Hello, Everyone! 

I'm kicking off the start of December (and blogmas) talking about some of my favorite characters and movies! I'm talking about the ones you watch on a Friday night after a long day at work, that you know will just lift your spirits. 

As much as I love my superhero films, and maybe a little bit of Star Wars, there are some movies that I don't have to think much about and have a cute romance to follow. I can just put it on and have a giggle, nothing serious.You know, the feel good kind!

Cinderella

Even though it's live-action and one of the newest Disney films, Cinderella is probably my favorite film to watch. We all know the story and have seen the stunning blue dress that's made from butterflies and magic. The transition from animation to live was perfect me, from the mice to the pumpkin carriage. I'm not usually a "princess" kind of girl, but this movie makes me want to go a ball in a puffy dress and dance around until midnight.

Meet the Robinsons

This has to be one of the most under-rated Disney movies ever made. I never grow tired of watching it and I actually enjoy it more than some of the classics. It's a movie all about family and finding somewhere you belong. The main character Lewis is an orphan and an inventor, that meets another boy from the future and his hilarious household. There's so many quirky characters that make you laugh, and the message that come across is so heart-warming. I cry at the end Every. Single. Time. 

About Time 

I've always loved the concept of this one. The male members of Tim's family can travel through time and change certain events. He, of course, uses it to get his dream girl, but things don't always go smoothly. This isn't your average rom-com though, there's a big emphasis on family and doing the right thing. It's one of the sweetest movies that gives me feels every time.

Bride Wars 

I can't tell you how many times I have watched this chick-flick. It's just one of those films that you can switch off to and have a laugh. I find a lot of my own qualities in Kate Hudson's character Liv; she's stubborn, a little bossy, and loves food! I really enjoy the wedding planning element of this movie, plus it stars a young Chris Pratt. This one is at the top of my go-to Friday night list. 

 Mary Poppins 

I don't really need to explain this one, do I? The catchy tunes, Julie Andrews, the animation come to life. It's a classic and it cheers me up every single time. I really wish I had a friend like Bert to dance around with!

50 First Dates 

There are so many sweet things I can say about this movie. I absolutely adore Drew Barrymore and her character is so lovely and quirky, yet she doesn't let anyone boss her around. I think every girl likes to know that she's worth all the chasing and I love that Adam Sandler's character doesn't give up. Plus, they filmed it in Hawaii! My favorite place on earth. It has everything a feel-good movie needs.

Legally Blonde 

I recently watched this one again and remembered how inspiring Elle Woods is. Not only is she kind to everyone, but she also gets right back up when everyone pushes her down. She always reminds me that no one can tell you that you're not good enough. I can't think of a more uplifting movie if I ever need one.

This Means War 

I haven't sat down and watched this one in a while, but I would in a heart-beat! What's better than a Tom Hardy movie? Having Chris Pine (and those big blue eyes of his) in the same film. They're basically both trying to win over the same girl (Reese Witherspoon) while making adorable messes of themselves. Did I mention they're both spies as well? No wonder she has trouble choosing one of them. It's funny with a bit of action and not one, but two leading men; you can't go wrong.

Hairspary 

Oh the music, the dresses, the adorably young Zac Efron! There's so much fun and heart in this movie that you can't help but tap your feet along to it. I think what I like most about it is that the morals behind it e.g don't judge a book by it's cover and good will always triumph evil. Tracy doesn't let negative people get to her and she won't judge you for a single quirk. This movie is just really uplifting and perfect for when you're not having the best day.

The Parent Trap 

Nothing like a bit of nostalgia! I don't know how many times I watched this as a kid, but I've always loved it. I could never decide which sister had it better: riding horses on a ranch in California or being cozy in England. Either way, I wanted to be them! I also love all the pranks the girls pull on each other at camp and them discovering that they actually are sisters. Peanut butter and Oreos are still the best idea ever.

Those are my top 10 feel-good movies! I'd love to know what some of your favorites are down in the comments :)

Steph x.

Great Ways To Reward Yourself After Exercise!

As much as working out can be it's own reward (feeling strong/awesome/unstoppable) everybody deserves a treat for doing well with their fitness. It doesn't have to be a trip to McDonald's or anything else that will undo all of your hard work. Nor does it have to be spending a tonne of money on new Nike gear. Although that can be pretty fun from time to time!

These are budget-friendly ways to help you feel great after exercise, that you can easily add to your daily routine. They are things that I personally like to reward myself with that help me feel great and stay positive about my fitness. Even on bad days where you're just not feeling it, but you go to the gym or for a run anyway, it's those days especially that you deserve a reward. These journeys are tough and we should all be proud of ourselves for doing our best to achieve our goals.

Create your dream smoothie 

I'm talking berries, mango, coconut yogurt, anything that you love all blended to create an amazing smoothie. What's better than something that helps refuel your body and tastes like something they drink on tropical islands? It will leave you feeling refreshed and can help you cool down too. Also a great way to add more fruits into your diet. 

Zesty Shower Gels 

This one is a personal favorite of mine. Whenever I've gone really hard working out that day and I'm dying to get clean again, a shower gel that smells fresh and zesty is just what I need. Lush always have some amazing scents, as well as the Body Shop (I've been using their pina colada one and it's so good!) You'll feel amazing and ready to take on the day.

