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For this piece, we’ve partnered with Romina Richardson of NeuroRise Health - a Psychotherapist, Coach and Neurofeedback Practitioner.Romina brings her clinical perspective to the conversation around stress, nervous-system regulation and everyday behaviours, exploring what’s really happening in the body beneath modern pressure.This collaboration focuses on clarity over noise, science over quick fixes, and making support feel calmer, more human and more accessible. By Romina Richardson of NeuroRise Health - Psychotherapist, Coach & Neurofeedback Practitioner Many people come to therapy with a deep and articulate understanding of themselves. They can explain where their patterns began, describe their attachment style, and recognise how past experiences continue to shape present reactions. Yet despite this helpful insight, the same behaviours, emotional responses, and relationship dynamics persist. This often feels confusing and deeply frustrating. From my experience as a psychotherapist and neurofeedback practitioner, the gap between knowing and changing is not a failure of knowledge or effort. It is more about how the brain learns. Information alone does not change patterns because learning mainly lives in the thinking and reasoning part of our brain, while long-established behaviours are held within the nervous system as a whole – beginning in the brain and extending throughout the body. Neurofeedback is a form of EEG-based biofeedback that works directly with brain waves and brain activity to support nervous system regulation. By providing real-time feedback, neurofeedback therapy helps the brain learn new patterns of self-regulation that support behavioural change, emotional processing and overall wellbeing. Why Insight Alone Doesn’t Lead to Change Talking therapies offer enormous value, supporting people in exploring their depths and making meaning of their experiences. These discoveries are largely processed by the prefrontal cortex (beneath your forehead), the part of the brain responsible for reflection, reasoning, and conscious awareness (Siegel, 2012). However, many of our most entrenched patterns relating to anxiety, shutdown, people-pleasing, hypervigilance, or emotional withdrawal are held within deeper brain regions that developed long before language. These areas are designed for survival rather than reflection. They learn through lived experience, physiological state, and brain activity – not through explanation alone. As a result, a person may intellectually understand that they are safe, smart, or valued, while their nervous system continues to respond as though threat is present. This disconnect sits at the heart of the knowing–doing gap. When Understanding Increases Frustration One of the most important things to understand is that intellectual insight without nervous system regulation can actually increase self-criticism and frustration. People may begin to believe they are avoidant or need “fixing,” when in reality their nervous system has simply not yet experienced the calm, regulated conditions required for change. Insight alone does not settle a system that has learned to stay on high alert. What Is Neurofeedback? Neurofeedback therapy is a form of brain training that works directly with brain waves and brainwave patterns to support nervous system regulation. Rather than relying on conscious effort, neurofeedback helps the brain learn through direct feedback about its own activity. This approach focuses on supporting flexibility and regulation in the nervous system, creating the internal conditions required for change rather than trying to force new behaviours through insight alone. How EEG Neurofeedback Works EEG neurofeedback uses sensors placed on the scalp to measure electrical activity in the brain in real time. This measuring of brain waves allows the brain to receive immediate feedback – often through images or sound displayed on a computer screen. By observing this feedback, the brain can recalibrate its own patterns of stress and arousal. This process supports changes across different frequency bands without requiring conscious control, allowing regulation to be learned implicitly rather than intellectually. Neurofeedback Training and Nervous System Regulation By supporting the nervous system into states of safety and flexibility, neurofeedback training helps reduce threat activation and supports self-regulation. When the nervous system is calmer, the brain becomes more receptive to new learning and change. This is particularly important for patterns that developed during periods of fear, unpredictability, or emotional stress. Without regulation, the brain remains in survival mode, making change difficult even when insight is present. Why Safety Is Essential for Learning New Patterns Once the “rest and digest” system is activated, state-dependent learning can take place. This refers to the finding that behaviours learned during stress or fear tend to repeat whenever similar states arise, even when we logically want to respond differently. In moments of perceived threat, the brain prioritises survival. The prefrontal cortex becomes less accessible, leaving older circuits to drive behaviour (Siegel, 2012). When regulation is present, the brain regains mental flexibility, supporting healthier cognitive processing and emotional processing. Practising new responses while feeling safe allows the brain to update old patterns rather than repeat them. Neurofeedback, Wellbeing and Lasting Change Lasting change is not achieved by trying harder or gaining more insight. It happens when the brain is supported enough to experience something different while feeling safe enough to learn. By working directly with brain activity and nervous system regulation, neurofeedback therapy helps bridge the gap between knowing and doing, allowing insight to integrate and be sustained over time. References Siegel, D. J. (2012). The Developing Mind: How Relationships and the Brain Interact to Shape Who We Are (2nd ed.). Guilford Press.

January arrives grey, cold and slightly unhinged - a month where half the country is feeling blue and the other half is wondering if they’re meant to become superheroes overnight. So at CHILL, we decided to run a small experiment. No lab coats. No charts. Just a team challenge:Wear colour — real, bold, bright colour — every day for a week. Out went our cosy neutrals. In came warm colours, cool colors, neon hues, and the kind of colour palette normally reserved for children’s TV presenters. It was chaos. It was fun. And, unexpectedly, it changed how we felt. Energy lifted. Confidence grew. People chatted more. There was some panic about colour combinations (“Does orange ever go with brown?”), but overall the mood shifted upward. Even on dark winter days when seasonal affective disorder makes everything feel heavier, something about wearing strong colour cut through the fog. So the question became:Was this dopamine dressing actually… working?And if so - how? Before we go deeper, a quick note on dopamine: what is it?It’s a neurotransmitter linked to motivation, focus and reward - the spark behind wanting to do something, not just the pleasure of doing it. But dopamine doesn’t work in isolation. Your brain, mood and nervous system respond to lots of signals - including colour. Let’s explore what actually happened to us, what research suggests about colour psychology, and why bright outfits alone won’t regulate your nervous system… but might still make your day feel better. Why Dopamine Dressing Has Gone Viral This Year Dopamine dressing didn’t appear out of nowhere. It exploded because the cultural mood was ripe for it. People are tired. Stressed. Running on a nervous system that’s been pushed too hard for too long. On winter days with limited natural sunlight, low circadian rhythm cues and increased darkness, it’s no surprise people reach for visual stimulation. Colour feels like an alternative treatment - a micro-hack on a bleak morning.It’s simple: more yellow, less grey. Social media also loves a visual trend. Bright outfits look good on camera. They stand out in a sea of beige. And in a cultural moment where mental health advice often gets flattened into oversimplified slogans, “wear something fun” feels like a relief. But under the trend sits something real: Colour plays directly into how the brain interprets emotional signals. What Colour Actually Does to Your Brain Here’s the honest breakdown - backed by psychology, not TikTok. 1. Colour hijacks attention - gently Bright colours demand focus.The brain can’t ignore strong colour, contrast or bold hues.That bump in attention can feel like energy - especially when your baseline mood is flat. 2. Colour interacts with emotional processing Research suggests that different colours can activate different emotional pathways. Warm colours like yellow, orange and red can feel energising. Cool colours like blue and green can feel calming or steadying. Purple often lands somewhere between creativity and depth. This doesn’t mean everyone reacts the same way - cultural differences and situational factors shape colour associations too. 3. Colour creates social feedback loops This was obvious during our challenge.When you wear bright shades, people respond. Compliments, conversation, curiosity.Increased social interaction → mood lift → more motivation → more dopamine. 4. Colour connects us to the natural world Many mood-boosting colours mirror nature: green fields, blue skies, sunlight yellow.Spending time in nature is linked to calmer nervous system activity, lower blood pressure and better psychological functioning.Colour can act as a tiny reminder of the natural world - even indoors. Our Team Challenge: What Happened When We Wore Colour for a Week The results surprised us. More energy Not manic energy - just a slight rise in alertness. Even on dark days, strong colour felt like its own kind of light box. Like a boost of serotonin. More confidence Something about being more visible - deliberately - sparked a subtle shift. Not in the same way for each person, but enough to notice. Better cognitive performance Meetings felt lighter. People contributed more. Not because colour changes your IQ, but because novelty stimulates attention pathways. Less emotional heaviness Even the people who came in feeling blue said the colour helped them break the loop. Some outfit stress Yes, choosing between 12 shades of blue became a thing. But nothing our nervous systems couldn’t handle. But Here’s the Important Bit: Colour Doesn’t Regulate You Dopamine dressing can shift mood, but it won’t reset a dysregulated nervous system. If you’re dealing with prolonged stress, burnout, or sad symptoms linked to seasonal affective disorder: colour won’t fix your cortisol your circadian rhythm still needs natural sunlight your emotions still need space to settle your psychological functioning still depends on rest, not outfits Colour is a spark, not the fire. So if you want something that actually stabilises you? Bring in sensory rituals that work deeper than the colour spectrum. The Sensory Rituals that Actually Support Mood and Mental Health Colour is one tool. These are the tools that go further: 1. Light (the real kind) Natural sunlight is still the biggest mood regulator we have.If sunlight is limited, a light box can support circadian rhythm cues better than any outfit. 2. Texture that grounds the body Soft knits, warm fabrics, smooth surfaces - your touch system is a direct line to calm. 3. Scent that cues safety Lavender, vanilla, woods - proven sensory shortcuts to emotional steadiness. 4. Small habits that reset your system stepping outside one minute of deep breathing gentle movement drinking something warm spending time in quiet These regulate your body in a way dopamine dressing simply can’t. Absolutely - but with the right expectations. Try it because: it interrupts monotony it boosts attention and emotional engagement it makes daily life feel more playful it creates social warmth it reconnects you to the natural world of colour you’ve probably ignored all winter But don’t expect it to fix everything.Colour shifts mood.Regulation shifts wellbeing. Use both. Final Thoughts You don’t need perfect routines or perfect outfits. Just tools that help your body feel a little safer, a little brighter, a little more grounded. There's no need to go out and buy a whole new wardrobe, but getting creative with what you have could give you a little boost. But, if wearing black sparks joy - stay in your edgy lane and thrive! If colour gives you joy? Wear it.If warm colours brighten a dark day? Embrace them.If cool colours calm you down? Lean in. Stress less. Live more — one shade at a time.

If you’ve started January feeling exhausted, unfocused, emotional, slow, craving carbs, sleeping badly or losing motivation… nothing is wrong with you. Your biology is doing exactly what it’s designed to do in early winter. We’re told the New Year should unlock discipline, drive and transformation — but behind the scenes your brain is dealing with: reduced daylight, which lowers serotonin activity increased melatonin levels, which disrupt sleep patterns elevated cortisol levels from December’s chronic stress seasonal shifts that affect appetite, mood, and energy After speaking with our collaborating psychologist, one message stood out: “People blame themselves for January struggle, but most of it is simply winter biology.” To learn more about the psychology read our blog with our collaborating Psychotherapist and Neurofeedback Practitioner - "Flourishing, Chronic Stress and Emotional Wellbeing: A Psychologist’s Perspective" This blog isn’t about motivation. It’s about understanding the stress response system, Seasonal Affective Disorder, winter mood changes and the hormonal signals that shape how you feel — so you can finally stop blaming yourself and start working with your body instead of against it. Cheat Sheet (skimmers, welcome) Winter biology limits motivation, energy and sleep. Seasonal Affective Disorder is a recognised mood disorder, not a mindset issue. Chronic stress and elevated cortisol impact self-control and habit formation. Appetite shifts and even mild weight gain are common, not failures. Light therapy, vitamin D, deep breathing and stress regulation support wellbeing in winter. Understanding your biology is the fastest path to feeling better. Why January Feels So Hard: The Story Your Body Has Been Trying to Tell You You’re not starting the New Year with a clean slate — you’re starting with a nervous system that’s still processing stressful events, disrupted routines and hormonal imbalance. And yet, January asks you to behave like a completely upgraded person. The mismatch creates shame, frustration and the belief that you’re “failing”, when in reality your biology is performing exactly as expected during winter months. Let’s break down what’s actually happening inside your body. 1. Your Brain Thinks it’s Still in Survival Mode During late autumn and early winter, reduced daylight disrupts the circadian rhythm, lowering serotonin and increasing melatonin production.This leads to: low mood and emotional heaviness difficulty focusing trouble sleeping increased hunger or decreased appetite intense carbohydrate cravings the sense that everything requires more effort These aren’t personality flaws — they’re biological responses to seasonal changes. According to the American Psychiatric Association, Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a form of major depressive disorder with a distinct seasonal pattern, often appearing as: lack of energy increased need for sleep feeling sleepy throughout the day weight gain reduced motivation sadness or irritability muscle tension For people with SAD, these symptoms aren’t “winter blues” — they’re a real, hormonally-driven mood disorder. For others, a milder form of winter depression still affects daily life. Either way: Your biology is not malfunctioning. It’s adapting to the season. 2. Cortisol is Still High — and it Changes Everything After December’s overstimulation, your body continues to release cortisol at elevated levels. The pituitary gland, adrenal glands, and hypothalamus remain activated long after holiday chaos ends. High cortisol affects: memory decision-making emotional regulation appetite sleep blood pressure the ability to follow through on goals One study in Nature Reviews Neuroscience found that chronic stress suppresses the prefrontal cortex, the part of the brain responsible for planning and self-control. Meaning:Resolutions demand a part of the brain that stress temporarily turns off. This is why willpower collapses in January: not because you lack discipline, but because your brain is still on “high alert”. 3. Appetite, Weight and Energy Shift Naturally in Winter Winter quietly reshapes how your body behaves. Reduced daylight disrupts serotonin activity and sleep patterns, which increases carb cravings, lowers energy and makes focus harder. Many people experience mild weight gain, daytime fatigue or trouble sleeping, not because of poor discipline but because their circadian rhythm shifts in early winter. These changes aren't personal failures — they’re predictable seasonal responses designed to conserve energy during the winter months. Your body is choosing survival over self-improvement.It’s doing what it was designed to do. 4. Stress Response + Seasonal Depression = January Overload For some people — especially those with: a family history of mood disorders existing major depression or bipolar disorder chronic stress lack of sunlight exposure — winter increases risk for depressive episodes, emotional reactivity and sleep problems. People with SAD or winter onset SAD often feel misunderstood or dismissed, but the research is clear: light, hormones and stress chemistry are shaping experience more powerfully than intention. Understanding this creates compassion. Compassion creates capacity - Capacity creates change. So What Does Work in January? The Biology-Friendly Approach 1. Bright Light Therapy A highly effective, evidence-backed treatment supported by the National Institute of Mental Health and multiple randomized controlled trials. Morning exposure to a special lamp improves mood, alertness, sleep patterns and daily functioning — especially for people with SAD. 2. Vitamin D Low vitamin D is common in winter and strongly associated with low mood and fatigue.Supplementation is recommended for most UK adults. 3. Deep Breathing & Stress Regulation Breathwork counters cortisol and supports stress management.Small doses throughout the day shift the nervous system out of threat mode. 4. Regular Exercise (but gentler) Research shows even light movement helps manage stress, regulate mood and improve sleep — no extremes required. 5. Plan Ahead — But Not Aggressively A softer routine that includes enough sleep, consistent light exposure and realistic goals is far more effective than strict resolutions. 6. Integrative Health Approaches Tools like mindfulness, light therapy and grounding techniques are recognised by the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health as supportive for stress reduction and mood regulation. These are not wellness fads.They are biological resets. The Emotional Truth: Nothing Is Wrong With You This is the part people need to hear most: If you feel slower, sadder, heavier, or less motivated in January — you are responding like a completely normal human in winter. Your stress response system is doing its job.Your hormones are following seasonal rhythms.Your mood is shaped by light, sleep, stress and biology — not weakness. Understanding this frees people from shame and allows them to support themselves with intelligence instead of punishment. January isn’t a test. It’s a season. Your biology isn’t broken — it’s simply communicating what it needs. When you stop fighting your winter body and start working with it, everything gets easier: your mood, your habits, your stress, your sense of control. Stress less. Live more.Start with biology. The rest follows.

