Life gets busy and if you’re searching for meal prep tips for busy people, you’re definitely not alone. One of the most common things I hear is this: “I want to eat better… but I just don’t know what to cook when time is tight.”
When your to-do list feels endless and you finally open the fridge at the end of a long day, decision fatigue kicks in fast. Cooking a proper meal can feel overwhelming, especially when energy is low and evenings are rushed.
Let’s make it easier.
Meet Mary. She’s a busy mum juggling two jobs, school runs and after-school clubs across town. By the time she gets home, it’s dark, cold and she just wants something warm and comforting. Cooking from scratch feels overwhelming, so she reaches for takeaway menus, toast, cereal… or sometimes nothing at all.
If this feels a little too relatable, you’re not alone. And the good news? With a few simple habits, feeding yourself and your family can feel easier, calmer and far less stressful.
Here are my go-to tips for eating well when time feels tight.
Meal Prep Tip 1 : Plan Your Weekly Menu First
Before I even write my shopping list, I create a simple weekly menu. Nothing fancy, just a rough plan of dinners for the week ahead.
This helps in three big ways:
You know what you’re eating (no last-minute panic)
Shopping becomes quicker and cheaper
The dreaded “What’s for supper?” question disappears
Meal Prep Tip 2 : Write a Purposeful Shopping List
Once your menu is set, your shopping list becomes purposeful.
It helps you avoid those “just popping in for one thing” trips that always end with three extra items and a bigger food bill. Shopping with a plan saves time, money and mental energy and makes healthy choices easier. These meal prep tips are simple, realistic and designed to fit into busy, everyday life, not add more pressure.
Meal Prep Tip 3 : Batch Cook to Save Time
One of my favourite habits is batch cooking. I often use a quiet Saturday afternoon to get ahead for the week (or even the month).
Cooking in bulk means:
You always have meals ready for busy nights
You’re less tempted by takeaways
Unexpected guests become stress-free
You save time during the week
Future-you will always thank past-you for this one. One of the reasons I love sharing meal prep tips is because they help remove daily stress around food and bring more calm into the home.
Meal Prep Tip 4 : Use a Slow Cooker for Easy Dinners
At this time of year especially, my slow cooker is a lifesaver.
You can throw ingredients in before work, head out the door, and come home to a house that smells like comfort and warmth. Add rice, potatoes or veggies and dinner is done.
Simple. Nourishing. No stress.
Meal Prep Tip 5 : Make Soup Your Go-To Meal
Soup is one of the easiest, most versatile meals you can make, especially when life feels hectic.
It’s perfect for lunches, quick dinners, freezer storage and using up leftover vegetables. Whether you use a soup maker or a good old pot and blender like me, it’s a brilliant way to eat well with minimal effort.
Why Meal Prep Helps Busy People Create Calmer Evenings
Spending a little time preparing ahead can completely transform your evenings.
A stocked freezer. Less decision fatigue. More family time. More space to relax.
And most importantly, less stress around food. These meal prep tips work because they reduce decision fatigue, save time and create more breathing space at the end of the day.
Enjoy more “me time” by doing more things you love.
If you try any of these tips this week, I’d love to know how you get on. Maybe it’s reminded you of habits you’d forgotten… or helped you create new ones that support your lifestyle. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed in the kitchen, I hope these meal prep tips help you feel more supported and organised this week. Leave me a comment or join our conversation on Instagram.
Creating a calm, welcoming space for my daughter to come home to.
There’s something so special about reimagining a space in your home and this bedroom makeover Mission was especially meaningful. What began as a lovely room ready for its next chapter soon became a calm, serene retreat and I can’t wait to share how it all came together.
Now that my daughter is away at university, I wanted her to have somewhere beautiful to come home to, a space that feels calm, cosy and full of love. It felt like the perfect time to refresh her bedroom, giving it a gentle update to reflect this new stage in her life — still warm and familiar, but with a more grown-up, serene feel for when she returns.
When JD Williams reached out to collaborate on a home project, I knew straight away that my daughter’s bedroom would be the perfect focus. Their beautiful home collection has such a timeless, comforting feel and it aligned perfectly with the calm, serene look I wanted to create. From the soft bedding to the elegant accessories, every piece helped bring the vision to life.
