Ah, the scale—the tiny tyrant that holds far too much power in our lives. Society has long been obsessed with that number staring back at us, as if it's some magical portal to health, happiness, and eternal approval. Spoiler alert: it’s not.

Why the fixation? Media, beauty standards, and even that one aunt at family gatherings have all pushed the idea that thinness equals health, beauty, and success. The problem? Reducing a person’s worth to a number is about as scientific as basing your future on a horoscope (sorry, astrology lovers).

Here’s the deal: weight doesn’t account for muscle, genetics, or how many times you crushed leg day last week. It also ignores mental health and that little thing called happiness.

Yet, we cling to the scale, using it to measure our value, like we’re a loaf of bread waiting to be weighed.

This obsession can leads to unhealthy habits, disordered eating, and fatphobia—all of which do more harm than any number ever could. Health is so much more than digits. So here's to potentially breaking up with the scales - or at least going on a break! - and focus on the stuff that really matters: how we feel, how we move, and, most importantly, how we treat ourselves.

ILYSM,

L x

P.s. Please ignore typos, sleep has not been on my side

P.p.s. Worth noting that that I do benefit from Thin Privilege so it's really easy for me to say the above because of this.

This is your reminder that you don't have to exercise for weightloss...

Let’s flip the fitness script, shall we? Exercise isn’t a punishment for what you ate, or a never-ending treadmill to nowhere or chasing a mythical number on the scale - ever notice how that number is always changing?!

It’s time we reclaim our workouts for what you deserve them to be - enjoyable movement.

Think back... remember riding your bike, playing tag, or dancing to your favorite song?

That movement wasn’t about calories. It was about fun.

But somewhere along the way, we traded joy for guilt and goals that suck the life out of working out ... like some kind of initiation into being an adult?

Instead, how about we work to find your joy.

Try that Zumba class, hike up that mountain, or roll out a mat for some yoga. Laugh at how silly it feels sometimes and try to relish the learning phase of new movement because that’s part of the journey and we've all been there.

Trust me, when you work out without a side of guilt or shame, you're going to find a lot more enjoyment in movement.

Have fun!

L x

P.s. Please ignore typos, I have been known to make the odd mistake

P.p.s. I'm not naïve to think we're - including myself here! - going to love every workout but when we focus on joy rather than shame we're going to have a higher probability of enjoying that session!

Imagine strolling into the gym, and suddenly it feels like you’ve wandered into an audition for a Marvel movie—except everyone else is already cast, and you’re still trying to figure out the dumbbells from the doorbells.

Welcome to the land of gym-timidation.

We've all been there but I have a handful of tricks to conquer this.

First off, breathe. Whilst it can feel like this, the gym isn’t (at least shouldn't be!) some exclusive club where only the super-ripped get in. Everyone, even Captain Biceps over there, had a first day and I would bet doesn't know how to use all the machines!

So start with what doesn’t require an advanced engineering degree to operate. Maybe it’s the treadmill or figuring out how not to tangle yourself in a yoga mat (we’ve all been there, trust me).

And here’s the kicker: most people are too busy checking out their own reflection to notice you. Seriously, they’re not plotting your workout demise. And if someone is giving you side-eye, just know they're probably severely constipated due to their keto and carb-free diet.

But if you still feeling out of place... curve ball, ask for help! Gym staff should be like friendly tour guides in this wild jungle of fitness. They’ve seen it all and will happily show you how to use that mysterious bench contraption that looks more like a medieval torture device... trust me, I have been that person as well as the gym staff member!

All that is left if to find the playlist, crank it up, saunter in like you’re the main character (because you are), and remember: you’re not just at the gym—you’re running the show.

You've got this,

L x

P.s. please ignore typos, we have a new four-legged furry addition to the family and he's throwing us for a loop!

And weight-loss doesn't have to be one of them!

Exercising in the gym isn't just about trying to conquer that peach emoji butt or outdoing the person next to you on the treadmill. It's about equipping yourself with life skills that go beyond the gym walls—skills that make everyday challenges feel like a breeze.

Think about it: hauling those weights around isn’t just for show. It’s prepping you for real-life heroics, like carrying all the groceries in one trip because who needs to go back for round two? Or maybe you’ve perfected your deadlift form, making you a pro at lifting heavy furniture when it’s time to rearrange the living room (honestly, why are sofas so flipping heavy!)

Then there's the mental fortitude. Nailing your first push-up, increasing squat strength or plank duration helps you see that you are stronger than you realise and tackle life's hurdles... Suddenly, that looming deadline at work feels a bit more manageable because you got your first pull-up in the bag!

So, the next time you're dripping sweat and wondering why you put yourself through this or dreading that workout, remember: every workout is secretly prepping you for life's little battles, turning you into a stronger, more resilient version of yourself. The gym doesn't have to be a place for physical gains; it’s a training ground for life's everyday victories.