If your thinking feels slower during the winter months, you’re not imagining it. You might notice more difficulty concentrating, lower energy levels, or a sense that focus slips away more easily in day-to-day life. Tasks take longer. Motivation feels muted. Even simple decisions require more effort than usual. This isn’t a personal failure or a lack of discipline. Winter brain fog is a common seasonal response, shaped by light exposure, sleep quality, and how the brain manages energy during the darker months. Understanding why it happens makes it much easier to manage - without forcing productivity or ignoring what your body is asking for. Winter Brain Fog: What’s Really Going On Brain fog isn’t a medical diagnosis. It’s a term people use to describe a cluster of cognitive symptoms: slower thinking, reduced focus, trouble concentrating, and a general sense of mental heaviness. During winter, these symptoms become more noticeable for many people. That’s because the winter season changes the conditions your brain operates under. Shorter days, less natural light, altered sleep patterns and lower physical activity all affect how the brain allocates energy. From an evolutionary perspective, winter was historically a period of conservation. Less food, less sunlight, less movement. The brain adapted by slowing down non-essential processes to preserve energy. That adaptive response still exists, even though modern life continues to demand performance at the same pace. Your calendar hasn’t changed, your biology has. Winter Blues, Seasonal Patterns & Mental Health Winter brain fog is often discussed alongside the winter blues and seasonal affective disorder, particularly in conversations about mental health during the darker months. While these experiences can overlap, they’re not the same thing. Some people notice changes in mood, motivation or social withdrawal. Others feel emotionally stable but mentally slower. Brain fog sits primarily in the cognitive space - affecting attention, focus and mental timing rather than emotional state alone. It’s also why brain fog can appear without feeling sad, stressed or low. The brain is responding to seasonal changes in light and routine, not necessarily to emotional stress. What Winter Actually Does to the Brain Winter doesn’t remove clarity. It makes clarity more expensive, energy-wise. Several seasonal factors contribute to this shift. Reduced Light Exposure & Circadian Rhythm Changes The brain relies on natural light to regulate circadian rhythm - the internal clock that governs sleep, wake cycles, hormone production and cognitive timing. During winter, shorter days and less natural sunlight delay morning alertness signals and extend melatonin production. Many mornings begin in near pitch dark conditions, reducing early light exposure and making it harder for the brain to fully “wake up”. This disruption affects focus, reaction time and mental sharpness throughout the day. Sleep Quality & Night-Time Disruption Even when people spend more time in bed during winter, sleep quality often declines. Changes in light exposure affect REM sleep - the stage responsible for mental and emotional reset. As a result, you may sleep longer at night but still wake feeling mentally foggy, rather than restored. Over time, this contributes to cumulative cognitive fatigue. Melatonin, Serotonin & Seasonal Shifts Lower sunlight exposure influences melatonin timing and serotonin levels, both of which play a role in alertness, motivation and mood. When these hormones shift, focus and mental clarity often follow. This is one reason brain fog is sometimes mentioned alongside seasonal depression, even when emotional symptoms are mild or absent. Energy Cost & Low Energy Levels Cold weather, reduced physical activity and lower baseline energy mean the brain burns more fuel to perform the same tasks. Thinking quite literally costs more. As energy levels drop, concentration becomes harder to sustain and mental fatigue arrives sooner. Hydration, Exposure & Daily Habits Winter often brings less thirst awareness, more indoor heating and greater screen time. Mild dehydration and prolonged screen exposure both reduce cognitive efficiency, subtly worsening focus and clarity across the day. Brain Fog Symptoms are a Signal - Not a Failure A common reaction to winter brain fog is to push harder. More caffeine. Longer hours. Fewer breaks. But forcing performance doesn’t restore clarity. It usually makes things worse. Brain fog symptoms are a signal that the brain is conserving energy under challenging seasonal conditions. When you respond by supporting energy rather than demanding output, focus becomes easier to access again. Supporting Your Brain Through the Darker Months Effective support focuses on managing energy, not chasing motivation. These strategies fit into real life and work with how the body adapts during winter. Prioritise Light - Early and Consistently Morning light exposure is the strongest cue for resetting circadian rhythm. Spending time outdoors in natural sunlight, even briefly, helps regulate alertness. When daylight is limited, light therapy can support this process by providing consistent exposure during early hours. Support Sleep for Better Clarity Even small changes that support better sleep - consistent wake times, fewer evening decisions, reduced late-night screen time - can significantly improve next-day focus. Simple sensory cues can also help the nervous system wind down. Products like the Sweet Dreams Pillow & Room Mist, with calming essential oils such as lavender and chamomile, create a gentler transition into rest by signalling safety and relaxation to the brain. For those who struggle to switch off mentally, Reishi Bedtime Reset Capsules combine magnesium with reishi mushroom extract to support relaxation and overnight recovery - helping reduce bedtime mental chatter and support more restorative sleep. Hydration, Balanced Diet & Micronutrients Hydration supports circulation and oxygen delivery to the brain. Supporting hydration early can make a noticeable difference. Electrolyte blends such as Punchy Hydration sachets help replenish fluids more effectively than water alone, supporting cellular energy and fluid balance - especially useful during colder months when dehydration often goes unnoticed. Keeping hydration steady helps the brain maintain oxygen delivery and mental sharpness throughout the day. A balanced diet, alongside micronutrients that support nervous system function, helps maintain cognitive resilience during the winter months. Gentle Energy Support When mental clarity feels harder to reach in winter, the goal isn’t to push harder - it’s to support the brain in a way that respects seasonal energy shifts. These products are designed to help sustain focus and cognitive resilience gently, without overstimulation, so clarity can return at its own pace. Focus Sparkling Drinks - OOM – a sugar-free functional sparkling drink with 750mg Lion’s Mane, adaptogens and B vitamins for steady mental clarity and gentle alertness, without overstimulation. Complete Mushroom Extract Blend - myco:soul – a seven-mushroom blend including Lion’s Mane and Cordyceps to support calm focus, steady energy and daily resilience, without fillers or overstimulation. DIRTEA Lion’s Mane Gummies – made with organic fruiting body extract and B vitamins to support memory, concentration and mental resilience when focus feels harder to access. SoulBrew Rise – a coffee alternative combining mushrooms and adaptogens to deliver steady energy and calm focus, helping reduce caffeine spikes while supporting mental clarity. Love Letter Raspberry Matcha - Teapsy – a gentle matcha blend that offers lighter, more balanced alertness, ideal for mornings or afternoons when you want focus without the crash. Regular Physical Activity - Without Pressure You don’t need intense workouts. Regular physical activity, light exercise, or simply spending time moving outdoors supports circulation, energy production and mental clarity. Movement signals safety and availability of energy to the brain. Self-Care That Reduces Load Winter self-care isn’t about doing more. It’s about reducing unnecessary cognitive load. Fewer evening decisions, simpler routines and predictable rhythms support overall well being and mental clarity. Brain Fog in Everyday Life Winter brain fog doesn’t mean something is wrong with your brain. It means your body is responding to shorter days, lower light exposure and increased energy demands. As spring approaches and daylight returns, many people notice clarity naturally improving. Until then, small supportive changes make a meaningful difference. A Better Question to Ask Yourself Instead of asking why focus feels worse, ask: Where is my brain conserving energy right now? And how can I support that rather than fight it? Winter brain fog is not a failure. It’s an adaptation. Explore the Cognitive Function Edit at CHILL.com - containing supportive tools designed to help manage focus, energy and clarity through the darker months. Stress less. Live more.

January shows up with the same tired pitch every year: reinvent yourself overnight.New routine. New discipline. New body. And, inevitably… a brand-new pressure headache. If you’re already exhausted at the starting line, you’re not failing — you’re responding exactly how a human body responds after a December of overstimulation. Your stress response is heightened, your nervous system regulation is off-centre, and the last thing you need is a high-intensity self-improvement sprint. And here’s the part we never say out loud: it is not normal — or sustainable — to expect yourself to transform in a matter of days. No one’s biology upgrades on command. This year doesn’t call for a reinvention.It calls for a restoration — of energy, of capacity, of the parts of you that only return when your nervous system finally feels safe enough to exhale. Your Quick Reset Guide What’s actually happening:Your autonomic nervous system is still recovering from December’s chaos — elevated cortisol levels, disrupted sleep quality, blood sugar swings, emotional overload and the kind of subtle physical symptoms that appear long before burnout registers consciously. Why harsh resolutions fail:Your sympathetic nervous system (the engine behind the fight or flight response) stays switched on, while your parasympathetic nervous system struggles to catch up. Your body interprets big goals not as ambition — but as stress. What works instead:Grounded routines, micro-movement, softer mornings, steadier dopamine, grounding techniques, and rituals that restore balance rather than overwhelm. The shift: Start regulated, not rushed. For the deeper dive, keep reading. Why We’re All Tired of the January “Upgrade Yourself” Narrative Every December ends the same:too much sugar, too many plans, too many late nights, too much scrolling — and a nervous system quietly whispering, “Please calm down.” If this feels familiar, you’re not alone. Our recent piece on Collective Calm highlighted how many people are stepping away from self-optimisation culture and choosing connection, slower living, and emotional steadiness instead. Then January arrives demanding: “Fix your life. All of it. Immediately.” It’s a cultural script built on urgency, not wellbeing — and it completely ignores how the stress response system works. Constant pressure (even self-created) keeps your body in partial fight or flight: Shallow breathing Muscle tension Difficulty concentrating Feeling anxious for “no obvious cause” Disrupted sleep quality Generalised feeling stressed If you feel this every January, it’s not a discipline issue. It’s chronic stress, not character. The Neuroscience: Why the Body Rejects Harsh Resets Your mind can want a fresh start, but your body has to agree. Your autonomic nervous system — responsible for stress hormones, digestion, energy, immunity and emotional regulation — runs two core modes: 1. The Sympathetic System (Accelerator) High alert. Fast breathing. Tense muscles. Constant notifications. December. 2. The Parasympathetic System (Brake) Recovery. Digestion. Emotional clarity. Motivation. Sleep restoration. January tends to demand change when your biology is still stuck in December’s acceleration — and that’s when nervous system dysregulation makes even simple habits feel impossible. A neurofeedback practitioner we spoke with described how many people enter the year with a dysregulated nervous system: tired but wired, overstimulated but depleted. In that state, the body struggles to process stress hormones, engage the relaxation response, or regulate hormonal signals from the adrenal glands and pituitary gland. When the system senses pressure, it will: release cortisol narrow your attention suppress long-term thinking resist lifestyle changes block your body’s ability to adapt Your intentions live in January. Your physiology is still functioning properly only when it feels safe. The Body Keeps Score (Quietly) Before you feel overwhelmed, your body sends subtle signals: Digestive problems Disrupted blood pressure Changes in blood sugar Rising irritability Broken sleep cycles Emotional sensitivity Being on high alert Physical symptoms without a clear cause These aren’t “dramatic signs.” They’re early warnings that the stress response is overloaded and your well being is taking a hit. What Throws the Nervous System Off (More Than We Realise) The triggers are often everyday, cumulative, and deceptively small: Poor sleep habits An unhealthy diet Emotional exhaustion Digital overload Social pressure Lack of regular exercise Unpredictable routines Long-term stress hormones Our Great Declutter blog explores how even physical clutter sends constant sending signals of stress to the brain. When your system is overwhelmed, harsh resolutions don’t create momentum — they create shutdown. The Real Reset: Slow the System, Not the Ambition You don’t need harsher rules. You need a softer physiological foundation — one built for recovery, not reinvention. Here’s what actually works: 1. Softer Mornings = Regulated Energy Start with transitions, not transformations: Hydrate before you scroll Go outside for light Practise deep breathing or a physiological sigh Avoid early overstimulation These small rituals activate the parasympathetic systems, reducing stress hormones and setting the tone for emotional health throughout the day. A gentle morning ritual, like a warm mug of DIRTEA Chai, can help shift you out of fight-or-flight. 2. Micro-Movement Beats Extreme Plans Your nervous system prefers rhythm over intensity, which is why even an eight-minute stretch, a slow walk, a bit of tai chi or qi gong, a single strength move while the kettle boils, or any simple movement that helps restore balance can make a meaningful difference. These practices support physical health, stabilise blood sugar, and improve emotional health without overwhelming the body. 3. Grounding Techniques to Restore Balance When your system is overloaded, grounding helps bring you back into your body: Feet-flat-on-floor grounding Cold water on hands Soft music Slow deep breaths A three-minute sensory check-in These support the vagus nerve, reduce sympathetic activation, and help manage stress during a stressful situation. 4. Regulate Dopamine, Don’t Chase It Fast dopamine feels exciting. Steady dopamine builds resilience. Steady dopamine comes from everyday actions like finishing tiny tasks, tidying just one surface, getting exposure to sunlight, prioritising adequate sleep, seeking gentle co-regulation with someone calm, and reducing stress by removing small friction points in your day. If you’re exploring a gentler relationship with alcohol, our Sober Curious blog breaks down how drinking affects the nervous system, stress hormones and emotional clarity. Alcohol-free options can help too: check out Alcohol Alternatives 5. Build a Routine Your Body Doesn’t Reject Your system doesn’t want a revolution.It wants predictability. Try: “one nourishing meal today” “15 minutes of tidying” “bedtime 20 minutes earlier” “no phone for the first 10 minutes” tiny lifestyle changes that help you feel calm Pairing gentle routines with grounding rituals can help regulate the stress response.A tool like Calm x The Five Minute Journal offers structure without overwhelm. Where CHILL Fits in: Support for the Reset Your Body Will Actually Accept When your nervous system feels safe, everything becomes easier:motivation, clarity, rest, attention, emotional steadiness. CHILL was designed with that in mind: alcohol-free nightcaps to reduce overstimulation functional blends to support the relaxation response botanicals that help you unwind without the crash calming rituals to gently relieve stress Explore our core tools for a more regulated start: Shop Stress Busters and the Choose Calm Edit. If evenings are your trigger point, even a simple citrus-based ritual can help shift your body out of high alert: Try Punchy Hydration. These aren’t cure-all solutions. They’re invitations to return to yourself. You don’t need a dramatic January transformation. You need a nervous system that feels grounded, steady, capable — and willing. Start softer.Start slower.Start somewhere your body says “yes,” not “not now.” Stress less. Live more.

If 2025 was the year everyone panic-bought magnesium and tried to fix their entire nervous system in one weekend… then 2026 is the year people finally slow down and work with their biology instead of fighting it. The wellness trends shaping 2026 centre around mental health, nervous system regulation, and long-term habits that help the body recover from chronic stress. People want better sleep, calmer evenings, deeper focus, simpler environments, and a lifestyle that supports the parasympathetic nervous system — not one that constantly puts them in fight or flight. This isn’t wellness for aesthetics.It’s wellness for real humans. Wellness Trends 2026: A Culture Shift in Mental Health We’re entering 2026 with a nervous system that’s been pushed to its limits.Most people are dealing with trouble sleeping, poor sleep hygiene, muscle tension, bright lights late at night, work stress, and constant stimulation from electronic devices. Reports from Pinterest Predicts and WGSN show the same thing:People are prioritising calm, connection, and recovery over optimisation. The body doesn’t want harsher routines.It wants safety, regulation, and rest. Trend 1: Rest Ethics and Better Sleep as a Top Priority Rest ethics is becoming one of the most important wellness trends of 2026. Instead of treating rest as a reward, it becomes a top priority for physical health and mental clarity. Why Chronic Stress Disrupts the Sympathetic Nervous System Chronic stress keeps the sympathetic nervous system activated, which leads to poor sleep, trouble falling asleep, higher stress hormones, and even high blood pressure.The goal for 2026? Shift into parasympathetic mode more often. For a full breakdown of how sleep and stress interact, see our guide on sleep, recovery and stress resilience. What This Looks Like People are adopting calmer nighttime sleep routines — fewer screens, softer lights, gentle breathing exercises, and relaxing activities that help the body feel safe enough to rest. These habits support healthy sleep and help regulate stress hormones. Trend 2: Nervous System Regulation for Mental Health One of the biggest shifts in the wellness space is the focus on the autonomic nervous system — specifically how to move the body out of high alert and into steadier regulation. Parasympathetic Nervous System Tools People Actually Use People are turning to grounding techniques, breathing exercises, sensory-reduction spaces, somatic practices, and mood-supporting supplements to improve cognitive function and emotional wellbeing. Floatation therapy is one of the emerging tools — explored in our feature:Floatation Therapy: Stress Science or Just Escapism? Why It Works Regulation reduces physical symptoms (muscle tension, sleep issues), improves focus, lowers stress hormones, and helps people feel calm during stressful situations. Trend 3: Connection as a Tool for a Dysregulated Nervous System Connection isn’t just emotional — it’s physiological.Supportive relationships help calm a dysregulated nervous system, reducing muscle tension and helping the body feel safe. Where It Shows Up Walks with friends Shared meals without other devices Breathwork circles Low-effort, high-comfort friendships Social rituals that reduce stress Connection lowers cortisol and activates parasympathetic pathways. Trend 4: Slow Productivity, Focus, and Physical Activity People are overwhelmed, overstimulated, and struggling to focus.2026 brings a shift away from multitasking and toward calmer productivity. Why People Need This Bright lights, endless notifications, and screen time overstimulate the nervous system. Slow productivity helps reduce stress, improves focus, and supports mental health. Tools That Support It One-tab working Short sensory or deep breathing breaks Physical activity to lower stress hormones Simplified workspaces Lower digital noise This approach supports both mental clarity and nervous system regulation. Trend 5: Digital Discipline for People with Sleep Issues Digital discipline becomes the softer version of a digital detox — and it’s essential for people experiencing trouble sleeping or nighttime overstimulation. How Bright Lights and Electronic Devices Affect the Autonomic Nervous System Screen exposure late at night interferes with melatonin, worsens sleep issues, spikes stress hormones, and keeps the nervous system in fight or flight.We break this down in Blue Light, Big Stress?. What People Are Doing Muting notifications Lowering bright lights in the evening Protecting nighttime calm Choosing tech-free meals Building healthier sleep routines Trend 6: Smart Supplementation for Gut Health and Stress Hormones Supplements shift from aesthetics to function: targeting chronic stress, gut health, cognitive function, and better sleep. What People Choose in 2026 Adaptogens for reducing stress Minerals supporting healthy sleep Herbs for muscle tension Ingredients that help people fall asleep Gut–brain-supporting nutrients These tools help regulate the nervous system long term. Trend 7: Movement, Mood, and Managing Health Conditions Movement becomes emotional maintenance rather than a purely aesthetic pursuit. What’s Rising Long walks Mobility work Slow yoga Strength training for resilience Exercise as stress management Regular physical activity improves sleep, reduces muscle tension, and supports the parasympathetic nervous system. Trend 8: Decluttering, Dopamine Dressing, and Reducing Stress This is where wellness blends with lifestyle.As people reduce dopamine spikes from screens, they turn toward calmer sensory inputs. Decluttering for Calm Decluttering helps reduce nervous system dysregulation by removing visual noise that keeps the sympathetic nervous system activated. Dopamine Dressing People are choosing softer colours, comfortable fabrics, and calmer silhouettes — a sensory alternative to digital overstimulation. Trend 9: Calm-Tech to Help You Fall Asleep and Feel Calm Calm-tech focuses on supporting mental health, reducing stress, and improving sleep — not adding more noise. What’s Emerging Stress-mapping tools Calmer digital interfaces AI that simplifies decisions Apps that support sleep Tech that reduces overwhelm This ties naturally into your Digital Detox December guide when it goes live. What Do We Think? The Future of Calm Is Softer, Slower, and More Human At CHILL, we see 2026 as the year wellness becomes deeply human again.It’s not about intensity or pressure — it’s about working with your body’s control centre, supporting your nervous system, and building healthy habits that last long term. This year is about starting softer, sleeping deeper, reducing stress, protecting your mental health, and choosing calm environments that make your body feel safe. We’re building tools and rituals that support real people with real lives — not the perfection the wellness space used to push. Stress less. Live more — in a way that genuinely supports your wellbeing.

