I love to make gifts this time of year… and rosehip oil Is my favourite. I like to gift with hand written tags tied up with string and including info on where the hips were foraged..

Rosa canina (dog rose) rosehips are brimming with skin-loving nutrients, and the best part is that you can forage them right here in the UK. Here’s a simple guide to making your own nourishing rosehip oil from dried rosehips.

Ingredients:

• 150g of dried Rosa canina rosehips (the oval, bright red-orange fruits)

• 150ml of carrier oil (jojoba, sweet almond, or olive oil work brilliantly)

• 4–6 drops of essential oil (optional – lavender or geranium add a lovely touch)

• A small sterilised dropper bottle for storage

How to Identify Rosa canina (Dog Rose) Rosehips:

• Look for oval-shaped rosehips that are a vibrant red-orange, typically around 1-2 cm long.

• You can find these in hedgerows, woodland edges, and sometimes in gardens. The leaves are light green, and the stems have sharp thorns, so be careful when you’re foraging!

How to Dry Your Rosehips:

1. Harvesting: When foraging, choose fully ripe rosehips that are bright and firm. Avoid any that are soft or have blemishes.

2. Washing: Rinse the rosehips under cool water to remove dirt and insects.

3. Preparation: Cut off the stems and blossom ends. You can leave them whole or slice them in half to speed up the drying process.

4. Drying:

• Air Drying: Spread the rosehips in a single layer on a clean, dry surface (like a baking tray or mesh screen) in a warm, dry place away from direct sunlight. They should dry within a week or two.

• Dehydrator: Alternatively, you can use a food dehydrator set at a low temperature (around 40°C/104°F). This method usually takes 4-6 hours.

• Oven Drying: Place the rosehips on a baking tray in an oven set to the lowest temperature. Keep the oven door slightly ajar to allow moisture to escape. Check regularly until they are completely dried, usually around 2-4 hours.

Instructions for Making Rosehip Oil:

1. Prepare Your Rosehips:

• If you’re foraging, pick some ripe rosehips as described above. If you’ve dried your own, ensure they’re completely dry before using.

2. Infuse the Oil:

• Place the dried rosehips in a clean glass jar, then pour in your chosen carrier oil until they’re fully submerged.

• Seal the jar tightly and store it in a sunny spot for about 4-6 weeks. Shake the jar every few days to help the infusion process.

3. Strain the Oil:

• After your infusion period, strain the oil using a fine sieve or cheesecloth to remove the rosehip bits. Press down to extract as much oil as you can from the pulp.

4. Add Essential Oils (Optional):

• If you like, add a few drops of essential oil for fragrance and extra skin benefits. Lavender is calming, while geranium can help balance oily skin.

5. Bottle It Up:

• Transfer the infused rosehip oil into a sterilised dropper bottle and store it in a cool, dark place. Properly stored, it should last for up to 6 months.

How to Use:

• After cleansing your face, apply a few drops of the rosehip oil onto your fingertips and gently massage it into your skin. Focus on dry areas or wherever you need a bit of extra love.

• Use daily for hydrated, glowing skin.

Why Rosehip Oil is So Good for Your Skin:

Rosehip oil is often hailed as a skincare superstar for several reasons:

• Rich in Nutrients: It’s loaded with vitamins A, C, and E, which help rejuvenate the skin and improve its texture. Vitamin C is particularly effective at brightening the complexion and reducing the appearance of dark spots.

• Antioxidant Properties: The antioxidants in rosehip oil help protect your skin from environmental damage caused by free radicals, which can lead to premature aging.

• Hydration and Nourishment: With its essential fatty acids, rosehip oil deeply hydrates and nourishes the skin, making it ideal for combating dryness and improving overall skin elasticity.

• Promotes Healing: Thanks to its high vitamin A content, rosehip oil can help reduce the appearance of scars, stretch marks, and fine lines, promoting smoother skin.

• Balances Oily Skin: Surprisingly, rosehip oil is non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog your pores. It can help balance oil production in those with oily or combination skin.

This DIY rosehip oil is not just a treat for your skin; it’s an opportunity to connect with nature and embrace natural beauty. Enjoy crafting your own skincare routine with this wonderful foraged oil.

