Home Blog Page 7

The ultimate guide to sustainable coffee

0

Coffee-Making Essentials for a Mindful Morning Brew

“But first, coffee” isn’t simply a mantra; for many of us, it’s a way of life. From the essential morning coffee run to that 3pm pick-me-up, our appetite for coffee knows no bounds. But with such high demand for this global commodity comes a far less appetising back story of forced labour, farmer exploitation, and environmental impacts that are hard to ignore. The conventional coffee industry, which owes much of its global expansion and success to colonialist roots and the slave trade, is known for unfair wages, poor conditions, deforestation, and single-use plastic waste. While this might leave a poor taste in your mouth, this doesn’t mean giving up blissful brews for good. If you want to make your coffee habit more ethical and environmentally friendly, we’re sharing our top tips with the ultimate guide to sustainable coffee.


Ethical, Fair Trade & Organic Coffee

Choose organic, high-quality, ethically sourced coffee beans and support local farmers and communities around the world.

Veo Staff Pick: LONDON GRADE COFFEE Espresso | Dark Roast Organic Coffee from South India


Stainless Steel Coffeeware, Coffee Filters & Accessories

Fancy yourself a barista? Brew manually at home with a range of high-quality coffee brewing equipment that consumes less energy and offers a better tasting sip.

Veo Staff Pick: LONDON GRADE COFFEE Aerolatte Glass Cafetière | 800ml Capacity


Coffee With A Twist: Mushroom Coffee & Kombucha Cold Brews

Coffee but not as you know it. Enjoy unique and delicious blends from superfood mushroom coffees to kombucha cold brews that offer added health benefits to leave you feeling refreshed.

Veo Staff Pick: MUSHROOM CUPS Go Sharp | Organic Instant coffee with Lion’s Mane and Chanterelle | 10 servings


Vegan Hot Chocolate & Coffee-Free Alternatives

Coffee not your cup? Cosy up with a range of coffee-free alternatives including vegan hot chocolate and rare tea blends for smooth sips that soothe the soul.

Veo Staff Pick: LONDON GRADE COFFEE Mörk Vegan Organic Hot Chocolate | 250g | 1kg


Vegan Chocolate Bars & Bites

Need something extra to go with your coffee? Enjoy a mindful bite with dairy-free, artisan chocolate bars and nibbles to satisfy your cravings.

Veo Staff Pick: FREEDOM CHOCOLATE Dark Coffee | Organic Vegan Chocolate | 30g


Huskee Cups, Handmade Mugs & Thermal Flasks

Ditch the single-use coffee cups and opt for reusable travel flasks, handmade mugs, and recyclable coffee cups for a zero-waste brew.

Veo Staff Pick: LONDON GRADE COFFEE Huskee Cup 6oz | Pack of 4 | 170ml


To shop the full Sustainable Coffee Edit, head over to veo.world to discover more.

The best organic facial essential oils to reduce wrinkles naturally

0

Ageing is a natural part of life but while most of us can embrace the idea of growing older and wiser, the physical signs of ageing are often much harder to accept. From increased dullness and age spots to dryness, wrinkles and fine lines; one glance in the mirror can often leave us longing for the youthful glow we once had.

But what causes these signs of ageing?

Although much of this occurs as part of the natural ageing process, there are certain lifestyle habits or poor skincare practices that can often speed this process up. Some of the most common causes include smoking, excessive drinking, sleep deprivation, lack of exercise and over-exposure to the sun’s UV rays. While we can’t reverse time or drink from the ‘fountain of youth’, we can still find natural ways to reduce wrinkles and slow down signs of early ageing.

One of the best natural solutions to reviving ageing skin is using essential oils. These oils have unique properties which can be used to solve an array of skincare issues including reducing the appearance of wrinkles and other signs of ageing.

Which Essential Oils Are The Best For Anti-Ageing?

In order to determine which essential oils are best, it’s important to understand the science behind ageing skin and how these oils can play a role in the process. One of the main factors that impact physical ageing is the presence of free radicals in the skin. Free radicals can be naturally made in the body but can also come from exposure to toxins, pollution, cigarette smoke, and the sun. These are unstable molecules that steal electrons from your skin cells, destroying DNA and causing skin damage. As we age we also naturally produce less oil and can therefore be prone to dry, cracked skin due to a lack of moisture. So any essential oil you choose should have free-radical fighting properties and/or moisturising abilities in order to provide a more youthful glow.

Luckily, we have an amazing range of anti-ageing skincare products right here on Veo that are toxin-free, natural and organic; formulated into luxurious blends that nourish and moisturise the skin while protecting against damage. Discover our top picks below:


ETHICALLY ORGANIC | Anti-Ageing Natural Organic Face Oil | 15ml or 30ml

This lightweight face oil fights dryness and refines the skin, whilst soothing, protecting, and providing optimal nourishment.

Combining high-quality omega 3, 6, and 9, vitamins A, D, E, and beta-carotene; this antioxidant-rich blend fights free radicals known to cause cell damage in the skin.

