Everything goes in cycles, including our desire to over-indulge in December and our need to detox in January.  A detox is not simply about watching the quality of our food intake, but also about detoxing area’s of our lives that are not working or are perhaps out of balance.  With this in mind, I want to share a simple and effective tool known as the ‘wheel of life’, of which there are many versions, but I found this one on www.new.oceans.co.uk.As above, you draw a circle/chart and split it into key areas of your life – obviously there need not be as many sections as shown here.  Consider what your 10/10 looks like in each area and then map out where you are now in relation to your ideal. What should follow is a clear indication of how in or out of balance your life is and this then works as a road map to your year ahead.  I hope this comes in handy when you are planning your news years resolutions and that you have a healthy, joyous year ahead.

Minimal homes can be so dull, but minimal waste and maximum works.  Why bother buying candle holders, when a cluster of old wine bottles creates such a dramatic effect, as seen in Elle Deco, December ‘09′.

I have just come across this place in NY and it looks so inviting, relaxed and friendly.  If you happen to be in NY, let me know what you think.  If not, take a look at their inspiring site.  www.moomah.com

I love all things craft related and Christmas is the perfect time to get creative and if you need inspiration, look at the work of a talented stylists.  One of my favorite stylists is Paul Howe and fortunately he has a fab blog – www.sweetpaul.com.

I attended a beauty industry talk this morning (more on why in January), of which the guest speaker was Marcia Kilgore;  founder of Bliss Spa’s, Soap and more recently the Fitflop. Marcia was inspirational, authentic and clearly passionate about life.  I then, finally managed to get to the London outpost of Anthropologie on Regent Street.  I felt as if I had walked into Merci in Paris, which was a little disappointing as I wanted something different, but that’s me being super picky.  If you have not been to Merci, this will be a real treat, but it is the merchandising that is captivating, rather than the merchandise, which if have a good eye, you would find in Portobello Market or similar for considerably less.  That being said, it worth a visit and if you can’t make it to London, try their site – image below taken from www.anthropologie.co.uk

I come across a lot of photographers and whilst many have a good eye, it is those that know how to play with light that produce the most awe-inspiring results.  One such photographer is Simon Brown, who manages to turn simple objects and textures into works of art, reminiscent of the old masters.  See more of his stunning work in his latest book ‘Romantic Irish Home’ and if you can’t wait until that is published see – www.simonbrownphotography.com

I am a summer person through and through, but there is something about the dark days, the rain tapping on the window and winter’s ritual hibernation that invites us to slow down and linger just a little.  Yesterday, after decorating the Christmas tree with the children (yes, early, but why not), I got into my pj’s, wrapped myself in a cashmere blanket and nestled into my comfy armchair surrounded by newspapers and books.  I will gladly and patiently wait for the sun to shine, if it means time spent nestled in the cocoon of my home  - absolute bliss.

the joys of cocooning - image taken from the lovely blog ' this is glamorous'

It’s the start of December and time to deck the halls.  Whilst I love getting into the festive mood, the end of the year leaves me craving a cleanse of mind and body, as over-indulgence takes hold. For those wanting moderation in all things and an antidote from the excesses of Christmas, I thought you might like to hear about a retreat that sounds very interesting.

Ganesh Retreats bring together a wide range of holistic practitioners in a beautiful English countryside setting.  Not only does the weekend promise to leave you refreshed and recharged, but more importantly, to give you the knowledge and tools for life, that will benefit you beyond the days spend in the company of the supportive team.

Weekend courses cost £470 accommodation, meals, 2 hours of yoga and 1 hour of meditation and breathing, 1 massage and 1 energy healing treatment, along with a nutritional cooking lesson and an introduction to crystals.  To book a course, go to www.ganeshretreats.com