Happy first of May! It may be the month that university students everywhere have been dreading, but give it 22 days and my university career will be over – I don’t know whether to laugh or cry! It’s been the best experience of my life so far, and I’ve definitely learnt a lot over the course of it, so I think a big grin with a hint of gnashing teeth from the exam pressure will suffice for now.
Looking back over the last month, I’m also enjoying a sense of accomplishment. I went back to my “adopted hometown” of Paris, I took up running and I’ve given up chocolate, which has been surprisingly effective in my fight against bad skin. On top of that, I’ve created a few great recipes (along with a few flops!) and had the chance to bring awareness to ethical fashion. Here are a few of my favourites from April, and one exciting new project for the month of May!
1. Almond butter and maple smoothie
I’m still raving on about this one – it’s been quite the revelation, such a delicious smoothie made from solely plant-based food and no sugar at all! Maple syrup is becoming a firm favourite in my kitchen, alongside the giant tub of almond butter I have in my fridge, yum yum yum.
2. The Green Paris series
This was such a treat to put together, as I got to revisit some of my favourite places in Paris and also take a week out of my schedule to enjoy the sunshine with old friends! If you’re thinking of visiting and want to know the best spots to eat well (whether you’re vegetarian, vegan) and also get away from the tourist trail, take a look through my posts.
3. Deliciously Ella’s cookbook
I’m pretty sure that anyone who has the teeniest tiniest interest in eating healthily has heard of Deliciously Ella, or Ella Woodward to be precise. She’s a leading-light on adopting a fully plant-based diet, and her book has been really handy around the kitchen this month. My full review can be found here.
4. Plant-based spirulina smoothie bowl
Following on from a plant-based cookbook is my very own plant-based creation – this spirulina smoothie breakfast bowl that’s been a great boost after my (few and far-between) morning runs. The protein that the spirulina gives, along with a whole array of vitamins means that I’m keeping my body topped-up from natural, earth-friendly sources. If you are looking for other means of gaining protein after doing fitness that is suitable for vegetarians, I’ve written a review on whey protein and other sources here.
5. Nomads Clothing and Fashion Revolution Day
Tying in with the recent Fashion Revolution Day, where we asked who made our clothes, I reviewed Nomads Clothing‘s fair trade and organic clothing collection. You can read more about the beautiful shirt I was gifted and the shop itself here.
6. Ethical Living Challenge
My last favourite on the list is the Ethical Living Challenge, which starts today! I was kindly invited to participate in the 21-day challenge to raise awareness of living in a more ethical way (something that I am a strong advocate of, as it fits very nicely with “conscious living”). Taking place across 1st-21st May, you can join me in receiving email updates, challenges and surprises by signing up here.