bakery on the block, Knead. If you have to check that the coffee and orange peel studded breakfast cake is, indeed for one person, this is our kind of place!

11:00am: A few more shops to hit up on the search for presents for friends back home ; FIG living stands out for their inspirational quote tea towels and make up bags and for the fact that, as it’s International Women’s Day, they are donating 20% of their takings to a local fund that empowers girls to speak up for themselves. Totally #GirlBoss so we naturally buy everything.

12:00pm: A last lunch in Ojai at colourful 50s style diner Bonnie Lu’s before catching the Amtrak back to Los Angeles for our final weekend.

2:00pm: We didn’t bet on the local cab company taking so long to pick us up (too accustomed to Uber, clearly) so we miss the Amtrak. Grr. However, we do learn that our driver used to be a top chef in LA and hangs out at mountain retreats with Woody Harrelson.

2:30pm: No fear, we can get an Uber out here at the Amtrak station back into Los Angeles. We take shelter from the sun in cute Sandbox Coffee House right by the station and are saved by Frank who is happy to take us the 1.15hr drive back to the city.

3:00pm: Driving through the valleys we blast out Social Distortion, stopping at an incredible local fruit stand and spying Magic Mountain.

4:30pm: A spot of Los Angeles traffic later we arrive at our low cost hotel for the last few nights in LA; PodShare is a budget but well prepared shared working / living space which only sets us back $40/night in Los Feliz

6:00pm: Out in town again, this time to sample the Filipino BBQ delights of The Park’s Finest ; check back soon for the full review of this awesome meaty feast. No vegans allowed!

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Farrah Miller is an integrated nutrition health expert, founder of FM Wellness, author, and a Female Empowerment Coach. An activist in the making, she wants to be the wave that can make a difference in the gender equality. To support that ambition she provides free mentoring to divorce and traumatised women who are going through an emotionally challenging time.

Farrah works with women in their 20’s-40’s who want to improve their lives and appearance naturally, providing 1:1 coaching coaching, and 30-day courses which can be taken from your sofa, in your PJs!

Want to check her out? For a limited time, Farrah is offering a free eCoaching series “30 day to a New You” . Did you know that most habits can be broken if you can go 30 days without them…

Let’s get into it with Farrah.

HOC: Great to meet you, Farrah! Can you tell us about your journey to running your business?

Farrah: My journey from corporate management into entrepreneurship has been a rewarding and empowering experience, one I feel deep gratitude for. I had to recognise my desires and go through a few painful experiences while allowing my intuition to guide me along my path.

Health Coaching and Female Empowerment is a part of my path. I feel so connected to this message and I find myself more and more aligned with this purpose. I naturally feel energised and impassioned when I am helping someone make life changing habits.

I remember when I was at a point in my life where I didn’t ask for help when I really needed it. It was not easy because I had to do it all alone. And I realised that we can heal our lives, but sometimes we just need a helping hand and a little nudge in the right direction.

I look around and see so many women suffering emotional pain caused by trauma from childhood. We stay stuck in the same place if we do not release these traumas and make changes in our daily habits. Helping my clients make small changes which last a lifetime is rewarding and makes me feel good about my role in the world.

I have always wanted to spread positivity and love throughout the world, and I am so happy and proud that I am doing that every day.

HOC: Wow, such passion for your business! This drive must come from lived experience. Can you tell us about your personal story and how your experiences have shaped your outlook today?

Farrah:I was seven years old when my family and I moved to Queens, NY from Pakistan. I was so happy to have landed in New York and start my life in this great country. I had some challenging experiences growing up in Pakistan and so moving to New York was great news for me. I wanted to start fresh.

When I was 19, I entered an arranged marriage which was not something that I wanted. I was pressured into it to show my respect for my elders and cultural traditions.

We divorced within a year, which led me to returning to University to complete my education. I was trying really hard to pick up the pieces that had shattered everywhere around me. I was swallowing the shame of my failed marriage, and I worried about my future. I was in emotional pain and was feeling lost. I did not know how to manage or release these feelings. I had no-one to talk to who could help. At that point of my life I knew I had to change something to change my current circumstances.

One day I decided to go for a jog, and soon after that day I began to run daily.I started to notice that I was feeling good and that my nerves were calmer. Flushing out my anxiety hormones was helping me feel good emotionally and physically.

After that I became extremely aware of my thoughts, choices, and thinking patterns. I transformed my relationship with myself and transformed into conscious living. I am enjoying every bit of it. Now I love sharing my best tips and knowledge with the world on nutrition, health, and mindfulness, and I will continue to seek wisdom about the human brain and the treasures of life.

HOC: How did you decide to wanted your career to be about supporting others?

Farrah: I felt the push towards helping others who are suffering with emotional trauma and blockages around money, relationships, and health. I have been there and I know how one can feel so stuck. I am passionate about changing the way Americans eat and live today. Our food and lifestyle both need an upgrade and new vision at the government level for a true reform. Better health is a human right and we must provide healthy options for our people.

