Gentle Living Blog

'At this time of year around 30% more waste is generated. This includes over 1 billion Christmas cards which are thrown away each year. It’s estimated by the Department for Environment Food & Rural Affairs, that around 50,000 trees are cut down each year to make enough paper to wrap presents. Also, around 12 million tonnes of plastic enter our environment each year, equivalent to a bin lorry load every minute.' Gov.UK 'Of the 175 million mince pies purchased every Christmas i

5 ways to Free Yourself At the time I write this, I'm 37. I'm on my local beach in the crisp autumn air, listening to the waves crash against the pebbled shore. I spent my morning reading a book, doing a little yoga and standing in my fairy-light lit kitchen, making my sons packed lunch. There was no scrolling, no checking stories and updates, no 'pings' or digital distractions. As a 37 year old, I am one of the humans old enough to have had a childhood free from social medi

I've been making these muffins for years. They make great breakfasts and snacks and my little boy loves them! Muffins without all of the refined sugar and butter! These contain almonds, flax seeds and banana. Almonds are a good source of healthy fat, protein and calcium. Flax seeds are a great source of omega 3 and the banana gives you a morning dose of fibre. I use date syrup to add a touch of sweetness. Date syrup is one of only 2 sweetners that offers nutritional benefit.

Sometimes I crave deep fried food.. but it is no fun for my stomach and I always feel awful after eating anything like that! So I made it my mission to create healthier versions of naughty food without the tummy ache! These cauliflower wings are crispy and tasty without being deep fried. Cauliflower is an awesomely nutritious cruciferous vegetable and these 'wings' are a great to enjoy with a hearty meal. I like to add some rice or potato wedges and serve them with a garlic,

This is one of my favourite winter lunches! It's so warm and filling and packed with nutrients. Turmeric, nutritional yeast, mustard powder, black pepper and nuts- what an amazing combination of health boosting goodness (anyone who has read 'How Not To Die' by DR Michael Greger will know how awesome Turmeric is in particular!) For an extra nutritious punch, opt for wholewheat pasta and pop some dark green leaves, such as rocket or spinach, on the side of your plate! INGREDIEN

This is a warm, hearty and healthy slow cooker lentil dhal, that suits both cold winter nights and fresh summer evenings. If you don't have a slow cooker, you can make this on the hob. I have added both methods below. INGREDIENTS (SERVES 2-4) • 1 cup red lentils • Half cup of coconut cream • 3 cups Vegan vegetable stock • Small piece of fresh ginger (finely grated) • 1 red onion, finely chopped • 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped • 1 heaped tsp turmeric powder • 1 heaped tsp yo