L x

P.s. please ignore typos, my arms are still shaking from my own gym sesh 😆 💪🏽

And weight-loss doesn't have to be one of them!

Exercising in the gym isn't just about trying to conquer that peach emoji butt or outdoing the person next to you on the treadmill. It's about equipping yourself with life skills that go beyond the gym walls—skills that make everyday challenges feel like a breeze.

Think about it: hauling those weights around isn’t just for show. It’s prepping you for real-life heroics, like carrying all the groceries in one trip because who needs to go back for round two? Or maybe you’ve perfected your deadlift form, making you a pro at lifting heavy furniture when it’s time to rearrange the living room (honestly, why are sofas so flipping heavy!)

Then there's the mental fortitude. Nailing your first push-up, increasing squat strength or plank duration helps you see that you are stronger than you realise and tackle life's hurdles... Suddenly, that looming deadline at work feels a bit more manageable because you got your first pull-up in the bag!

So, the next time you're dripping sweat and wondering why you put yourself through this or dreading that workout, remember: every workout is secretly prepping you for life's little battles, turning you into a stronger, more resilient version of yourself. The gym doesn't have to be a place for physical gains; it’s a training ground for life's everyday victories.

L x

P.s. please ignore typos, my arms are still shaking from my own gym sesh

Representation.

Representation in health and wellness isn’t just about ticking diversity boxes...

It's about avoiding the medical equivalent of trying to fit a square peg into a round hole.

Imagine getting health advice that ignores your culture, background, and specific needs – it's like being given a recipe for success that leaves out half the ingredients.

Exactly.

When your doctor actually understands your lifestyle – be it your diet, mental health, your stressors, or even your preferred form of exercise – it’s like having a tailor who knows your exact measurements.

You’re not just another patient; you’re a unique individual, and your care should reflect that. Diverse healthcare providers aren’t just nice to have; they’re essential to cracking the code of effective treatment.

Let's be real: a one-size-fits-all approach to health and wellness is as useful as a chocolate teapot. Representation smashes those outdated molds, ensuring research includes varied perspectives and innovative solutions that benefit everyone. When healthcare professionals from different backgrounds share their insights, it's like a health and wellness think tank on steroids!

So, let's champion representation in health and wellness. Because when you see yourself in the people who care for you, it's more than comforting – it's lifesaving.

Over & out,

L x

P.s. please ignore typos, our fur baby - Manchego - is staring me out because he wants his dinner and it's very cute & distracting

Rest is the secret sauce of life, often overlooked in the hustle culture that glorifies being busy 24/7. But let's be real: rest is not a luxury; it's a survival tactic. 

So why do we need to rest in a world that says we don't have to?

First off, rest gives your body a chance to do its thing. While you’re snoozing, your body is basically in a maintenance marathon, fixing muscles, sorting out memories, and letting growth hormones run wild. Skip out on sleep, and you’re inviting a VIP guest list of fatigue, poor immunity, and brain fog to your daily life.

Mentally, rest is like hitting the reset button on your brain. Chronic lack of sleep turns you into a grumpy zombie, prone to mood swings, anxiety, and all sorts of bad decisions. Trust me, no one wants to deal with that hot mess (just ask my Better Half )

But also, rest isn’t just about sleep! Taking breaks during work, indulging in your favorite Netflix series - may I recommend Perfect Match for some light relief!? - or simply doing nothing are all legit forms of rest. These downtime moments are like mini-vacations for your brain, keeping stress at bay and preventing burnout.

So, in a world where everyone’s running a marathon at sprint speed, being the one who actually takes a break is pretty badass. Your productivity, creativity, and overall sanity will thank you. So kick back, relax, and remember: resting is the new hustling.

L x

P.s. please ignore typos, she's been known to make the odd mistake

Why do you train?

A question I couldn't answer for a while there!

I had always wanted to train to "be strong" but that was about as specific as I could get!

And there's nothing wrong with having that as a goal!

But in order for me to still feel motivated, I needed to get a bit more specific.

And then we took a trip to Colorado...

Lol. Not quite, but! We did an incredible hike through the Rockies which reminded me why I train...

Yeah, it was pretty spectacular!

Needless to say, I train to be able to be able to complete hikes like this!

So if you're having a motivational slump, try and drill down to your "why" and reignite that training spark!

L x

P.s. please ignore typos, I was a bit of a hero in the gym this morning and my arms are still shaking.

P.p.s. Let's just ignore the fact that I missed a week's blog post....mmmmk?!

We've talked about the ludicrous amount that Erewhon smoothies have been up until this point...$19!!!!!!!

But Kendall Jenner is the latest celebrity to launch an Erewhon smoothie and she's taken this ridiculous-ness to a whole new level...

$23 for a flippin' smoothie!