Winter doesn’t have to mean dry, tight or depleted skin. With the right support, this season can actually be a time to strengthen skin hydration, maintain skin elasticity, and protect the natural collagen production your skin relies on for firmness and glow. Collagen becomes a simple winter ally — helping you maintain healthy skin and feel more comfortable in the colder months. A few smart choices now can make your winter skincare feel easier, calmer and more effective. Which Collagen Supplement Do You Need This Winter? Dry, tight or dehydrated skin → Marine Collagen Pure Marine CollagenSupports hydration and helps improve skin elasticity, especially when winter conditions affect skin elasticity the most. Loss of firmness, glow or bounce → Bovine Collagen Peptides Essential Woman CollagenGreat for firmness, skin health, and reducing the look of excess skin associated with decreased elasticity. Joint stiffness + connective tissue support → Hydrolysed Collagen Peptides Collagen Peptides PowderContains highly absorbable collagen peptides to support mobility and overall structural comfort. Whole-food collagen → Bone Broth Organic Bone BrothA warming, nutrient-rich source of bone broth collagen to nourish connective tissues and support healthy skin from within. Tired-looking winter skin → Amino Acids for Collagen Pathways Fashion Week FixSupports the body’s ability to boost collagen production and maintain brighter, healthier-looking skin. What Is Collagen and Why Does It Matter in Winter? Collagen is the body’s most abundant protein, forming the structure of the skin’s connective tissue. It’s essential for firmness, smoothness and long-term skin health. Winter accelerates collagen loss through: reduced blood flow dry indoor heating UV damage environmental factors that weaken collagen fibres When collagen decreases faster than it's replaced, skin becomes dry, tight and less elastic. Can Collagen Really Boost Collagen Production? Yes — collagen supplements don’t insert collagen into the skin, but they supply the amino acids your body uses to boost collagen production, repair elasticity and support skin health during winter. This reduces the effects of dryness, tightness and structural fatigue. How Cold Weather Affects Collagen Production Winter reduces your skin’s ability to regenerate. Cold temperatures constrict blood vessels, slowing the delivery of nutrients needed for collagen production and overall skin health. This results in: reduced firmness dryness loss of skin elasticity fine lines developing more quickly Indoor heating intensifies moisture loss, making the skin feel tight and depleted. How Collagen and Supplements Support Healthy Skin in Winter Collagen supplements provide the amino acids necessary to: improve skin elasticity maintain hydration support new collagen fibres strengthen connective tissues maintain healthy skin despite environmental stress A Note on Hyaluronic Acid & Tremella in Winter Neither hyaluronic acid nor Tremella contain collagen, but both support the environment collagen needs to stay effective. Hyaluronic acid attracts water to the skin’s surface, and Tremella helps retain that hydration thanks to its unique water-binding polysaccharides. When winter air dries out the skin barrier, the combination helps maintain elasticity and comfort while collagen supports the deeper layers. Choosing the Right Collagen for Your Winter Routine To recap: Dry skin / hydration: Pure Marine Collagen Firmness / elasticity: Essential Woman Collagen Joints / connective tissues: Collagen Peptides Powder Whole-food nourishment: Organic Bone Broth Dull, tired skin: Fashion Week Fix Winter isn’t about perfection — it’s about giving your skin and body what they actually need to stay healthy, hydrated and resilient. Stress less. Live more.

Energy used to be something you chased. More coffee, earlier mornings, longer days. For a while, that approach felt productive. Then it started to feel exhausting. Lately, there’s been a shift. People still want to perform, still care about doing good work and showing up fully - they just don’t want to feel constantly depleted in the process. That’s the context in which Rhodiola has quietly moved from niche ingredient to modern essential. Rhodiola doesn’t promise transformation overnight. What it offers is support: steadier energy, better stamina and a more manageable relationship with pressure. Which is exactly why it’s resonating right now. What is Rhodiola? Rhodiola is a plant that grows in cold, high-stress environments. You might see it referred to as arctic root or golden root, names that reflect the conditions it’s adapted to survive. In wellness terms, rhodiola is usually grouped with adaptogens - ingredients associated with helping the body adapt to ongoing demand. Rhodiola isn’t about overriding tiredness or forcing output. It’s associated with supporting the body’s ability to respond more effectively when pressure is consistent rather than occasional. This makes it particularly relevant to modern life, where stress isn’t a spike - it’s a background condition. Why Rhodiola Feels So Relevant Right Now Modern pressure looks different from the kind our bodies evolved to handle. Work follows us home. Notifications never stop. Recovery is often optional rather than built in. Over time, that constant load shows up as familiar burnout symptoms: feeling tired even after rest, struggling to maintain concentration, or noticing that motivation fades faster than it used to. For many people, this experience sits somewhere between ambition and exhaustion. They don’t want to slow down completely - they just want to stop feeling like they’re pushing against themselves all the time. Rhodiola’s appeal lies in how well it fits this middle ground. It supports energy without stimulation, stamina without aggression, and focus without rigidity. That makes it a natural fit for people navigating demanding schedules without wanting to sacrifice their wellbeing. Mental Stamina and Maintaining Concentration When life is demanding, it’s rarely physical stamina that runs out first. It’s mental stamina. The ability to stay focused, make decisions and remain emotionally regulated across long stretches of time. Rhodiola is often used during periods when the challenge isn’t starting tasks, but maintaining concentration throughout the day. People describe feeling more mentally durable - better able to stay with what they’re doing without the familiar drop-off in energy or attention. This is especially relevant in work environments where performance depends on consistency rather than bursts of effort. Supporting job performance in this context isn’t about intensity; it’s about staying functional without burning through reserves. Rhodiola and Mental Toughness (the Sustainable Kind) Mental toughness is often framed as grit or endurance, but that version rarely holds up long term. True mental toughness is more adaptive. It’s the ability to stay steady under pressure, recover after demanding periods and adjust effort without losing momentum. Developing mental toughness is a gradual process. It’s shaped by habits, recovery and how someone learns to respond to stress over time. Personality traits and individual differences play a role here - what feels manageable for one person may feel overwhelming for another. Rhodiola is often discussed in this context because it supports resilience rather than suppression. Instead of pushing people to ignore limits, it helps them operate more comfortably within them. Over time, this can reinforce strong self belief - the sense that you can handle what’s in front of you without bracing yourself constantly. Chronic Stress, Without the Crisis Language A lot of modern fatigue isn’t dramatic. It doesn’t look like collapse. It looks like chronic stress quietly accumulating in the background of daily life. Long workdays, blurred boundaries and constant mental load can slowly erode energy and focus. This is where rhodiola tends to enter conversations - not as a response to crisis, but as support during prolonged demand. People often turn to rhodiola when they notice that pressure feels harder to manage than it used to. When stressful situations linger instead of resolving. When coping requires more effort than before. In this sense, rhodiola supports the ability to handle stress without numbing or disengaging from life. Rhodiola, Winter Fatigue and Seasonal Load Winter adds another layer of challenge. Shorter days, reduced light exposure and more time indoors all place extra demands on already stretched energy levels. Many people notice that winter fatigue isn’t just physical - it affects motivation, focus and mood as well. Seasonal shifts can also influence routines linked to vitamin D, which plays a role in overall vitality. Combined with lower movement and disrupted rhythms, this can make winter feel heavier than expected. Where Rhodiola Fits in Everyday Life Rhodiola isn’t typically framed as a “quick fix” ingredient. It’s more often used as part of a broader approach to managing stress and supporting energy in daily life. It fits best alongside foundations that matter: enough sleep regular movement or exercise a balanced diet realistic workloads and boundaries Within the world of dietary supplements, rhodiola is usually positioned as general wellbeing support rather than something aimed at a specific health condition. It works in the background, supporting capacity rather than demanding attention. Rhodiola in Practice: Product Support for Sustainable Energy These products pair it with adaptogens, mushrooms and calming botanicals to help manage pressure, maintain focus and support stamina - without tipping the nervous system into overdrive. SENTIA GABA Red (Sentia Spirits) – an alcohol-free spirit designed to support relaxation through GABA pathways, helping unwind and decompress without the rebound effects of alcohol. A good fit for evenings when stress needs easing without switching off completely. Focus + Blend (Flow Brew) – a caffeine-free functional mushroom powder combining Rhodiola with Lion’s Mane, Cordyceps and calming botanicals to support focus, stamina and mental resilience during demanding workdays. Built for productivity without pressure. Mind Powder (Indi Supplements) – a cocoa-berry blend formulated for sharper focus and mental energy, pairing Rhodiola with Lion’s Mane, minerals and adaptogens to support concentration and reduce brain fog without heavy stimulation. Adaptogen Energy Blend (Fushi) – a daily capsule combining Rhodiola, mushrooms and adaptogens like Ashwagandha and Ginseng to support energy, stress tolerance and overall vitality during prolonged periods of demand. Clarity+ Tea Sachets (Neura) – a naturally flavoured nootropic tea featuring Rhodiola, Lion’s Mane and L-Theanine to support calm focus, mood balance and reduced fatigue, ideal for gentle, consistent energy throughout the day. Self Care That’s about Capacity, Not Escape Self care has taken on a lot of meanings, but at its core, it’s about maintaining the ability to function well. Not escaping responsibility, but supporting the body and mind so they can keep showing up. Rhodiola fits into this version of self-care naturally. It doesn’t ask you to slow down completely or opt out of ambition. It simply helps reduce friction - making demanding periods feel more manageable and less draining. When energy feels steadier and stress feels easier to handle, everything else tends to follow. Focus improves. Decision-making feels lighter. Life feels less like something you’re bracing yourself against. A More Realistic Take on Performance Rhodiola’s rise isn’t about chasing optimisation or hacking productivity. It reflects a broader cultural shift: away from extremes, towards sustainability. People don’t necessarily want more energy. They want energy that lasts. They want to perform without feeling constantly on edge. They want to stay engaged with life without feeling like it’s costing them everything. Rhodiola has earned its place in that conversation not by promising more, but by supporting enough. Quietly. Consistently. Without asking you to hate your life in the process. Explore the Rhodiola Edit on CHILL.com!

December is a full-body rollercoaster. Shorter days, colder air, social pressure, late nights, flu season, and constant juggling - it hits your nervous system, mood, focus, and energy all at once. This is the month when your body quietly asks for more support, because stress levels don’t slow down just because the festive lights switch on. This shortlist brings together six evidence-backed supplements - Vitamin D, Magnesium, Reishi, Zinc, Fibre and Saffron - chosen for how they help you feel steady, clear, and human again. Nothing extreme, nothing overpromised. Just simple tools that help your body adapt, support stress hormones, and protect the foundations of calm, focus, and immunity. It’s not about being perfect. It’s about giving your mind and body what they’ve been missing during the winter months. Vitamin D When daylight drops, your mood, energy and immune system feel it fast. Vitamin D is one of the few nutrients your body struggles to maintain without direct sunlight, and during winter months most adults simply aren’t getting a healthy amount - especially in the UK. Vitamin D plays a key role in supporting immune systems, mental health, and brain function. Research suggests that low vitamin D levels are linked to low mood, tiredness, and disrupted sleep patterns. While December doesn’t cause a deficiency by itself, the combination of cold air, shorter days, routine changes and other factors can make symptoms more noticeable. Vitamin D is also closely connected to stress. When stress hormones fluctuate throughout the season, your body uses more nutrients than usual, including vitamin D, magnesium, and other essential vitamins. Supplementing Vitamin D can be a simple way to support overall health without relying on food sources alone. It’s important to note that everyone’s needs are different and factors such as age or diet, can affect how much vitamin D is appropriate. Adults with specific health conditions or those taking prescription medications should check with a doctor before making changes, especially when using higher international units. If you are curious about how Vitamin D can help your stress levels, read more here or visit our Vitamin D Edit! Magnesium Deficiency Magnesium is one of the most commonly under-consumed nutrients, and magnesium deficiency is surprisingly common during periods of chronic stress. When stress hormones rise - even short bursts of acute stress - your body uses magnesium at a faster rate. Over time, the gap between what you take in and what you use can widen, making you feel more fatigued, restless, or tense. Magnesium plays a role in over 300 processes in the body. It supports sleep patterns, muscle relaxation, and mental clarity. Research indicates that magnesium helps regulate cortisol levels and supports overall mental health. A deficiency doesn’t appear overnight; it builds slowly, often showing up as poor sleep, headaches, irritability, or scattered focus. In December, your diet tends to shift. Less whole grains, fewer leafy vegetables, more rich meals, more sugar, and high-energy socialising. These changes can make it harder to meet magnesium needs through foods alone. Magnesium supplements - especially forms like magnesium citrate - can offer a steady, reliable top-up. While supplements aren’t a treatment for stress, there is scientific evidence showing that magnesium may help reduce stress symptoms in a supportive way by regulating stress responses. Again, this is about balance, not miracles. As always, individuals taking other medications or experiencing symptoms beyondstress should speak to a doctor before introducing new supplements. Discover our Magnesium collection! Reishi Mushroom Reishi mushroom has become a go-to December supplement because of its long-studied role in supporting calm, rest, and balanced stress levels. Modern research suggests that reishi mushrooms may offer beneficial effects on emotional balance, sleep quality, and general wellbeing. Reishi works differently from quick-fix solutions - it helps the body adapt more evenly to stress, supporting a more stable baseline when the world feels hectic. Adaptogens don’t “treat” stress or offer medical treatment, but they may help reduce stress-related tension by calming the body’s overactive stress responses. Reishi mushroom extracts are also linked with immune system support. December is flu season, and while reishi is not a replacement for vitamins or medical care, it can complement a healthy routine by helping the body stay more balanced during the colder period. For those with severe health conditions, taking prescription medications, a doctor’s advice is essential before using reishi. If you’re new to adaptogens, it’s worth noting that their health benefits are gradual - not instant. But over the long term, many people find reishi helpful for wind-down, resilience, and emotional stability. Find out more about Reishi supplements here! Zinc Zinc is one of the most important nutrients for immune system support, especially in the winter months. When your body is under stress, fighting off seasonal bugs, or dealing with low mood and fatigue, zinc plays a central role in keeping everything functioning smoothly. Zinc contributes to cell repair, helps protect cells from oxidative stress, and supports cognitive function. Since December usually includes busier schedules, heavier meals, less sleep and more exposure to germs, having enough zinc can help reduce stress around “getting run down.” Food sources include whole grains, legumes, healthy fats from nuts and seeds, and some oily fish. But food alone isn’t always enough, especially when diet fluctuates. Zinc supplements help support normal immune system responses - which is exactly what most people need during December. They can also support mental clarity when combined with nutrient-rich foods. If you’re taking other medications or have certain health conditions, checking with a doctor is advised, as zinc can interact with some treatments. Check out more about Zinc properties and our Zinc Edit! Fibre Fibre is probably the most overlooked December supplement - even though it plays a huge role in how you feel physically and mentally. In winter months, digestion slows down for many people due to colder weather, richer meals, lower movement, and stress. Fibre helps your body adapt by supporting gut balance, regularity, and stable energy levels. Fibre also supports the immune system because a large portion of immune cells are influenced by the gut. Research shows that fibre-rich foods and supplements can help reduce inflammation and support beneficial gut bacteria. None of this is medical advice, but it’s widely understood that a healthier gut often contributes to better mental health, steadier energy, and more balanced mood. Food sources include whole grains, vegetables, legumes, fruits, and seeds. But during December, diets shift. High-stress routines, irregular meals, and increased social events make it harder to get enough fibre consistently. Supplement fibre can help reduce stress around digestive discomfort, bloating, or sluggishness. It’s a supportive add-on that works quietly in the background. If you’re experiencing symptoms that persist for weeks, or taking other medications, speak to a doctor. Fibre can affect absorption if timing isn’t spaced properly. Explore more here! Food Sources vs. Supplements Supplements are not a replacement for food sources, but they can help when routines, diet, and stress levels make consistency hard. December often leads to fewer whole grains, less oily fish, fewer leafy greens, and more rich meals. Getting enough nutrients like vitamin D, magnesium, and fibre becomes harder. A supplement can help reduce stress around nutritional gaps and offer steady support without pressure. This isn’t about chasing perfection - it’s about helping your body feel balanced, even during busy weeks. Who Should Be More Careful? Anyone with serious health conditions, taking prescription medications, managing high blood pressure or other medical needs, or experiencing symptoms beyond normal stress should check with a doctor. Supplements can support stress and general health, but they are not a treatment, and certain ingredients can interact with other medications. The CHILL.com December Edit Your survival kit for the winter months:– Vitamin D: For low mood, low light, winter months– Magnesium: For stress levels, rest, sleep patterns– Reishi Mushroom: For emotional balance, wind-down– Zinc: For immune system support– Fibre: For digestion + steady energy Everything stress takes - we give back.

