Hello and welcome! I’m Claire, founder of Woman on a Mission, a place designed to help women feel calm, confident and energised every day. Here on the Woman on a Mission blog, I share practical tips, inspiration and small, meaningful missions to support you in your home, lifestyle and wellbeing.
I’m so pleased you’re here. Grab a comfy seat, a cup of something lovely, and let’s dive in.
My Story.
I’ve always loved helping people feel their best. My first career was in Oncology Nursing, where I learned the true meaning of compassion, resilience and balance. After becoming a mum, I retrained as a Personal Trainer and Wellness Coach, creating Devon Fit Camp and later wellbeing retreats across the UK and Europe. Those years taught me that true wellness isn’t just about fitness, it’s about creating calm and confidence in every part of life.
My journey has also been shaped by my experiences with cancer, both personally and professionally. At the time of writing, I’ve completed the London Marathon four consecutive years, raising funds for Coppafeel! and Cancer Research UK and a couple more since for DKMS, the Blood Cancer Charity, of which a proud ambassador. These causes are incredibly close to my heart, and you’ll find more about my fundraising and advocacy work here.
I love seeing my friends and family happy, being by the sea, interiors, candles, white flowers, a good Sauvignon (although I’ve been pretty tee-total over the last year or so) and sunny days, whatever the season.
Why Woman on a Mission Matters ?
Woman on a Mission began as a way to support the women I coached who wanted to feel more in control of their lives. It’s now a lifestyle brand that blends wellbeing, organisation, interiors and mindset. My mission is to help women feel calm, confident and energised, one small mission at a time.
Life is full of missions, big and small. Whether it’s creating healthier routines, tackling a home project, or simply taking a moment for yourself, each mission is a step toward a more balanced and fulfilling life. Your mission might be big or small, from tackling a renovation to simply leaving the house on time. Whatever it is, doing it well starts with looking after yourself first.
These mini missions are small but effective. One a week adds up to 52 in a year, 52 ways to bring positive, motivating habits into your life. Here on the blog and my Instagram, I share “mini missions” and Power Hours, small actions that can make a surprisingly big difference.
A Little About Me.
You’ll usually find me hiking along the Devon lanes (especially as the sun comes up) or out on the South West Coast Path, one of my favourite places to reset and refocus.
I can also be found at the gym or at the pilates studio, at my desk, pottering in the garden or decorating! I love being outside, feeling fit, and making our home a calm, happy space. With my children all grown up and at university, life has taken on a new rhythm, but I still love being an active and involved mum. they still swim competitively and we love to support them.
You’ll also hear me talk about my favourite “F words” — Fun, Food, Fitness, Faith (self-belief), Friendship, Family, Finance, and Focus, the foundations of a happy, fulfilled life. And of course, there are a few “f**k it” moments too, because we’re all human!
Your Mission, One Step at a Time
Whatever your mission in life, work, home, or garden, it’s good to know someone is there to support you. Our house is our home, our castle, the place we feel safe and special, and as we spend our downtime there, let’s focus on how to feel amazing while at home.
I live my life one mission at a time, hence the name, but my passion is to share my nuggets with as many people as I can. On this blog, I’ll be sharing insights on home and living, lifestyle, wellbeingandorganisation.
Join Me.
If you’re ready to create a calmer, more confident life you love, you’re in the right place. Join my Woman on a Mission community to get inspiration, practical tips and a sprinkle of motivation straight to your inbox.
I’m delighted to welcome you to the Woman on a Mission Blog. Let’s make this next chapter your happiest, most balanced one yet. This is a place where I hope to help you create boundaries around what matters most, so you feel in control and able to live guilt-free while accomplishing what’s important to you.
I’d also love to know more about you, how you found the blog, what brought you here and what you’d love to see more of. I always read the comments and truly enjoy getting to know this wonderful community, so please do say hello below. I can’t wait to hear from you.
The first Wednesday of April is National Walking Day in the UK and I’d love you to join me on a walk to celebrate. Read on to find out more about why we celebrate this special day.
I love to walk and put on my walking boots almost daily to stomp in the Devon lanes. So that probably makes me a little biased about this wonderful day! I found myself on this years National Walking Day in one of the many parks in Sheffield. Did you know it’s a 15 minute city?
“Everyone living in a city should have access to essential urban services within a 15 minute walk or bike. The 15-Minute City Project is designed to help access-focused urban transformations be what we need them to be: ambitious, inclusive, measurable and effectively implemented.”
Why Walk?
There are so many benefits to getting outside in the fresh air, rain or shine.