I. Swear.

And the thing that really grinds my gears about these Erewhon smoothies is that they're seen as the "PiNnAcLe Of hEaLTh" by claiming the smoothie has "superfoods" in it or will cleanse the gut...

And these smoothies can make us feel like we need to buy them in order to be the pinnacle of health or be somewhat akin to the celeb that is backing them...

Wrong. All these smoothies do is demonstrate that wealth = health (or society's version of health!) rather than the other way around.

My advice, save your pennies and relish in the knowledge that you haven't fallen victim to the ridiculous-ness of the Erewhon celebrity smoothies.

Stay sane,

L x

P.s. please ignore typos, I'm on a Bare Minimum Tuesday struggle over here.

P.p.s. The term "superfood" is a made up marketing term that means jack shit.

P.p.p.s. If you would like to do something more meaningful with $23 then may I suggest donating to Operation Olive Branch... they have been doing some incredible work over the last few months.

So you haven't been to the gym in what feels like an age and then you finally make it to the gym and you go HAM...

Unsurprisingly, you feel knackered after your gym sesh and the DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness) sets in the day you went to the gym and you can barely move for the next 5 days...

Then, even more unsurprisingly, any hopes you had of heading back to the gym later that week have been scuppered due to the extreme level of DOMS and/or fatigue which are a direct result of the initial (overly aggressive) aforementioned gym sesh

Then the cycle repeats itself; we miss the gym for a few weeks and when we finally head back to the gym we go hell for leather on EVERY SINGLE MUSCLE FIBRE IN OUR BODY and end up whimpering every time we have to think about battling the stairs.

However, I have another option you can take rather than this painful cycle...

How about we head into the gym and embark on movement with some body respect...

Instead of going bat-shit crazy in the gym running as fast as possible or lifting the heaviest to make up for gym sessions we may have missed, we focus on what feels good and moving our body in a way that is respectful to ourselves.

Now body respect when it comes to movement will look different to everyone; for some it might look like focussing on mobility, for others it might be a gentle jog outside, lifting weights or even a class to ease you back into moving your body.

Regardless of what form of respectful movement you choose, as woo-woo as it sounds, exercise is allowed (and dare I say should!) feel like a celebration of what your body can do not a punishment for what it hasn't done.

Much love,

L x

P.s. please ignore typos, I'm only human and I do write my own love letters to you LOL.

Celebrity wellness brands aren't anything new - Gwynny P's Goop, Kourtney K's Poosh as well as a whole host of others!

In fact, at this point, are you even a celebrity if you haven't tapped into the $1 trillion wellness industry!?

But it will come as no surprise that I am d u b i o u s when it comes to celebrity wellness brands because they really can have their flaws...

1. Misleading Claims: Many celebrity wellness brands rely on endorsements from well-known figures to market their products or services. However, some of these endorsements may involve exaggerated or misleading claims about the efficacy of their offerings. We may be led to believe that products can deliver results that are not scientifically supported!

2. Lack of Transparency: Celebrity wellness brands can lack transparency regarding the ingredients used or the qualifications of those promoting or creating the products!

3. Pseudoscience: In an effort to stand out in the crowded wellness market, some celebrity brands may promote pseudoscientific practices or products. These can range from unproven dietary supplements to questionable alternative therapies. While these offerings may generate hype, they can also potentially harm consumers who rely on them for (often serious) health concerns.

4. Exorbitant Pricing: Celebrity-endorsed wellness products and services often come with premium price tags. This can create barriers to access for consumers who are unable to afford these expensive offerings. Additionally, the high cost may not always be justified by the actual quality or effectiveness of the products!

5. Unrealistic Expectations: Celebrity wellness brands often promote a certain lifestyle or image that is unattainable to the average person. (I certainly can't afford Goopy Gwyneth's $90 30day supplements nor do I think I will resemble GP in anyway if I were to shell out for these!!!) And this can create unrealistic expectations and make us feel inadequate if we are unable to afford or achieve the same results as the celebrity.

The point?

While celebrity wellness brands can look appealing and offer inspiration, we need to be able to approach these brands with caution (and skepticism!) and keep our wits about us when it comes to what we're paying for vs. what apparent "results" we may or may not achieve.

Stay sane,

L x

P.s. Please ignore typos, I'm only human and I do write these myself

You cannot move online without seeing someone's What I Eat In A Day...

What I Eat In A Day (WIEIAD) content is a video / reel that details the creator eats and snacks over a 24-hour period and, IMO, these videos can do more damage than good...

Why?

1. WIEIADs promote comparison and unrealistic expectations: "What I Eat in a Day" content often portrays a single day's worth of meals, which may not accurately reflect an individual's overall diet. This can lead to comparison among viewers and unrealistic expectations about what constitutes a "healthy" diet.

2. WIEIAD can foster disordered eating behaviors: "What I Eat in a Day" content can inadvertently promote disordered eating behaviors, such as restrictive eating or excessive focus on food choices. Viewers may feel pressured to emulate the dietary habits of influencers or creators, leading to feelings of guilt or shame if their own eating habits don't align with what is presented.