The Before: A Bedroom Makeover Ready to Begin
Before: a space full of potential, waiting for a fresh start.The cosy reading corner needed a more grownup feel.
The room had wonderful potential, but it felt tired and a little mismatched. The furniture no longer suited her, the walls needed refreshing, and the space lacked warmth. My goal was to create a room that felt grown-up yet still soft, welcoming and unmistakably her, somewhere she could exhale the moment she walked through the door.
The Vision for a Calm, Serene Bedroom Makeover
I wanted the room to feel peaceful and serene, with soft textures, gentle tones and thoughtful details. That feeling of: “Ahh… I’m home.”
A sanctuary she can return to after busy university life, cosy, calm and timeless.
The Transformation: Bedroom Makeover in Progress
Learning as I went, one panel at a time.
To bring the vision to life, I started by tackling the walls and woodwork. Initially I decided to just to give them a bit of tender loving care with a new neutral paint to freshen the room. I chose to paint the walls in Neptunes Silver Birch, colour matched with Valspar. However, once I’d completed the painting, I felt the bedroom needed something a little more.
I’d always admired panelling and finally decided to go for it, creating simple panelling using a B&Q kit. I usually always procrastinate on a makeover project and this mission was without exception!
Mike from Panelling Perfect was so helpful, giving me the advice and confidence I needed to take the plunge, thank you, Mike! Follow him here for brilliant tips and inspiration.
From measuring and spacing to fixing, filling, sanding and painting, I tackled every stage and honestly, it was incredibly rewarding. There were definitely moments I wondered what I’d got myself into, but seeing the panelling come together was such a proud moment. Once it was in place, I painted the panelling in the Neptune shade, Moss, colour-matched through Valspar. Together, with the Silver Birch, they created the soft, serene palette I’d been dreaming of: calm, grounding and beautifully refined.
The Tools I used For The Makeover Mission
If you fancy trying a similar project, here are a few of the tools and materials that helped bring this room to life:
With the panelling complete and the paint dry, it was time to start building the room’s foundation. A beautiful new DUSK bed completed the foundation of the room, adding structure and elegance while creating the perfect focal point to build around.
Styling A Bedroom Makeover with JD Williams
Layering textures and tones to create warmth and personality.
Once the foundation was in place, it was time for the fun part, bringing the room to life with texture, warmth and personality.
I added a set of bespoke cushions from Country Abodes, which were the final touch of softness and texture, truly elevating the whole space.
Then came my favourite part, layering in my chosen pieces from JD Williams, whose home collection has such lovely cosy textures and warm, inviting tones. Styling is where this bedroom makeover truly came to life.
Here’s what I styled the room with: Cotton Crinkle Muslin Duvet Set – White. Light, airy and beautifully textured, the easiest way to achieve that calm, effortless look. Everly Stripe Accent Chair: A warm, subtle pattern that adds depth and comfort. Mohair Effect Throw: Soft, cosy and perfect for layering. Statement Leaner Mirror (currently out of stock) This added height, light and a sense of luxury. If you’re thinking of something similar, it’s a piece worth saving to your wishlist until it returns.
Each piece worked together to create a space that feels calm, cocooning and full of gentle elegance.
The Bedroom Makeover Reveal
When it all came together, I honestly couldn’t believe the transformation. The room really reflects who she is now, warm, calming and full of personality. Watching her walk in and light up made all the hours of DIY completely worth it. It’s amazing how a few thoughtful changes, some texture and a little creativity can turn a tired space into something truly special.
Reflecting On The Bedroom Makeover Mission
Creating this room has been so enjoyable.
More than anything, it reminded me that our homes are constantly evolving, just like we are and sometimes, the most meaningful transformations happen when you least expect.
Knowing my daughter has a peaceful sanctuary to return to fills me with so much happiness. It feels extra special knowing it’s a place my daughter can truly relax and when she’s home.