I want to help women feel good, inside and out, by helping them eat for healthy skin and a healthy body. My mission is to impact our lifestyle standards, improve our overall quality of life, and spread the teachings of a mindful approach to day-to-day life. The more calm, conscious, and collected one can be, the more we can contribute towards others’s needs. We can become the best versions of ourselves, someone who is both a positive influence in the community and lives a mindful life with regular self-check-ins.

HOC: If you weren’t doing what you do now, what other paths could you have taken?

Farrah: I would have pursued a career as a painter or art gallery director.

HOC: Where does your drive come from? What tips do you have for keeping focus?

Farrah: I have always had a curious mind and my drive comes from my intense focus on observing human nature as it learns and finds solutions to the problems we suffer in today’s challenging yet epic times.

I can become obsessive trying to find the deep solutions to what I am aiming at. It’s in my DNA. My beloved father (may peace be with him) was a visionary and thought leader, and I know I have a lot of him in me. It makes me feel good to know that my father is always with me.

Focus is all about channeling your energy into your authentic self and then focusing on a specific goal…

Write down your goals and break them into realistic timelines. Then approach them with calmness and an expectation of achieving them. Hold yourself accountable, and celebrate the little successes along the way, because it is through the journey that we learn and get to experience the joy of fulfilment.

HOC: For our entrepreneurial readers, what advice do you have for them to start their own thing?

Farrah: Follow your passion and listen closely to your intuition. Make a list of what makes you light up on the inside. Ask for help. Constantly research what’s out there. Get involved in your new community. Share your message with the world. Spread positivity and be a part of the ripple effect.

HOC: What personal achievement of yours means the most to you and why?

Farrah: My most important achievement is that I am an independent woman who does not rely on others’ approval to keep progressing. An independent woman makes her own rules and lives her life authentically without the fear of judgement.

HOC: Entrepreneurial souls are often burning the candles at both ends, as a mental health professional what tips do you have for our readers when they are feeling emotionally exhausted?

Farrah:Yes, this is very common for driven people. I know I have been there many times myself, but as a health coach I know how to recognise the imbalances and take the necessary steps to bring myself back into alignment.

Here are 3 things you can do if you’re experiencing emotional exhaustion:

1) Sweat: When working out, your brain releases endorphins, which help reduce our perception of pain and decrease mental stress. All health professionals agree that aerobic exercise is a key for your head, just as it is for the heart.

2) Muscular Relaxation: When you are stressed, your muscles tend to tighten up. By learning to relax your muscles, you will be able to use your body to get rid of mental stress. It’s best to be in a quiet place where you can sit up straight or comfortably lay out on a firm mattress.

3) Breathing exercises:Simple breathing exercises can also help to reduce stress and increase relaxation. Rapid, shallow, and erratic breathing is a common result of stress. Slow, deep, regular breathing is a sign of relaxation. Take time to breathe slowly in and out, while focusing on your abdomen expanding and contracting. As you inhale it expands, and as you exhale it contracts.

HOC: Fantastic tips, thank you. Finally, if you ever have a creative block / funk; how do you get yourself out ofit?

Farrah: I have learned to let go when I feel the need to rest my mind. I take that as a sign that I need to make time to relax and that maybe I am not fully ready to start a new project right at this time.

I normally just spend time with my hobbies, like dancing to my favourite music or hiking outdoors with my partner. Meaning, I just don’t think about the project for a while, until I receive inspiration naturally to start to write my ideas.

Farrah Miller is an integrated nutrition health expert, founder of FM Wellness, author, and a Female Empowerment activist, you can find out more about her work here: https://www.farrahmiller.org/

Farrah’s clients want to lose weight and improve their skin health, and FM Wellness teaches them how to make better decisions that fit within their busy lifestyle. Farrah’s clients love that they can make simple changes that create BIG results.

Follow Farrah on instagram: @farrahmiller_

After all the booze filled Christmas parties, we’re all in the mood for a healthy refresh this 2019. Don’t let the word ‘veganuary’ intimidate you; because there’s plenty of hearty vegan choices all around. But if you’re already succumbing to meaty temptations, then why not give these Vegan burger joints a try?

The Vurger Co

The Vurger and Co began as a market stall and through a successful crowdfunding campaign opened its first London restaurant. Their 100% vegan menu is highly innovative and highlights nothing but fresh veggie burgers. In collaboration with their executive chef Gaz Oakley, Vurger and Co launches their newest Vegan burger this month. The aptly Kentucky, features crispy coated deep fried king oyster mushrooms, topped off with Piri Piri sauce and slaw.

FILTH!

Launched as a 3 month pop up in Dirty Burger, FILTH! is the work of Gizzi Erskine and Rose Ferguson, bringing pink-bunned vegan burgers to hungry East Londoners. This plant based Londoners offers fast food minutes all the junk — and we’re all for it! Their pink FILTH! Burger features black beans and quinoa, GMO soy mince, and a special blend of umami paste. It is packed with protein, sustainably sourced, and looks pretty damn good too.

by Chloe

To much fanfare, the much beloved American Vegan fast food brand, By Chloe, has jumped ti London. An icon in the vegan fast-food scene, By Chloe’s London restaurant offers the same unfussy vegan fast-food as its American sister. Their Guac burger is the perfect alternative to Avocado toast lovers and features Black bean quinoa and sweet potato patty, corn salsa, onion guac, tortilla chips and chipotle aioli. Yum.