Naturally-reparative, Rosehip oil is known for its tissue-regenerative properties, which help to reduce signs of ageing.

Frankincense oil promotes the regeneration of healthy cells and also keeps existing cells and tissues healthy.

With powerful astringent capabilities, this face oil provides potent anti-ageing qualities, targeting fine lines and wrinkles.

How To Use

Apply a few drops to your fingertips and massage into your face and neck.


DOUVALLS | Organic Argan Oil Wrinkle Rehab Serum | 30ml

This plant-based collagen-boosting ceramide-rich formula includes organic cold-pressed Argan oil, Rosehip, Poppy, Hemp, and CBD, specially-made for ageing skin. Rich in fatty acids to protect and lock in moisture creating a barrier, with retinoids to repair, and CO2 extracted full spectrum CBD to help the signs of ageing, to soothe, dull, dry, and irritated skin. Replenishing anti-ageing nutrients that naturally reduce as we age. Skillfully blended with pure essential oils, Orange, Lavender, and Ylang-Ylang to brighten and tone skin by promoting collagen production, as well as rejuvenate, minimise the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and long term sunspots by improving cell structure and appearance of tired skin while restoring a natural glow.

Containing cold-pressed organic oils, essential oils and botanical extracts for their soothing, balancing, reparative and nourishing properties. 

How To Use

Add a few drops onto clean hands and pat onto cleansed, preferably damp skin every morning and night to lock in moisture. Can also be used on the neck and décolletage. Suitable for everyday wear. When applying take a few moments to breathe in the essential oils for aromatherapy benefits to calm and relax the mind. We always recommend wearing an SPF daily to prevent and protect against premature ageing.

TIP: Use without your moisturiser morning and night if you have oily/combination skin, for dry skin apply your moisturiser on top. Light enough to use under makeup as it is non-greasy, lightweight and fast-absorbing.


HAOMA | Anti-ageing Organic Natural Radiance Oil | 50ml

A gentle anti-ageing certified organic blend with Sweet Almond, Grapeseed, and Hemp oils together with essential oils including Frankincense, Ylang Ylang, Myrrh, and Sweet Orange for a replenished skin appearance.

Our Radiance Oil is specially formulated not to leave a heavy, greasy, sticky residue. It is quickly absorbed into the skin, leaving a silky smooth, nourished feeling.

How To Use

Shake before use. Use glass dropper to apply the desired amount into your hands and massage neck and face gently until absorbed.  


THE HEALTHY ZONE | Anti-Age Face Serum

An active, functional serum rich in bioavailable active ingredients that promote cell regeneration and stimulate the formation of collagen, counteracting its reduction due to the passing of time. The rich and precious formulation with Rosemary, Lavender, and Chamomile makes this product suitable for rebalancing skin reactivity subject to pollution and atmospheric changes while regulating deep moisturisation thanks to aloe and sebo-normalising the sebaceous glands. A serum suitable for all skin types, with a light and velvety texture, ideal both as a prevention and for counteracting the appearance of wrinkles and skin relaxation.

How To Use

In the morning apply a dose of serum to a cleansed face, gently tapping and massaging in. Wait a few minutes and apply the anti-ageing cream. Avoid the eye contour area. 


THE HEALTHY ZONE | Anti-Age Face Cream

Cream suitable for all skin types, with a preventive and supportive action to combat the appearance of skin wrinkles. The active ingredients it contains have a deep moisturising, regenerating and re-epithelizing action, the skin appears immediately brighter, more compact, and relaxed.

The complementary action of Rosemary and Lavender guarantees a sebaceous balance and normalisation of the epidermis. Thanks to its calming and soothing function, the azulene contained in Chamomile acts as an anti-inflammatory, regulating the production of histamine and consequently reducing the harmful effects of external aggression. The formulation with its light and velvety texture ensures rapid absorption.

How To Use

In the evening and morning, apply a small amount to the eye contour area, tapping gently until fully absorbed.


BOTANY BLEND | Vega | Rejuvenating Organic Facial Oil | Jasmine & Frankincense | 30ml

A synergy of rare organic Jasmine Extract, Neroli and Frankincense rejuvenates and heals by promoting the regeneration of healthy, fresh skin cells. Japanese Camellia, Evening Primrose, Apricot, Moroccan Cactus, and Argan are high in age-preventative antioxidants and rich in skin-nourishing fatty acids.

Luxury organic face oil Vega provides a protective lipid barrier that smooths and plumps while preserving elasticity and integrity. It feeds the skin with organic bio-actives to enhance healing, and support the skin’s natural barrier function.

Vega has a rich consistency and is recommended for use at twilight. For people with mature or dry skin, it can also be used in the morning, especially during the cooler winter months.

How To Use

Best used at night on cleansed, toned skin. Place a few drops onto the fingertips and massage into the face, concentrating on problem areas and areas of tension.

Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and shake well before use.


For more organic, natural, and toxin-free skincare essentials, head to veo.world/beauty to discover more.