Getting outside is an important element to maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Walking is a great way to get out doors and get your daily dose of vitamin D (did you know a deficit of this important vitamin can mimic signs of depression?)
It improves our health. Walking for 20-30 minutes or maintaining 10,000 steps per day is an effective way to improve your own health, physical and mental well-being
It’s easy to do – No weights necessary. No special skills or talents. Just get out there and walk!
Walking increases blood flow to the brain and does wonders our mood.
Regular walks can help to prevent cardiovascular diseases, lower your blood sugar and boost immune function. Walking for 30 minutes can also help maintain a healthy weight
Walking can help improve your sleep, all that fresh air!
On top of that, it is free and easy to fit into our daily routines.
I love to walk first thing in the morning before everyone wakes up. The best time of day for getting some vitamin D and daylight on to our faces.
A mini Mission for you – to embrace today and get outside, rain or shine and go for a walk.
As Hippocrates says “Walking is man’s best medicine.”
Will you join me on a walk today? Or better still, add a walk to your daily or weekly #powerofanhour Share with a friend you’d love to walk with!
Comfort and safety are key issues when planning a hike of any distance, here are the 10 key items you’ll always see in my rucksack when hiking.
“What do I need to bring with me?” A question I’m always asked when friends join me on my hiking Missions. I hope by sharing what I take with me, helps make your hiking missions all that more enjoyable and comfortable.
RuckSack
It’s no lie that for each hike (so far!) I’ve had to borrow my husbands rucksack. Not ideal admittedly. A comfortable rucksack is a must when out walking and ideally one that is the correct fit for you.
I love the look and style of The Tempest 20 Women’s day pack (left) Not only is it women specific but it features a continuous-wrap harness, hipbelt and injection-melded AirScape backpanel that moves as you move down the trail.
Together with attachments for trekking poles, bike helmets and more, it’s light and has an emergency whistle. The Tempest is made with high-quality bluesign-approved recycled high-tenacity nylon and holds 5-8kgs.
Like any running event, before a hike or in fact any walk, I lay out my kit the night before. I’ve been known to check and triple check that I have everything I need. When you’re out on Dartmoor or hiking along the coast path, you want to make sure that everything runs as smoothly as it possibly can. A check list helps a peaceful nights sleep and keep any early morning stresses to a minimum!
Mini First Aid Kit
As the saying goes, “once a nurse, always a nurse!” It may not surprise you that a first aid kit features quite high on my list of 10 key items you’ll always find in my rucksack! You never know when a trip, blister or even a cut finger can happen and it really is better to be save than sorry.
My First Aid Kit always includes a crepe bandage, a woven bandage, Paracetamol, blister plasters, antiseptic wipes, gauze swabs, dressings and assorted plasters. You can make up your own or the Ordnance Survey crew has created a brilliant one specially for walkers.
An item I haven’t added but need to, is an emergency thermal blanket Windproof, waterproof, highly visible and radar reflective. Super light, very small to carry yet should a member of your party fall, can be a lifesaver as you wait for a rescue.
Under the first aid kit heading, I always keep suncream, bug spray and lip balm handy in my rucksack, regardless of season. Living in Devon, the weather can be very unpredictable on Dartmoor and the Coast Path alike.
Water
Another obvious addition to my all important kit list is to make sure you have enough water.. As a former personal trainer and lifestyle and wellbeing coach, it’s something I would always chat with my clients about. Being well hydrated whilst exercising and going about your daily life is a key element to good health and well-being. When we’re dehydrated, we feel more tired and everything is that much harder, including concentration. So please make sure you keep your fluids up.
I’m a lover of the Chilly bottles, which not only keep your water cooler for longer (24 hours) They are reusable, so avoids the use of single use bottles, a win for me and the environment!
Snacks
Did I mention that my list was in no particular order ? Snacks are an important part of a hike! Homemade cookies or flapjacks always go down a treat. Essentially take with you something that’s of high protein, tasty and will replenish essential nutrients. You may want to consider snacks that don’t melt!
Walking can be seen as an activity that doesn’t burn many calories in comparison to other outdoor adventures. Don’t underestimate those inclines and calories burned whilst out in the great outdoors!
Money
I’d recommend taking actual cash and a card with you. I know this seems glaringly obvious but since our Lockdown days when cash became almost obsolete, some cafes and ferries have gone back to using cash only. I keep a little emergency fund of coins, notes and a card in my rucksack to I’m not caught out. Which brings me neatly onto the next on my list of 10 key items you’ll always see in my rucksack.
