THE ALTERNATIVE LOCKDOWN SURVIVAL GUIDE
At this stage in global lockdown you’ve most likely been innundated with a plethora of Covid-19 lockdown survival guides, brandishing everything from how to style yourself for your WFH Zooms, endless ab mixes and more banana bread recipes than you can shake a stick at.
Check out the Mad To Live Alternative Lockdown Survival Guide for some alt-inspo to keep your mind, body, and stoke in check.
SUPPORT: ORGANISATIONS TO GET BEHIND
Lock-down measures are causing far-reaching ramifications. The National Domestic Abuse helpline has seen a 25% increase in calls and online requests for help since the lockdown, the charity Refuge says. Let’s get behind the work some of these fantastic organisations are carrying out.
REFUGE Supporting women and children against domestic violence.
WOMEN’S AID A grassroots federation working together to provide life-saving services and
build a future where domestic violence is not tolerated.
BLOODY GOOD PERIOD Periods don’t stop in a pandemic. BGP are opening up their usual services providing sanitary goods to women in need this up to anyone who needs them - particularly drop-in centres, refuges, homeless shelters and food banks, and anyone struggling to access period supplies due to low stock levels, or those who are in financial hardship as a result of the pandemic
NHS CHARITIES TOGETHER NHS Charities Together is a collective experience representing, supporting and championing the work of the NHS’ official charities. A national appeal is live now that acknowledges and supports NHS staff and volunteers caring for COVID-19 patients. It has been put together in liaison with NHS England and national bodies.
READ: LIT LITERATURE TO GETCHA THROUGH
Real Queer America: LGBT Stories from Red States
Buckle down for Samantha Allen’s eye-opening look at queer communities in conservative parts of the United States.
Women
Charles Bukowski’s charged recount of his relationships (mainly sexual) with a cacophony of differing women is a riotous romp drenched in hedonism with some truly colourful female characters.
Barbarian Days
William Finnegan’s Pulitzer prize-winning memoir is a stunning re-count of the author’s enduring love affair with surfing. From his earliest days charting his epic relationship with Big Blue until he is an old man, Barbarian Days is a formidable account of Finnegan’s obsession with surf. Non-surfers will appreciate the fantastically penned account in equal parts too.
Into The Wild
Transport yourself into an adventure like no other through the shoes of Christopher McCandless. Jon Krakauer’s seminal non-fiction is an immediate classic, his recapturing of McCandless’s infamous back-turn to traditional societal norms with the end goal of immersion in nature in Alaska an enduring adventure-lit favourite.
Wild
Cheryl Strayed’s raw and stunning journey into the self through an epic 1,100-mile hike on the Pacific Crest Trail is an intoxicating if at times painful dissection of a life gone AWOL whilst re-grounding through an epic adventure.
The Silence Of The Girls
Pat Barker’s awesome re-hash of Homer’s classic poem homes in on taxing cost of the female protaginists in the war-time setting as told by Achilles’ concubine Briseis.
Olivia Morrissey
THINK: CEBEBRAL HELP
During a crises, our mental health can often become an early source of suffering. We can first turn to keeping ourselves physically strong, but addressing our mental wellbeing should form part of the balance too.
FOCUS ON YOUR INWARD JOURNEY…
Olivia Morrissey is an author, mentor, and intuitive whose purpose is to guide women into a new paradigm of embodied living through the re-sanctification of their bodies, cycles and feminine wisdom.
Her current project is reclaiming the darkness and its lush and feminine teachings as it relates to isolation and navigating the internal unknown– she is currently offering a free past identity funeral ritual via her website to support the collective on their individual inward journeys of purging, surrendering and rebirthing.
DIGITAL GONG-BATHS & MEDITATIONS
Rachel Welford
Welford Wellbeing, headed up by founder the incandescent Rachel Welford is a one-stop portal for all that is mental wellbeing and cerebral health. Usually hosting reiki, changing, gong baths, mediations, energy work, EFT tapping and more, Welford Wellbeing are still up and running, stating:
“During this COVID-19 Coronovirus Pandemic, we need connection and calm more than ever. We're being called to change how we live and work and in these time of uncertainty, we know that connection and calm can help.”
Access soothing gong baths, meditation workshops and more through the homepage, and with 10% of profits going to The Samaritans, you can also grab karma points too :-)
IT’S WITCHY
Tarot reading has enjoyed a resurgence in recent years, as too has an interest in all that is “witch” - a spiritual resurgence, with deeper roots in feminism. Many are fearful of tarot, the ever classic notion that a premonition of death will suddenly drop onto the table. But tarot readings can act as a soothing form of guidance, helping to understand what an individual needs to know about a particular situation, a tool for seeking inner wisdom and guidance, and insight to past, current and future events based on the person's current path at the time of the reading. Get cosy with some candles, smudge sticks and after you’ve finished your tarot, spend some time with your journal, writing down your cards and findings.
