Summer is finally here, and along with our favourites Pimms, BBQs and ice cream, there is the prospect of bare legs and bikinis – this isn’t always an appealing thought especially when saying yes to that extra portion of fries is all too tempting. To ease you into the summer lifestyle without sacrificing on fashion or food we’ve picked some of our favourite summer tips and healthy hang out spots in London, including where to find guilt free brownies and the benefits of using coconut oil– summer body here we come!
Tanya’s café
This very green café is filled with plants and has a real LA lifestyle vibe. Tucked away in Chelsea, it’s well worth a visit even if it’s just to try their alternative healthy cocktail menu. Sound strange? Well when you see their choice of Superfood Cocktails combining organic Gins and Rum with freshly squeezed orange juice and homemade rose water, you may well be tempted. Check out the menu here.
Good Life Eatery
Just around the corner from Tanya’s on Sloane Avenue, the Good Live Eatery is the perfect place to stop off for a cold pressed juice, swap one of these for your mid morning coffee or to get you through the rest of your afternoon. They also have a delicious selection of guilt free snacks from gluten and dairy free brownies to flourless chocolate and almond cake. Avoid visiting at peak times, the queue is always out the door at lunchtime and it is a small place so choose wisely when you visit!
The Mae Deli
Founded by health and nutritionist guru Ella Woodward of food blog and more recently books, Deliciously Ella, this soho based café in Seymour Place offers a wide choice of healthy options all gluten and dairy free. We love the cute interiors and the constantly evolving menu means there’s always something new to try.
Madeleine Shaw
Madeleine Shaw has of one the most inspiring Instagram accounts for healthy food and lifestyle inspiration – follow here. Sign up to Madeleine’s newsletter on her website and get weekly recipe ideas and tips. Perfect for helping you plan your healthy summer dinner party! There are fun ideas such as fruity frozen lolipops and yummy salads. Madeleine also has an app called Glow Guides offering a health and wellbeing programme incorporating food, yoga and meditation that you can purchase on the App store here should you need more of a structured approach.
Perfect for the yoga newbie with an array of classes to choose from such as hot pod to standard beginners practice. With locations all around London, it is easy to sign up and pop in after work or on a Saturday morning.
Leggings
So as much as it’s great to introduce more of a healthy lifestyle it’s also just as important to have the right gear! Sweaty Betty leggings have such fun prints and may help on days where you really don’t feel like leaving your bed for the gym.
Image credit: sweatybetty.com
One-piece
If the prospect of a bikini is too daunting and you’re not quite ready, you’re in the luck as the one piece will be your new best friend this summer! Relax on the beach whilst still looking stylish with this on trend holiday essential.
Moisturiser
Need a little help before bearing all? Why not start introducing a tinted moisturiser into your skincare routine? A lot more subtle than fake tan and there’s no worry of streaks or staining.
Coconut oil
If you pack one thing in your suitcase this year make sure it’s coconut oil. This amazing oil is so versatile being used for hair, skin, and cooking. A natural moisturing oil is so good for your hair post beach day when it can get very dry and needs some much needed moisture!
Pedicure
Last but not least, a good pedicure is something that is often overlooked but makes all the difference when you’re breaking in your new sandals and strolling around in flip flops all day!