After weeks of festive food, fizz and far too little rest, many of us wake up in January feeling heavy, foggy and off-balance. Our gut health after Christmas often reflects the chaos of December - rich meals, irregular sleep, endless desserts. But the real post-holiday fix isn’t punishment; it’s nourishment.The most underrated support? Fibre. Why Gut Health Matters After Christmas Your gut is home to trillions of bacteria that help your digestive system function properly, regulate energy and even influence brain health. When this internal world loses rhythm, your enteric nervous system (the “second brain” in your gut) sends distress signals through the nervous system. Bloating, low energy, foggy focus - they’re simply messages. According to Harvard Health (2018), “The gut and brain are linked through the vagus nerve and a wide range of chemical messengers that send signals in both directions.” When you support gut bacteria through a diet rich in plants and dietary fiber, you help the central nervous system rebalance too. Most people approach January with restrictions - less food, less pleasure, more rules. But your digestive system doesn’t need fewer calories; it needs more plants, more fibre, and a balanced diet that supports repair. The Science of Dietary Fibre and the Gut-Brain Connection Fibre isn’t digested by you – it’s digested by your gut microbiota. These microbes ferment dietary fiber and release short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) that communicate with nerve cells in the enteric nervous system, calming inflammation and supporting energy regulation (Nature, 2023). A higher dietary fiber intake encourages good bacteria to thrive, which helps crowd out harmful bacteria. Over time, this supports a more diverse microbiome – the foundation of a healthy gut. A systematic review in Taylor & Francis (2024) reported that individuals with total dietary fiber intake above 25 g per day showed lower odds of digestive discomfort and better markers of overall health. Fibre is therefore not just about digestion – it’s a communication tool between your gut and your nervous system. How Dietary Fibre Helps Your Digestive System Recover During December, processed and red meat-heavy meals can disrupt microbial balance, causing digestive problems and occasional flare ups in sensitive systems such as irritable bowel syndrome. Returning to whole grains, vegetables and plant-based foods in January helps your digestive system find its rhythm again. Both soluble and insoluble fiber have different health benefits: Soluble fibre (oats, beans, apples) forms a gel that slows digestion, stabilising blood sugar and improving gut feeling of fullness. Insoluble fibre (vegetables, whole-grain breads) supports movement through the colon. Together, they maintain a healthy diet, improve regularity and nourish the gut microbiome. Gut Microbiome and Mental Health Your gut microbiome influences mood and mental health via biochemical messengers produced by bacteria. Numerous observational studies and meta-analyses highlight the correlation between microbial diversity and reduced stress symptoms (Frontiers in Nutrition, 2024). When you eat different foods and keep your fibre intake consistent, your body produces those beneficial metabolites that help your mental health and cognitive function stay steady. Think of it as nourishment for clarity, not a cure for stress. A varied plate leads to a diverse microbiome – one that can handle change, pressure and the occasional slice of leftover pudding. Building a Balanced Diet for a Healthy Gut Focus on variety A varied diet means exposing your body to different foods that feed other microbes. Try combining whole grains, vegetables, nuts and fermented foods like kimchi, kefir or live yoghurt. Choose the right foods Instead of avoiding, focus on adding: Oats and cereal fibre at breakfast Lentils, beans or chickpeas at lunch Leafy vegetables and brown rice for dinner Flaxseed and chia for snacks These high fiber foods promote good gut bacteria, regulate symptoms of sluggish digestion and protect long-term overall health such as heart disease risk. Support with probiotic foods and supplements Fermented foods and probiotic supplements top up your live bacteria levels, complementing your dietary fiber intake. Together, they help your digestive system work efficiently. The Festive Fibre Reset Ritual This six-step ritual blends food, rest and CHILL products designed to reset the gut, calm the nervous system and restore balance - gently. 1. Morning cleanse – Microbz Detox Probiotic Drink Start with warm water and lemon, then a serving of Detox Probiotic Drink by Microbz.Fermented with 15 strains of live bacteria and herbs like milk thistle and dandelion, it supports natural detoxification and gut bacteria balance. This daily shot encourages a healthy gut and primes your digestive system for the day. Pair with oats and flaxseed for fibre-rich fuel. You’ll feed good bacteria while giving your enteric nervous system a calm, steady start. 2. Mid-morning refresh – Fix8 Kombucha Swap coffee for Fix8 Kombucha, packed with live bacteria and antioxidants. Kombucha is one of the most effective fermented foods for restoring microbial balance after processed foods overload.Its tangy fizz and basil aroma also lift focus - supporting brain health and natural energy. 3. Midday flow – Pius Vita Organic Ginger Tea At lunch, choose lentils or chickpeas with whole grains and vegetables. After eating, sip Organic Ginger Tea to support digestion and ease post-meal heaviness.Ginger’s health benefits are recognised in both Ayurveda and modern health study reviews (PubMed, 2023), showing improved motility and comfort for the digestive system. This simple ritual helps your nervous system stay balanced through the afternoon slump. 4. Afternoon pause – physical activity and breathing Gentle physical activity like a walk improves circulation and stimulates your enteric nervous system. Movement plus a steady fibre intake keeps everything functioning smoothly without strain. If you need calm, re-brew Ginger Tea instead of reaching for caffeine. Supporting your central nervous system with calm hydration helps mental health and focus remain steady. 5. Evening unwind – Milk Thistle Plus by Hello Wellness Ease into the evening with gentle support for your body and mind. Milk Thistle Plus by Hello Wellness blends milk thistle, chamomile, burdock, and hibiscus - herbs traditionally used to soothe the digestive system, support liver function, and promote natural balance. Made with alcohol-free glycerite extraction, this formula works in harmony with your body’s overnight repair - helping you wind down, digest well, and wake up feeling restored. Why This Approach Works Fibre works with your body, not against it. By nurturing gut bacteria, feeding them with fibre, and allowing rest, you activate the gut’s self-regulating capacity. This interplay between dietary fiber intake, enteric nervous system and central nervous system keeps digestion, mood and energy aligned. Unlike extreme detoxes, this ritual restores harmony to your digestive system while also nurturing mental health. When the gut feels safe and nourished, the whole body - from hormones to focus - follows. A meta analysis of more than 60 trials (BMJ, 2022) linked steady fibre habits to improvements in overall health and reduced stress-related markers. That’s the quiet power of more fibre done right. A Day of Fibre in Action Time Ritual Focus 8 am Oats + Microbz Detox Kickstart gut bacteria & dietary fiber intake 11 am Fix8 Kombucha + fruit Hydration + live bacteria 1 pm Lentil bowl + Ginger Tea Plant based foods for a healthy gut 4 pm Handful of nuts + stretch break Nervous system support 7 pm Brown rice + veg + Milk Thistle Balanced diet & probiotic foods Every step keeps your gut microbiota fuelled and your digestive system stable - the true definition of self-care. Key Takeaways for a Healthy Gut and Calm Mind Feed, don’t fast. Your gut thrives on different foods, not deprivation. Fibre first. Aim for a total dietary fibre intake of 25–30g daily from plant based sources. Stay consistent. Regular fibre intake stabilises digestion and mental health. Rest matters. Sleep and routine support your nervous system as much as food. Use tools that work. Incorporate CHILL products – from Microbz Probiotic Drink to Fix8 Kombucha – to make the process enjoyable. This is not about a new diet trend; it’s about building calm through biology. Final Thoughts After Christmas, your gut doesn’t need a cleanse, it needs care.Through dietary fiber, fermented foods, and mindful rest, you give your digestive system space to recover. Over time, a steady fibre intake and gentle rituals build lasting balance between your gut microbiome and nervous system. At CHILL.com, we believe stress relief starts with the body, and our Gut Health Collection is designed to help you feed it right, treat it kindly, and find calm from within. Stress less. Live more.

The festive season can be both brilliant and brutal. On one hand, there’s connection, laughter, and that feeling of shared ritual. On the other: pressure. Endless invites. The unspoken rule that a drink in hand makes you easier, funnier, more social. But alcohol only works by hijacking your brain’s GABA system, briefly turning down stress before leaving you more wired, anxious, and often sleepless. Here’s the twist: you don’t need to rely on alcohol for that sense of ease. Enter GABA drinks, functional beverages designed to work with your body’s calming systems, not against them. They’re offering an alternative way to toast the season: connection without the hangover. Cheat Sheet (Skim-Ready) The issue: Festive season = social overload. Alcohol promises calm but disrupts sleep, mood, and long-term wellbeing. The science: Alcohol hijacks gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA), the brain’s main inhibitory neurotransmitter, creating temporary relaxation followed by rebound anxiety. The shift: GABA drinks and other functional beverages mimic the calming effect without the stress aftermath. The benefits: From better sleep and reduced social stress to healthier rituals and lower risk of high blood pressure, they show that alcohol free doesn’t mean fun free. Your toolkit: Explore alcohol alternatives like SENTIA Spirits, kombucha, or a well-crafted ginger beer to enjoy social ease minus the aftermath. For a deeper dive, keep reading... What Are GABA Drinks and Why Are They Trending? GABA drinks are a new wave of alcohol alternatives designed to deliver the same sense of relaxation that a glass of wine or cocktail might, but without the side effects. They tap into your body’s natural ability to regulate stress by boosting GABA levels, a key player in your nervous system’s ability to switch off. Unlike many soft drinks, these aren’t just “something to hold.” They’re part of the rise of functional beverages: drinks that don’t just taste good, but actively support wellbeing, from focus to relaxation. Gamma Aminobutyric Acid (GABA): The Brain’s Calming Chemical Messenger At the centre of it all is gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA). Think of it as the brain’s brake pedal. While other chemical messengers tell your body to get up, go fast, or stress out, GABA signals your nervous system to slow down. That’s why it’s known as the main inhibitory neurotransmitter, dampening excessive firing in the brain and creating calm, focus, and even paving the way for better sleep. Alcohol interacts directly with GABA receptors, which is why that first sip can feel like instant relief. But it’s a trick. Once alcohol wears off, your GABA system rebounds in the opposite direction, often leaving you restless, anxious, and craving another drink. GABA Supplements vs. GABA Drinks: What’s the Difference? Many people already use GABA supplements or calming blends with L-theanine to take the edge off. The difference is in the experience. Functional beverages are designed as social tools, a ritual you can enjoy with friends, not just a capsule you swallow alone. The benefits of GABA support aren’t about numbing out, but about balance: Improve sleep quality by calming racing thoughts Support mental clarity instead of brain fog Encourage relaxation without sedation May help with stress-related risks like high blood pressure It’s not about replacing alcohol with pills, but creating alcohol free rituals that feel just as rewarding. Alcohol, GABA, and the Festive Pressure to Drink Here’s the cultural catch: the festive season amplifies alcohol consumption. Saying no to an alcoholic drink often feels like saying no to connection. But alcohol doesn’t create connection, you do. What it actually does is override your GABA system, disrupt sleep, and fuel cycles of stress, craving, and withdrawal symptoms the morning after. Mindful drinking flips the script. It asks: what do I actually want from this glass? If it’s relaxation, social ease, or ritual, there are smarter alcohol alternatives that can give you all three without the downside. From Ginger Beer to Functional Beverages: Rethinking What’s in Your Glass Not every alternative has to be complex. Sometimes a craft ginger beer, non alcoholic beer, or even a beautifully served sparkling water with citrus can shift the mood. But the real evolution is happening in the functional beverages space, where drinks like SENTIA Spirits are engineered to target GABA receptors directly. Think of it as upgrading your ritual. Instead of defaulting to an alcoholic beverage, you choose a bottle that gives you the calming effect you’re looking for, without spiking stress later. Featured GABA Drinks from Chill Ready to try it? These alcohol free spirits are crafted to bring calm, connection and ritual to any occasion. SENTIA GABA Red 50cl: Herbal-spiced with sweet berry notes, ideal for relaxed evenings. SENTIA GABA Black 50cl: Earthy and peppery, built for lively conversation. SENTIA GABA Gold 50cl: Hops and schisandra bring warmth and balance to any gathering. Each is a functional alcohol alternative designed to elevate your ritual, minus the hangover. The Hidden Health Benefits of GABA Drinks Switching to alcohol free options isn’t just about avoiding hangovers. The benefits extend further: Better sleep → Alcohol fragments REM cycles, while GABA support helps you wind down naturally Lower blood pressure risk → Regular alcohol intake is linked to high blood pressure and heart strain Greater sense of relaxation → Supporting your brain’s natural GABA levels may help you feel calmer in everyday life Support for medical conditions → For those managing chronic stress, diabetes, or other medical conditions, alcohol free rituals are often a safer choice Choosing Alcohol-Free Rituals That Support Connection and Better Sleep You don’t need alcohol to mark the end of the day or the start of a celebration. The key is personal choice: creating a ritual that works for you. Maybe it’s pouring a complex GABA-based spirit over ice, maybe it’s a fermented food-based drink like kombucha, or maybe it’s simply taking pride in choosing an alcohol free glass at the party. The point isn’t perfection, it’s progress that feels good. Connection, celebration, and relaxation don’t belong to alcohol. They belong to you. The Future of Functional Beverages: Connection Without the Hangover The market for functional beverages is only getting stronger. From active ingredients like L-theanine to the smart science behind GABA levels, innovation is making it easier to find joy in the glass without the risks of alcohol. This social season, you have options: connection without the cost, ritual without the rebound, calm without the chaos. Stress less. Live more.