Take a selfie and share how great you feel

If you follow me on Instagram, you'll know I'm not shy to the occasional mirror selfie. Some days you just feel awesome and may have noticed a few gains. I absolutely love seeing selfies from other fit-girls who are proud of their progress, I find it really inspiring! Get you phone out, find a nice mirror and have fun striking a few poses! Share how great you feel and it might convince others to take up their own journey.

Write down and compare your progress

You body actually improves faster than you think, which is why it's great to write down your workout results. Even though it can seem like you're making slow progress, if you have a notebook that allows you to look back a month, you'll be surprised by how far you've come! Hard work and dedication are rewarding when you hit those goals and make great progress. When you hit a milestone, it may be time to treat yourself to some new workout gear ;)

Meet a friend for brunch 

I don't now about you, but a morning workout followed by smashed avocado and poached eggs, alongside coffee and good company, sounds like a great reward! A lot of brunch menus have healthy options that are full of protein, so you always have the excuse of needing the muscle repair (if in doubt, go for eggs on toast.) This is something me and my Mum do every single Saturday after our hill run. We look forward to it all week and it's something to focus on when I'm half-way through. Food is such a great motivator!

Get all glam just for yourself 

I absolutely love doing this! As much as I can feel like a bad-ass in my gym gear, I always look forward to putting on my favorite skirt and a flattering top. Maybe a little red lipstick if I'm feeling confident. Wear your favorite outfit and feel amazing for the rest of the day. You've worked hard at the gym, so use that confidence to add some glamor into your routine (and show off all those squats you've been doing.)


Treat yourself to an acai bowl 

Not only are these heavenly to look at, but they taste amazing too! It's rewarding yourself with something sweet, while getting the benefits of this amazing super-food. It's rich in antioxidants and can help you maintain a healthy weight. Most places will add some muesli to their acai bowls, so they make for a great mid-morning snack. And my favorite part is the awesome Instagram pic you can share!


There we have it, some easy ways for you to reward yourself after exercise. I would love to know what you guys do to lift yourselves after a workout, let me know in the comments!

Steph x.

Don't forget to follow me on Bloglovin' for more fitness posts!

Taking Care Of Youself

I've had a couple of epiphanies this month, which resulted from my quarter-life crisis resurfacing. Aren't those the best? Anyway, after shedding some tears and getting a bit of clarity back, I came to realize that I had stopped focusing on my own well-being and it meant that my mental health was suffering for it. But no more! I decided to come up with the best ways we can take care of ourselves and feel awesome everyday.

Stop comparing yourself to others! 

I don't know why it's so embedded in our behavior to make ourselves miserable with comparison. I think it's just easier to nowadays because of social media. I've found that lately I look at what successful bloggers have done and it makes me think that my current path is wrong. Which is so untrue! Everybody's journey is going to be different, so making comparisons is pointless. It's only robbing me of my happiness, which is not okay. Just take on good advice, but don't get overwhelmed by it. Keep your dreams in sight and just focus on your own path.


Do more of what makes you happy

Making time for the little things that make you smile is one of the best ways you can make everyday great. For me, it's trying new recipes, browsing Pinterest, writing new posts I'm excited about, watching the Sacconejoly family, and getting boxing lessons. Even seeing dogs having the time of their lives on a walk when I'm running always brings a smile to my face. Enjoy the things that make you happy and do them as often as you can. Life should be about having fun, so make the time and let yourself follow what you are passionate about.


Start writing in a journal

 When I struggle to keep my mind together and feel like I have a million thoughts/worries going through my head, the one thing that always helps is getting it onto paper. There's something very therapeutic about scribbling whatever is bothering you and it honestly makes you feel so much lighter afterwards. It's also a great habit to get into that will help stop you from bottling everything up until it becomes too much. Lesson. Learned. Plus, it's an excuse to buy more journals!


Find what makes you confident and rock it!  

Is there a greater feeling than being confident in yourself? Well, there's that first slice of pizza, but regularly looking in the mirror and saying "Damn I look good today!" is up there too. I definitely feel my best when I'm rocking a pair of Nike shorts (they make my butt look great!) or when I'm covered in sweat after smashing a great workout. Whatever makes you feel like the best version of yourself, go and do/wear that as much as you can! It will make you feel amazing and ready to take on the world. 


Appreciate every little quirk you have 

Taking care of yourself starts with acceptance that you deserve it. And you do! None of us are perfect and everybody has little quirks about them that only come out when we get comfortable. With me, I can be a total perfectionist, I get SUPER excited over little things, and I've been known to resort to sarcasm from time to time. But hey, I still believe that these things help make up who I am and I'm not changing them for anyone. Whatever quirks you have, embrace them and accept that you deserve to take care of yourself.


Sorry, I'm allergic to negativity

This is a big one for me, and it's something that I feel like you can be selfish with. We all have those kinds of people in our lives that drain you of your positive vibes with their complaining. Even if you have to share a workplace with someone like this, find ways to either turn their attitude around, or train yourself to stay positive. Walk away if you have to, because it affects your mental health more than you'd think and it's not okay. Live by the Positive Vibes Only mantra and don't allow negativity to come into your life. Your time is far too precious for that. 



Life can get crazy, so take time everyday for a little self-care and see how many goals you can achieve. I've certainly learned my lesson now and I feel better already.


What are some of your favorite self-care tips?
Steph x.