The Best Foods To Help You Beat The Bloat

0

Bloating is something we’ve all experienced before. It’s that unpleasant swelling feeling that has you squirming in your seat or sometimes even doubled over in pain after a big night out or overindulgent Friday takeaway. Experiencing bloating from time to time is pretty normal but when it becomes a consistent feeling, there’s a good chance it could be linked to a more serious underlying problem. There are several potential causes of persistent bloating, from poor gut health and digestive issues to food intolerances. Not only do these issues cause bloating but they can also be detrimental to our mental health, resulting in brain fog, fatigue, and increased stress levels. While cutting out certain food groups such as dairy or gluten can often do the trick in solving these issues, there are also some great health foods that can actually help to stop bloating in its tracks. So in today’s post, we’re sharing some of the best foods to help you beat the bloat while boosting your overall wellbeing in the process.


1. Kimchi

Credit: Loving Foods

Kimchi is a traditional Korean dish made from fermented cabbage, typically served as a side or condiment. As well as being a delicious addition to your meal, Kimchi is packed with probiotics; ‘good bacteria’ that aid your digestive system to work more efficiently. When your gut is in optimal health, this reduces bloating and helps to boost mental clarity in the process. Want to add more kimchi to your diet? Shop our range of organic natural kimchi mixes, juices, and sauces in a variety of flavours here!


2. Dark Chocolate

Credit: Freedom Chocolate via @the.allergytable on Instagram

Not all chocolate is made equal and while milk and white chocolate contain dairy which could actually increase bloating, dark chocolate can actually have the opposite effect. While most of us hardly need convincing to indulge in a bar of chocolate, the health benefits of dark chocolate definitely make us feel less guilty about that post-lunch treat. Dark chocolate contains the highest percentage of cacao, a nutrient-rich substance packed with flavonoids that carry powerful antioxidant properties. Good bacteria in your gut feed on dark chocolate, releasing anti-inflammatory compounds that soothe the digestive system. Discover a variety of delicious dark chocolate bars in a range of blends and flavours with Freedom Chocolate, right here on Veo.


3. Mint Tea

Credit: NEMI Teas

Peppermint tea is often recommended for its ability to soothe digestive issues. Not only is it a refreshing beverage, but peppermint actually has muscle-relaxing abilities that can help relieve intestinal spasms, allowing air to pass through the body more easily. Additionally, peppermint tea can also relieve pain caused by bloating and cramping due to its anti-inflammatory properties making it a popular natural home remedy for gastrointestinal discomfort. Shop organic, natural, and compostable peppermint tea bags from NEMI Teas, here on Veo.


4. Kombucha

Credit: Loving Foods

If indulging in one too many alcoholic beverages on the weekend is the cause of your bloating, then kombucha might just be the perfect alternative. Similar to kimchi, kombucha is made from the fermentation process of tea which means it is packed full of probiotics that boost the good bacteria in your gut. This can help to reduce the amount of gas produced in your digestive system, reducing symptoms of bloating in the process. Swapping your next beer for a bottle of kombucha? Check out our range of kombucha flavours here!


If you enjoyed reading this, you’ll love our blog post on How Food Can Improve Your Mood! For our full range of superfoods, fermented foods, nuts, seeds, and grains; shop Health Foods here.

6 Sustainably Made Women’s Transeasonal Fashion Essentials For Autumn

0

Summer is officially over but with the end of one season and the start of another comes the return of transeasonal dressing. This type of styling ditches the need for seasonal ‘trendy’ outfits, in favour of timeless, versatile pieces that allow you to get more wear out of your clothing all year round. Creating a transitional capsule wardrobe is all about high-quality basics, neutral tones, and lots of layering. So if you’re looking for sustainably made women’s transeasonal fashion essentials to take you through to Autumn in style, keep reading!

1. Statement Mac

When it comes to transeasonal dressing, waterproof jackets are one essential you’ll want to invest in. Macs are a timeless classic for autumn; lightweight, practical and stylish – the perfect outerwear layer for day or night.


Team Veo Pick | Waterproof Mac

Brand | Protected Species

Ships From | United Kingdom

2. Classic Blazer

Credit: 1 People

After months of fun in the sun, nothing says ‘back to business’ like a classic blazer. Oversized styles reign supreme this season, layered over dresses, paired with wide-leg trousers or just about anything for a timeless sartorial chic look.


Team Veo Pick | Havana Linen Oversized Blazer

Brand | 1 People

Ships From | Denmark

3. Chunky Boots

Credit: Bohema

Chunky boots have become a beloved winter staple in the past few years with no signs of going anywhere. These vegan leather boots combine style with substance; offering both versatility and durability for long-term wear.


Team Veo Pick | Chelsea Riot Cactus Leather Boots

Brand | Bohema

Ships From | Poland

4. Minimal Trainers

Credit: RATION.L via Nina Lea Caine

From work commutes and coffee runs to walks in the park, a classic, minimal trainer is perfect for those warm, dry Autumn days out. Pair with wide-leg trousers, your favourite jeans, or a long coat for a timeless athleisure look.