Saffron has always carried an air of luxury. Once worth more than gold, it was traded across empires to dye fabrics, flavour food, and mark rituals of joy. Harvested by hand from the delicate stigmas of the Crocus sativus flower, it remains the world’s most expensive spice - and a symbol of rarity. But saffron isn’t just staying in kitchens. In 2025, it’s showing up in randomised clinical trials exploring its impact on mental health, stress relief, and emotional wellbeing. Researchers are asking: could this golden thread, long prized for taste and tradition, also help us cope with the pressures of modern life - from chronic stress to sleep problems? The question is simple but intriguing: can saffron really ease stress in daily life - or is it just another expensive wellness fad? The Cheat Sheet (Skim-Ready) What it is: Saffron, from the Crocus sativus L. flower, historically prized for flavour and ritual. Why it matters now: Modern research suggests saffron supplementation may support mood regulation, stress relief, and sleep quality. The science: Active compounds like crocin and safranal may influence serotonin and reduce perceived stress in healthy adults. The catch: It’s expensive - but effective doses are small (≈30mg daily). How to try: Use saffron extract supplements, or blends designed for stress management and emotional wellbeing. For a deeper dive - keep reading. Saffron Spice: From Ancient Luxury to Mental Health Research Each thread of saffron comes from the stigma of the Crocus sativus flower. Harvesting is painstaking — around 75,000 blossoms are needed for a single pound. That’s why saffron is still called the world’s most expensive spice. Historically, it was associated with vitality, mood, and ritual. Now, researchers are discovering those ancient associations may have a scientific basis. What the Research Says: Saffron and Stress Relief Over the past decade, saffron supplementation has been put to the test in randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews. The results are promising: A 2024 systematic review of 46 clinical trials concluded that saffron was significantly more effective than placebo for depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders, with good tolerability (Han et al., 2024). In healthy adults, saffron extract reduced depressive symptoms and improved social well being, even during lab-induced stress tasks that normally lower heart-rate variability - a key marker of stress resilience (Jackson et al., 2021). A 2025 trial with 202 participants found saffron supplementation improved depressive symptoms over three months, with additional benefits for those struggling with sleep quality (Lopresti et al., 2025). Another 2025 study showed saffron therapy reduced anxiety, improved emotional well being, and enhanced sleep quality (Dormal et al., 2025). Taken together, saffron seems to interact with serotonin pathways, contributing to mood regulation and reduced stress perception. The Price Problem: Can You Try Saffron Without Overspending? Here’s the reality: saffron can cost £7–10 per gram. But that doesn’t mean it’s out of reach. Supplements: Clinical trials use ~30mg per day - far less than a cooking portion. Blends: Some stress management supplements combine saffron extract with adaptogens, making it more affordable. Daily rituals: Adding saffron threads to tea or warm milk can offer both flavour and ritual calm - though not the concentrated doses seen in trials. Saffron Dosage and How to Take It One of the most common questions around saffron therapy is how much is enough. The good news: the effective dose is small. Clinical dosage: Most randomised controlled trials use around 28–30mg of saffron extract daily, often standardised for crocin and safranal content. How to take it: Saffron supplementation is usually taken in capsule form for consistent dosing. Look for extracts that clearly state standardisation levels. Food vs supplements: Cooking with saffron spice adds flavour and ritual calm, but it won’t deliver the concentrated amounts used in clinical research. Timing: Trials typically split the daily amount into one or two doses, often taken with meals to improve absorption. Safety: Saffron is generally well tolerated in healthy adults, but high doses (200mg+) may cause side effects like dizziness, nausea, or digestive upset. If you’re exploring saffron supplementation, start with evidence-based doses and always choose reputable brands with transparent labelling. Stress, the Nervous System, and Why Saffron Matters Stress affects more than your headspace - it impacts physical and mental health. Chronic stress can raise blood pressure, disrupt sleep, and trigger unhealthy habits that worsen overall health. Saffron’s bioactive compounds may help break that cycle. Deep Breathing & Guided Imagery Breathing practices calm the nervous system, lower blood pressure, and ease tension. Guided imagery adds a quick mental reset to manage stress in the moment. Physical Activity Exercise lowers cardiovascular risk factors, improves mood regulation, and reduces chronic stress. Physical activity and saffron both support balance between body and mind. Balanced Diet A healthy diet with whole grains, lean protein, and vegetables keeps blood sugar steady. Saffron supplementation may be most effective when paired with a balanced diet. Avoid Unhealthy Habits Too much caffeine, alcohol, or processed food worsens stress and disrupts sleep quality. Avoiding unhealthy habits makes space for healthier coping tools. Self-Care Rituals Small rituals like journaling, stretching, or even saffron tea can ease perceived stress and support emotional well being. That doesn’t make saffron a cure - but it does mean the world’s most expensive spice is showing surprising therapeutic effects in everyday stress management. How to Manage Stress Beyond Supplements Like any single tool, saffron works best when it’s part of a healthy lifestyle. Think of it as an enhancer, not the foundation. These strategies, alongside saffron supplementation, can help you cope with stress and maintain balance in both body and mind. The Chill Take Saffron is a reminder that sometimes ancient wisdom meets modern science. It’s not a magic cure-all, but in the right dose, it may help with stress relief, sleep quality, and emotional well being. At CHILL, we believe in progress, not perfection. Stress management is about finding tools that fit your life - whether that’s deep breathing, self care, or even saffron therapy. Stress less. Live more.

Valentine’s season carries a quiet expectation. You’re meant to feel open, emotionally available and ready to give more. More time. More attention. More presence. When connection feels quieter than usual in everyday life, it’s easy to assume something must be wrong – with you, with the relationship, or with how much effort you’re making. For many people, that assumption doesn’t match daily life. You still care. You’re just running low on capacity. That lack of capacity shows up in ordinary, often unspoken moments: leaving messages unread because replying feels like effort. Cancelling plans not because of disinterest, but because you don’t have the bandwidth. Sitting next to someone you love and feeling emotionally flat – not detached, just tired. This isn’t a personal failure. It’s emotional exhaustion shaped by chronic stress and the pace of modern life. When Capacity Drops, Connection Changes Emotional exhaustion is one of the most common – and most misunderstood – experiences in everyday life. You may still care deeply about your personal relationships, yet feel emotionally distant in ways that don’t make sense. Conversations require more effort. Emotional response feels slower. Physical touch may feel overwhelming rather than grounding. You might notice yourself feeling emotionally vulnerable but unable to explain why. These signs are often mistaken for emotional withdrawal or loss of connection. In reality, emotional exhaustion isn’t the absence of emotion. It’s reduced access to your own emotions. When someone feels emotionally detached, it doesn’t mean they’ve stopped caring or become less emotionally attached. It usually reflects limited capacity rather than a loss of connection. Emotional access often returns once pressure drops and the nervous systems involved feel safer. The Shift: This Isn’t a Relationship Problem Here’s the shift that changes how many people understand what they’re experiencing: This isn’t a relationship problem. It’s a capacity problem. When emotional capacity is low, trying harder often backfires. Pushing yourself to communicate more, feel more or show up differently increases pressure. Pressure raises stress hormones and further limits access to emotional response. Pressure doesn’t restore connection.Safety does. This is often the moment guilt appears. You start monitoring yourself – how often you reply, how warm you sound, how present you seem. Not because you don’t care, but because you’re afraid that needing less means loving less. The First Relationship Affected Is the One With Yourself When capacity drops, the first relationship affected is often the relationship with yourself and your own emotions. Early signs of fatigue go unnoticed. Overstimulation gets ignored. Tiredness is pushed through because slowing down feels impractical. Over time, this weakens self awareness and disconnects you from internal signals. Rebuilding connection externally often starts internally. Noticing when your body needs rest. Recognising emotional vulnerability without judgement. Allowing yourself to pause without guilt. These small acts support nervous system regulation and create the conditions for healthier relationships. Learning to build self awareness helps you notice these shifts earlier – before disconnection sets in. This supports emotional well being and contributes to better mental health without pressure or performance. How Nervous Systems Shape Connection Connection isn’t only emotional. It’s physical. Our nervous systems constantly scan for safety in everyday life. When the system feels regulated, connection becomes easier. Attention widens. Emotional response softens. There’s more space to stay in the present moment instead of reacting automatically. Under chronic stress, the nervous system prioritises control and efficiency. Energy shifts away from openness and toward survival. Emotional access narrows – not because care disappears, but because capacity does. This is why emotional detachment often appears during prolonged stress. Nervous system regulation is crucial for restoring emotional availability. Emotional Detachment as a Boundary Signal Emotional detachment isn’t always something to fix. Often, it’s a boundary the body creates when too much is being asked. When demands stay high and recovery stays low, the nervous system reduces emotional access as a coping mechanism to prevent further overload. You may notice a need for more silence, less conversation or more physical space – not because connection has lost meaning, but because your system needs fewer signals to process. Seen this way, emotional detachment isn’t a failure of love. It’s a request for simpler, safer conditions. When those conditions are met – fewer demands, less pressure, more predictability – emotional availability often returns on its own. Mental and Physical Health Move Together Mental and physical health are deeply connected in daily life. When physical health is under strain, emotional regulation becomes harder. When emotional strain continues, the body responds through changes in heart rate, focus, sleep and overall sense of control. Over time, this bidirectional relationship can contribute to emotional exhaustion and reduced emotional well ]being. Large-scale research, including meta analysis, shows that prolonged stress affects cognitive function, emotional response and physical health together. This doesn’t require labels or diagnoses. It’s part of life. Supporting mental and physical health together is key to restoring capacity and protecting healthy relationships. Sleep, Stress and Emotional Capacity Sleep is one of the most overlooked foundations of emotional connection. Sleep problems – including trouble falling asleep, frequent waking or other sleep disturbances – keep the nervous system in an activated state. Over time, poor sleep contributes to emotional detachment, feeling emotionally detached and difficulty staying present in relationships. Supporting sleep doesn’t require perfection. It requires consistency and safety cues. Gentle evening routines, reduced stimulation, regular sleep times and intentional relaxation help signal safety to the nervous system and restore emotional access. Why Pressure Undermines Connection Pressure is often mistaken for care. When emotional capacity is low, being asked to try harder or cope better often leads to withdrawal. This is not resistance. It is protection. Connection does not return through performance or control. It returns when the nervous system feels safe enough to open again. This is why many Valentine’s messages miss the mark. They emphasise intensity at a time when many people are simply trying to manage stress, sleep problems and tiredness in daily life. Softer Forms of Love Matter When energy is limited, love often shows up quietly. Sharing space without conversation. Brief, grounding physical touch. Sitting together without explanation. These moments may seem small, but they are often exactly what a depleted system can hold. The same principle applies to self support. Gentle movement, time outdoors, simple relaxation rituals and moments of rest help reduce background strain and support emotional regulation and overall well being. When Love Doesn’t Need Fixing If love or connection feel distant right now, it doesn’t mean something is wrong. It means your system has been under pressure. You don’t need to fix yourself or force closeness. You need rest, support and fewer demands – the conditions that allow capacity to rebuild. This Valentine’s, love doesn’t need to be louder. It needs to feel safe. And that is enough.

February has a reputation for being the hardest month to get through - and not because anything dramatic is happening. It’s the quiet tiredness that gets people. The kind that doesn’t announce itself as burnout, but shows up as friction. You wake up already low on energy. Small tasks feel disproportionately effortful (If this isn't you teach us your ways!). You cancel plans you’d normally enjoy, rely on caffeine to stay switched on, and leave messages unanswered - not out of disinterest, but because your capacity is thinner than usual. This isn’t laziness. And it isn’t a lack of motivation. It’s what happens when winter stretches on longer than our nervous systems are designed to tolerate, while modern life continues to demand full output. February sits at an awkward intersection: the novelty of January resets has worn off, spring still feels distant, and the body is quietly running on reserves. In other words, this isn’t a personal failure. It’s a seasonal pattern. And once you see it that way, the question shifts.Not “What’s wrong with me?” - but “What does my energy actually need right now?” This Isn’t Laziness. It’s Low Capacity Low energy levels in February are extremely common. They’re shaped by lifestyle factors that quietly stack up over winter: shorter days, reduced light exposure, disrupted sleep, irregular routines, ongoing stress. When energy drops, many people respond by pushing harder — more coffee, more control, more effort. But fatigue doesn’t respond to pressure. Here’s the shift that matters: Energy isn’t motivation. It’s capacity. And when capacity is low, even normal responsibilities can feel like too much. Feeling tired simply from everyday life isn’t a personal failure. It’s a signal that the body is running close to empty. Why February Drains Energy So Easily Energy is created and restored when the body can move between effort and recovery. During winter, that balance is harder to maintain. Stress, irregular routines and constant stimulation keep the nervous system in a low-level state of alert. Even when you rest, the body doesn’t fully switch off. You might spend enough hours in bed, but still wake up feeling unrefreshed. Other symptoms often appear alongside fatigue: difficulty concentrating lower emotional resilience feeling flat or detached These aren’t signs that something is “wrong” with you. They’re signs that your nervous system needs support. The Nervous System Sets the Energy Ceiling Your nervous system plays a central role in how energy is sustained. When it stays stuck in high alert — due to stress, constant notifications, late nights or irregular routines — energy drains faster than it can be restored. This is why rebuilding energy isn’t about optimisation or intensity. It’s about regulation. Supporting the nervous system helps the body move out of survival mode and into recovery, where energy levels can stabilise more naturally over the long run. Enough Sleep Is the Foundation Enough sleep is one of the strongest predictors of stable energy levels — but it’s not just about hours. Difficulty falling asleep, waking during the night, or lying in bed with a racing mind all affect how rested you feel the next day. Supportive sleep starts earlier than bedtime: keeping regular sleep and wake times reducing stimulation in the evening, especially screens and late caffeine creating a wind-down routine that signals safety to the nervous system Gentle evening rituals can help the body relax. Calming sensory cues, such as lavender-based pillow or room mists, are often used to support relaxation. Ingredients traditionally associated with grounding, like Reishi mushroom extracts, are commonly included in evening routines focused on balance rather than stimulation. Sleep works best when it’s supported consistently — not treated as a last-minute fix for feeling tired. Mild Dehydration Drains More Energy Than You Think During colder months, many people are mildly dehydrated without realising it. Thirst cues are weaker, but the effects on energy are real. Being mildly dehydrated can affect focus, mood and fatigue, making low energy levels feel worse than they need to be. Simple ways to support hydration include: drinking water steadily throughout the day balancing caffeine with fluids to avoid crashes limiting sugary drinks, which often worsen tiredness For busy days, electrolytes can support hydration and help fight fatigue without adding more effort. Food Supports Steady Energy Energy isn’t about eating perfectly. It’s about eating regularly. Skipping meals or relying on quick sugar hits often leads to energy dips that feel like exhaustion rather than hunger. Helpful principles include: regular meals to support stable energy levels including whole grains where possible choosing food that supports slow, steady energy A healthy diet doesn’t need to be strict. Consistency matters more than control when energy is low. Movement Gives Energy Back When you’re already tired, intense exercise can backfire. That doesn’t mean avoiding physical activity — it means matching movement to capacity. Supportive options include: gentle walking yoga or tai chi light exercise that improves circulation without exhaustion Exercise regularly if you can, but the goal is to feel more energised afterwards — not depleted. Breathing and Relaxing Activities Restore Capacity Energy improves when the body is allowed to relax. Breathing exercises can calm the nervous system and reduce background stress, even when practised briefly. Introducing relaxing activities into daily life doesn’t require silence or long sessions. Simple options include: short breathing exercises during breaks gentle stretching spending time outdoors without constant stimulation Studies suggest that regular relaxing activities support mood, focus and resilience during periods of ongoing stress. Remove Energy Drains Before Adding More Sometimes the fastest way to boost your energy is to stop losing it. Overuse of caffeine, drinking alcohol to unwind, irregular sleep patterns and constant stimulation all quietly drain capacity. Small lifestyle changes — gentler evenings, clearer boundaries around rest — often have more impact than adding new habits. For some people, talking therapies can also help reduce mental load and stress, supporting energy indirectly without framing fatigue as something to fix. Boost Your Energy by Meeting Yourself Gently When energy returns, focus improves. Mood steadies. Coping feels easier. Rebuilding energy in February isn’t about doing more. It’s about supporting sleep, eating regular meals, staying hydrated, choosing gentle physical activity and making room for rest. Over the long run, consistency matters more than intensity. The Takeaway Feeling drained doesn’t mean you’re failing. Low energy levels are a signal, not a flaw. When you stop pushing through fatigue and start supporting your body’s capacity, energy can rebuild naturally. This February, self-care isn’t indulgence. It’s maintenance. Find more supportive tools at CHILL.com. Stress less. Live more.