Since my post last week, I have received so many messages about my ADHD. I thought i would share the letter i wrote to the doctors as part of my assessment. This was such an enlightening task for me. Before this i almost felt a fraud for saying i had ADHD as i don’t exhibit the hyper activity side of things much. Writing this letter was emotional to say the least. Remembering those times of overwhelm and the pain of masking for fear of looking stupid.

Saying i Have ADHD has been a huge liberator. I can reframe all those moments from the past as not a sign i was failing, but a sign there was something else at play that i didnt understand. Im not stupid. Or Lazy. I never have been. My brain just does things differently.

Understanding ourselves means that we can make better choices for ourselves and the other people around us. It means we can work out a more sustainable lifestyle that supports our energy levels. And i have learned theres nothing more important than sustaining our own energy.. when we do this, we can pour our hearts and souls into the things we love. And that is how we change the world.

If this letter triggers any thing in you, please feel free to reach out…

Re supporting evidence for ADHD diagnosis.

To whom it may concern.

As an initial point, it has taken over 3 weeks of procrastination to pick up the form from the doctors surgery.  Despite driving past the doctors many times.

Pre 12 years old.. I would say that ADHD manifested in me in a number of ways.

I was a deeply imaginative child and would find myself lost in a fantasy world or dream world.  I had elaborate worlds and sometimes would find the edges between reality and fantasy blur.

I was very chatty.. would get carried away talking and not notice the teacher required attention.  I hate to be told off.  Felt it was deeply embarrassing and shameful and would internalise the words used.

I was deeply messy.  I have always been extremely messy.  I would have my school books held up as an example of terrible work and poor handwriting. i graduated to use a fountain pen at school and then had it taken away as my writing was so messy.

I was extremely emotional and had a big temper at home.  I would react in an impulsive way if one of my brothers crossed a boundary or upset me.

I would hyper focus and could read a book in one sitting. Staying up all night to finish books because I couldn’t bare to leave the story.  I would not hear people talking to me when reading as I would be entirely lost in the pages.

I have always been a fidget..  would find it painful to sit still.. I would bounce my leg all the time to sooth… in fact, I would rock and bounce all the time. 

At senior school, I continued to be extremely messy.. would have my books and writing criticised by teachers.   I was hit by a teacher for absent mindedly marking a maths card.

Despite being intelligent I always felt I wasn’t achieving to the level I was capable of because of inability to focus.  I rarely revised and forgot homework.  I came out with average grades, but think I had the possibility to gain a much higher achievement.

Maths and science never really made sense to me and I found it hugely boring.  I loved drama, art and English.

I hated course work but did really well at exams.

At university, I lost out on my accommodation because I didn’t read the letter properly about accommodation.  I ended up having to find a house a week before term started.

I used to feel so overwhelmed about assignments.. id always start them early but would forget to finish them and then end up staying up really late try to finish, or a friend would help me structure my time to get them all done.

I ended up not doing my placement year because I couldn’t face the idea of doing the dissertation.

I never asked for help, because I felt so stupid.  I never spoke in class because I felt like I didn’t have a single clue about what was going on and didn’t want to let on how stupid I was.

My results were very average a 2.2.

When I started work I excelled.  I was really good at working and was entirely obsessive about it. I would get in super early and leave late..  But I hated doing the admin side of things.  Hated form filling which was necessary.  I would let things that were easy to fix, slide for a really long time..  I was terrified of making mistakes and getting into trouble.

I would sometimes burnout and have to take time off work to recuperate.

I would sometimes be bored for months at a time and get very little done.  Then I would be hugely motivated and hyper focussed and work obsessively to complete work. I had good support at my later job that helped me understand myself and work around my workstyle.

When I got married, I hated the planning, especially when it came down to the detailed minute plans.  I definitely didn’t get the wedding I wanted because it was too overwhelming to deal with the details.

Parenting was extremely difficult. 

When I had children, I found everything really overwhelming.  Felt like a bad parent.  Felt like I couldn’t understand my child like everyone else understood their children.  My house was always really messy.. I found it difficult to establish a routine.