Beginner witches can get started with their first tarot deck, pick up a copy of Witch: Unleashed. Untamed. Unapologetic, and tune into The Witch Of Wonderlust for a great introduction.
SELF-LOVE: NO NEED TO BLUSH
Just because many of us find ourselves hunkering-down solo, whether that’s as a single person or because our partner is isolated elsewhere, that doesn’t mean a healthy sex life has to go straight out the window. The benefits of daily orgasm are widely espoused by doctors and therapists, including:
Orgasming releasing oxytocin (aka the “happy” hormone), known to reduce cortisol.
Regular sex modulates your immune system! With regular orgasms decreasing stress, less stress also means fewer bouts of colds and flu. According to one meta-analysis of more than 300 studies over 30 years found that chronic stress can crash your immune system. The feel-good hormones orgasm releases become the perfect way to dial down that stress and boost your immune system.
A study showed a rat injected with oxytocin can remain calm even when surrounding rats are anxious. You’ve probably experienced that anti-anxiety boost after sex, and researchers find oxytocin can reduce social anxiety.
Orgasms can help you sleep better. If you find yourself or your partner drifting off into a pleasant slumber right after sex, you can thank your orgasms. Oxytocin reduces cortisol levels, calming your mind so you can sleep better. Orgasms also release vasopressin, which accompanies the release of your neuroprotective hormone melatonin.
Your self-love kit
The Lelo - The Sona 2 Cruise is the latest luxury sex toy from Lelo. Treat yourself!!
Petite bullet by Durex - Powerful vibrations in a discreet waterproof toy
WURK IT: THE ALTERNATIVE FITS-PO GUIDE
Hunkering down in a home the size of a sardine tin? Bored of the usual workouts populating your feed? You’re not alone. We’ve pulled together our fav alternative ways to stay strong and healthy.
INDOOR TRAINING APPS
MOVE YOUR FRAME, pretty much the funnest gym around have gone digital, launching FRAME ONLINE so you can get your endorpin boosting hit of your favourite Frame classes including all the dance bangers.
Globally renowned digi-fitness hub i PELOTON is offering 90 days free memebrship (including new Peloton Family which has sprog-friendly workouts avaialble) including cycling, running, yoga, and strength classes
FIIT are offering premium membership for free to all healthcare workers, plus a 14 day free trial for non-healthcare.
THE FONDA IS BACK, BABY
The legend that is Jane Fonda, actress, activist and of course, body of THE most famous workout of the 80s, the eponymous Jane Fonda workout, is BACK with a Tik-Tok channel recussitating her workout in support of fighting the climate crisis. Leotards at the ready, the iconic Jane Fonda workout is a blast from the past we are welcoming with open arms to our living rooms.
SHADOW BOXING
Shadow boxing is a a killer way, no kit needed, to improve your boxing technique, power, speed, strength, endurance, rhythm and footwork. Toss in skip-rope sessions and you’ve got yourself a hardcore workout that’ll leave you gassed. Check out our workout, beginner friendly below!
HOOPING
Drag you old hoop out, hula-hooping is a fun way to burn calories and body fat, improve your balance, strengthen your core muscles, and boost your cardiovascular fitness.
YOGA WITH FAT BUDDAH YOGA
Jessica Skye is a London based DJ and producer, founder of Fat Buddha Yoga, a Nike yoga trainer, creative and contributor. Fat Buddha Yoga was founded in 2013 by Jessica as a ‘Modern approach to the ancient art and science of yoga for the next generation of urban yogis’.
The FBY mission is to clear the mystique around yoga by providing an accessible and fun approach for all levels with a huge emphasis on music and ambience with tailor made mixes to suit every session.
Proliferating good vibes, it never takes yoga (or life) too seriously but teaches it as a tool to look after your mind and your body. Keeping the balance in our modern lifestyles to the backdrop of bumping basslines. You can take FBY classes through Jessica’s Youtube and the Nike NTC App.
VASQUEZ IN ALIENS
WATCH: THE MAD TO LIVE COUNTDOWN OF ULTIMATE BADASS FEMALE FLICKS
Ok sofa-time is clearly on the cards during lockdown. Arm yourself with the ultimate girl-power heavy lineup of cinematic classics to get you through.