The Technical kit
It’s sounds very obvious but having not only a phone but a portable charger with me is crucial. When planning hikes, you have an idea of roughy how long you’ll be outside for, however not everything always goes to plan.
A hike may take longer than anticipated meaning your phone battery might not last the stretch. Without any means of communication, you won’t be in a strong position to request help or to let your loved ones know how you are. If you rely on the wallet application on your phone, you could also be in a tricky situation of being stuck without money too.
Having a phone with me, not only gives me piece of mind but also, allows me to take photographs to capture the precious moments. There are quite often seals and dolphins along the coast in the summer and if you follow me on instagram, you’ll know I’m a sucker for a sunrise and a sunset!
Essential Accessories
Never underestimate the power of a hat and a buff! (Some people call them neck tubes or snoods.) Whatever the season, these two accessories can be absolute winning pieces of kit. They provide you with extra protection from the elements and are small enough to pop back into your rucksack should you not need them.
Covering your head with a hood or hat is an easy way to conserve your body heat and stay warmer. In addition, covering your head with a light coloured cap in the summer, will keep you cool and help to discourage heatstroke and effects from the sun.
“Hiking and happiness go hand in hand (or foot in boot).”
Unknown Author
Spare Clothes
The weather in Devon, especially on Dartmoor, can be very unpredictable. On the Virtual marathon coastal hike last October, we literally had every season in one day. From driving rain, a big chilly wind and warm hot sunshine.
Base layers, waterproof trousers and wind proof jackets are essential pieces of kit to stay warm and dry. The key thing about base layers, is that the are thin and will keep you well insulated. When they aren’t required, they are small enough to roll up and put into your rucksack without taking up to much space and adding unnecessary weight and bulk.
“You need special shoes for hiking—and a bit of a special soul as well.”
terri guillemets
Socks
A top tip my Father in law shared with me, as I was preparing for my first ever marathon walk, was to take a spare pair of socks with me. “Change into a lovely fresh pair of socks half way into your walk. You and your feet will feel like new”
That advice has never left me and it’s a tip I now lovingly pass on. Socks from Bam are my absolute go to socks. I especially love their Technical walking socks for my walks and hikes. You’ll always find me in them and always with a spare pair for half way. Thanks John!
Map
I’m an old fashioned girl and personally feel that you can’t beat an old fashioned map! You never know when technology may fail you. A map will always be there should your phone or charger stop working. Ordnance Survey not only have a super range of maps but they also have a brilliant app.
Their maps and short walking guides are just what you need to be able to explore your area safely, plan your routes and know where your next refreshment stop may be!
Currently, I print off my route and laminate to attach to my rucksack, so I can check my distance and progress as I go along. A better option would be to use a lightweight case which is just the thing you need to keep your paper maps safe, clean and dry when you are out in all weathers.
“There are no shortcuts to any place worth going.”
Beverly sills
A Smile!
Last but no means least and very cheesy I know but come rain or shine, it really is a joy to be able to walk in our beautiful countryside. You’ll always see a smile on my face. I’ve always been a lover of walking and hiking but added walking into my daily routine during Lockdown. It became one of my one positive actions a day and I’ve not looked back.
I feel very lucky to be living in such a lovely part of the world with Dartmoor and the South West Coast path on my doorstep, so that’s why a smile will always be on my “10 items you always see in my rucksack” list!
Have I missed anything? What would you add on your list?
With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, I thought I’d share some thoughts and ideas about sharing the love – not just to those you love but to YOU too!
Valentine’s Day, also called Saint Valentine’s Day or the Feast of Saint Valentine and is celebrated annually on February 14. It originated as a Western Christian Feast Day, honouring one or two early Christian martyrs named Saint Valentine and is recognised as a significant cultural, religious, and commercial celebration of romance and love in many regions of the world.
What do you traditionally do on Valentines Day? Go all out, with chocolates, flowers and a meal? Or ignore the whole event?
As a couple (seeing as my Birthday is the day before Valentines Day) we don’t usually have a big celebration on the 14th February! The teasing he got whenever we went out for a meal on the 13th “Getting the brownie points in early Sir??” or “Don’t blame you, going out the night before, much cheaper!!” were usual questions! Not annoying in the slightest!
We often think that Valentines Day is for the young lovers and some possibly would think this day is even a commercial gimmick but this year, I believe we could all do with a little more love and a little less worry, judgement, no huge gestures required – the pandaemic has changed so much of our lives and we appreciated the little things so much more, don’t you think?