If you’ve been thinking about refreshing a space in your home, start small, trust your instincts and create something that feels like your true style. This bedroom makeover reminded me of why I love small, intentional changes. Something I often talk about in my Power of an Hour missions and reminded me of one of my very first makeovers.
I hope this bedroom makeover inspires you to create your own little sanctuary, wherever you are. And if you’re planning your next makeover mission, definitely have a look at JD Williams — their home collection is full of beautiful, cosy pieces that make styling so effortless.
Shop The Look
If you’d like to recreate this look at home, here are the beautiful pieces that brought it all together:
Shop the Look (Click the links below to explore each item)
Cotton Crinkle Muslin Duvet Set – White Light, airy and beautifully textured, the easiest way to achieve that calm, effortless look.
Thank you so much for following along with this bedroom makeover journey. Creating this space for my daughter has been such a special project, and seeing it come together has reminded me how powerful small changes can be. Knowing she has a peaceful sanctuary to return to fills me with so much happiness. I hope it’s inspired you to create a space that feels just as meaningful in your own home.
If you’re planning your own makeover, I’d love to see it! Tag me or share your photos. I adore seeing your transformations.
Love
This post includes some items kindly gifted as part of my collaboration with JD Williams. All opinions, styling and excitement are entirely my own.This blog post was created independently.
There’s something special about preparing a guest room at Christmas. Not in an overly styled or formal way, but in a way that feels thoughtful and welcoming. As the house fills with the scent of the tree and evenings grow darker so much earlier, I like our guest bedroom to feel calm, comfortable and ready to be lived in.
For me, Christmas hosting isn’t about perfection. It’s about making people feel at ease, that they can put their bag down, relax and feel genuinely welcome in our home.
The Essentials: Comfort First in a Christmas Guest Room
Before adding any festive detail, I always start with comfort. Freshly laundered, well-pressed bed linen, supportive pillows and soft towels folded neatly at the end of the bed immediately set the tone. These are the practical foundations that matter most.
A jug of water with glasses on the bedside table is a small but thoughtful addition. In the colder months, I’ll also leave a hot water bottle ready in a basket, so our guests can use it if they wish. With a kettle in the room, it’s there for comfort without intruding on anyone’s sense of privacy. It’s these simple considerations that help our guests settle quickly and sleep well.
The Festive Touches For A Calm Christmas Guest Room
Once the essentials are in place, it’s time to weave in the Christmas spirit. On Christmas Eve, I’ll add a small stocking at the end of the bed filled with little treats that always brings a smile. I love curating a basket of thoughtful goodies; festive snacks, a few chocolates, a magazine or two and a handwritten note to welcome them. A kettle with a selection of teas, hot chocolate sachets and a couple of festive mugs makes it easy for our guests to enjoy a quiet moment to themselves.
To bring in a natural, elegant feel, I’ll often add a sprig of eucalyptus or a mini wreath on the bedside table and a softly scented candle to warm the room in the evening. These small details create a sense of understated luxury that feels both special without being overstated.
The Finishing Touches That Make A Guest Room Feel Like Home At Christmas.
For me, it’s all about how the space feels. I want the room to feel comfortable, not overly styled. Soft towels, gentle lighting and space cleared in drawers and the wardrobe all help the room feel settled rather than temporary. The White Company towels are a staple here, practical, comforting and timeless.
In the bathroom, I’ll leave a small basket with spare toiletries, a few essentials, a face cloth and a little something indulgent like a spacemask or hand cream. It’s a simple gesture but one that helps guests feel cared for and at ease.
This is about blending the thoughtful touches of a boutique hotel with the ease and comfort of home, creating a space where guests can truly unwind and switch off.
Little Mission Checklist: The Guest Room at Christmas
A simple checklist to help create a calm, welcoming guest bedroom without overthinking it.
Fresh, comfortable bed linen
Supportive pillows and an extra blanket or throw
Soft towels folded and ready
Water and glasses by the bed
A simple Christmas stocking with a few small treats
A handwritten welcome note, with wifi code.
Kettle with tea, hot chocolate and mugs
A softly scented candle for evenings
Posy of festive flowers or greenery
Phone charger
Little basket of toiletries, spacemask, hot water bottle and magazines.
