July Reflections – Saltwater, Stillness & Summer Skincare

July arrived with that lazy-slow, sun-drenched energy – the kind where time stretches out, the beach calls your name, and your skincare routine gets a little saltier (in the best way).

This month’s felt like a real blend of coastal living, gentle movement, and preparing for a very joyful August. My back reminded me to slow down (cheers, body), so I’ve been easing into gentle yoga—nothing fancy, just stretchy, soothing shapes that help me reconnect with myself.

🌊 Summer Skincare Ritual: Salt, Skin & Simplicity

We’ve been walking along the shoreline almost daily – James, Custard and me, padding through the shallows like we own the beach. There’s something about sea air and saltwater that just resets the soul.

But between the sun, the sea, and the occasional sandy picnic, my skin has needed a little extra love. So I’ve simplified my summer skincare routine:

• A gentle cleanse with Oat & Mandarin Cleanser (perfect after salty wind and SPF)

• A few drops of Replenishing Serum to hydrate and repair

• And at night? A generous helping of Vanilla Body Custard – a rich, natural vanilla body lotion that smells like comfort and keeps skin soft and supple.

It’s my skincare version of a deep exhale.

💛 Slow Living Tip: Protect Your Peace

I’ve had a few gorgeous catch-ups with close friends – the kind where no one judges your laundry mountain and the tea’s always hot. It reminded me that real self-care often looks like community, connection, and saying yes to what matters (and no to what doesn’t).

Now, I’m gently preparing for a house full of family in August. We’ve got sandy feet, beach picnics, and probably a bit of chaos coming—but I’m welcoming it with open arms (and hopefully clean towels).

📖 Self-Care Ritual: Reading Real Simple

Somewhere in the middle of all this, I’ve found time to sit down with my favourite magazine, Real Simple. Just me, a cuppa, and some soft morning light. It’s a small ritual that keeps me grounded and gently inspired.

If you’re craving slow moments, this is your reminder: make time for them. Even if it's just five minutes. Especially then.

Final Thought…

July has been a quiet kind of full – slower days, salty skin, and moments that make my heart stretch out like sun on the sea. I’m learning (again) that rest isn’t the reward. It’s the rhythm.

And in my world, natural skincare is part of that rhythm. It’s not just what you put on your skin – it’s how you care for yourself through it.

What’s been lighting you up this month? Hit reply and tell me your favourite ritual, your beach read, or just what’s been keeping you sane.

With love, sea breeze, and sandy ankles,
Gemma x