When my second child was born I think I went through PND… I didn’t receive any support for this.  I couldn’t straighten out my thoughts at all.  My second child was very unhappy and I couldn’t access support.  I became overwhelmed and over stimulated by touch, smell and sound.

I felt for a long time that I was in a cloud where I couldn’t access reality.  I felt that I was depressed or anxious for a really long time… I think now that I was so overwhelmed everyday.

I found one thing will fill my head, and ill be unable to focus on other things.. Ie having children, I couldn’t focus on a job..

But at the same time I set up two businesses.

I now have my own business and struggle with all admin related tasks like accounting and tax returns. Filling forms in and doing basic things like updating my website and writing blogs.  In fact, ive hit a financial low at the moment because I have moved home and find myself distracted with so much home stuff and overwhelmed with everything that needs to be done.

I frequently miss appointments or dates with friends.. despite having a some organisation strategies.. I can still completely forget what I’m. supposed to do. My admin is a mess. My home is a mess.  I hate cleaning up or sorting out because I find it overwhelming.

I find too much noise really unsettling and makes my brain feel completely scrambled. I have a strong sense of smell that drives me crazy.

I hate long term planning or making plans in advance.  I much prefer to be spontaneous.

I take on lots of projects at once and don’t seem to have any concept of what can be realistically achieved.  I have recently started dopamine buying.  Bought a boat and a van on a whim.. and two new cats to add to our already 2.

I have a million ideas a day, but no real idea or energy of how to implement.

I am mostly extremely exhausted and overwhelmed by the sheer amount of life admin, kids school appointments and dates, holidays, birthdays, jobs needed to do around the home, the garden jobs, work and building a business.

I am overwhelmed by climate change and started by business to help other people learn how to make changes in their life that didn’t feel overwhelming.

Im fairly sure im coming up to peri menopause and finding all these symptoms are more extreme.  Sometimes I feel like my life is over because I have nothing else to give and I have tried everything.  I feel really unsuccessful.. and sometimes I am afraid for the future.

All in all, I’m exhausted. And I didn’t even know that this wasn’t “normal”.

NB.. As I write this, I realise that people who are fixing the road have blocked in my car as they are going to dig outside the house. I had no idea this was happening and have an appointment I need to drive to shortly. I guess I have missed a letter explaining this.

Foraging is an ancient practice of gathering wild plants, herbs, and fungi from the natural environment, offering a deep connection to the land and a sustainable way to source food and medicine. By foraging, you not only reduce your reliance on commercial agriculture but also tap into nature's abundance, using what naturally thrives in your local ecosystem.

I love foraging.. I feel so connected to nature when i’m using what naturally exists locally to our benefit.

Foraging Elderberry: A Natural Treasure

Elderberry is one of my favourite things to forage. It’s easy to collect and makes truly delicious syrups.

Commonly found in hedgerows, woodlands, and even along roadsides, elderberry is a small, dark berry that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. Both its berries and flowers can be foraged, each offering unique benefits.

When and Where to Forage Elderberries

Season: Elderberries ripen in late summer to early autumn, typically from August to October, depending on your location.

Location: Look for elder trees in wild areas, often along forest edges, in hedgerows, or near rivers and streams. Elderberries grow in clusters of small, dark purple or black berries.

I always make a practise of connecting with the tree and asking it if I can take the berries. Its sounds woo woo… but honestly, this is what creates our connection with nature. Sometimes I sense a tree doesn’t want share their bounty… especially if they are smaller, or seem to have less berries. Sometimes it feels right to leave lots for the birds.

Sustainable Foraging Tip: Identify Carefully: Be certain you're correctly identifying elderberries, as there are toxic lookalikes, such as the red elderberry, which can cause stomach upset if not properly prepared.

Harvest Responsibly: Take only what you need, leaving enough berries for wildlife and the plant’s natural cycle. When collecting flowers, harvest in moderation to allow the plant to produce berries later in the season.

Avoid Polluted Areas: Don't forage from areas exposed to pesticides, traffic pollution, or contaminated water.