POINT BREAK
Kathryn Bigelow directed the 90’s perrenial favourite high-drama surfing drama which continues to captivate audiences some 25 years later (“surfing’s the source….swear to God”). We are tossing Point Break in our round-up, 1, because cropped-haired surfing badass Tyler (Lori Petty) is one of our fav surf chicks ever, and 2 because Director Bigelow achieved the extraoaridnary at the time, the Blockbuster 2 fingers up to the male-dominant surfing and action sport industries.
ALIENS
Not only do we have all-time bonafide badass Ellen Ripley (Sigourney Weaver) back for another round of Xenomorph bashing, but argubly one of the best female action heroines ever in Vasquez, owner of one of the most memorable action hero lines of all time : (“Vasquez, have you ever been mistaken for a man?”…. “No have you?”.
A LEAGUE OF THEIR OWN
The Penny Marshall directed 90’s classic starring again, Geena Davis and Lori Petty, amongst others including Madonna and Rosie O’Donnell is a rousing tale of war-time girl power and how a female baseball team (the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League (AAGPBL)) came together during the Second World War to kick some ass.
THELMA AND LOUISE
Susan Sarandom and Geena Davis’ high-octane road trip is a stand-out mainstay on multiple girl-power fav flick roundups. Oliver Stone’s torrid epic penned by Callie Khouri (feat. a very steamy intoduction to a young Brad Pitt) delves deep into feminist issues and boasts arguably one of the most memorable movie ends ever (no spoilers here).
NINE TO FIVE
The 1980 classic starring none other than Dolly Parton, Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin based on the classic book by Patricia Resnick is an all-time classic satire based on the 3 scheming secrataries plotting to get their revenge on their sexist boss by abducting him and taking charge.
Mad Max Fury Road (2015)
Mad Max, a feminist classic we hear you cry, aghast? The newest incarnation of the Mad Max classic starred Charlize Theron in a barn-storming performance as ultimate heroine Furiosa, librator of the captive wives of tyrannical despot Immortan Joe. Buckle up for one wild ride. Plus is it just us or do you want to shave your head and smear on black oil make up a la Charlize who somehow makes this apocalyptic look beautiful and rad as heck?
WEAR: STAY AT HOME WARDROBE REMIX
Let’s face it, who is actually wearing a co-ord Zara two piece when WFH? We don’t mean to say throw it all to the hounds and live in your Primarni onesie with handy butt-flap, but embrace a relaxed aesthetic with comfort at the forefront.
LOVAINE STORE
Ultimate woman-crush, photographer, surfer and Lovaine Store founder Emile Lovaine’s SS20 The Drifters Collection is a go-to haven of comfy and dreamy wares to keep you cosy and the spirit of wanderlust alive and kicking. We dig the Ivy Knitted Set, Rancher Blanket, Indiana Poncho and Finley Wool Hat, Dallas Jumpsuit pictured. Emilie told us:
“The Drifters Collection was inspired by those who don't just follow one path, with hints of western and military influence, complimented by relaxed boyfriend style fits and a rich, earthy colour palette. This collection features my key wardrobe staples, which can transition with you throughout the whole year.”
FINISTERRE
British-born B-Corp certified brand Finisterre’s latest collection is a one-stop for comfy, long-lasting peformance wares. Hunker down in the Penhale dungarees, perfect for those looking for an upgraded loungewear look. Made out of 100% linen, pair the dungarees with the Woodshaw jumper knitted from 80% lambs wool.
RUBY ASH CREATIONS
Cornish Creatrix Ruby Ash, known for her stick and poke tattoo pop-ups held at surfing hot-spots round the globe also houses a well-stocked Etsy of witchy wares including moonstrone pendents, handmade cotton bags and holders. Adorn yourself with grounding crystals and get ya zen on.
EUPHORIC THREADS
Bring some feel-good vibes into your workouts/zoom booze-ups/yoga-thons/parties for 2 with the radical prints from independent designer Euphoric Threads. We heart the wild prints, and are big fans of the Disco Melon shorts,Mad Melon two-piece, Disco Melon cycle Shorts and the Bird of Paradise Onepiece. Guaranteed to bring a smile to your movement.
LETS FACE IT MASKS
Venturing out into the big bad yonder (kidders) and want to stay safe? Lets Face It masks are handmade, washable and reusable and comprised of 2 layers of breathable fabric. Stay safe and look steezy at the same time.
FACE & BODY: SELF-CARE RE-HASHED
Self-care routines are largely polarised during lockdown. Some may spout never-ending amounts of time to learn how to nail home manis, luxuriate in the tub, figure out out to home-balyage without looking like an extra from B*Witched, for others including busy mum’s now dealing with an army of hyperactive SAH kids to care for, busy front-line workers and carers, self-care routines are firmly shot. We’ve summed up our fav ways if you’re a) pushed for time how you can squeeze in self-care rituals or 2) on your 4th re-watch of Tiger King and need some new inspo.