3. This content lacks context: A single day's worth of meals does not provide sufficient context to understand an individual's overall nutritional intake! Factors such as cultural background, food allergies or intolerances, and ethical beliefs may influence someone's dietary choices, and these nuances are often overlooked in "What I Eat in a Day" content. Additionally, what works for one person may not be suitable for another, highlighting the importance of individualization in nutrition advice!

4. Potential for misinformation: Some "What I Eat in a Day" content may promote fad diets or restrictive eating patterns without proper scientific evidence or consideration of long-term health consequences. This can perpetuate misinformation about nutrition and contribute to the popularity of fad diets that may not be sustainable or balanced.

5. WIEIAD content can contributes to Diet Culture, shame & stigma: "What I Eat in a Day" content can inadvertently contribute to Diet Culture by reinforcing the notion that certain foods are "good" or "bad" and by placing moral judgments on eating behaviors. This can perpetuate food shaming and guilt surrounding food choices, rather than promoting a positive and balanced approach to nutrition.

The point?

Whilst I can appreciate that some may find WIEIAD inspirational or helpful, I also think this viral content has the potential to do a lot more damage than good.

Stay sane and remember, social media is a highlights reel not real life!

L x

P.s. Please ignore typos, the hour changed yesterday and has giving me jet-lag

Back story; a video of mine received some renewed traction this past week and it happens to be a video highlighting that what we commonly see as "Body Positivity" today and how this type of content is not how it started...

And, needless to say, some folk were mad about it...

Now, the thing is, I DO NOT KNOW a person that hasn't been made to feel shit about their body!

Between Diet Culture, the Fitness Industry, the Male Gaze, Wellness Culture... it's f*cking everywhere!

Like, many other movements, Body Positivity has it's roots in amplifying those in marginalised bodies...it is a movement that was created by fat, Black, and queer folk in response to certain bodies being so rarely visible or held as valuable in discourses and visual media.

Another small history lesson, yes?

1. Roots in Feminism and Civil Rights: The origins of Body Positivity as a political movement can be traced back to the feminist and civil rights movements of the 1960s and 1970s. Activists within these movements challenged societal norms regarding beauty standards and fought against discrimination based on race, gender, and body size.

2. Intersectional Advocacy: Body Positivity emerged as a political movement that intersected with various social justice causes, recognizing the interconnected nature of oppression. Advocates sought to address not only body size discrimination but also other forms of discrimination such as racism, sexism, ableism, and homophobia.

3. Media Critique and Representation: Political activists within the Body Positivity movement aimed to critique and challenge the media's portrayal of idealized bodies, which often perpetuated unrealistic beauty standards. They advocated for more diverse and inclusive representation in media, advertising, and entertainment.

4. Legislative Efforts: Body Positivity as a political movement involved lobbying for legislative changes to protect individuals from discrimination based on body size or appearance. This included advocating for anti-discrimination laws in employment, healthcare, education, and other sectors.

5. Community Organizing and Awareness Campaigns: Political activists engaged in community organizing and launched awareness campaigns to educate the public about the importance of body acceptance and the harmful effects of body shaming and discrimination. These efforts aimed to mobilize support for the movement and promote societal change.

The point?

People, specifically women, are constantly critiqued on their body and whilst the modern day version of "Body Positivity" that we see online may be empowering for some... it isn't who the movement was created for or by.

Something to think about next time you see someone talking about BoPo online...

Over & out,

L x

P.s. Please ignore typos, it's Monday morning and she may or may not be on the struggle bus

I'm going to say it louder for the people in the back...

WOMEN'S BODIES ARE NOT FASHION TRENDS!!!!

What's brought on this aggressive behaviour? I'm so glad you asked...

TikTok's latest trend is "legging legs" this incorrect notion that one needs to have a certain leg shape in order to wear leggings...

QUITE.

And this smells a little like the "thigh gap" era of the 1990's and so this got me thinking about how...

Women's bodies are seen as fashion and these trends are cyclical!

Let's take a little history lesson, shall we?

1960s: The ideal body in the 1960s was a leaner, more slender look, influenced by the rise of youth culture and the mod style. Twiggy, with her thin frame and boyish figure, became a fashion icon, popularizing the "waif" look.

1970s: The 1970s saw a variety of body types celebrated, from the slim figures of fashion models like Lauren Hutton to the athletic physique of sports stars like Farrah Fawcett.

1980s: In the 1980s, with the rise of fitness culture and aerobics, there was a shift towards a more toned and athletic body ideal... think of it as the 80's version of #StrongNotSkinny

1990s: The 1990s saw the rise of the "heroin chic" (no too dissimilar to the 1960s!) characterized by extremely thin and waif-like models such as Kate Moss... lest we forget Kate's infamous line of "nothing tastes as good as skinny feels". I beg to differ Kate, have you ever had a taco?!