Team Veo Pick: R-Kind Vegan Leather Unisex Trainers | Moon White

Brand | RATION.L

Ships From | United Kingdom

5. Denim

Credit: Fanfare

Whatever your style, nothing feels better than slipping into your favourite pair of jeans. The versatility of denim is unmatched making them a worthy investment for your wardrobe. Dress them up with a blazer and heels for the evening or keep them casual in the day paired with some classic trainers and a rain mac.


Team Veo Pick: High Waisted Recycled “World Lovers” Embroidered Jeans, Blue Denim

Brand | Fanfare

Ships From | United Kingdom

6. Midi Shirt Dress

Credit: Komodo

A midi shirt dress is the perfect transitional piece for those unpredictable autumn days. Lightweight fabrics and short sleeves keep this look fresh for warmer moments while the longer length is perfect for keeping out the chill when the temperature drops.


Team Veo Pick: Ash | Organic Cotton Midi Shirt Tie Dress | Pebble

Brand | Komodo

Ships From | United Kingdom


Whether you’re new to sustainable style or a slow fashion veteran, a transeasonal capsule wardrobe is one investment you’ll value for years to come. Shop our full Women’s Sustainable Transeasonal Dressing Edit for more!

Brand Spotlight: 1 People

0
1 people sustainable luxury brand

For this month’s Brand Spotlight, we sat down with 1 People, a Danish sustainable luxury brand that designs effortlessly timeless looks for conscious-minded women. With minimalism at the heart of their DNA, their products are meticulously handcrafted, offering simplicity and versatility for those looking to make the most of their wardrobe. People and planet-driven, they produce sustainable lifestyle essentials that are safe and comfortable to wear throughout the day. Keep reading to find out more about the brand and the amazing people behind it!


1. Tell us a bit about yourself and how you started 1 People

Credit: 1 People

Myself and my wife Rea Tjoa Algreen are both very oriented toward the same personal dream and objective. We want to grow in life as human beings and we want to make a difference for ourselves and future generations. We also have a bigger dream which is not about ourselves. Our dream is about a world without poverty and in peace and balance, a world that in any way has set people free to strive. We have now ignited our passion and commitment to create a better world through business and mindful leadership. Advocating that using sustainable practices as an effective platform can solve many problems of the world, namely poverty, climate change, and pollution. The concept of the company and name 1 People didn’t start as a fashion brand but rather as a way of doing business in another and better way – more aligned with people and planet. It was shortly after initial discussions on sustainable practices, we decided to build a lifestyle brand for conscious women who want to feel empowered and do good. We are now expanding into other product ranges and categories for diversified style seekers. Making it clear that comfort, style, sustainability, and fair pricing do not have to be mutually exclusive.

2. What inspired you to create 1 People?

We were inspired by our vision to use business in a direct way for creating a better tomorrow for more people and the planet. We do that by implementing a strong socially responsible and sustainable approach to how we do business. We truly believe that the future of business is the combination of being both profit-driven and taking a deeper and more comprehensive responsibility for both humanity and the planet. Therefore we call the future of business, Business For Planet, because it includes all, both nature and people. And we see this kind of business as being a hybrid between a traditional business and a traditional NGO.

3. What makes 1 People different from other fashion brands?

Credit: 1 People

We offer our audiences complete transparency, showcasing on social channels and on our website content and information on where our products derive from and how they are created. We educate, empower and engage who we reach on socials and through newsletters on the importance of sustainability and how to identify green initiatives in their own lives. Our strong USPs, also include; 365 day free returns and a money-back guarantee, 3 years warranty and worldwide free shipping. We also offer free-of-charge wellness masterclasses ranging from tea tasting to yoga, at our first regional office in Seminyak, Bali. To cater to the needs of our customers as per trends, all our designs are thoughtfully timeless so they support emerging trends and never fall out of fashion being suitable for all seasons. In response to the pandemic, we are now set to launch loungewear and extend our activewear range as people are working out at home and moving towards a healthier lifestyle.

4. What does sustainability mean to you?

Sustainability to us at 1 People is about; respect, fairness, equality, and integrity not just for the planet but the people within. We have high standards for how our products impact the environment, the people involved in the manufacturing, and the people using our products. People and Planet are the foundations of our existence. We take good care of all our employees and supplier’s employees, striving to protect and nurture the environment in every single step we take. We fully commit to giving more back than we take. We vow not to pollute and leave waste behind aiming for our existence and products to be safe for humans, animals and the environment.

5. In what ways does 1 People support the planet & community?

Credit: 1 People

Our in-house team of designers manage and take care of the R&D, design process, and sourcing. We have a number of criteria to look into before going for any supplier, like the right certifications for the materials used, the fair trade and workers environment etc. The most important part for the team is how the people working on our products are treated and in what conditions they are working, followed by the planet aspects, that is wastage, the amount of chemicals used and the origin of our materials. We prioritise the planet and the people within. We advocate fair working conditions rewarding everyone adequately for their time and talent. That is why all of our products are FAIR. At 1 People, we value and respect authenticity and transparency. We provide fair pricing for both our audiences and workers, our honest and sustainable supply chain aligns with our integrative ethos and empowers people on a global scale. Then there is Business for Planet, a programme we (Jonathan Tjoa and Rea Tjoa Algreen) founded most recently, due to our mission for business to be much more than profit. We provide free training and mentoring of entrepreneurs and people who want to become one, they come from all over the world. BfP is also a global network of entrepreneurs, alongside the mentoring we also provide funding for the attendees on the BfP programme through Impact Business Investment Group (IBIG). It must become the key driving factor to inspire social responsibility and a fairer world for the communities within. The company provides a wealth of useful information and guidance to support new entrepreneurs and help them find their voice whilst giving them the ability to establish long lasting, successful, business relationships and networks that will come to define what social responsibility truly means.