PUSHED FOR TIME
It’s all about multi-tasking products that pack a punch for those pushed for time trying to salvage an iota of self-care management.
Double-down during bathtime, looking for wellness-enhancing products like CmbD Bath Bombs which not only soothing on aching muscles but chill-zone inducing (don’t worry about the munchies)
Multi-tasking skincare products like Decleor 2-1 Rose mask have skin working double-time overnight to hydrate, sooth and calm irritations.
CBD products have really come to the fore in the past year. Don’t worry, you won’t be left feeling baked wanting to decimate an entire batch of brownies with the munchies, you’ll just benefit from natural benefits of the CBD infused products. We dig CBD gummies to help sleep, and anti-inflammatory gels and aids for training from cbdMD.
Hair-care takes a backseat when time is of the essence. A quick spritz of new Pantene Cheat Day Dry Shampoo foam brings back good hair days in one squirt.
Glossier’s Balm Dot Com is a “do-everything” lip balm that sorts even the dryest of shmackers out.
Drunk Elephant slaai slaai make-up-melting butter cleanser is a fast-worker that leaves skin silky smooth
Fat & The Moon All Cream This cream is truly an ‘all’ cream, use it for face and body. Creator Rachel experimented with favourite recipes and created her own for the 'BEST cream she has ever used'. With aloe vera, rosewater and skin protectors like organic sunflower oil and shea butter, a small dab is enough for your whole face, and you'll find a little goes a long way.
I GOT ALL THE TIME
Twiddling your fingers at home? Have a go at expanding or trying out new self-care routines
Glo32 - Natural coconut oil teeth whitening - available in strips, stilos and toothpastes! (Perfect for sensitive teeth as well!)
Intimina - Running out of tampons? Try the eco-friendly Lily Cup!
St. Moriz - Cheer yourself up with a natural glow with products from St. Moriz. From sprays and gels to clear mousse meaning no mess.
MZ Skincare are award winning, clinically proven advanced skincare products created by surgeon Dr. Maryam Zamani. The Glow Boost Ampoules system are an incredible at-home treatment that will leave you with salon-worthy results. Promoting cellular renewal by stimulating exfoliation, the ampoules can diminish the appearance of age spots and wrinkles, improves texture as it smooths and softens skin, aid th skin’s barrier function to better retain hydration, and prevent hyperpigmentation. Be amazed!
The Hair Boss is a new collection created by Lisa Shepherd, the most awarded and profiled hair colourist in the UK today, designed to love and care for your hair in the same way you would for your skin. The Hair Boss product range has been designed as a 4-step regime. From a scalp scrub, a double mask, to a balayage shampoo - there's an innovative product to fix everyday hair problems, making them a thing of the past. The range is 100% British, vegan and cruelty free with individually selected sensory-friendly ingredients.
DESIGN: SHAKE IT UP IN YOUR HOUSE
Eyeballing the tired-looking living room that’s had the same artwork from uni? Hoarding paraphernalia from your bar mitzvah? If you’re blessed with time, make the most of it and transform your space.
THE NEW MARIE KONDO: HARMONY IN YOUR HOME
Always losing your keys? Living in a space/WFH (working from home) in a space a hoarder Hoarders Anon would be proud of?
Known for her experience in move and relocation management in the luxury market, along with crafting superior organizational solutions and functional spaces for her private clients, Smith Banfield has been mindfully decluttering overwhelmed homes across the Pond in New York for over 8 years. Believing that our wellness is directly connected to what we are surrounded by, Banfield’s mindful approach to organising and beautifying your environment is said to shift beliefs about what you hold onto, renewing energy in your space and the ability to find anything you need in under a minute.”
Delve into her book, Clear Space: How to Make Room for What Matters Most in Your Home & Life
BAKE OFF
Let’s face it, cooking must be through the roof right now as we take to our homes. Update your weary chipped student-set with this decadent British-made Feldspar bowl and pouring jug in Bake Gold. Based in Devon, Husband - Wife team Feldspar create objects for the home, hand-made from the finest materials by the most highly skilled craftspeople in the UK. Objects for life.
ART FOR ALL
Artist and tattooist Jessa Cabral’s Two Cones digital store houses a smorgasborg of her designed prints, furniture and homewares. We dig her positive-vibed prints and the rad side table, a stunning modern accent to your space with a satin finish on birch wood. You’ll take any room from zero to a hundred.
OH MY GLAZE CERAMICS
OhMyGlazeCeramics are unique Portuguese handcrafted ceramics that’ll make your cosy at home tea marathons that bit more hygge and hip.