Valentine’s Day in Finland, called ystävänpäivä which translates into “Friend’s Day”. As the name indicates, this day is more about remembering friends, not significant others.
So with this in mind, here are some thoughts that you could treat yourself, your partner or even your best friend, to let them know you are thinking of them and that you care x x
You know I’m an absolute lover of sending Happy Post, I adore finding new brands and I’ve found The Toasted Crumpet and more recently Hip hip Hooray and am so pleased I have. Why not use this opportunity to send a card to someone you’ve not seen for a while or pop a card in the post to arrive in your home? I love the idea and traditions from Finland and might introduce that this year and beyond. What do you think?
The simpler things in life are MUCH more appreciated.
Home Spa Day
Bubble Baths or Spa Days aren’t for everyone – sometimes I struggle to sit still too! A relaxing bath, add candles, a good book, maybe even a glass of something lovely…! Lock the door and enjoy a few moments peace! Remember to leave your phone outside!
I currently loving the idea of a creating home spa. A gorgeous bath, comfy clothes, maybe even a DIY manicure, body scrub or mini facial! They won’t break the bank, leaving you feel a million dollars!
“All you need is love. But a little chocolate now and then doesn’t hurt”
Charles M Schulz
Enjoy the Great Outdoors
Fancy packing up a flask of hot chocolate and head out into the great outdoors for a romantic walk..? We are blessed with the coast and Dartmoor on our doorstep admittedly,
I love The Outdoor Guide, a free inspirational portal connecting all things outdoors.
The Outdoor Guide is “a place for people who love getting outdoors, lacing up a pair of muddy boots and discovering new walking routes in the great outdoors. We’re building a collection of the very best hill walks, mountain walks, woodland walks, lake walks, river walks, coastal walks, village walks, city walks and pub walks, taking take you right to the heart of the finest scenery in Britain.”
It’s a fabulous site to explore and plan your walks. I’m sure you’ll find some fabulous new ones you didn’t know were there!
If in doubt, treat yourself to a little Sparkle!
I’ve been a huge fan of Catherine D’Crovecoeur for quite some time and adore her new collection “Amour Toujours” (Love Always) launched just yesterday. £1 from each pair of earrings sold from the “Amour Toujours” collection will go to the Women’s Aid Charity, helping to keep women and children safe from domestic abuse.
A little message each day..
Esty have some fabulous gifts, supporting small business. Love this Mug I bought my husband last year, a funny little reminder each day!
I also love the idea of a Jar of Dates.. Scribble some ideas of dates where you and your nearest and dearest love to go and pop them in a jar.. WHEN Lockdown is finally over and we can head back into a little normality, take it it turns to pick a date from the jar and enjoy! A fun thing to do with the family too!
It goes without saying that may favourite gift of all time to give any day, let alone Valentine’s Day, would be the Gift of Life. As an Ambassador for the Blood Cancer Charity, DKMS, I’d love you to take a look at the various different ways you can get involved in supporting this fabulous Charity.
Registering as a Donor A blood cancer diagnosis is a shock and often marks the start of a race against time. For many patients, their only chance of survival is to find a matching blood stem cell donor, as fast as possible. That is why donor profiles with all the relevant information, along with the best possible processes, are so important. It costs DKMS £40 to register each new potential blood stem celldonor, but costs YOU nothing. Read more:
With Valentines Day in mind, how about ending a hand in the fight against blood cancer by hosting a virtual #LetsNailBloodCancer party!
The money you raise at your party will help DKMS register more donors who could be a match for a blood cancer patient in need. Host a virtual mani-pedicure party for family, friends and colleagues. Taking part is easy and fun! #LetsNailBloodcancer together.
I’m sure if we asked any parent who’s been home schooling, working at home or a key worker – (in fact anyone!) these last few months what they’d love most, I’m sure a lie-in, time to read their favourite book or watch their favourite episode without interruption would feature quite readily on the list! I know it’s on mine!
The Gift of Time is precious and cost nothing! The world doesn’t always have to turn at a million miles an hour, agreed it is hard to get off the treadmill of life at times! Use this day to treat yourself or those in your household, the 14th February is a Sunday after all!
So many ideas about how you might do things a little differently this year.. I’d love to know what little things you might do to show your loved ones you care this Valentines and especially the little things to love YOU?
Wishing you a Happy forthcoming Valentines Day or as they say in Finland ystävänpäivä (Friends Day)
Take good care,
Love
Hi, I'm Claire
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
Getting outside is an important element to maintaining a healthy lifestyle. 
