7 happiness hoovers to ditch | Pastel hoodies

7 happiness hoovers to ditch | Pastel hoodies | Oily fish recipes

Ready to lose an hour of sleep this weekend?

Hello again! If you're a long-term subscriber, you might remember that I went on mat leave last May, leaving the brilliant Lauren to steer the good ship Well, 10 months have flown by in a flurry of feeds, nappies and pram walks, and overnight (it seems), I'm back at my desk – more motivated than ever to find the keys to day-long energy, regular endorphin boosts and sustainable wellbeing.

One thing I didn't consider when picking my return-to-work date, however, was the shift to British Summer Time. My baby's a good sleeper, but when you're breastfeeding for hours on end every single night, every extra minute of shut-eye counts. I, for one, could do with that extra hour – even if a four-day weekend is on the horizon. It's not just us new-ish mums who are impacted by the time change; women are much more negatively affected by the clocks going forward than men. We've been exploring why that is and what we can do about it.

This week has also marked the start of my training block ahead of the Hackney Half Marathon. The day I returned to work, I ran my first solo 10k since giving birth – no pram, no husband, just me and my incredible 00s playlist. There's no freedom like it. Whatever happens on race day, I fully intend to enjoy every long run I get to do on my own.

Miranda Larbi
Wellness Editor, Stylist

This week I'm…

Prepping… to go back into the office with packed lunches. My spring resolution is to save money on snacks and overpriced falafel bowls, so I'm obsessed with Roka's cute lunch bags as a meal-prep motivation tool.

Asking… my husband to get me a Munching Bunny bath bomb from Lush for Easter instead of an egg. Uplifting ylang ylang, sweet tonka and relaxing lavender all wrapped up in a cute, fizzy rabbit? Yes, please!

Is your social media habit negatively altering your brain chemistry?

We all know that social media is designed to be addictive. One minute, you're opening the app to look for a lunch recipe, the next, it's four hours later and you know everything an influencer did on their trip to Tenerife last week. That scrolling doesn't just steal precious time, though; it might be tweaking your brain chemistry. That's not great, but neuroscientists believe that these changes might be reversible. So, how worried should we be, and what can we do to protect our brain health while still enjoying a daily dose of content? Read on to find out.

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7 things that genuinely happy women never do (and how you can stop doing them)

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Get your spring on with these pastel coloured hoodies – ideal for rogue April gusts.

Antler / £95

Given that Antler is known for its travel expertise, you just know that this hoodie is going to be technically excellent.

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Colorful Standard / £70

Made from 100% organic cotton, this sandstone hoodie is perfect for avoiding post-workout chills.

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H&M / £49.99

A throw-back to the 00s, this cinched top has discreet seam pockets at the sides for phones and tamagotchis.

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Pangaia / £145

What could be more seasonal than a pop of crocus purple? This recycled cotton number is as Earth-friendly as it gets.

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Hollister / £29.95

Who said buttery yellow was over? Brighten up even the dullest of gym kits with a comfy dose of Easter-y dopamine.

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Represent / £160

Powder blue and super-soft, this oversized, slouchy hoodie is perfect for slinging on any time you need to leave home.

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"I'm a women's health expert – this is why your PMS is worse after a stressful month"

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Molly Cunningham is a registered nutritionist, food creator and brand ambassador for Ryvita.

Question

"I'm training for a marathon and want to ensure I'm fuelling correctly. What are some easy snacks I can incorporate outside of my meals to make sure I'm getting all the right nutrients?"

Answer

"When it comes to marathon training, fuelling properly can make a huge difference. Making sure you get the right nutrients plays a key role in improving recovery and giving you the energy needed for training sessions.

"A pre-run snack of a Ryvita topped with peanut butter, honey and banana is a solid option, giving a great mix of quick energy and long-lasting fuel for longer runs. The banana provides fast-release energy and potassium to support muscles, while peanut butter adds healthy fats and a bit of protein to keep you going without an energy crash.

"For post-run fuel, carbs (think: toast, rice, pasta) loaded with chicken, bacon and avocado help replenish energy and support recovery. The chicken aids muscle recovery, the avocado provides healthy fats to keep you full, and the bacon adds flavour and salt for a satisfying finish. Together, these options are easy to make, satisfying and give your body exactly what it needs for both energy and recovery during marathon training.

"Always remember: marathon training = carbs for energy, protein for recovery, fats for staying full. Oh, and don't forget to stay hydrated!"

Do you have a question for a health and wellness expert? Send it to us on Instagram @strongwomenuk, and it might be answered in the next newsletter.

Give your overworked brain a boost with these omega-3-rich oily fish recipes

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Take on an unforgettable weekend at the Strong Women Adventure Trek

This summer, we're heading back to the Lake District on Saturday 18 July for our second Strong Women Adventure Trek. Join us for an epic 10km adventure as you tackle a range of action-packed activities in small groups, including canoeing, rock climbing and more. Every activity is designed to spark adrenaline, build confidence and help you conquer the ultimate summer challenge.

This year we're introducing an optional overnight stay on 17 July at YMCA Lakeside. Overnight tickets include entry to the event, a selection of dorm‑style accommodation, a community buffet-style dinner, and breakfast before setting off the next morning.

If you're a loyal fan of the Strong Women Trek then we're also returning for our half-marathon hike on Saturday 20 June – and we're heading to an all-new route in Amersham.

Both events finish at the event village, where you can collect your goody bag and finishers' medal, and celebrate an incredible day outdoors.

BOOK YOUR PLACE