2000s: Potentially as some form of "backlash" (though I'm not sure) we entered into the "booty" era with a smattering of StRoNg NoT sKiNnY which we previously saw in the 80's! However, the ideal body often featured an hourglass shape, with a defined waistline but emphasised butt and hips a la Kim K. But, the thing is, women were still expected to be slim?!

2020's: We're seeing the resurrection of uber thinness with the likes of problematic trends like "legging legs" not too dissimilar to the 1990's supermodel era...MAKE. IT. STOP.

The point?

Women's bodies shouldn't be seen as fashion trends but unfortunately, they are!

And it should come as no surprise that the patterns and cycles in what is seen as the "perfect" woman's body can have a huge impact on one's mental and physical health, potentially leading to body dysmorphia, ED's etc.

Main takeaway? Your body is yours and it is not a fashion trend!

L x

P.s. Please ignore typos, I have been known to make the odd mistake

So apparently today is the most depressing day of the year aka Blue Monday...

I feel you.

It's also the day the we are apparently most likely to fail - I use that terms loosely because I hate that term - our goal / resolutions etc.

However! A dear friend of mine forwarded me a quote from James Clear (author of Atomic Habits) that I had to share with you...

I. KNOW.

At this ripe age - the right side of 30! - how am I only just figuring out that I need to embark on new habits that I can stick on my worst days....

So, as we head into this so-called "Blue Monday" let it be known that you are not alone and be kind to yourself,

Take care,

L x

P.s. Please excuse typos, she's only human

If you don't follow me on TikTok a) what are you doing with your life...

b) you may not know that we talk a lot of about food stigma over there...

But what is food stigma?

Food stigma refers to the negative attitudes, beliefs, and stereotypes associated with certain foods or eating habits.

But where does food stigma come from and why is it bad?

1. Food stigma is often influenced by cultural and social norms. Certain foods or dietary choices may be stigmatized based on cultural preferences, religious beliefs, or societal expectations. For example, more recently carbohydrate-dominant diets may face stigma thanks to the popularity of keto / Atkins diets / low-carb diets.

2. Food stigma can be closely linked to body image and weight bias. Foods that are perceived as "unhealthy" or high in calories may be stigmatized, contributing to negative attitudes toward individuals who consume them. This can lead to weight-based discrimination and the misconception that people with larger bodies are "lazy" or lack self-control

3. Stigmatization often occurs when certain foods are associated with health issues. Foods high in sugar, fat, or processed ingredients may be labeled as "bad" or morally inferior. This can lead to judgment and blame placed on individuals who consume these foods, overlooking the complex factors that contribute to our dietary choices as well as our health.

4. Food choices are also influenced by economic factors and accessibility. So-called "healthy" foods may be more expensive or less available in certain communities, leading to food choices that are stigmatized by those who may not understand challenges faced, such as limited resources or food apartheid.

5. Food stigma can also have significant consequences on individuals' mental health. Feeling judged or shamed for one's food choices can lead to anxiety, guilt, and a negative relationship with food. This may also contribute to the development or exacerbation of eating disorders / disordered eating as individuals internalize societal attitudes towards certain foods.

I. KNOW.

So whilst perceiving certain foods and "good" and "bad" is common, it is definitely not normal and, as you can see from the aforementioned reasons, not healthy.

Stay sane,

L x

P.s. Please ignore typos, it's been A WEEK and I'm writing this on a Friday

Don't get me wrong, that's not what we're told...

We're told that anything other than a thin, white, able-bodied, cis-gendered, heterosexual body is a "bad" body.

And even when our body is these things...we're still told it's bad!

Exactly.

However, what we are told is "wrong" with our body, isn't actually our problem because our body IS NOT the problem...

It is society's expectation and depiction of what is the "perfect" or "right" body.

Take your pick; cellulite, body hair, body size, skin colour, grey hair, stretch marks... (I really could go on here).

The Beauty Industry / mass media / social media has deemed these as "problematic" and things that need to be fixed and big corporations have just the "solution" we apparently need to fix these so-called problems...

But, honestly, why? There is no need to fix these things because they aren't problems and they aren't bad...

Because there is no such thing as a "good" body and there is certainly not such thing as a "bad" body!

And yes, it is very easy for me to say these things because I hold a lot of privilege in this space but it is important that we recognize the sheer ridiculousness of society's expectations being put on all bodies but specifically those that do not benefit from the aforementioned privileges.

Stay sane,

L x

P.s. Please excuse typos, it's just before lunch and I am HUNGRY.

Obsessed might be somewhat of a strong word but really though...

Why are we so obsessed with celebrity health & wellness?

Well, there could be a few reasons:

• Celebrities often serve as role models for the general public so people look up to celebrities for "inspiration" and when we undertake similar habits we then hope to achieve similar levels of health and fitness... not how it works!