6. Tell us about the biggest challenge you’ve faced since starting 1 People

There are many obstacles to building a business and this has been (and still is) also the case for 1 People. It has been challenging to communicate something new, something that requires a first-mover mindset from the consumers and retailers. Talking about retailers which were our distribution strategy, in the beginning, gave us many challenges, also regarding this topic of getting them to understand our values and different approach to them (very customer-centric) as well as the general challenges of being one of many brands in a store that you don’t have any decision power in. The latter we never overcame which was also the reason we decided to create another strategy.

7. What about your proudest moment?

Credit: 1 People

With the success of 1 People we have seen how beneficial an impact-driven company can be for all stakeholders, employees and customers involved. We love to see how a group of people come together and achieve something bigger than themselves – something that we may not have been able to achieve, had we not worked together. Success requires a strong group of very dedicated people. At 1 People we are driven by our passion to create something useful that will successfully become a catalyst for positive change within the world. This is what keeps us striving for more and drives us to continually put in the effort and hard work. I think this is the result of being on a mission bigger than ourselves – to better the quality of people and the planet.

8. What’s next for 1 People?

SECONDHAND
We will be launching a secondhand program and shop where we buy back used 1 People products and make it possible for our customers to buy secondhand products or exchange used products

CSR
Have a yearly CSR Report made which will be published on the website

100% CRUELTY-FREE
We are working on becoming 100% cruelty-free. At the moment we are 92% cruelty-free.

BUSINESS FOR PLANET
Business For Planet is now in its final stages and will launch very soon

POSITIVE LUXURY
Our measurable impact and commitment to sustainable luxury spans across over 200 product categories in fashion and lifestyle. 1 People pieces prioritise longevity without compromises, enabling conscious-minded women to stay stylish in an ethical, high-quality fashion.


For fashion-forward pieces that are timeless and planet-driven, shop 1 People here!

Get Happy: How To Naturally Boost Dopamine And Serotonin Levels

0

By now we’re all aware that mental health is just as important (and sometimes intrinsically linked to) our physical health. Mental health struggles such as anxiety and depression affect 1 in 6 of the UK population (Mind UK, 2020), but with access to mental health services declining, it’s no wonder more of us are seeking out alternative solutions.

Our mood and mental wellbeing are greatly impacted by our hormones; a group of chemical messengers that control an array of functions within the body. The ones responsible for helping us ‘get happy’ are called ‘serotonin’ and ‘dopamine’. A common treatment method for depression is the prescription of SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors), a type of anti-depressant that increases the serotonin levels in your brain. While these medications are effective in improving mood and mental wellbeing, they can, unfortunately, come with some less than pleasant side effects including digestive issues, dizziness, irritability, insomnia, and more. Now, this is not to say we recommend stopping the prescribed medication from your doctor – you should always discuss any concerns with them first.

But these hormones occur naturally in our bodies – we should be able to boost them naturally, right? Before we can figure out how to do this, it helps to understand what these ‘happy hormones’ actually do.

What Is Serotonin?

Serotonin (also known as 5-Hydroxytryptamine) is a chemical, that much we have established, but why would you want more of it?

Its main job in our bodies is to regulate our mood as well as our sleep, appetite, digestion, learning ability, and memory. Therefore, if your serotonin levels are low you are likely to feel less emotionally stable and may struggle with sleep, focus, and low appetite.

Credit: Noah Silliman

What is Dopamine?

Dopamine similarly is a chemical (also known as 3,4-dihydroxyphenethylamine) that affects, again, several functions in the body including locomotion, learning, working memory, cognition, and emotion.

Dopamine is our chemical reward mechanism. When we get a large influx of dopamine we get a feeling of pleasure and reward in the same way you would train a dog with a reward for good behaviour (yes, sometimes we are that simple).

So now we know how important these chemicals are to have, you might suspect that your levels of serotonin or dopamine aren’t as high as they ought to be. So here are some ways you can increase them and give your mood a natural boost.

Exercise

Credit: Andrew Tanglao

Now this one may seem obvious and a bit of a cop-out, sort of like being told to drink water, but this truly is one of the best natural ways of increasing both your serotonin and dopamine levels. Exercise also helps with a multitude of other ailments so more exercise will always be a better thing (just don’t overdo it)!