Valentine’s Day has quietly become… a lot. Somewhere along the way, it stopped being about care and started being about performance. Big gestures. Big feelings. Big expectations. All on one arbitrary day in February – when most people are already tired, overstimulated, and emotionally running on low. If that makes you want to do Valentine’s your own way, that’s not a lack of romance. It’s letting it be personal. This gift guide reframes Valentine’s as something calmer and more human: a moment for steadiness, comfort, and everyday support. Gifts that don’t demand emotion on cue – they simply help someone feel a bit more grounded in their body and life. Don’t Get Us Wrong – We Love Love Let’s be clear: we love love. We love connection, intimacy, romance, desire, tenderness – all of it. We’re not here to drain Valentine’s of meaning or pretend that closeness doesn’t matter. What we don’t love is the idea that love has to be loud, perfectly timed, or emotionally impressive to count. Real love shows up in quieter ways too. In checking in. In shared rituals. In creating environments that feel safe enough to soften. Sometimes it’s playful and exciting. Sometimes it’s steady and calm. Often, it’s both. This guide isn’t about doing less because you care less. It’s about choosing what actually feels good – for you and for the people you love. Because love doesn’t disappear when you slow it down. It usually deepens. Why Valentine’s Feels So Emotionally Loaded Valentine’s arrives at an awkward moment. It’s mid-winter. Energy is low. Nervous systems are already stretched. Yet culturally, we’re expected to show up emotionally open, romantic, generous and expressive – all at once. That mismatch creates pressure: Pressure to feel more than you do Pressure to prove intimacy Pressure to “get it right” But when capacity is low, love doesn’t disappear. It just gets quieter. The best gifts don’t try to force feeling back online. They support regulation so connection can return naturally – without demand. Calm Is an Underrated Love Language Not everyone wants roses and a dramatic speech. Sometimes love looks like: Helping someone unwind after long days Supporting emotional regulation Making everyday rituals feel softer These aren’t boring gifts. They’re attuned ones. They say: I see how life actually feels for you right now. That lands deeper than anything heart-shaped ever could. The Pressure-Free Valentine’s Gift Edit Get Closer – Connection Without Forcing the Moment The Get Closer Couples Intimacy Bundle is designed to support connection without putting anyone on the spot. Through thoughtful prompts, it helps partners explore closeness at a pace that feels natural – whether that’s playful, reflective or quietly meaningful. It’s a gift for people who want to feel more connected, without turning intimacy into a performance. Aphrodisiac Chocolates – Sensory, Thoughtful, No Pressure Aphrodisiac Chocolates by Playmate Labs are crafted to support intimacy through pleasure, not expectation. Expertly made with 60% single-source Colombian chocolate, they’re ethically sourced, vegan and gluten-free. Each box includes three flavours – Sicilian Blood Orange, Raspberry & Champagne, and Spice Toffee Caramel – and contains clinically studied ingredients such as Ashwagandha and Maca Root Extract to support relaxation, desire and overall vitality. Indulgent, intentional, and easy to enjoy without pressure. Moroccan Rose Mini Candle – Atmosphere Over Grand Gestures The Moroccan Rose Mini Candle by Aery Living is about creating a calmer emotional backdrop, not setting a romantic agenda. Its soft rose-led scent supports relaxation and presence, helping evenings feel slower and more grounded. A simple way to make everyday moments feel more considered – without needing to turn them into an “occasion”. Mindful Affirmations – Supportive, Not Overbearing The Mindful Affirmations for Love & Relationships offer gentle prompts that encourage awareness and emotional steadiness, rather than forced positivity. They’re designed to support healthier internal dialogue and more conscious connection – with others and with yourself. Ideal for anyone who wants reflection to feel grounding, not overwhelming. Euphoric Moodroller – Regulation You Can Carry With You The Euphoric Moodroller by Moods uses aromatherapy to support emotional regulation through scent and ritual. Designed to be used throughout the day, it offers a quick grounding reset when energy dips or emotions feel heightened. It’s subtle, personal support – the kind that fits into real life, not just self-care moments. Mind Spa™ Body & Bath Oil – A Ritual That Actually Gets Used The Mind Spa™ Body & Bath Oil by Clarity Blend turns everyday routines into moments of calm. With eucalyptus, patchouli, lemongrass and bergamot, it supports relaxation through both scent and touch – two powerful ways to help the nervous system unwind. A thoughtful gift for anyone who needs their self-care to feel practical, not performative. Who This Gift Guide Is Really For This isn’t just for romantic partners. These gifts work for: A partner who’s burnt out, not broken A friend who’s been carrying a lot Yourself (yes, that absolutely counts) Love doesn’t only flow one way on Valentine’s Day. And it doesn’t need an audience. The Takeaway We’re not anti-romance. We’re pro love that feels sustainable. Valentine’s gifting doesn’t need pressure to be meaningful. The best gifts support how someone actually feels, reduce stress instead of adding to it, and make care part of everyday life – not just one day in February. Calm isn’t boring. It’s love that lasts. Shop the Valentines Gift Guide on CHILL.COM Stress Less. Live More.

February has a reputation.It’s the month where love is either put on display or quietly questioned. Where relationships feel scrutinised, and being single can feel louder than usual. Where comparison creeps in and emotional capacity feels… thin. But here’s the reframe most people don’t hear: February isn’t hard because people are failing at love. It’s hard because the body is under-resourced. Low daylight, disrupted sleep, lingering winter illness, reduced dopamine and elevated stress all place pressure on the nervous system. When regulation drops, emotional bandwidth shrinks. Patience runs low. Connection starts to feel effortful. Even care can feel performative. This isn’t a relationship problem.It’s a nervous system regulation problem. February, Mental Health and the Weight of Winter By February, most people are running on reserves. The initial momentum of January has faded. The body is still adjusting to reduced daylight hours. Circadian rhythms are often misaligned, contributing to sleep disturbances, low energy and changes in mood. For some, symptoms overlap with seasonal affective disorder, while others simply feel flat, irritable or emotionally stretched. This matters for mental health because emotional regulation depends on physical regulation. When the nervous system is under sustained stress, the brain shifts into efficiency mode. Less patience. Less tolerance. Less capacity for nuance. You might notice: Lower mood or motivation Heightened stress or anxiety A reduced sense of control Difficulty feeling present or connected None of this means something is wrong with you. It means your system is responding normally to a challenging season. Relationship Pressure Hits Everyone — Just Differently February doesn’t only amplify biology. It amplifies pressure. If you’re in a relationship, there’s often an unspoken expectation to demonstrate closeness, harmony and gratitude. To prove the relationship is solid, loving and “good”. When emotional energy is low, this can create tension or self-doubt. If you’re not in a relationship, the pressure shifts. To want one. To be looking. To feel happy about it — or at least unaffected. Comparison with friends, family or social narratives can quietly erode confidence. Different circumstances. Same nervous system load. Whether partnered or single, many people feel a subtle sense of confusion, worry or emotional heaviness in February. This isn’t because relationships suddenly change. It’s because capacity does. Nervous System Regulation: The Missing Context When people talk about love feeling harder, advice often jumps to mindset, communication or behaviour change. But regulation comes first. The nervous system is responsible for how safe, connected and resourced you feel in your body. When it’s supported, emotional flexibility increases. When it’s depleted, even small interactions can feel overwhelming. Stress, reduced daylight, illness, disrupted routines and poor sleep all signal the body to conserve energy. Over time, this can affect mood, confidence and how we relate to others. This is why nervous system regulation has such wide therapeutic benefits. It doesn’t “fix” relationships — it restores the internal conditions that allow connection to feel natural again. Why Self Care Needs a Rethink Traditional self care advice often misses the point. It focuses on doing more, trying harder or adding another task to an already stretched day. Effective self care is about support, not optimisation. It looks like: Creating a steadier daily routine Supporting sleep and light exposure Reducing unnecessary pressure Choosing practices that calm rather than stimulate This might include gentle exercise or yoga, short exposure to daylight or a light box, or using an app that supports relaxation rather than productivity. These aren’t quick fixes — they’re ways of signalling safety to the body. The goal isn’t to force happiness.It’s to restore balance. From Performing Love to Returning to Self When regulation improves, something shifts quietly. You may notice: More emotional space Greater patience with yourself and others Less comparison A clearer sense of what you actually need This is where connection becomes easier — not because circumstances change, but because your nervous system isn’t constantly managing stress signals. Bringing things back to self isn’t selfish. It’s foundational. When people feel supported internally, they relate from steadiness rather than strain. Love stops being something to prove or chase. It becomes something you can participate in — or opt out of — with more clarity and confidence. When Extra Support Matters For some, winter symptoms tip into something heavier. Persistent low mood, anxiety or feelings of disconnection may benefit from additional support, including talk therapies or professional mental health resources. Nervous system regulation doesn’t replace treatment. It complements it. It creates the conditions that make coping, perspective and healing more accessible. If you’re struggling, speaking to a healthcare professional can help you explore what’s happening — physically, emotionally and psychologically. For extra support shop the Nervous System Regulation collection. February Isn’t a Test — It’s a Signal February doesn’t ask you to love harder, be better or figure everything out. It asks you to notice what your body needs. Reduced energy, emotional sensitivity and relational strain aren’t personal failures. They’re signals. Signals that your system may need more light, more rest, more steadiness — and less pressure. Supporting your nervous system isn’t about control. It’s about creating the conditions where wellbeing, connection and confidence can return naturally. Choose regulation, support and progress that feels good. Stress Less. Live More.

January hits and suddenly everyone is convinced their stomach is a crime scene. Searches for how to reduce bloating surge, influencers push “debloating workouts,” and the world collectively panics about abdominal bloating as if it’s a moral failure rather than a normal response of the digestive system. Here’s the truth:Feeling bloated after December doesn’t mean your digestive tract is broken — it means you’re human. Your gut, stomach, and digestive system are simply adapting to holiday foods, less sleep, more salt, more alcohol and, frankly, the cultural pressure cooker that is January. This is your permission slip to step out of diet culture and treat bloating as what it really is: a temporary digestive reset, not a crisis. Cheat Sheet (for the time-poor) January bloating = normal shifts in gut microbiome, gut bacteria, gut microbes and gut microbiota. Common causes of bloating: processed foods, vegetables eaten suddenly in large amounts, carbonated beverages, chewing gum, sugar alcohols, constipation, lifestyle factors and holiday eating patterns. What helps: steady meals, fermented foods, probiotics, probiotic supplements, gentle exercise, hydration, nervous system calm. What hurts: restrictive diets, skipping food, stressing about symptoms, overtraining, shame. Reframe: Your body isn’t failing. It’s digesting, adjusting, recalibrating. For a deeper dive — keep reading… Why January Bloat Feels Bigger Than It Is January is engineered to make most people feel behind — in their diet, their goals, their lifestyle, their overall health. Diet culture turns normal bloating symptoms into a problem requiring urgent treatment. But abdominal pain, stomach discomfort, gas, or feeling bloated after December are not signs something is wrong. They’re simply signs your digestive tract is responding to a different pattern of foods, sleep, stress and movement. Diet culture profits when your belly feels like a flaw.Biology says otherwise.   The Physiology of “January Bloat” — A Normal Reset January bloating has nothing to do with willpower and everything to do with the digestive system doing its job. 1. Your gut microbiome is adapting. Gut bacteria and other microorganisms shift quickly when your diet changes.More festive foods → more gas.More vegetables overnight → more intestinal gas.More fibre → temporary abdominal bloating. This isn’t failure. It’s gut microbes adjusting to new fuel. 2. Water retention mimics bloating. Salt, alcohol and processed foods make the body hold water, which can make the stomach feel full or tight. This is not fat — just fluid. 3. Constipation after December is extremely common. Changes in routine and stress slow the digestive system. Constipation is one of the most common causes of bloating — and one of the least glamorous parts of January no one talks about. 4. Stress affects digestion. High cortisol affects the GI tract, slowing motility and increasing abdominal pain or gas.January stress = January stomach. 5. Your gut doesn’t like sudden diet changes. Switching from holiday meals to huge salads and vegetables overnight is a classic way to feel more bloated. Your gut bacteria simply need time. Your stomach isn’t misbehaving.It’s adapting to life — with impressive loyalty, actually. How Diet Culture Turns Normal Digestion into Panic Diet culture thrives on turning everyday symptoms into emergencies.Feel bloated? Must “fix” it.Stomach looks fuller? Must restrict.Gas after vegetables? Must cut foods. But here’s what actually happens: Restriction → more stress → slower digestion → more gas → more bloating → more shame. The digestive system responds best to safety and consistency — not panic, not punishment. A Better Way to Reduce Bloating — Without Dieting or Shame Here’s what genuinely helps the digestive system and prevents bloating gently: 1. Eat regularly Skipping meals increases intestinal gas and slows the digestive tract.Your gut thrives with rhythm. 2. Gentle exercise Walking, stretching, low-intensity movement supports digestion and reduces constipation. 3. Add fermented foods + probiotics Sauerkraut, kefir, yoghurt — simple foods that support beneficial bacteria.Probiotics and probiotic supplements can help maintain live bacteria, but they’re a support tool, not a miracle cure. 4. Reduce habits that add air or gas naturally Carbonated beveragesChewing gumSugar alcoholsThese increase swallowed air or ferment easily — both common causes of bloating. 5. Go slow with vegetables + fibre Veggies are great, but doubling your intake overnight = more gas.It’s physiology, not bad behaviour. 6. Hydrate and move your body gently Helps the digestive system and intestines move smoothly. The Emotional Layer: The Real Weight Is Shame Most people aren’t upset by bloating itself — they’re upset by what they’ve been taught it means: “I’m not disciplined.”“I ate badly.”“I failed my diet.” But bloating symptoms don’t measure discipline.They measure digestion. Your body is allowed to change shape daily.Your stomach is allowed to soften.Your digestive system is allowed to fluctuate with foods, stress, alcohol and sleep. This is not a moral issue.It’s a human one. Opting out of Diet Culture, Not out of Yourself You can support gut health without dieting.You can reduce bloating without restricting.You can care for your body without punishing it. Choosing a softer start to the year doesn’t mean “giving up.”It means choosing health that feels humane — and sustainable. A Cultural Reframe for the New Year Your stomach is not a crisis.Your bloating symptoms are not a judgement on your worth.Your digestive system is not misbehaving.It’s adjusting, recalibrating, digesting life — literally. This January, choose nourishment over noise.Gentleness over guilt.Rhythm over restriction. Because when your gut feels supported, everything else becomes easier. Stress Less. Live More.

January arrives and suddenly everyone thinks salvation is hiding inside a HIIT circuit. New year, new sweat, new pressure to “push harder”. But when your nervous system is already juggling stress, tiredness and winter overwhelm, intense workouts can actually promote inflammation rather than help you fight it. Here’s the part nobody tells you:Slow, controlled movement can reduce inflammation more effectively than all-out intensity — especially when your system is running on empty. Because inflammation isn’t just about sore muscles. It’s the body’s inflammatory response to stress, sleep, food, hormones and your overall baseline. And when that baseline is already high, layering intense physical activity on top can nudge the body into chronic inflammation rather than healing. This is why slow workouts are becoming the go-to fitness reset of 2026:Less punishment. More regulation. Better recovery. A pace your immune system actually thanks you for. Cheat Sheet (for the time-poor) Why slow movement helps: Supports recovery and reduces inflammation Keeps cortisol stable Strengthens muscles without overstimulating the nervous system Helps prevent acute and chronic inflammation Improves mobility, sleep and overall health Best forms of slow movement: Tempo strength training Pilates-inspired conditioning Low-intensity cardio Zone 2 walking Mobility and stretching Anti-inflammatory foods and ingredients to pair with slow training: Turmeric + ginger Omega-3 fatty fish Leafy greens + colourful fruits and vegetables Flax seeds, whole grains, olive oil Tart cherry, magnesium, adaptogens For a deeper dive — keep reading… Why Inflammation Is So High Right Now Modern life is basically an inflammation amplifier.Stress? Raises cortisol.Poor sleep? Impacts the immune system.Sugary drinks, processed foods or fried foods? Can cause inflammation and spike blood sugar.Sitting all day then suddenly training intensely? The perfect recipe for acute inflammation to turn chronic. Research shows that chronic inflammation plays a key role in many long-term health conditions — from heart disease to Alzheimer’s disease — and can contribute to weight gain, increased risk of high blood pressure, and low mood. None of this means you’re doing something wrong. It means your body is signalling that it needs a different approach: calmer, slower, more supportive physical activity. And this is where slow workouts shine. Slow Workouts: The Anti-Inflammatory Reset You Didn’t Know You Needed Most people believe they need to do more — heavier, faster, longer. But slow, controlled training actually supports the body’s healing process in a way that high-intensity training simply can’t when your system is overloaded. Here’s what happens when you slow down: 1. You lower cortisol and reduce inflammation Cortisol isn’t the villain — it’s part of survival. But constantly elevated cortisol can promote inflammation throughout the body. Slow workouts regulate your stress response, helping the body decrease inflammation rather than add to it. 2. Your immune system gets space to do its job When inflammation is always “switched on”, inflammatory cells stay active. Slow exercise calms the nervous system so your immune system can return to balance rather than fight invisible fires. 3. You support joint health and mobility Tempo training and low-impact movement help reduce the wear and tear that can aggravate inflammation in your body, especially if you deal with stiffness or mild discomfort. 4. You build deeper, more stable strength Slow reps activate more muscle fibres with less strain. This is ideal if you want results without creating unnecessary stress or inflammation. 5. Recovery becomes part of the workout, not an afterthought The more restorative your sessions are, the less likely you are to experience lingering soreness or systemic inflammation. Your body stops surviving and starts adapting. What Slow Training Actually Looks Like Tempo Strength Training The method everyone in fitness is suddenly obsessed with — because it works.Think: 3 seconds down 1 second pause 2 seconds up This naturally reduces inflammation because it avoids the metabolic chaos of maximal intensities. Low-Intensity Conditioning Mobility flows, light kettlebells, Pilates-inspired circuits. This is exercise that supports your nervous system rather than overstimulating it. Zone 2 Cardio Walking, easy cycling, gentle incline treadmill.Backed by research for heart health, blood pressure balance and long-term inflammation support. Yoga + Mobility Encourages flexibility, supports blood flow and calms the inflammatory response. This isn’t “easy movement”. It’s efficient movement. Pairing Movement with an Anti-Inflammatory Diet (Without Going Extreme) Slow workouts work best when supported by anti-inflammatory foods — not a strict anti-inflammatory diet, just simple additions that help you fight inflammation through your daily food choices. Foods that support lower inflammation: Leafy greens (spinach, kale) Fatty fish (omega-3 rich) Flax seeds Whole grains (oats, brown rice) Olive oil and other healthy oils Colourful fruits and vegetables Green tea for natural anti-inflammatory effects Natural ingredients with anti-inflammatory benefits: Turmeric & ginger: Known for anti-inflammatory properties and widely recognised in research. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Support the inflammatory response systemically. Magnesium: Helps muscles relax, supports sleep and reduces stress-related inflammation. Tart cherry: A favourite for recovery and sleep. Adaptogens like ashwagandha or reishi: Support cortisol regulation and nervous-system calm. You don’t need a restrictive eating plan or a treatment plan. Just small shifts that support overall health without stress. How to Start a Slow Workout Routine That Actually Feels Good 1. Begin with physical activity that feels doable A 15-minute mobility circuit or a 20-minute Zone 2 walk is enough to start lowering inflammation. 2. Add one anti-inflammatory food to one meal each day A handful of leafy greens. A sprinkle of turmeric. Inflammation changes through consistency. 3. Slow your reps before you add more weight It’s the simplest way to deepen strength without stress. 4. Check your stress levels, not just your fitness metrics If you’re constantly tired, wired, or recovering poorly, slow movement will likely support your body far more effectively. 5. Support your body with natural tools Magnesium, omega-3s, turmeric and tart cherry help you combat inflammation from all angles — stress, movement, sleep, recovery. The Softer Fitness Reset Your Body Has Been Asking For If your body feels tired of hustle culture, it’s not a lack of motivation — it’s biology.Inflammation rises when life feels intense. Slow workouts help bring everything back down to baseline, supporting movement, mood and recovery in a calmer, more sustainable way. This year, choose the reset that supports your body, not the one that overwhelms it. Stress less. Move smarter. Lower inflammation gently. Because the strongest version of you isn’t the most intense. It’s the most regulated.