• Celebrities have a high level of visibility due to their prominence in the media. Their lifestyles, including their fitness routines and diets, are extensively covered by tabloids, magazines, and social media. This constant exposure fuels public curiosity and interest in their health choices... which begs the question, are we interested in celebrities health & wellness or is it just being shoved down our throats?!

• Because celebrities are so visible, what they do can significantly impact popular culture and trends. When a famous figure promotes a specific diet, exercise regimen, or wellness practice, it often leads to a surge in interest and adoption by the general public. The belief is that if it works for them, it might work for us too... again, NOT HOW IT WORKS.

• Celebrity health and wellness are often linked to their appearance. In a society where beauty standards are highly emphasized, people are drawn to the idea that they can attain the same level of attractiveness by following the same routines as their favorite celebrities. In addition, because celebrities are touted as the pinnacle of "beauty" this has an effect on what society perceives as beautiful resulting in a very narrow view on what is attractive.

• For many, celebrities offer an escape from their daily lives. Watching, reading, or learning about the health and wellness routines of celebrities can provide a sense of aspiration and optimism. It allows people to fantasize about achieving a glamorous, healthier life akin to their idols.

The point? Society's obsession with celebrity health and wellness can be attributed to a combination of factors but this fascination also serves as a indicator of how celebrities, mass media & social media create a very narrow perception of what is "beautiful" and this can in turn have an effect on how we view ourselves...

However, it's worth noting that no amount of celebrity "approved" diet, exercise or food that will make us look anything like these celebs because we all benefit from a wonderful thing known as body diversity and individuality 🎊

Stay vigilant,

L x

P.s. Please excuse typos, she's only human

But weight-loss ≠ healthy!

I know! Social media, mass media, friends and even family will have us believe than weight-loss = healthy but it isn't always the case...

One can lose weight for a plethora of not so healthy reasons:

1. Stress

2. Anxiety

3. Depression

4. ED / disordered eating

5. Body dysmorphic disorder

6. Mental health struggles

7. Illness

Just to name a few...

Yeah... I know!

So whilst feel like we are being nice by complimenting someone's weight-loss, there's a high probability that we may be complimenting someone during their struggle.

My advice? Ask someone how they are rather than just assume everything is peachy because their body as become smaller.

L x

P.s. Please ignore typos, I'm writing this whilst I'm having lunch

P.p.s. And if you know me, you know I'm having my lunch before 12pm

Have you seen that it's all the rage for a celebrity to launch their own Erewhon smoothie?

If you have been spared finding your way on to #WellnessTok then you may not know that many celebrities have been launching their own smoothies with an overpriced grocery store here in LA...

Celebrities include but are not limited to; Hailey Bieber, Kourtney Kardashian, Miranda Kerr, Becky G and of course Paul Saladino

Each one retailing for the bargainous price of $19...

$19... that is daylight robbery!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Yup, you read that correctly.

A cup of blended fruit, ice and potentially useless but most definitely overpriced supplements can be yours for the cost of a meal

So why are all these celebs launches these smoothies? WHO. KNOWS.

But what I can tell you is they're doing more damage than good... in my opinion.

How?

These overpriced smoothies are promoting the idea that if we consume something created and promoted by Hailey Bieber, we may somehow end up looking like Hailey Bieber...

Yeah...that's not how that works.

Because even if we all ate the same and even if we all exercised the same... we'd still all look very different.

But the likes of Hailey Bieber, Kourtney K, Miranda Kerr are more than happy sell us the idea these smoothies are what they eat in a day and if we consume them as well we'll be just like them...

Agreed, Robert, agreed.

My advice? Save your money and skip the celebrity smoothie trend.

Stay vigilant,

L x

P.s. Please ignore typos, it is me that writes these and I've been known to make the odd mistake

When folk talk about non-aesthetic fitness goals, they're referring to goals that aren't based on how you look.

These can include but are not limited to:
*Improving one's mobility
*Improving cardiovascular capabilities
*Being able to perform a pull-up
*Or a pistol squat...

Now whilst there's nothing wrong with have aesthetic-based goals, as we've talked about before, there's a lot more that goes into to our physique than just calories in and calories out.

2. Non-aesthetic fitness goals tend to promote longevity rather than short-term fixes. Developing habits centered around functionality, such as improving athletic performance or achieving specific fitness milestones, can foster a long-lasting commitment to maintaining a healthy lifestyle beyond simply achieving a desired appearance.

3. Non-aesthetic fitness goals can emphasize mental and emotional benefits, such as stress reduction, improved self-confidence, increased self-esteem, and better body image perception. These goals shift the focus from external validation to internal satisfaction and self-improvement, leading to a healthier mindset overall.