A Protein-Rich Diet (Plant-Based)

Credit: Better Nature | veo.world/betternature

Serotonin is involved in your digestive process, so naturally, what you eat is likely to impact your levels. Up to 90% of the serotonin our bodies create comes from our intestines and not our brain, so making sure the food we eat is right for us is paramount! The main ingredient we are looking to include here is the amino acid Tryptophan, which aids in the production of serotonin and melatonin to regulate our mood, appetite, sleep cycles, and more. Tryptophan cannot be produced by the body and so must be obtained through our diets. Some of the best sources of Tryptophan can be found in vegetables, nuts and seeds such as:

  • Butternut Squash Seeds
  • Potato
  • Mushrooms
  • Cauliflower
  • Walnuts
  • Wheat
  • Soy

Incorporating these foods into your regular diet can positively boost your serotonin levels and also provide a variety of other health benefits! Another obvious way to get more Tryptophan into your diet is with protein supplements. Bodyhero pea protein contains all the essential amino acids needed to function and fuel your body. Check out their range of supplements here!

Meditation

Credit: Daniel Mingook Kim

Meditation has in recent years become one of the most popular ways to improve mental wellbeing in the UK and if you’ve ever tried it, you’ll know why. Research shows that meditation, accompanied with breathing exercises, can activate the release of dopamine in the brain resulting in reduced anxiety, better sleep, and improved mood! Click here for creative ways to add meditation into your day!

Aromatherapy

Haoma aromatherapy mood oil | roll onto your wrist
Credit: Haoma | veo.world/haoma

Another great way to instantly lift your mood is through the use of essential oils. These natural, plant-derived oils are known to have medicinal properties with lemon, bergamot and lavender in particular reported to boost serotonin levels. By smelling these oils you can create an instant sense of calm and contentment. Carry that feeling with you wherever you go with ‘Mood Rolls’ from Haoma or instantly uplift your space with our full range of natural, essential oil candles – available in an array of soothing scents.


As we mentioned, these should not replace any prescribed medication without consultation from your doctor. However for anyone considering medication but looking to try some natural alternatives first, we hope you find some of these tips helpful! With a few easy day-to-day activities like this, as part of a healthy lifestyle, you can boost your serotonin and dopamine levels naturally.

Sustainable Housewarming Gift Ideas

0

Luxury eco-friendly gifts for a new home

Finding the perfect housewarming gift for your eco-conscious friends, family members or neighbours can be a challenge. Eco-friendly products often get a bad rep for being more shabby than chic, so how do you find something that is tasteful and sustainable at the same time? We’ve got a few ideas that we think will help so we’re rounding up some of our top picks for sustainable house gifts that your loved ones will truly appreciate.

LONDON GRADE COFFEE Aerolatte Glass Cafetière | 800ml Capacity

Nothing says welcome to your new home like some fancy coffee. This gorgeous French press will look great in any kitchen and guarantees un upgrade to your morning brew. Well-designed and manufactured with a glass jug and high-quality microfilter to ensure a smooth plunger movement. For an added treat, pair with some Dark Roast Organic Espresso Coffee from South India.

SHOP LONDON GRADE COFFEE


How to Brew Cafetiere Coffee

  1.  Rinse your cafetière with water from a just-boiled kettle to warm the glass.
  2. Put 30g ground coffee into the cafetière and pour over 500ml freshly-boiled filtered water. Stir gently to break up the crust and mix coffee and water.
  3. Leave the cafetière for four minutes to steep.
  4. Put on the lid and slowly depress the plunger.
  5. If you wish to increase coffee strength, increase the amount of coffee in increments of 2g. 32g will give you a discernibly stronger cup. Once you have nailed it, make note of it.

SOOMISH Black Amber + Lavender Soy Candle

A rich, calming and strong fragrance opening with sparkling citrus top notes leading to a heart of lush lavender and resting on a substantive base of tonka bean, vanilla, precious woods and amber.

Top Notes: Citrus

Middle Notes: Lavender

Base Notes: Tonka, Vanilla, Woods, Amber

Made in England, with a natural soy wax, lead-free cotton wick and premium grade fragrance oils. Hand poured into clear glass jars with simple, minimal labels and topped with aluminium lid.


Soomish candles combine modern minimalism with exceptional scents that bring your home to life. Using natural soy wax, these candles are hand-poured in small batches and scented using premium essential oil blends that soothe the senses. Turn your home into the ultimate retreat with toxin-free scents that help you slow down and feel good.

SHOP SOOMISH

SO JUST SHOP Two Tone Serving Board

sustainable houswarming gifts | marble two tone serving board

This Marble Two Tone Serving Board is handcrafted by artisans using marble and wood harvested from ancient mango trees. The smooth surface makes it perfect to use for charcuterie and cheese or as a serving platter. A statement piece for the kitchen, ideal for any food lover.


So Just Shop is a sustainable lifestyle brand with a curation of unique, ethically sourced accessories and homeware. Handcrafted by female artisans from some of the most vulnerable communities in the world, they use recycled and reclaimed materials to create stunning statement jewellery and home goods. Discover their range of gorgeous, eco-friendly pieces that tell a story while making a positive impact on the lives of their artisans, their communities, and the environment.

