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As the temperature rises and the days grow longer, summer brings joy and excitement. However, amidst sunny days and outdoor activities, it's crucial to prioritise your mental well-being. The season can also bring its fair share of stressors. This blog post will explore five effective ways to protect and nurture your mental health during the summer months.

Embrace the Power of Nature 

Summer is the perfect time to immerse yourself in the healing power of nature. Spending time outdoors has numerous mental health benefits. Take advantage of the longer days and explore nearby parks, beaches, or forests while soaking up vitamin D. Engaging in activities like walking, hiking, or cycling will not only boost your physical fitness but also uplift your mood. Connecting with nature allows you to experience a sense of peace, reduce stress levels, and improve your overall well-being.

Maintain a Balanced Routine 

While summer often brings a break from routine, maintaining a balanced schedule is crucial for your mental health. Adopting an erratic lifestyle during these months is tempting, but an irregular routine can disrupt your sleep patterns and overall stability. Aim for a consistent sleep schedule, ensuring you get enough rest each night. Additionally, strive for a balanced approach to activities like work, leisure, and personal time. A well-structured routine provides a sense of stability and promotes better mental health.

Practice Mindful Self-Care 

Engaging in mindful self-care activities is essential for nurturing your mental health. During the summer, prioritise activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Set aside time for hobbies, whether it's reading, painting, gardening, or playing a musical instrument, for example. You could also engage in mindfulness practices such as meditation or yoga to reduce stress and enhance mental clarity. Remember to listen to your body's needs and engage in self-care practices that nourish your mind, body, and soul.

Stay Hydrated and Practice Healthy Habits 

The summer heat can take a toll on your physical and mental well-being. It's crucial to stay hydrated by drinking an adequate amount of water throughout the day. Dehydration can cause fatigue, irritability, and poor concentration, which can impact your mental health. Additionally, prioritise healthy eating habits by incorporating fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole foods into your diet. Nourishing your body with essential nutrients helps support optimal brain function and overall well-being. As a side benefit, opting for a vegetarian/ vegan lifestyle is also greatly beneficial for our planet and our own sustainability.

Nurture Social Connections 

Summer provides numerous opportunities to foster social connections, which are vital in maintaining good mental health. Engage in activities that allow you to connect with loved ones, whether it's organising a picnic, going for a swim with friends, or hosting a barbecue. Socialising helps combat feelings of loneliness, boosts mood, and provides a sense of belonging. If you're unable to meet in person, leverage technology to stay connected through video calls or online communities. Prioritise building and nurturing relationships to strengthen your mental well-being.

While summer is a time of relaxation and enjoyment, it's essential to prioritise your mental health. Remember, taking care of your mind is just as important as caring for your body. Make these strategies a part of your summer routine and reap the benefits of improved mental health and overall happiness.

By Ellie Peach

The sun is beginning to come out a little more as we head into spring, so it's time to start dressing accordingly! Get yourself out of your thick woollies and the subdued colours that shine in the winter months, and start experimenting with some light and fun outfits that pop! Layered pastels and vibrant colours are a must this season, and we know just the sort of accessories you need to get you into the Easter spirit.

Bella Mustard Crossbody Bag

This dainty crossbody bag is the perfect addition to any flowy floral outfit. The weaved design alludes to a basket (giving a slight nod to the easter theme) and makes it a cute and fun picnic date bag. If colours are not usually your thing, this clutch might be just what you need to pull a stunning Easter look together. The vibrant mustard is the perfect pop of colour to turn a more neutral look into a statement. Pair your Bella with a floral dress and some sustainable trainers for a dreamy look. Below I picked out a cute dress from Aligne and our very own apple leather shoes!

Elm Shoulder Bag

The Elm shoulder bag is, without question, the chicest way to spruce up any old outfit this Easter. If a more refined look is what you are going for, the cute pastel pink of the Elm will compliment you well. The snake print and gold hoops add extra dimension to the pretty design and flatter the shape. Where the Bella would thrive on a picnic date, the Elm will look best with you at a garden party or a dinner with friends and family. Pair it with a white milkmaid top like this stunning Reformation design and an A line satin skirt, I chose this black skirt from Hollister!

Willow Blue Coin and Card holder

Sometimes, the last thing you want to do when you're out and about is carry a huge purse around with you all day. This coin and cardholder is the perfect size to slip into your trouser or dress pocket (if you're lucky enough to have snagged yourself a dress with pockets!). Alternatively, It will fit inside any small bag! There's no need for big bulky purses here, just grab your lightweight Willow and enjoy its simplicity! This pastel blue coin holder was made for spring with its cool tone and sleek design. It would contrast nicely with a floral dress, like the Izabel London blue dress (with pockets!) and some navy flats like these gorgeous sustainable Vivaia shoes!

Red Sycamore Backpack

If you are heading out for some egg hunting with the family this Easter, you need a bag that is as practical as it is fashionable. This vibrant red backpack will do just the trick! Its elegant design offers comfort and plenty of room for chocolate eggs and treats! Pair this backpack with some flares, and a halter top for the cutest spring look sure to turn heads. These Batsheva red flares and Aym halterneck top would make such a fun look!

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Multi colour bracelet

Jewellery is an excellent way to make any outfit feel complete. At LaBante, we have a range of statement pieces that should be a staple in your wardrobe, including an elegant range of moissanite necklaces. However, our final must-have for this Easter is our multi-coloured bracelet in gold plated sterling silver. This bracelet features beautiful blue, green, peach and silver to give you that fresh spring feeling. Pair your colourful bracelet with a mini skirt and blouse for a preppy and cute fit! Below is the Omnes skirt in blue and the people tree millefleur blouse.

Halloween is one of the most exciting holidays; however, it can prove incredibly wasteful unless you actively decide to be sustainable. With Halloween right around the corner, what better time than now to share our top tips for environmental consciousness this holiday season.