4. And lastly, non-aesthetic fitness goals can be much more tangible than appearance based goals. For example, if our goal is to nail our first pushup, we're able to see our improvements more frequently in a physical manner without as many extenuating circumstances that appearance based goals can have. This approach also allows you to track your progress, set achievable targets, and experience the sheer joy of mastering new skills or achieving personal bests, which can be more fulfilling than solely pursuing aesthetic changes.

(I cannot tell you the elatedness I felt when I nailed my first pull-up!)

With this in mind, I'd love to know, what are some of your non-aesthetic based goals?

As you are reading this, want to know what I am doing?

Donating blood.

Because whilst we've been conned into thinking that celery juice, Erewhon and Hailey Bieber's morning routine are the epitome of health, they're not.

The epitome of health is healthcare and being able to support one another rather than only focussing on our own self-care.

I know, Beth! (If you watch Yellowstone then you know.)

The point?

Very often "wellness" and "health" are labelled as what we can do for ourselves (which more often that not costs an arm & a leg!) but - for me - the true meaning of health is working towards ensuring as many folk as possible have access to health & wellness, in every capacity.

Over & out,

L x

P.s. please excuse typos, she's only human.

P.p.s. I am aware I hold a huge amount of privilege being able to give blood... here's to working towards a day when everyone is able to give blood!

Body autonomy refers to the principle that folk have the right to make decisions about their own bodies, free from interference, coercion, or control by others, including the government, institutions, or other individuals. 

And this ranges from reproductive rights, medical choices, bodily modifications as well as sexual autonomy. Identifying that individuals have the right to control what happens to their bodies, and that decisions about their own health, sexuality, reproduction, and physical appearance should be made by them, based on their own values, beliefs, and well-being.

Seems simple enough right?

Wrong.

Especially when we have billion dollar industries - Fitness Industry, Wellness Industry, Beauty Industry to name a few... - promoting what they deem to be the "ideal" bodies and reinforcing the idea that anything outside of that "ideal body" is seen as less-than or undesirable. 

And don't get me started on our reproductive rights; body autonomy means that one should have the right to access contraception, choose whether or not to have children, and access safe and legal abortion services.

The point?

Like I've said many times, you can do whatever YOU want with your body... that may mean weight loss, that may mean plucking your eye brows, that may even mean surgery. However, be mindful of how we treat our body and whether there are any external pressures - such as the aforementioned billion dollar industries - that make us think we should look a certain way in order to be seen as "acceptable" or "attractive" 🙄

By the time you're reading this, I should be horizontal soaking up some much needed Vitamin D on the beach...

I want you to do something for YOU.

- Lying horizontally, one hand on belly and one hand on chest and tuning into your breath

- Or ~controversial~ some mindless scrolling on your phone!

Whatever it is, take some time and do it for you...

Why?

Because you deserve a bit of you time and it's all too easy it get bogged down in completing the To Do list rather than making sure our cup is full and cared for.

Over & out,

L x

P.s. Please ignore typos, it is me that writes these!

P.p.s Yes I do live in LA and one would be forgiven for thinking that means 24/7 sunshine but, let me tell you, May has been grey!

Let's talk about those before & after weight-loss photos...

For those that aren't familiar, these are the photos that typically show someone in a larger body on the left hand side - normally looking sad / defeated I might add - and then someone in a smaller body - weirdly happier! - on the right hand side.

I'm so glad you asked - there are a few issues with before & after photos:

1. These before & after photos can set unrealistic expectations - they suggest that significant weight loss is achievable for everyone in a short period of time... People's bodies and metabolism differ, and what "works" for one person may not work for another. These photos may give the impression that weight loss should happen rapidly and effortlessly, which can lead to disappointment or even unhealthy habits.

2. This type of imagery primarily focuses on one's appearance - listen, as we've talked about, one can do whatever they want with their body! However, placing too much emphasis on our physical appearance can be detrimental to one's self-esteem and body image. Before and after photos primarily highlight the changes in physical appearance, reinforcing the notion that the value of a person lies in their weight or body shape..NOT. TRUE.

4. Before and after photos can inadvertently contribute to body shaming and comparison culture - as we have talked about, if we all ate the same and if we all exercised the same we would still look very different... which is a great thing! However, because of the nature of these images and the narrative society pushes, which is that "thin bodies being better bodies" 🤢, people may feel inadequate or judged if they don't match what they see in these images. 

Story time...

I'm not the most gifted of folk; I wasn't the school athlete, I can only speak one language and being studious was never my forte.

But one thing I was good at? Shrinking my body.

And - because of society's obsession with thinness - I was regularly complimented on my ability to make my body as small as possible, making this my "skill" as well as a large part of my identity...

Yeah, you can see where this is going! 🙄

Fast forward to years (decades!) of over exercising, under eating, a disordered relationship with food as well as my body...and all because society perceives thinness & weight-loss as the be all and end all.