Uses of Elderberry

Elderberries have been prized for their medicinal properties, especially in supporting immune health. Here’s how you can use both the berries and flowers.

1. Elderberry Syrup

One of the most popular ways to use elderberries is to make elderberry syrup, known for boosting the immune system and warding off colds and flu. This syrup is rich in antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and has antiviral properties.

How to make it: Simmer elderberries with water, honey (or a vegan sweetener), and spices like cinnamon and cloves for a potent, delicious syrup.

Uses: Take a spoonful daily during flu season, drizzle it over pancakes, or add it to teas.

2. Elderflower Tea

Elderflowers can be foraged in early summer, before the berries appear, and used to make a fragrant tea with anti-inflammatory and detoxifying properties.

How to make it: Steep the dried flowers in hot water for 5–10 minutes. Add honey and lemon for a soothing herbal infusion

Uses: Elderflower tea can be enjoyed to relieve cold symptoms or simply as a refreshing drink.

3. Elderberry Tincture

For a more concentrated immune support option, make an elderberry tincture. This extract is easy to make by soaking elderberries in alcohol (like vodka) for several weeks.

How to make it: Fill a jar halfway with dried elderberries and cover with alcohol. Let it sit in a dark place for 4–6 weeks, shaking occasionally. Strain and store in a dark bottle.

Uses: A few drops under the tongue or mixed in water during illness provides a potent antiviral boost.

4. Elderberry Jam or Jelly

Preserve the bounty of elderberry season by turning the berries into jam or jelly.

How to make it: Combine elderberries with sugar, lemon juice, and pectin to make a delicious, immune-boosting spread.

Uses: Spread on toast, mix into yogurt, or enjoy it in baked goods.

5. Elderflower Cordial

Elderflower can also be used to create a refreshing cordial, perfect for summer drinks.

How to make it: Steep fresh elderflowers in water with lemon and sugar to create a fragrant, floral syrup.

Uses: Mix with sparkling water or use as a base for cocktails and mocktails.

6. Elderberry Vinegar

For a tangy twist, you can infuse vinegar with elderberries to create elderberry vinegar.

How to make it: Fill a jar with elderberries and cover with apple cider vinegar. Let it infuse for a few weeks before straining.

Uses: Use the vinegar in salad dressings, marinades, or as a daily tonic for gut health.

Health Benefits of Elderberries

Elderberries are well-known for their medicinal qualities, particularly in supporting the immune system:

Rich in antioxidants: Elderberries contain high levels of flavonoids, which help fight oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.

Antiviral properties: Elderberry has been shown in some studies to reduce the duration and severity of flu symptoms.

Immune support: The vitamins A and C in elderberries help maintain a healthy immune system, making them ideal for cold and flu prevention.

By foraging and using elderberries, you not only access nature's pharmacy but also reduce your environmental footprint by sourcing your remedies directly from the wild. This ancient practice reconnects you to the land and seasons, encouraging a slower, more mindful approach to sustainability.

How to style an Italian lunch table...

1 - get all the gingham napkins and table cloths.

2 - get yourself a big ol trestle table (this one came all the way from africa and was a school refectory table)

3 - find some gorgeous plates... go check the charity shops for white porcelain and pattern in blues.

4 - use fruit for colour and decoration add simple floral arrangements in jam jars.

5 - pour the wine, eat the bread... spend all day there.

Shop our gingham tableware this weekend @birminghamartisanmarkets taking place in the JQ on saturday and on bournville Green on Sunday.

#vestaliving #italian #gingham #sustainablehomeware #sustainability #style #stylist #styling #italianstyling

Here at Vesta Living we are obsessed with the original savon du Marseille. It’s completely plastic free and replaces so many products we have come to rely on, but are often contained in plastic.

See all the ways you can use this incredibly versatile soap everyday, reducing the amount of plastic headed to landfill and being easier on the wallet!

1. Body Wash: Use Savon du Marseille as a luxurious body wash. Its gentle formula cleanses without stripping the skin’s natural oils, leaving it soft and moisturized.

2. Hand Soap: Keep a bar of Savon du Marseille by the sink for an elegant and effective hand soap. It effectively cleanses while being gentle on the hands, making it ideal for frequent use.