When it comes to women’s intimate health, many of us have had to figure it out alone, with outdated advice, awkward conversations, and products that didn’t meet our needs. Questions like “is it normal to feel shame about my body?” or “are condoms causing irritation?” often go unasked, leaving people to figure things out themselves. Dr. Sarah Welsh saw this problem up close as a gynaecologist and decided to do something about it. In 2017, she co-founded HANX, a science-backed sexual wellness brand focused on safe, effective contraception (including condoms for sensitive skin), lubricants for menopause dryness, pregnancy supplements, and even a natural libido booster for women. Alongside her co-founder Farah Kabir, Sarah set out to challenge outdated products, break societal stigma around natural bodily processes, and close the knowledge gap created by inadequate sex education and shame-based messaging. We sat down with Sarah to talk about myths that won’t die, the problem with mainstream condoms, why lubricant deserves a little more respect, and her take on natural aphrodisiacs for women. From Doctor to Founder: Why Sarah Left Medicine for Vaginal Care Products Q: What made you quit your job for sexual wellness entrepreneurship?As a gynaecology doctor, I saw firsthand how underserved women especially are when it came to intimate health, especially with a lack of products that were both safe and pleasure focused. I co-founded HANX because I was tired of seeing outdated, male-centric products on the shelves that left women with soreness, itching and UTIs. I wanted to create a brand that genuinely put vaginal health first, with transparency, clinical insight, and no shame. Vaginal Myths, Intimate Shower Gels, and What We Should (and Shouldn’t) Be Using Q: What’s one myth about vaginal health you wish everyone would unlearn?That vaginas need to be constantly cleaned or scented. They don’t. Vaginas are self-cleaning! Over-washing or using perfumed products can actually do more harm than good by disrupting the natural balance. The Biggest Gaps in Women’s Health Education Q: In your experience, what’s the biggest gap in women’s health education today?That it’s taught reactively, not proactively. We’re often only taught about our bodies in the context of pregnancy or periods. There’s so much more to understand, from pleasure to hormones to autonomy. The majority of women suffering from illnesses such as Endometriosis or PCOS, are not taught about these conditions in schools nor are medical professionals. Ensuring there is a comprehensive education around women’s health conditions allows for correct diagnosis and compassionate care. Consent, Communication and Pleasure: How Sex Education Should Change Q: If you could rewrite sex education in schools, what would you actually teach?I’d start with consent, communication, and pleasure, because they’re just as important as anatomy and STI prevention. Sex ed should empower, not shame. It should be inclusive, factual, and reflect real experiences, not just textbook scenarios. Condom Innovation and Hormonal Health Q: What was the first product you knew HANX had to create - and why?Condoms. It seemed wild to me that we didn’t have condoms designed with vaginal health in mind. Most were full of unnecessary chemicals or packaged like nightclub flyers. I saw so many women in my clinic suffering from chronic UTIs and irritation from the chemicals found in mainstream condoms. We wanted to offer medical-grade products that people actually wanted to carry in their bags. Science-Backed Sexual Wellness and Product Development Q: Has being a gynaecologist shaped how you approach product development?Massively. Every product we create is rooted in science and safety. My clinical background means we never compromise on quality, because I know what’s at stake when we do. Our community is also one of the most important things we consider when approaching product development. We ask them what they want from us and we do our very best to give that to them!  Understanding Hormones Beyond Periods and Pregnancy Q: What’s one thing people get wrong about hormones?That they’re only relevant during your period or pregnancy. Hormones influence everything! Mood, sleep, libido, skin, energy levels. Understanding your hormonal rhythm is key to understanding yourself. The Most Underrated Intimate Health Product Q: If vaginas had a PR agency, what would their rebrand headline be?Controversial: I don't think vaginas need a rebrand! It's the outdated attitudes towards a very normal part of our bodies that really need reshaping. If I ran a PR agency for vaginas, I'd focus on changing those perspectives: squeamishness, body shaming and ignorance need to go. Cutting Through the Noise: How to Tell If Wellness Trends Work Q: What’s the most underrated product or ritual for intimate health?Honestly, lubricant. It gets a bad rep, and no it’s not just for “dried up old ladies” (thanks for that one, Superbad). It’s not just for sex; it’s about comfort, confidence, and respecting your body’s needs. Q: How do you separate fact from fad in a world flooded with wellness trends?I would always ask, is there science behind it? Is it fear based marketing? Is it trying to solve a problem that’s not really a problem? At HANX, we take trends with a healthy dose of skepticism, your health should not be a trend. The Questions We Should Feel Comfortable Asking Q: What’s something you wish more people felt confident asking their doctor?“Is this normal?” So many people worry in silence about discharge, odour, pain, libido. Often there’s a simple explanation or solution. No topic is too small or too embarrassing for your health. Tackling Taboo Topics and Industry Backlash Q: HANX tackles a lot of taboos - has there been any backlash, or was the world more ready than we think?Definitely both. We’ve faced challenges, whether it’s advertising restrictions or the word “vagina” being flagged. But we’ve also seen incredible support and hunger for honest, science-backed conversations. People are ready, they just need permission to speak up. A Milestone Worth Remembering Q: What’s one milestone moment in your HANX journey that really stuck with you?Seeing our products in mainstream retailers for the first time. It felt like a real shift, like the world was catching up with what we knew people needed. Also, hearing from customers who say HANX helped them feel seen or empowered. That’s what keeps me going. Breaking the Cycle of Shame Q: What would you say to someone who feels shame about their body’s natural functions?You are not alone. Shame thrives in silence. But your body is doing exactly what it’s designed to do, and it deserves care, not criticism. Talk about it. Ask questions. The more we normalise it, the less power shame has. Why Women’s Intimate Health Deserves More Attention Dr. Sarah Welsh isn’t just talking about better sexual awareness, she’s building it, one science-led, stigma-free product at a time. From condoms designed for comfort and sensitive skin to pregnancy supplements with folic acid and iron, through to lubricants for menopause dryness and a libido-boosting product for women, HANX is redefining what wellness looks like. Their mission? To tackle outdated products, break down shame, and close the knowledge gap with expert-led resources and innovation that puts women’s health first, from first-time sex to menopause and everything in between. Her take? Shame has no place in healthcare. And when we stop whispering about things like hormones, discharge, and how to improve vaginal health naturally, we finally get the support we’ve been missing. Your body isn’t embarrassing. It’s brilliant. It deserves care that works. Curious to try HANX? Explore their full range of condoms for sensitive skin, lubricants for menopause dryness, pregnancy supplements, and more intimate health essentials here.

Brothers, creators, and wellness disruptors Simon and Andrew Salter are on a mission to reimagine what it means to feel good. DIRTEA isn’t just a supplement brand; it’s a movement rooted in centuries-old wisdom and powered by today’s science. Their journey started with a simple question: What if the future of health didn’t lie in doing more - but in doing better? At DIRTEA, they’ve built something remarkable. A brand that bridges old and new, nature and innovation, stillness and performance. Their goal? To make functional mushrooms part of everyday life - not as a trend, but as a trusted, timeless tool for clarity, balance, and resilience. We caught up with the Salter brothers to talk about burnout, brotherhood, building movements - and the small rituals that change everything. 1. You’ve both had such a unique journey - from launching a global campaign about men’s health to creating DIRTEA. What first sparked your interest in wellbeing, and how has that evolved over time? SIMON & ANDREW: Growing up, we were surrounded by a generation that approached health reactively. Seeing your doctor regularly was normal - but the depth of knowledge shared, or time spent understanding the root causes? Not so much. It wasn’t their fault; it came from a legacy of not knowing better. Our parents, our schools, even our food systems were all wired to respond after the problem had occurred. We were taught biology by dissecting frogs, but no one taught us how to understand our own biology. The curriculum didn’t teach us how to regulate stress, manage energy, or optimise our minds. It didn’t teach us to prevent disease - only how to identify it once it showed up. By 2019, we had already begun our mission with Feeling Nuts, pushing conversations around men’s health into the mainstream. But our deeper personal journey had already begun. We became obsessed with the idea of prevention over cure - how to live in sync with our circadian biology, ancestral rhythms, and natural medicine. We leaned into nature, ancient practices, and tools that today are gaining mainstream traction - but back then were seen as fringe or “woo woo.” Simon, in particular, was quietly doing it all - mouth taping, grounding, cold immersion, sauna, forest bathing, journaling under trees. Things that were once labelled eccentric are now going viral on TikTok. And the reason is clear:We are living in an era where stress has become a status symbol. Burnout is branding. If you're not always plugged in, you're falling behind.It’s not ambition anymore - it’s addiction. DIRTEA was born out of that paradox. Out of the noise. We wanted to create something that helps people slow down, reconnect with nature, and reclaim their health - not with gimmicks, but with tools rooted in thousands of years of wisdom and backed by modern science. 2. Let’s talk about mental wellbeing. Was there a point in your journey where things felt out of balance - and what helped you start finding your way back to yourself? SIMON: Oh yes - stress was accepted, even glorified, in the early stages of building our companies. We weren’t educated about the impact on the body, so it was easy to ignore. But when you run on empty long enough, the body pushes back. And when it does, it’s not subtle. Anxiety. Fatigue. Panic. And worst of all - not knowing why. That tipping point, as uncomfortable as it was, became our moment of awakening. We started asking different questions. What if the solution wasn’t more hacks or more hustle, but a return to what’s always been there? Rest. Rhythm. Ritual. Nature. Mushrooms. The wisdom of the ancients, backed by the science of now. That curiosity became our compass. That breakdown? It led to the breakthrough. 3. #FeelingNuts was bold, brave, and way ahead of its time. What made you want to talk openly about male cancer and vulnerability - especially in a world where that’s still a tough conversation for many? SIMON & ANDREW: Owning your mortality at a young age is devastating - especially when it comes to something like testicular cancer. What hit us hardest was this brutal truth that: every death from testicular cancer is needless when caught early. It’s one of the most curable forms of cancer - if people know how to check and aren’t too ashamed to talk about it. The turning point came when we met Wendy Gough, who had lost her son to testicular cancer. She handed us the emotional and practical tools to make a difference - and in many ways, gave us the permission to take her life saving message and turn pain into action. What we did understand was culture - how people communicate, connect, and share. Our aim was to make this message entertaining, human, and impossible to ignore. This was 2014. Vine was exploding. Instagram was becoming the platform. And everyone wanted their five minutes of fame. We knew if we could package the tools of how to keep in check and turn it into a peer-to-peer social challenge - something bold, even ridiculous, like a “crotch grab” with the hashtag #FeelingNuts - we could hack the algorithm of attention. We collaborated with comedians, creators, and celebrities - people like Ant & Dec, turned them into a pair of testicles to teach the public how to check themselves. Stephen fry educating how to check. We then understood the concept of how people like to challenge their community so we kicked off a crotch grab challenge that became the tipping point when the likes of Hugh Jackman, Ricky Gervais, Cara Delievinge One direction, and Nigel patrick harris accepted the challenge the movement became so big, We got Jack Whitehall to host a Channel 4 prime-time special. The world responded. The campaign reached over 1.5 billion people Spread across 157 countries Was covered by MTV, who said we came close to “breaking the internet" It was a cultural movement disguised as entertainment. We didn’t just raise awareness - we broke the silence. So why did we do it? Because if not us, then who? And if not now, then when? This was Wendy Gough's message, we were an extension of her mission. We’ve always believed in big ideas that create real change - and #FeelingNuts proved that when you combine purpose with creativity, the impact can be seismic. 4. DIRTEA’s all about natural support, daily rituals, and feeling good from the inside out. What role has functional mushrooms played in your own routines - not just physically, but mentally and emotionally too? SIMON: It's a small vote for the identity I reinforce: I value clarity, calm, and long-term health. Habits are the compound interest of self-improvement. Functional mushrooms became part of my day because they fit into a broader ritual - morning writing, movement, focused work. and they support the systems I rely on. I’m not chasing a spike in energy; I’m investing in resilience.  For me a real change comes from what you repeat and what mushrooms have become for me. A way to cast a vote every day for a healthier, sharper, calmer version of myself. 5. Running a brand, staying creative, and looking after your wellbeing - it’s a lot. What’s helped you both stay grounded when life gets hectic? SIMON: Two words: emotional insurance. That’s what we are to each other. We’re not just co-founders - we’re brothers, and that bond is ironclad. When things get heavy - and trust me, they can and will - having someone who’s in the trenches with you, who sees you, calls you out, and has your back unconditionally, that’s the difference between burning out and staying in the game. We want each other to grow. it s a rarity that keep DIRTEA alive  We live in a culture I believe that can sometimes worship the solo hero. The entrepreneur who grinds alone, never cracks, never asks for help.  The truth is, challenging times are on the horizon and it will question everything. And when that happens, what matters is who’s standing next to you when the lights are off and the noise is gone. For us, it’s this rare combination: radical support, honest feedback, and the ability to say “I’m not okay” without it being a weakness. We have learnt that is not soft - that’s what keeps us mentally aligned. 6. We talk a lot at CHILL about unlearning habits that no longer serve us. Was there a moment when either of you realised you needed to change how you looked after yourselves - and what did that shift look like? SIMON: There wasn’t one dramatic “aha” moment - it was more like a slow erosion. A quiet realisation that a lot of the things we once thought were fun, normal, or even necessary… were actually not serving our best interest for a future for the greater of good for our body and mind We started shedding the fake dopamine hits - late nights, people that didn't serve our pursuit, chasing the night, drinking too much, waking up with a foggy head and pretending that pushing through was some kind of badge of honour.  Now? We chase the real dopamine, cold, heat, meditation, journal, and drink rarely. We worship our sleep. We choose environments, habits, and people that compound positively. Not because it sounds good in a wellness post - but because there’s literally no upside to feeling low in the morning. In a world addicted to stimulation, the real flex is saying no. 7. For anyone out there feeling stuck, stressed, or like they’ve lost their spark - what’s one small thing you’d suggest they try, just to get started again? SIMON: Before you journal, manifest, or prayer - just get outside and sweat. Walk. Run. Lift. Breathe. Our body is the most underutilised antidepressant on Earth. 8. And finally… you're brewing your favourite DIRTEA blend. Where are you, who are you with (if anyone), and what about that moment feels like your version of ‘wellness made simple’? SIMON: Ah mate… I’m in Costa Rica, deep in the jungle, where the trees hum and the ocean’s just a short barefoot walk away. I’m standing on the sand, feet grounded where the tide kisses the shore, watching the sun rise slow and golden. My (future) wife is next to me, calm and glowing, and my kids are hanging off me - rolling in the sand, laughing, wild and free. There’s no phone. just…this . The kind of moment where time dissolves and you remember that most of the things that truly matter - sunlight, breath, connection - are free. I’ve got a hot cup of DIRTEA in hand - probably cacao or lion’s mane - and I’m sipping it slowly, savouring not just the drink, but the stillness, and the love all wrapped into one. That, to me, is wellness made simple - when you’re so rooted in the now, nothing else matters.  From bold ideas to quiet rituals, Simon and Andrew Salter are reimagining modern well-being, using the power of functional mushrooms to create simple, daily rituals that help us slow down, think clearly, and live more sustainably. Through DIRTEA, they’ve created more than a brand: they’ve built a space where ancient practices meet modern life. Whether it’s a morning cup of Lion’s Mane to spark clarity or a rich Cacao blend to anchor the moment, each ritual is an invitation to be more present, more intentional, more grounded.  Curious? Try DIRTEA for yourself and experience how small daily rituals can shift the way you move through your day!