And so this is why, with the above in mind, I have a very hard and a very solid rule:

Never, EVER comment on someone's body... especially if they have lost weight.

Why?

Because I would rather wax my own bikini line than to reinforce the problematic narrative that weight-loss = good.

For the simple reason that this - more often than not - does more harm than good.

So, if you've made it this far, I want to hear from you:

What are you good at?

Reply to this and let me know what you're good at that has absolutely nothing to do with how your body looks...

Great question!

The idolization of thin bodies has been going on for DECADES - centuries! - with links to cultural, historical, and societal factors. 

In many cultures - note; not all - thinness has been associated with wealth, status, and beauty. For instance, in ancient Greece, thinness was idealized as a sign of physical and moral excellence, while in the Victorian era, a slender body was a symbol of gentility and refinement.

This perpetuates the notion that thinness is associated with attractiveness, success, and happiness.

This has created a culture of body shaming and discrimination against those who do not conform to the thin ideal.

Sooooo...Gwyneth Paltrow went pretty viral this week for speaking publicly about her "wellness routine"...

ICYMI, here's the video.

I. Know.

Tbf, Gwynnie is not the first celeb to come out with toxic (and dangerous!) health/wellness advice... uneducated and ill-advised celebs are all over that cash cow!

And, thanks to their influence and strong fan-base, they can make a lot of money off of it.

Take Gwynnie P as our example, she heads up Goop - her health / wellness brand - that is a $250 million dollar business!

So whilst many folk were quick to defend Gwynnie saying it is her lifestyle / her choice etc. - not incorrect - she is also has a lot of influence, privilege and potential profit to make when spreading this type of rhetoric. 

For example; one may watch that video of GP and think "hmm... may be if I (under) eat like Gwyneth Paltrow, I'll then have a body similar to Gwyneth Paltrow..."

Why? Because - thankfully! - we are all individuals and even if we all ate (and exercised!) the same, we'd still look very different... and that's a great thing!

However, if one were to take what Gwyneth Paltrow says verbatim, they could head down a path of under eating and potentially disordered eating and/or an eating disorder.

The point to all of this?

GP isn't the first celebs to say something pretty toxic when it comes to health & fitness (and tbf, she did address the situation in this video) but what we NEED to remember is the influence celebrities have and the harmful effects they can have on us.

Stay savvy,

L x 

P.s. please excuse typods, I'm writing this as I wait for our dino nuggets to cook

P.p.s. #DinoNuggets4Life

More is not actually more!

I'm here to tell you it doesn't.

Story time; February was a little testing but instead of thinking "hmm, may be I need to take a second to deal" I say to myself "Go, go go! Do more, BE MORE!!!!!"

Enter Better Half aka BH.

She talked me into - because let's be honest, I would never have done this of my own accord... hence why she is always referred to as Better Half - taking an afternoon off to sit on the couch, watch the new Zoe Saldana show on Netflix and just be.

And it was BLISS.

And this transfers to exercise as well; very often we think that we need to go ham in the gym 5 days a week because we're told by the Fitness Industry that we need to be doing the most...

So let this note be a reminder that more is not more... in fact dialing back and giving yourself time & space is actually going to yield better results in the long run.

And when I say this got me, I mean... GOT. ME.

What am I talking about?

The fact that Diet Culture and the idolizing of thinness is rooted in racism and white supremacy.

If this is new to you, I want you to do one of two things - or both! - now that you've read this email:

1. Listen to Sabrina Strings talk on NPR about fatphobia and it's racist past & present
2. And/or if it is within your budget, buy Fearing The Black Body by Sabrina Strings and support Dr. Strings work as well as dive deeper into understanding how Diet Culture, thinness and racism are interwoven.

STRONG FOUNDATIONS ONLINE TRAINING PROGRAM IS LIVE!!!

Strong Foundations is 4 week strength & mobility program that focuses on non-aesthetic fitness goals...

Why?

Because there are 99 reasons to exercise and weight-loss doesn't have to be one of them.

Fancy a sneak peek of the program? Click here.

And if you're ready to embark on a shame-free fitness journey, click here.

Looking forward to working with you!

L x

And thank me later...

Here's what you're going to do:

1. Grab something long - think belt, towel, long resistance band, I like these ones a lot FYI.
2. Hold each end of your long object (don't be rude!) Tip: the wider you hold this, the easier it will be.
3. You can be seated or standing, whichever feels more comfortable.
4. Now, hunch over - think Hunchback of Notre Dame... just like how your grandmother told you not to stand.
5. From there, try and keep this hunched over position as you reach that band all the way up and over to your butt whilst keeping the arms straight...I. KNOW.
6. We're now going to reverse the move back to where we started S L O W L Y.

These are Shoulder Dislocates.

Still unsure? I posted this on TikTok and best part is I'm going to be explaining a new move each week!

Do it 2-3 times at the end of the day when you've been hunched over your laptop or steering wheel all day...