Gentle lighting
Space cleared in drawers and wardrobe
A guest room doesn’t need to be perfect. It just needs to feel comfortable, considered and ready to welcome the people you care about. If you enjoy creating calm, organised spaces, you may also like my free planners, designed to help bring a little more clarity and ease to everyday life, from seasonal resets to simple home routines.
A Reflection on Hosting
Preparing a guest room at Christmas is a quiet part of hosting, but an important one. It’s a way of showing care without fuss, through details that make life easier and more comfortable for the people staying with you.
At this time of year, homes are filled with shared moments: conversations late into the evening, slow mornings and the simple rhythm of being together. A welcoming guest room supports all of that.
That’s what this little mission is about; considered spaces, thoughtful choices and homes that feel warm, lived-in and inviting, especially at Christmas.
Wishing you a season of calm, cosy corners and the simple joy of making your guests feel at home. With love,
As part of the continued relaunch of Woman on a Mission, I’m refreshing some of my most-loved wellbeing posts; updated, re-edited and more relevant than ever. With the festive season now in full swing, it’s easy for your stress bucket to fill faster than you realise. So this feels like the perfect moment to pause, check in with yourself and gently reset. How full is your self-love bucket today?
Over on Instagram recently, I’ve been talking about the power of removing things from your plate before adding new commitments, whether that’s a festive to-do, a work project or the emotional load that comes with this time of year. Before we rush towards the magical Christmas Day and New Year, let’s pause. Let’s gently rebalance, reset and make space for ourselves.
Why Stress Buckets Overflow
Right now, many of us are navigating work, home life, caring responsibilities and the uncertainty that real life so often brings. This constant juggling slowly fills our stress buckets. Not just for us, but for our children and families too.
One analogy I love (and always come back to) is this:
“Being in front of screens all day is like attending back-to-back meetings with 30 people each. You’re expected to absorb everything, act on it, remember it, and then head straight to the next meeting.”
No wonder we feel overwhelmed.
The good news? We can empty the stress bucket and refill our self-love bucket through tiny, consistent lifestyle choices and intentional pauses throughout the day.
Nutrition & Lifestyle: The Foundations of a Calmer Mind
What you eat, drink, and do daily has a huge impact on your mood, focus and resilience. Comfort foods, sugar and wine may feel like a quick fix (especially in December! but they often leave you feeling foggy, sluggish and more stressed.
Here are my simple, friendly wellbeing tools:
Think Before You Sip Caffeine feels like energy… until the crash. Coffee, teas, and energy drinks can spike stress levels and disrupt sleep.
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate Your brain loves water. Herbal teas count too. Staying hydrated boots concentration, supports digestion and help your mind stay clear.
Eat Like Your Brain Depends on It Because it does. Quick snacks and takeaways are tempting during busy weeks, but nourishing meals give you sustained energy, balanced blood sugar and clearer focus. (You’ll find lots of easy, delicious recipes here on the blog.)
Treat Sleep as Non-Negotiable Yes, “just one more episode” is tempting, especially with festive films on overnight but your brain and body need 7–8 hours of true rest. Better sleep means better mood, focus and resilience.
Move Your Body Daily A brisk walk, a stretch, 20 minutes of fresh air; all of it counts. Movement reduces tension, lifts your mood, and helps you think more clearly.
Track Your Habits I’ve created a Consistency Tracker to help you spot the tiny lifestyle shifts that make a big difference. Sleep, hydration, movement, mental load. Track them for four weeks and notice the ripple effect.
And above all: Be kind to yourself. You’re doing better than you think.
“I’m presently experiencing life at a rate of several WTF’s per hour!”
Unknown
I saw this quote and it made me laugh out loud.. Don’t underestimate the power of a good laugh, even in stressful times.
Tracking Your Stress
Small lifestyle changes often go unnoticed until you track them. Maybe you’re going to bed a little later, drinking more coffee instead of water or waking up in the middle of the night thinking about your to-do list.
These tiny shifts accumulate, quietly filling your stress bucket.
Here are some tiny, doable actions that instantly lighten the load:
Declutter one drawer, shelf or corner.