3. Shampoo: For those with sensitive scalps or looking to reduce exposure to harsh chemicals, Savon du Marseille can be used as a natural shampoo. Simply lather the soap in your hands and massage into wet hair, then rinse thoroughly.

4. Face Cleanser: The gentle and natural ingredients in Savon du Marseille make it suitable for cleansing the face. Create a lather in your hands and gently massage onto damp skin, then rinse off with lukewarm water.

5. Shaving Soap: Create a rich lather with Savon du Marseille to use as a shaving soap. Its moisturizing properties will help prevent irritation and leave skin smooth after shaving.

6. Laundry Detergent: Grate Savon du Marseille and add it to your laundry detergent for a natural alternative that effectively cleans clothes without harsh chemicals. It’s especially great for delicate fabrics.

7. Stain Remover: Wet the stained area and rub a bar of Savon du Marseille onto the fabric before laundering as usual. Its powerful yet gentle formula helps lift stains without damaging the fabric.

8. Household Cleaner: Dissolve grated Savon du Marseille in hot water to create an all-purpose household cleaner. Use it to clean surfaces, floors, and even dishes for a natural and effective cleaning solution.

9. Pet Shampoo: Dilute grated Savon du Marseille in warm water to create a gentle pet shampoo. Its natural ingredients are safe for pets and effective at cleaning fur without causing irritation.

10. Drawer Freshener: Place a wrapped bar of Savon du Marseille in your drawers or closets to naturally freshen clothing and linens with its clean and subtle scent.

Remember to store Savon du Marseille in a dry place between uses to prolong its lifespan and prevent it from becoming mushy. Enjoy the versatility and benefits of this traditional French soap in various aspects of your daily life!

🌿 **Embrace Sustainable Cleaning with Vesta Living's Cuban Mop!** 🌿

At Vesta Living, we're on a mission to redefine the way you clean your home with our exceptional Cuban Mop. It's not just a cleaning tool; it's a sustainable lifestyle choice that might just eliminate the need for another mop in your life.

**Discover the Cuban Mop Difference:**

The Cuban Mop, a masterpiece of craftsmanship, stands out in a world cluttered with disposable options. Crafted from naturally antibacterial beech wood, each mop is handmade by local artisans, ensuring longevity and a touch of artistry in your hands.

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1. 🌱 **Sustainability at Its Core:** Unlike plastic alternatives, our Cuban Mop is a champion of sustainability. Say goodbye to manky mop heads and endless replacements – with proper care, you might never need to buy another mop again.

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3. 🧹 **Efficiency in Every Swipe:** Experience effortless cleaning with the Cuban Mop's unique design. Reach every nook and cranny without the need for a bucket, making it a space-saving, eco-friendly alternative.

**How to Use Your Vesta Living Cuban Mop:**

1. **Preparation is Key:** Wet your Cuban Mop cloth and wring out excess water, ensuring the perfect dampness for effective cleaning.

2. **Simple Assembly:** Attach the cloth securely to the mop head, embracing the traditional charm and functionality of the Cuban Mop.

3. **Effortless Maneuvering:** Glide your Cuban Mop over surfaces with ease. Its ergonomic beech wood design ensures a comfortable grip, making cleaning a breeze.

4. **Sustainable Cleaning Ritual:** After use, detach the cloth and toss it into the wash for a sustainable, zero-waste cleaning routine.

5. **Homemade Cleaning Solution:** Enhance your cleaning experience by soaking the cloth in a homemade solution of essential oils and dissolved olive oil soap. It's a natural, eco-friendly alternative that complements the Cuban Mop's ethos.

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Ready to revolutionize your cleaning routine sustainably? Visit our online store to buy your very own Cuban Mop – a space-saving, eco-friendly, and elegant addition to your home.

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Vesta Living's Cuban Mop transcends the boundaries of conventional cleaning tools. It's a step towards sustainability, an ode to efficiency, and a celebration of mindful living. Embrace the Cuban Mop experience today, and let your cleaning journey be as exceptional as your commitment to a greener world.

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