*There are PR items in this post. Please read the end of the post for more details. "Alexa - Play Summertime Sadness" The end of August is nigh,…
*There are PR items in this post. Please read the end of the post for more details.
"Alexa - Play Summertime Sadness"
The end of August is nigh, which means the end of Summer is nigh also. Sigh. As much as I hate the 30-degree UK heatwaves that none of us can cope with, I'll miss many of the aspects of Summer. The lighter nights, the warmer (not boiling hot) days, Summer clothes and Costa's Mango and Passionfruit coolers. Yes, the end of the Summer slump is here.
But yes, Summer is a season loved by so many and it's hard to say goodbye. There are only a couple of things that keep me positive during the transition from Summer to Autumn - Autumn fashion, colourful leaves and the Premier League season in full swing again. I'm not going to start thinking about the darker nights and cold weather just yet. I don't fancy having a tantrum about that - yet.
So, if you're like me and dread the end of Summer, here are some ways I'll use to deal with the end of Summer slump -
1) Make some goals for Autumn
Something I'll be doing before Autumn starts is making Autumn goals for myself. I'm not going to make too many huge goals, just small to medium-sized ones. The transition from Summer to Autumn can be tricky for some, including myself, so I'm not going to push myself too hard. Some examples of goals could be to take more walks in nature or even buy some Autumn-y drinks from Costa/Starbucks/Caffe Nero (delete as appropriate for your personal taste). Making goals can help give you focus and motivation, which is why it's perfect for me to make goals at the end of the Summer slump.
2) Be kind to me
They call it self-care for a reason - and that's what I'm going to do. That transition from Summer to Autumn is the optimum time for me to practice more self-care. It's important to give myself a break, and you too! Don't feel the need and pressure to please others, if you're struggling with the end of the Summer slump, then take care of yourself! Being kind to yourself is key in this period!
3) Stay out late
This does sound like a weird suggestion but bear with me. Rather than feel low about the thought of impending shorter days, make the most of lighter nights and stay out a little later than usual. Even if it's something as simple as taking a walk around the block, taking the dog for a walk or even sitting outside in your garden/on your balcony. I will make the most of the lighter days until they disappear to next year.
4) Plan a last-minute getaway (if possible)
Obviously with the cost of living, planning a last-minute getaway may not be affordable right now. I got a trip to Liverpool scheduled for the beginning of September (which I booked a couple of months back) and I think that will definitely help me with my Summer slump. It doesn't have to be a breakaway, it can be something simple as a day out on the beach, a day in the park or something of that nature.
5) Buy things that make you happy
It could be a big splurge to treat yourself, or even buying something as small as flowers (like these ones from Haute Florist) to just bring a bit of joy.
I'd love to know how you deal with the end of the Summer slump - let me know!
*These flowers from Haute Florist were sent to me as a PR item. All Summer slump views are my own. Please read my disclaimer for more information. Thank you for your support!
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It's surprising how often you look at your hands during the day. Whether that's doing errands, working or just scrolling on your phone, your hands are always in sight. However, my nails aren't a pretty sight, especially when they aren't manicured. So, where can I get a cheaper, fuss-free salon alternative? This is how I discovered Maniko nails.
So, who are Maniko?
Maniko is a brand that now makes stick-on UV nail strips made from nail polish. For real! Maniko's nail strips are vegan, cruelty-free, they're safe for pregnant women and are sustainable. The ingredients that are used to create Maniko UV nail strips are free from the 14 common ingredients which are known to cause irritation. Maniko strips are meant to last up to 14 days once applied.
You've convinced me to buy from Maniko, where do I start?
The best place to start is to buy a starter kit, which is currently half-price at £59! The kit includes 4 designs of your choice, a UV LED lamp, prep pads, a nail file, a manicure stick and a light protection sealing sticker.
I've ordered the starter kit and it's arrived! Now how do I apply the strips?
Here's a little step-by-step guide on how to apply Maniko nail strips:
1) Prep the nails by pushing back the cuticles (you don't want the strips to stick to your skin!), and file the nails to your desired shape should you wish.
2) Use a drop of the Maniko alcohol prep pad on your nails to make sure the nail surface is clean and ready for application.
3) Time to start applying the strips. Each pack has different sizes to fit each nail. We all have different nail sizes, so it's great that each Maniko nail strip pack caters for each nail size. If you are unsure what to choose between two sizes, choose the smaller strip option. Peel the chosen strip from the pack, and carefully stick it onto the nail. Press down so there are no creases or bubbles. Also, make sure not to apply strips onto cuticles.
5) Trim the strip with nail scissors - being careful not to cut too close to the edge of the nail. The genius side of this is that you can cut the strip in half and use the other half on the opposite nail!
6) Fold the excess over the nail and file off the excess horizontally using the Maniko glass nail file. It's important to not file the excess off in different directions as it can damage the strip, which could possibly mean the manicure may not last as long.
7) Put your nails under the UV LED lamp. First start with index, middle, ring and little fingers. Let them cure under the lamp for one minute. Repeat for the thumb. Then repeat the same process for the other hand.
8) Enjoy your new Maniko manicure!
What are your honest thoughts on Maniko?
An absolute game-changer. I really wish I discovered Maniko sooner! The nails genuinely lasted up to 14 days (as seen below) and I couldn't recommend them enough! I love that there's no dry time, it barely chips and no smudging to worry about. Also, there are so many beautiful different designs (both manicure and pedicure) so you are never stuck for choice! One advantage of Maniko nail strips is that you get up to 4 uses out of each pack. So much cheaper than going to a salon to have gels/acrylics applied and replaced every month.
Oh, I forgot to mention that the removal process is so easy and quick. Plus the strips don't leave any discolouration on the nails. Such a win-win. You can also travel with these, which is great in case a strip (tragically) comes away from the nail.
So if you're looking for a fuss-free salon alternative for your next manicure, look no further than Maniko!
I know that I will keep purchasing from Maniko for the foreseeable future! Let me know your thoughts below!
It's surprising how often you look at your hands during the day. Whether that's doing errands, working or just scrolling on your phone, your hands…
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