With the new year upon us everyone seems to be on the 'new year new you' hype. Even though I do feel this can put unnecessary pressure on people I also agree it is a good time to stop and reflect on where you're at. This could be related to anything really, for example work, diet, fitness, mental health, hobbies, the list is endless. I've been practicing what I preach and here is what I'm milling over at the moment -
I'm forever trying to find the right work/life balance. 2024 was my busiest and most profitable year to date which was amazing but my health suffered and I pretty much burnt out late June and developed shingles. This year I've already booked in plenty of time off making sure I take a little break every month. This may sound like the dream but from March - October I pretty much work every single day so booking in time off is essential. I also struggle to say no to bookings so I'm working on that.
How to not hate exercise is another one for me. Maybe hate is a strong word but I'm my own worst enemy and can talk myself out of doing a run so quickly. For instance, this morning was a bit icy so I better not go or I could fall over and hurt myself! Once I've dragged myself out, the funny thing is I actually really enjoy it and feel so good. My way to resolve this is to have a target to aim for so I know I have to do the training to reach my goal. This year I've booked a spot in the London Landmarks half marathon which is in April, so I really better get going. Swimming is one thing I do love however and I'll get up at 6am if it means getting to the Woodhall Spa open air pool for a sunrise dip when it's open in the warmer months. I'm making a mental note to find an indoor pool I like so I can swim through winter too.
My one and only new years resolution is something fun that I know I'll love to do. This way I'm hoping I'll stick to it! Every week I want to cook two new recipes out of the millions of cookbooks I own. This will expand my repertoire and inspire me for work.
If you're wanting to change things up a little, I've suggested 5 new overnight oat dishes you may want to serve up for brekkie. Make a batch of standard oats then add different fillings and toppings.
Overnight Oat Recipe
Serves 2
Ingredients
80g oats
300ml plant milk of choice
1 banana, mashed
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tbsp chia seeds
1 tbsp mixed seeds
1 tsp ground flaxseed
Method
Mix all the ingredients in a bowl and place in the fridge overnight. In the morning remove from the fridge and loosen with a little extra milk or water to gain your desired consistency. If serving warm, heat through with a little extra liquid.
Add the toppings and enjoy.
5 Ways to Mix up your Morning Oats
Add 1 tbsp of cacao powder to your oat mixture. Poach some pear slices in water and cinnamon. Warm your oats through and serve with the hot pears and a dollop of yoghurt.
Mash raspberries into your oat mixture turning it pink! Mash more raspberries into yoghurt and spoon this on top of the oats when serving. Sprinkle with granola to add a crunch.
If you like it nutty, mix some nut butter into your oats. I love using a pistachio paste as this not only tastes great but also turns them green. Serve with fresh berries and rose petals on top.
My go-to and maybe my all time favourite is to add some chopped dried apricots into the oat mixture. Just before serving stir in plenty of grated fresh apple.
If you want an extra coffee shot in the morning, add it to your oats. You can also stir in some cacao nibs and sultanas. Layer the oats in a glass with yogurt and then add a dusting of cacao powder to finish it off.
Let me know if you try any of these combos or what your favourite way to serve overnight oats is.
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