Clear digital clutter: delete old emails, organise your desktop, unfollow accounts that drain you.
Pause for 5–10 minutes midday. Breathe. Stretch. Reset.
Each small action empties your stress bucket and refills your self-love bucket.
Breathe, Reset and Reconnect
Sometimes the simplest way to reset is to pause and breathe. Even five minutes each day to check in with yourself : a short walk, a few deep breaths or a quiet cup of tea, can help you reset before diving back into the festive chaos.
Lately, I’ve been loving the Winter Reset breathwork series with Stuart Sandeman. If you’ve followed me for a while, you’ll know I first discovered Stuart’s work during the pandemic and have been a fan ever since.
Stuart is a globally recognised breathing expert and performance coach, Sunday Times best-selling author of Breathe In Breathe Out, host of BBC Radio 1’s Decompression Session and founder of Breathpod, where he helps people reach their full potential through the power of breathwork and music.
The Winter Reset sessions are free, live at 6:30am GMT every weekday and open to everyone. They’re a wonderful way to slow the pace, clear out mental clutter, and avoid getting swept up in the end-of-year madness. Don’t worry if 6:30am isn’t possible, you’ll receive the download to listen anytime.
If you’d like more tips on reducing stress, simplifying your home and creating space to breathe, you can subscribe to Woman on a Missionor join me on Instagram for weekly inspiration and encouragement.
Feeling inspired to take charge of your stress levels and refill that self-love bucket?
Try the tips in this blog, download the Consistency Tracker, and let me know in the comments how you’re getting on.
Here’s to calmer days, clearer minds, and a beautifully balanced December.
Updated for winter wellness in 2025: refreshed tips on boosting your immune system, sleep, nutrition and festive self-care.
Boost your immune system this winter with simple habits that help you stay healthy, energised and resilient during the festive season. Between family gatherings, festive plans and endless to-do lists, it’s easy to let healthy routines slip away and energy to dip. Think of this as your gentle reminder to slow down, nourish your body, protect your energy and find calm in the little moments. Here’s your guide to staying strong, balanced and glowing with vitality all winter long.
“A good laugh and a long sleep are the best cures in the doctor’s book.”
Irish proverb
1. Boost Your Immune System This Winter With Nourishing Foods.
Your diet is the foundation of your wellbeing. It’s all about simple, seasonal and nourishing choices.
Protein: fresh fish, lean meats, eggs or plant-based sources
Nuts & seeds: walnuts, brazil nuts, pumpkin seeds, chia seeds
Fermented foods: kimchi, sauerkraut, kefir, kombucha to support gut health
Pro tip: Add omega-3 rich foods like salmon, sardines or chia seeds to reduce inflammation and support vitality.
✨ Mission moment: Nourish your body with intention. Every meal is a chance to care for yourself and create calm from the inside out.
You knew I was going to say that right?! It goes without saying that a healthy diet is by far the most effective way to boost your immune system?
2. Boost Your Immune System This Winter With Spices & Supplements.
Nature offers simple ways to strengthen your immune system. Think of your kitchen as your wellness toolkit.
Echinacea: limits the duration and severity of infections by stimulating the immune system cells that are key weapons against infection. Available in capsules, tincture and extracts. Take a soon as that “cold feeling” starts as a short term remedy until any infection clears.
Gingerand Turmeric : add to cooking or sip as a tea to improve circulation, digestion, and fight inflammation.
Garlic: Natures’ miracle cure! Boosts immunity and protects against colds and flu — add it to recipes, but make sure you share, or you might end up sleeping solo!
Supplements: Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Zinc and probiotics are your winter essentials for extra immune support.
Pro tip: Add a slice of fresh ginger and lemon to hot water for a simple immune-boosting drink.
✨ Mission moment: Let daily rituals become acts of self-care. A warm cup of tea or mindful supplement routine can help you feel grounded and energised.
3. Boost Your Immune System Winter By Staying Hydrated
Hydration is one of the simplest ways to support your immune system and maintain energy.
Although the body naturally detoxifies through the lymphatic system, keeping hydrated helps it along. Low water intake can contribute to fatigue, poor digestion, headaches, allergies, weight gain and skin issues. Ugh!