SHOP SO JUST SHOP

OXFORD CLAY Jericho Vase

High-fired to 1260oc, this stoneware vase has been specially designed for small flowers such as Lavender, Scabious, Aster or Sweet Peas.

  • Handmade from a special combination of UK clays, sourced from Devon, Dorset and Cornwall.
  • Glazed using a non-toxic recipe of crushed rock and recycled wood ash.
  • Fired using 100% renewable electricity
  • Certified as vegan by The Vegan Society
  • Packaged in biodegradable paper and card packaging

Oxford Clay is a pottery studio based in Oxford which specialises in vegan certified handmade ceramics. They have designed their ceramics to cause minimal impact on humans, animals and the environment. Oxford Clay don’t use animal products or tools to make their products and all their pots are fired in a kiln powered by 100% renewable electricity.

SHOP OXFORD CLAY

Looking for more sustainable home inspo? Check out our blog post on: Eco Home Essentials You Can’t Live Without. Discover our curated selection of eco-friendly Home & Leisure brands at veo.world/home.

Ethically made sustainable underwear brands you need to know

0

If you’ve found yourself questioning the origins of your clothing more often than not lately, you’re not alone. When it comes to making more sustainable fashion choices, there’s no better place to start than with the basics. We often overlook those undergarments that no one really sees but these are often the pieces that we should be investing in the most.

Whether you’re into lacey pairings, cute and comfy sets, boxers, or briefs, these brands have got all bases covered. Explore a range of sustainable, ethically made underwear brands that use the most luxurious eco-friendly natural materials for the perfect fit and feel.

1. Bedstraw + Madder

Features | plant dyed, biodegradable elastic

Styles | classic knickers, briefs

Ships from | United Kingdom


BEDSTRAW + MADDER are righting the wrongs of an industry known
 for being dirty. Their cotton farm pilot in Southern India is committed to their regen cotton without cutting corners, all whilst giving their customers the transparency and traceability they deserve.

This is a story of revival – of the land, of biodiversity, and of crafts & techniques that have been around for centuries. 
But it’s also a story of people; namely the farmers, spinners weavers and seamstresses that make this all possible. 

This is intimates with integrity; this is uncompromising underwear; this is conscious cotton.

This is the regeneration generation.
And they won’t settle 
for less.

SHOP BEDSTRAW + MADDER

2. Rozenbroek

Features | organic cotton & bamboo, minimal design

Styles | boxer briefs, boxer shorts, briefs, thongs, trunks, bras

Ships from | United Kingdom


ROZENBROEK is a British, women-founded, sustainable clothing brand. They are a brand that celebrates design and durability.

They ONLY use organic fabrics; no compromise. Their fabrics are sourced as locally as possible, with the majority coming from Europe.

No wool, silk, and NEVER any fur or leather. Their accessories are all made from 100% organic & vegan fabrics and off-cuts.

All of their items are made in small batches or made to order. This is the most sustainable way as to avoid overproduction and unnecessary use of materials.

SHOP ROZENBROEK

3. Olly

Features | recycled lace, great design, inclusive

Styles | panties, bras, briefs, brazilian, bralette

Ships from | France


OLLY creates gorgeous sustainable lingerie designed to make you look and feel your absolute best. Slip into something a little more comfortable with cuts that flatter the female form. Using GOTS-certified organic cotton, recycled lace, and breathable Tencel, saving the planet never looked so good.

SHOP OLLY

4. Hedoine

Features | biodegradable nylon, ladder-free

Styles | tights, knee-high socks, ankle socks, fishnet socks

Ships from | United Kingdom


Hedoine wanted to create something different – tights that make you feel great and that wouldn’t add to the world’s ever-growing throwaway culture.

Let’s face it – you need tights that do the job properly. They need to feel good, look great and last longer. That’s why Hedoine mastered their craft. Hedoine have made it their mission to craft the best tights you’ll ever wear – the most comfortable, the most sustainable and (hopefully) the only pair of tights you will ever want to wear, again. 

Tights reinvented to last day in, night out.

SHOP HEDOINE


Discover our full range of women’s underwear at veo.world.

4 sustainably made vegan trainers to up your shoe game

0

When it comes to footwear, trainers are one staple we can’t live without. The perfect blend of comfort and style; trainers have become an essential part of our everyday wardrobes. From the morning coffee run to family days out on the weekend, there’s a pair for every occasion.

But there’s no reason our love for trainers has to cause harm to animals or impact the planet, so we’re rounding up some of our favourite sustainably made, vegan trainers to up your shoe game this season. Explore a range of stylish sneakers made using the most innovative bio-based materials, vegan leather alternatives, and ethical practices.


1. Ration.L

R-Kind vegan leather unisex trainers in pastel blue

Team Veo Pick: R-Kind Vegan Leather Unisex Trainer – Neptune Blue

Price | £70

Features | vegan, gender-neutral

Ships from | United Kingdom


Ration.L design simple, sustainable, gender-neutral pieces for the conscious fashion lover. Their production processes have been carefully considered to encourage a slow and ethical approach. Using regenerated and vegan-friendly eco-materials, they create timeless essentials that will see you through each season in style.