Meet the founder of Full Power Cacao, where wellness, connection, and personal growth come together, one cup at a time. Liam Browne created this brand not just as a product, but as a way of life rooted in purpose, presence, and community. For Liam, cacao isn’t about chasing perfection or quick fixes. It’s about slowing down, tuning in, and creating space for joy and real transformation. His journey hasn’t been a straight line - it’s included moments of deep challenge, reflection, and renewal. But along the way, Liam discovered something that helped him reconnect with himself in a more honest, grounded way: ceremonial-grade cacao. What started as a personal practice soon became a mission to help others feel more connected, more alive, and more Full Power. We caught up with Liam to talk about mental health, daily rituals, and what it really means to build a life (and a brand) around healing and heart. Tell us a bit about yourself - who are you beyond the bio?LIAM: Honestly, there’s not much beyond the bio - what you see is what you get. My life’s all about spreading Christ-consciousness, the yogic path, and helping people awaken to the greatest version of themselves. FULL POWER CACAO isn’t just a business - it’s my life’s purpose. It’s how I share joy, authenticity, and a deeper sense of meaning with the world. I’m big on laughter, fun, realness. I want people to own their story - not to dwell on where they’ve been, but to focus on where they’re going. And make sure that destination is powerful, beautiful, and FULL POWER. Outside of that? I love football. Manchester City are my team. It’s one of the few things that lets me totally switch off and be present. But even that’s part of the path - finding joy in the little things. FULL POWER CACAO is how I serve the bigger picture. One person at a time... or sometimes 300 when we’re doing ceremonies. Was there a moment you realised your mental health was struggling? What did that look like for you?LIAM: Yeah - when my mum passed away in 2007, it knocked me off my axis. I was living in London, doing loads of drugs, selling drugs - just fully in that chaos. I had this story in my head that mental health stuff was for Southerners or soft people. Lads like me - from council estates in Manchester - we didn’t get depressed. We just cracked on. But that wasn’t true. When I lost my mum, I lost everything. I was completely numb. The turning point came when I got arrested with a serious amount of drugs. Suddenly I was facing prison time, and it shook me to my core. I started going to AA meetings - even though I didn’t really consider myself an addict - and working through the 12 steps. That’s when I started seeing that I was the common denominator in all my problems. It was never them - it was always me. It was a long process. Six years of suicidal thoughts, of waking up feeling like life had no point. I’d lost my spark. The part of me that used to light up a room, make people laugh - it was gone. Or so I thought. What was really happening was that the old version of me was dying, and the real me was starting to emerge. That process is painful - peeling back all the ego, the stories, the old programming - but it’s worth every second. What helped you start to move through that period? Were there any key shifts or turning points that stand out? LIAM: The 12 steps started it. Moving back to Manchester helped. Getting into yoga and meditation - even though at first I was maybe like, nah, that’s not for me. But then I went to India, found the spiritual path, and everything changed. A massive moment for me was on a Buddhist retreat, when I heard this teaching that anger is a choice. I’d always thought it was something that just happened to me - like I had no control over it. But realising I had a choice in how I responded? That was a game-changer. It was like two stone of weight lifted off my shoulders. From there, it was about showing up. Every day. Doing the work. Yoga, breathwork, study, practice. It’s not glamorous, but it’s where the transformation happens. How has working with cacao supported your mental health journey - and how did that lead to creating Full Power Cacao?LIAM: Cacao’s been massive. It’s like this ally that’s always there - supporting your clarity, your focus, your emotional state. It’s loaded with feel-good chemicals like phenylethylamine, tryptophan, dopamine, serotonin - all in gentle, natural amounts. But honestly? It’s not just about what’s in it. It’s about what it represents. For me, cacao brought purpose. Creating FULL POWER CACAO gave me a reason to get up in the morning. It aligned with everything I’d been building toward - my healing, my path, my mission. I couldn’t have launched it until I’d done enough work on myself to lead from a place of authenticity and integrity. And I’ve found that the more I give to cacao - the more I serve its spirit - the more abundance comes. In energy, health, wisdom, community, finance. FULL POWER CACAO is a mission, a movement. Not just a product. When things were tough, did you feel able to talk about it - or did it feel like you had to carry it alone?LIAM: I did talk to friends, but when you’re deep in it, there’s always that fear you’ll bring others down. I was searching for help, for something - but it took a while to understand that real support exists. And once you get that, and you accept that no one’s going to save you for you, then you start to open up. And that helps a lot. What’s been most helpful in looking after your mental and emotional wellbeing over the years?LIAM: Yoga. No question. The postures, the breathwork, the stillness - all of it. It helps you shed what’s not serving you and remember who you really are. When you’ve got purpose, things start to line up. You feel more steady. You start living with intention. And emotionally, it’s about release. I believe real masculinity is about being able to cry. To feel. To be raw. Not performative - not crying all the time just to show it - but having that capacity to feel deeply and then move forward with strength. You went on Dragons’ Den - not exactly a low-pressure setting! How did you prepare for that experience, and do you have any tips for staying grounded in nerve-wracking situations?LIAM: For me, it was all about mindset. I didn’t see it as the be-all and end-all. I’d already decided FULL POWER CACAO would be a success - with or without investment. That flips the script. You walk in offering them something, not begging for approval. That’s powerful. Before we went in, I did breathwork. I chanted mantras in the hallway. I called in the energy of cacao, trusted in the spirit that guides this whole thing. And I stayed busy beforehand — didn’t overthink it. I knew my worth. I knew my numbers. The rest was out of my hands. If someone reading is having a hard time right now, what would you want them to know - from someone who’s been there?LIAM: You have to show up for yourself. That’s the first step. Start identifying what’s not serving you. Be honest. Brutal, even. Cut it out. Replace it with things that feed your soul - yoga, meditation, breathwork, time in nature, stillness. Stop drinking. Stop numbing. And realise: you can flick the switch. You can decide - right now - that you’re going to figure this out. You’re going to move toward joy. But you have to let go of the old to welcome in the new. That’s the work. And finally... you’re off to a deserted island. What three things are you bringing with you? LIAM: A water purifier. Mala beads so I can chant mantras. And a machete - for coconuts and general survival. I thought about a hammock too, but I’ll build one. Hopefully this island’s somewhere warm, not the Outer Hebrides or something! But honestly, it sounds like bliss. A chance to go deep, meditate, and just be.

The holiday season is the perfect time to celebrate, recharge, and show appreciation to the people who light up your life—and maybe even yourself! This year, why not focus on gifts that bring wellness into every day, beyond just the festive sparkle? We’ve rounded up ten unique wellness gifts that make it easy to embrace self-care, connect with loved ones, and enjoy a season of true comfort and joy.  1. Choc-O-Shroom by Quirky Monkey Cosy up with a cup of Choc-O-Shroom—a decadent mix of raw cacao, cinnamon, and functional mushrooms like Reishi, Lion’s Mane, and Cordyceps. These adaptogenic mushrooms are known for their energy-boosting properties, making this hot chocolate blend more than just a treat. There’s even a touch of Maca Root for an extra wellness lift, making it ideal for those seeking gifts to improve wellbeing in the new year. Why it’s a great gift: Vegan, keto-friendly, and gluten-free, this UK-made blend is the perfect choice for those who want to enjoy a relaxing holiday wellness gift. It's ideal as a festive self-care treat for friends or a relaxing ritual for yourself. 2. Dandy Smoke Non-Alcoholic Spirit by Crossip For a holiday drink without the hangover, Dandy Smoke is a fantastic non-alcoholic gift option. This spirit features smoky lapsang souchong tea, pine, and warming spices like cinnamon and ginger. Perfect for making festive mocktails, this alcohol-free alternative brings all the complexity of a dark spirit—without any of the downsides. Why it’s ideal for gifting: Pair it with Coke and lime for a rich, alcohol-free drink with a holiday twist. Non-alcoholic holiday gifts like this one make it easy to enjoy seasonal celebrations without sacrificing wellness. 3. Joyful Vibes Luxury Pamper Set by Clarity Blend The Joyful Vibes Luxury Pamper Set is a five-piece set filled with aromatherapy favourites to help anyone enjoy a stress-free season. With Herbal Tea Bath Brew, Sweet Dreams Pulse Points Roll On, Sweet Dreams Aromatherapy Candle, and a lavender-scented eye pillow, this set promotes deep relaxation and restful sleep—making it one of the best stress-relief holiday gifts on the list. Why it’s perfect: Packaged in recyclable materials, this sustainable holiday gift combines luxury with eco-consciousness. It’s a thoughtful way to give loved ones a slice of calm, and it’s ideal as a self-care gift for Christmas. 4. Get Closer Conversation Game: Table Talk by Intelligent Change Help loved ones connect on a deeper level this season with Table Talk, a card game offering 50 conversation prompts to spark open, meaningful discussions. This unique wellness gift encourages real connection, making it perfect for dinner parties or intimate gatherings with friends. Why it’s a meaningful gift: Perfect for those who value connection and quality time, this gift for the festive season fosters laughter, closeness, and understanding—things we all need more of. 5. Cacao Blend by DIRTEA The holidays can be busy, and DIRTEA Cacao is designed to help anyone de-stress. This adaptogenic blend of cacao, reishi, and B vitamins works to calm the mind and body, making it one of the top self-care gifts for Christmas for a little post-holiday relaxation. Why it’s a must-have: Great for gifting or personal use, DIRTEA Cacao is the perfect addition to any wellness routine, offering a soothing, relaxing experience to counter holiday stress. 6. Rebound Recovery Pack by Rebound Recovery Rebound Recovery Pack is the ultimate companion for holiday parties, helping with energy, immunity, and mood support. These party recovery packs, filled with 100% clean nutrients and botanicals, make it easy to enjoy celebrations without the dreaded next-day fatigue. Why it’s a go-to gift: This UK-made, vegan-friendly pack is a wellness gift for the festive season that can be used anytime someone needs a recovery boost, making it both practical and thoughtful. 7. Positive Energy Scented Jar Candle by Aery Living Nothing lifts the mood quite like a beautiful fragrance. The Positive Energy Scented Candle combines pink grapefruit, vetiver, and mint for a comforting aroma that’s perfect for the festive season. With a 50-hour burn time, this eco-friendly gift brings brightness into any space. Why it’s a fabulous gift: Made in England with sustainable ingredients, this candle is a sustainable wellness gift that’s sure to light up anyone’s day. 8. Cherry Oatmilk Chocolate Bar by Otherly Indulge in the festive season with the Cherry Oat Milk Chocolate Bar, a vegan-friendly treat made with oat powder and natural cherry flavour. With 43% cacao from Colombia and a smooth, creamy texture, it’s a plant-based delight perfect for any chocolate lover. Why it’s a top pick: Ideal as a stocking stuffer, this is a vegan-friendly gift that’s as indulgent as it is kind to the planet. 9. _Complete: Mushroom Extract Blend by myco:soul For those interested in adaptogenic wellness, the _Complete: Mushroom Extract Blend by myco:soul is a one-stop-shop for organic mushroom powders that supports energy, focus, skin health, and stress relief. This blend contains 7 mushroom extracts with a variety of benefits, making it one of the bestwellness gifts for a stress-free holiday season. Why it’s a perfect gift: With immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory effects, this adaptogenic gift is ideal for anyone looking to prioritise health and wellness. 10. JOY Atmosphere Mist by Spritz Wellness Bring brightness and balance to the season with the JOY Atmosphere Mist by Spritz Wellness. Handmade in the UK, this blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves and orange essential oils helps reduce stress by filling the room with traditional holiday aromas. Why it’s worth gifting: This aromatherapy mist is a premium gift for relaxation and self-care. Perfect for anyone who could use a boost, they’re a natural way to bring cheer to the festive season. These wellness gifts bring relaxation, joy, and self-care into any holiday routine, helping you and your loved ones start the new year with refreshed energy and peace of mind. Whether you’re looking for the best wellness gifts or eco-friendly self-care gifts for Christmas, each of these options promises long-lasting benefits well into the new year.

Menopause is a natural transition that every woman experiences, but it often brings physical, emotional, and mental challenges that can feel overwhelming. From sleepless nights to hot flashes, mood swings, and joint pain, this phase of life can affect women in profound ways. At OTO, we believe menopause shouldn’t just be endured—it’s a time when women should feel supported, empowered, and able to thrive. That’s why we created The Menopause Complex—a carefully formulated solution designed to transform the menopause experience for good. What Makes Us Different? Unlike many other menopause products, OTO’s approach doesn’t rely on hormonalinterventions. Instead, we’ve embraced the power of nature. Our Menopause Complex is packed with all-natural ingredients, including vitamins, minerals, adaptogens, and nootropics, scientifically proven to help reduce menopause symptoms in a healthy, balanced way. We call these Nutridaptives—natural elements that work together to harmonise the body and restore balance. Thriving, Not Just Surviving This is what we aimed to achieve with our Menopause complex. Stock piled with things to help with energy, mood, immune system, skin hair and nails and all the things that will make you feel better and beautiful. To us menopause isn’t just about enduring symptoms. We have found a way to help you thrive and we hope you love it as much as we do here at OTO. The Power of Natural Ingredients At the heart of The Menopause Complex are six hero ingredients, each selected for its unique ability to support women through the challenges of menopause. These natural powerhouses make up part of the 10 powerful nootropics and adaptogens and 11 essential vitamins and minerals that work together to offer over 79 science-backed health benefits.  Dong Quai Root – Known as the “female ginseng,” this adaptogenic herb helps regulate mood and emotional balance, providing relief during hormonal fluctuations. Korean Ginseng – A natural energy booster, Korean Ginseng enhances stamina and supports the immune system, helping you feel more energised and resilient. Vitamin D – Essential for bone health, Vitamin D helps maintain strong bones and supports overall well-being, especially important as hormonal changes affect bone density. Iodine – Critical for healthy thyroid function, Iodine helps regulate metabolism and energy levels, providing balance to the body’s systems during menopause. Vitamin B6 – This essential vitamin helps reduce tiredness and fatigue, supporting cognitive function and keeping you feeling alert and focused throughout the day. Evening Primrose Oil – Renowned for its ability to relieve hot flashes and support hormonal balance, Evening Primrose Oil provides soothing relief during the toughest symptoms of menopause. Gemma Colao - Founder of OTO  The motivation behind The Menopause Complex was a personal one to OTO founder, Gemma Colao: “Hormonal fluctuations have the power to completely disrupt our lives—whether through monthly cycles, perimenopause, or menopause. For me, managing hormones has been incredibly difficult. It’s not just a matter of age; my sister, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in her thirties, experienced early menopause due to her treatment. My mother went through menopause at the same time, while also battling breast cancer. This stage of life, which I hadn’t given much thought to, suddenly became central to my world. I quickly realised how little it’s discussed and how often women are left to deal with it quietly, without the support or conversation they deserve. Through OTO, I knew we had to do something about it. It wasn’t just about creating another wellness product, but developing something that truly makes a difference—something that helps women regain balance and feel empowered during this transformative time." A Holistic Approach to Wellness The Menopause Complex isn’t just another supplement—it’s a holistic solution that’s as beautiful as it is effective. We wanted to create something women could feel proud to own and display, not something to be hidden away. Designed with women’s health in mind, its premium natural ingredients work in harmony with the body’s hormonal shifts, helping to ease symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, and fatigue. Our formula is more than a quick fix; it’s a comprehensive approach to wellness, empowering women to embrace menopause with strength, grace, and confidence.

Here at Chill, we're all about banishing stress and discovering that perfect life balance. And you know what our magic formula is? It's a conversation as lively and refreshing as a sip of Punchy itself! So, let's kick back, take a sip, and delve into their mission for carbon neutrality. And, believe it or not, we'll also uncover the captivating spirit animals that bring their flavors to life.