Daily hydration: 1.5–2 litres of water plus herbal teas
Limit caffeine & alcohol: these can dehydrate and affect sleep
Functional drinks: adaptogen teas or sparkling mineral waters with electrolytes
Pro tip: Start your morning with warm water and lemon to awaken your system and support detoxification.
✨ Mission moment: Hydration is a ritual of renewal. Every sip reminds you to slow down and care for yourself from the inside out.
4. Prioritise Sleep & Rest
Quality sleep is one of the most powerful ways to support immunity and wellbeing. I know that I’ve been guilty of staying up late in order to get ahead of the Christmas wrapping or work, it really doesn’t help!
Please make sure you get plenty of good rest and if you need extra focus to stay on top of things – try a #powerofanhour or two!
Bedtime routine: consistent sleep and wake times
Wind down:Spacemasks self-heating eye masks are a dreamy way to relax. Pair with deep breaths or short meditation.
Support from within:Kollo Collagen nourishes skin, hair and joints. Kollo supplements are a simple daily ritual I have loved for over 5 years
Bedroom environment: Keep it dark, cool, and clutter-free for deep restorative sleep
Power naps: Even 20 minutes can restore energy and lift your mood
Pro tip: Try a digital sunset: switch off screens an hour before bed and enjoy a warm herbal tea and read a book instead.
✨ Mission moment: Rest is not a luxury; it’s essential. Slow down, breathe deeply and let your body restore itself.
5. Boost Your Immune System This Winter By Staying Active.
‘Tis the festive season, and it’s tempting to relax, binge films and indulge in chocolates or mince pies! Our social lives get busier and it’s so tempting to hit snooze on our alarm clocks and cancel our dates with the gym and yoga mat in order to make time for it all. But movement is essential, it boosts mood, energy and immunity.
Keep up the exercise when you can. Wrap up warm and go for a brisk walk with the family, tempting as it is to stay inside, when the sluggish feeling starts creeping in, head for the big outdoors!
Find what feels good: brisk walks, yoga flows or dancing around the kitchen. Make it fun!
Stay consistent: even 20 minutes a day makes a difference.
Stretch & strengthen: Pilates or gentle stretching eases tension and keep you supple.
Get outdoors: fresh air and natural light support immunity and mental wellbeing
Pro tip: Pair movement with a playlist or podcast to make it something you look forward to.
✨ Mission moment: Movement is a celebration of what your body can do. Every step or stretch reminds you that you’re strong and capable.
“To ensure good health: eat lightly, breathe deeply, live moderately, cultivate cheerfulness, and maintain an interest in life.”
William Londen
6. Boost Your Immune System This Winter With Self Care Habits.
Your mindset shapes how you experience the season:
Morning intention: set a positive tone with journaling or affirmations.
Find joy in little things: tea, twinkling lights, winter walks.
Let go of perfection: embrace moments as they are.
Stay connected: reach out to loved ones — connection is powerful.
Pro tip: Keep a gratitude list through December to stay grounded and mindful.
✨ Mission moment: Joy is a daily choice. Nurture your mindset to create space for calm, confidence, and a little sparkle of magic.
It’s the small, intentional choices that make the biggest difference. Nourish your body, rest deeply, move joyfully and embrace moments of joy.
Let me know your thoughts below and share your wellness rituals or cosy moments on Instagram and tag me, I’d love to cheer you on!
Sending love, warmth, and a little sparkle of calm this winter.
Hi, I’m Claire, a wellbeing and lifestyle creator passionate about helping you find calm, balance and joy in everyday life. Through simple rituals, mindful living and a touch of home style, I share inspiration to help you feel your best, inside and out.
If you enjoyed this post, join my newsletter for seasonal wellbeing tips, home inspiration and exclusive offers, like a cosy catch-up in your inbox each week.
I’m the creator of Woman on a Mission, a lifestyle space dedicated to helping women bring more calm, confidence and balance into everyday life. Born from my own journey to slow down and live with greater intention, it offers inspiration around wellbeing, organisation, home and mindset, one meaningful mission at a time