Have you ever heard of a ‘daycay’? Until today, I haven’t either. However, thanks to DaybreakHotels, you can now spend a day in some of the UK’s most luxurious hotels without breaking the bank.

Last Wednesday, we made our way to The Athenaeum Hotel & Residences in Mayfair for an indulgent mid-week ‘daycay’ of our own. Located in front of Green Park, the Athenaeum Hotel & Residences is a stylish five-star hotel that captures the spirit of Mayfair. The family run hotel has been rooted in Mayfair since 1850 and has previously been a stately home, an exclusive Victorian members club, and a favourite haunt amongst Hollywood’s elite in the 1970s.

We began our day cation with lunch at Galvin at the Athenaeum. Helmed by Michelin-starred chefs and brothers Chris and Jeff Galvin, the menu was a masterclass in contemporary British cuisine. We began our meal, as you do with a luxury ‘daycay’ with some champagne. Afterwards,we had the Galvin Cure Smoked Salmon, followed by the lovely Wild Mushroom Pappardelle with Hazelnut Pesto and Crispy Sage.

After a lovely lunch, we made our way to our park facing stunning suite. With unparalleled views of Royal Green Park, luxury amenities, and modern interiors, the suite at The Atheneaum is everything a discerning traveller can ask for and more. After having a few glasses of red and taking in the scenery, we made our way downstairs to the Spa. In the spa, you will find a couple of jacuzzi’s, a sauna, and a steam room — where you can enjoy some much needed me-time and some more champagne too.

Originally founded in Rome back in 2014, DayBreakHotels now operates in 15 countries with over 3500 hotels in their network. We’re all about choosing me-time over overtime, and with Daybreakhotels changing the game of the luxury hotel scene it seems that we will be making more mid-week visits to The Athenaeum Hotel & Residences soon.

Day Rooms at The Athenaeum Hotel & Residences are available from 9am to 12pm and overnight rooms from 10pm to 6am. Guests an also add on the use of other hotel facilities including pools, spas, and restaurants. A day in the superior Double Room at the Athenaeum via DayBreakHotels is £199, while a day in a suite costs £360. Spa access can be requested at £25/hour.

www.daybreakhotels.com

Forget April showers. If you’re looking to elevate your next luxury tropical getaway, then why not get that beach bod, when you’re actually in the beach? Team Coco round up some of the best island fitness retreats under the sun — so you can up your holiday fitness routines in style. Your body will thank you later.

Pilates & Yoga Retreat with Grace Hurry at Niyama Private Islands Maldives

The Maldives along with its breathtaking white sand beaches and azure waters weren’t made for just lounging. If you want to fully lose yourself to the stunning landscapes of the Maldives, then why not try a Pilates & Yoga Retreat? Nothing says ‘ohm’ like yoga on the beach, and from the 7th to the 25th of April 2019, Niyama Private Islands Maldives will be hosting a Pilates & Yoga Retreat taught by no less than Grace Hurry. Trained at the Royal Ballet School and certified as a Body Arts and Science Instructor, Grace knows exactly how to sculpt your holiday bod, while in the tropical paradise that is Niyama Private Islands Maldives.

The ‘Easter Chill, Play and Recharge’ Package at Niyama Private Islands Maldives also features a range of IV therapy formulations at the Drift Spa in collaboration with Beverly Hills IV Therapy. These include Fat Burn, Hydration, Jet-Lag, Anti-Aging, and Detox IV Therapy. According to Deborah Alessi, CEO of Beverly Hills IV Therapy, IV Therapy “allows guests to receive all of the vitamins they need to strengthen the immune system, clear toxins and hydrate,”where can we sign up?

Book: The “Easter Chill, Play and Recharge” Package starts from £1,526 for a seven night stay based on two sharing. IV Therapy Treatments begin at £196. A free consultation is carried out pre-therapy.

Fitness & Wellness Retreat with Adrienne LDN at Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort & Spa

We have personally experienced the lush island landscapes, and luxury tropical villas at Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort & Spa, (You can even check out our visual diary here) where we sailed with Spinner dolphins and tried out the farm to plate experience. However, if you’re looking for a bit more adrenaline on your next jaunt to paradise, then do check out Adrienne LDN’s new Fitness & Wellness Retreat at Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort & Spa.Adrienne is the host of fitness podcast, ‘The Power Hour,’ so you can trust that she can take your fitness game to the next level; and motivate you to take your career to the next level too. Talk about GirlBoss. The workouts include a scenic 5k running trail, private training sessions, total body workouts, and morning mobility classes too. So there’s something for everyone.

Book: The “Wellness with Adrienne LDN” Package starts from USD 800 (approx. £600) per night.