SHOP RATION.L

2. Elliott Footwear

high-top recycled canvas white trainers

Team Veo Pick: High-Top Recycled Canvas White/Stripes

Price | £149.99

Features | climate-positive, recycled canvas

Ships from | United Kingdom


Elliott Footwear is the world’s first climate-positive sneaker brand. Sustainable, recycled, and vegan, they take a minimalist approach to style and to their impact on the planet. Inspired by Danish design, global art, elegant architecture, and contemporary culture, they create timeless, essential footwear to help you step into a more sustainable future, with style.

SHOP ELLIOTT FOOTWEAR

3. ACBC

recycled foam rPET triple white trainers with recycled rubber sole

Team Veo Pick: ACBC Ecowear White

Price | £94

Features | innovative green technologies, recycled materials

Ships from | Italy


In a world where athleisure is the new normal, put your best foot forward with sneakers that match sustainability with style.

ACBC creates innovative footwear that is comfortable and versatile, made entirely from recycled and bio-based materials. They are making waves with their use of green technologies that produce less waste and pollution than their high street counterparts.

SHOP ACBC

4. All My Eco

Kristen Leo wearing white and black pineapple leather and recycled cork trainers

Team Veo Pick: AMEs Captivating Charcoal

Price | £85

Features | pineapple leather, recycled plastic

Ships from | Spain


Step into summer in style with trainers from All My Eco. These trainers are 100% plant-based, using sustainable and recyclable materials including pineapple leather, recycled plastic bottles (rPET), and cork. Invest in ethically made shoes with timeless, classic styles that look great and are made to last.

All My Eco plants 5 trees for every order and donates 1% of profits to sustainable charities.

SHOP ALL MY ECO


Discover our full range of women’s trainers and men’s trainers at veo.world.

Can leather ever be sustainable? Check out that blog post here!

Eco-home essentials you can’t live without

0

Making a house into a home is a fine art. Whether you’re going for bohemian chic or clean and minimal, we’ve put together the finest selection of eco-home essentials you won’t want to live without. Breathe in the fresh botanical scents of a clean home with toxin-free cleaning products and set the atmosphere with natural soy candles & diffusers that add the perfect touch of fragrance to your space. Explore organic cotton cushion covers and hand-crafted kitchenware designed to add character to your decor. Check out our top picks to turn your living space into a blissful eco-sanctuary. Your happy place awaits…


SOOMISH | Black Amber + Lavender Soy Candle

A rich, calming, and strong fragrance opening with sparkling citrus top notes leading to a heart of lush lavender and resting on a substantive base of tonka bean, vanilla, precious woods, and amber.

Top Notes: Citrus

Middle Notes: Lavender

Base Notes: Tonka, Vanilla, Woods, Amber

Made in England, with a natural soy wax, lead-free cotton wick, and premium grade fragrance oils. Hand-poured into clear glass jars with simple, minimal labels and topped with aluminium lids.


UBIETY | Linden, Cedar & Rose Geranium Balancing Reed Diffuser

The Ubiety Balancing reed diffuser uses a comforting blend of essential oils, including the smoky wood and green aromas of linden, cedarwood, and rose geranium, expertly chosen to calm and balance the mind. Captured in an environmentally friendly natural carrier oil, these plant-based formulations are sustainable and non-toxic, using vegan-friendly ingredients and simple glass packaging.


TIKUAO | Uma Square Cushion Cover in Charcoal

A strategically placed accent can bring the whole room to life, and this cushion is just what you need to do that. Uma cushion is inspired by the classic African Mud cloth textiles which have been cherished for generations. These cushion covers are hand-printed using Indian hand printing methods incorporating Moroccan patterns. The fabric is handmade using recycled cotton. These dreamy cushion covers are perfect for a living room or bedroom with high windows and they will make any interior looking exotic, relaxing, and inspiring.


SO JUST SHOP | Two Tone Serving Board

This Marble Two Tone Serving Board is handcrafted by artisans using marble and wood harvested from ancient mango trees. The smooth surface makes it perfect to use for charcuterie and cheese or as a serving platter. A statement piece for the kitchen, ideal for any food lover.


CLEAN U SKINCARE | Repurposed Coconut Bowl & Spoon

Clean U Skincare’s hand-carved coconut bowls are made using reclaimed coconuts that would otherwise be burned after harvest. They help to provide a well-needed second income for some of Vietnam’s most impoverished communities. Etched by local craftsmen in the Ben Tre region of Vietnam, each bowl is hand-picked from the thickest and highest quality coconuts.


COLT & WILLOW | Eco Friendly Bathroom Cleaner Refill & Re-use Duo

Infused with cleansing rosemary, lemony freshness, and the calming ambiance of juniper berry, this award-winning duo is a gamechanger for your bathroom. In a glass dispenser that marries function with style, this plant-based, natural solution deeply cleans while instantly uplifting your living space.


For more eco-home essentials to transform your space, check out the full Home Edit here!