The term “microbiome” comes up a lot in the beauty and wellness industries these days, but how much do you really know about yours? The microbiome is a busy community of microorganisms such as bacteria and viruses within the human body, with a large part to play in keeping it running smoothly. This intricate ecosystem is especially influential in your gut, with an impact stretching all the way to your skin.
Understanding the microbiome
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Feel-good Feta Eggs
Creamy, tangy, and totally addictive—our take on the viral feta eggs is back and better than ever. Perfect for sun-soaked mornings or a quick, feel-good lunch, this simple dish brings big flavour with minimal effort. Ingredients (for 1) 1 egg 30g feta Half a courgette A knob of butter A slice of bread Optional: chilli flakes or avocado topper Method - Grate your courgette. - Pop a little knob of butter into the pan and then mix in your grated courgette. - Fry until soft and then sprinkle the feta in and around the courgette, making a little nest. - Cook for 2ish mins and then make a little hole in the middle for the egg. Crack in the egg, and cook the egg until it reaches your preferred level. - Pop onto a piece of toast and sprinkle on the garnish. How does this benefit your body? EGGS: high in protein so will keep you full but also has lots of vitamin A, vitamin B-12 and selenium. Selenium is a mineral that supports cognition and immune function by maintaining thyroid hormone metabolism and DNA synthesis, protecting the body from oxidative damage and infection. FETA: super tasty and full of “good fats” which help satiety when paired with protein. Feta is also made through a fermentation process, so provides “good” gut bacteria COURGETTES: adds fibre to this meal, supporting your gut microbiome. Fibre is digested in your colon, rather than your stomach it feeds the “good” bacteria in the gut when digested. Fibre also helps you feel fuller for longer, so if weight loss is your goal, it can be really helpful to focus on a fibre rich diet whilst also balancing cholesterol levels.
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Friends of YLW - Meet Francesca, Kelly & Hannah
At You're Looking Well, we believe that wellness goes beyond routine—it’s about feeling strong, supported, and empowered in every aspect of life. That’s why we sat down with three incredible members of The Sisterhood, a powerhouse community of over 150 extraordinary women, from elite athletes to pioneering founders, who are redefining what it means to push limits. Together, they’ve raised over £1,000,000 for charity through daring challenges—ultra-relays, triathlons, paddleboarding, and dragon boating—all while lifting each other up and inspiring others along the way. Their mission is simple yet powerful: women helping women. In our conversation, we talked about their approach to wellness, the daily rituals that keep them feeling their best, and how You're Looking Well fits into their demanding lifestyles. From supporting recovery and resilience with the Day & Night Pills to strengthening skin health with the Day & Night Creams, they shared how small but consistent self-care moments help fuel their biggest ambitions. This process brings our body out of homeostasis (the body’s natural balanced state), which can impact every aspect of your health and wellbeing. Meet Francesca, Kelly & Hannah... Francesca James is the founder of Ideas Forums, the force behind leading UK entrepreneurial events like the Great British Entrepreneur Awards, UK StartUp Awards, and Ideas Fest. With a 100,000-strong community and 10,000+ award applicants annually, she champions fast-growth businesses and is one of the UK’s most connected voices in entrepreneurship. Kelly Newton is the CEO and Co-Founder of NIXI Body, award-winning absorbent underwear supporting women through menstruation, motherhood, and menopause. After facing endometriosis and bladder leaks, she created discreet, comfortable alternatives—now trusted by thousands and named Underwear of the Year four times by Women’s Running Magazine. Hannah Murray moved to Marbella in 2003 after years of travel—and never left. Now a presenter at Talk Radio Europe, she’s interviewed the likes of Eva Longoria and Mary Berry, hosts TRE in the Afternoon and The Book Show, appears on Good Morning Spain, and co-hosts the Marbella with Him & Her podcast with her husband PJ Lopez. Francesca James Francesca James is the founder of Ideas Forums, the force behind some of the UK’s leading entrepreneurial events, including the Great British Entrepreneur Awards (dubbed “the Grammys of Entrepreneurship” by Steven Bartlett), the UK StartUp Awards, and Ideas Fest – the “Glastonbury for entrepreneurs.” With a community of over 100,000 and 10,000+ annual award applicants, Francesca champions fast-growth businesses and start-ups across the UK. Known for her passion for storytelling, community-building, and lifting others up, she’s one of the UK’s most connected voices in entrepreneurship. How does YLW help to support you in your day to day life? "YLW couldn’t have landed in my life at a better time. I’ve been on a bit of a health and wellness journey this year, and what I love about the products is the simplicity – a day pill and cream, a night pill and cream. I’ve never been one for complicated routines or shelves of products. Since I started, I’ve noticed I’m sleeping better, I’ve stopped doom scrolling late at night, and my skin is brighter and healthier. But the biggest impact? People keep saying, “you’re looking well”, and I really feel it too.." What does success look like for you? "For me, success is about building something that truly matters, something that lifts others up. Whether that’s creating a moment on stage where a founder feels seen and celebrated, or building a platform that gives visibility to businesses on the rise, it’s those human moments of impact that make me feel the most fulfilled." How do you prioritise carving out time for self care each day, considering the unique challenges that women often face in balancing various responsibilities? "It’s about boundaries. As women, we’re often conditioned to be everything to everyone, but I’ve realised I’m better in all areas of life when I make space for myself too. Whether that’s stepping away for a walk, a proper night’s sleep, or simply saying “no” when something doesn’t serve me, self-care isn’t a luxury, it’s essential." What are three things that make you feel empowered? "Hearing other women share honestly about both the highs and the hard bit, vulnerability is power. Creating opportunities and spaces that champion others. Feeling strong in my body and mind: sleep, exercise, water, repeat!" Lastly, can you share a fun fact about yourself or something people wouldn't expect with us? "In my late teens and early twenties, I spent two years working in what I later realised was a massive pyramid scheme, door-knocking in the South Wales valleys on 100% commission until 9pm every night. I completely bought into the dream they were selling, and against all odds, I was actually great at it. I became the top UK salesperson, got flown to Greece and Italy to speak on stages about sales techniques, which is hilarious given I had no idea what I was doing, and was not meant for the stage; used to go bright red if someone said hello to me. Looking back, it was one of the most formative chapters of my life. I met the friendliest people (especially the further up the valleys you went, I once got driven around in the back of an ice cream van by a man who wanted to sign up his whole family). It taught me resilience, how to handle rejection, how to connect with people, and, oddly enough, probably paved the way for everything I’ve done since." Kelly Newton Kelly Newton is the CEO and Co-Founder of NIXI Body, award-winning absorbent underwear designed to support women through menstruation, motherhood, and menopause. After struggling with endometriosis and experiencing bladder leaks following a hysterectomy, she set out to create leak-proof knickers that were both discreet and comfortable—without the bulk of traditional options. Today, NIXI Body is trusted by thousands and has been named Underwear of the Year four times by Women’s Running Magazine. What's your go to wellness routine and how does YLW help to support you in your day to day life? "I start the day with some breathing exercises to regulate any feelings of anxiety I may have. I also stretch out my body, especially my lower back. Twice a week I have an online workout with my PT which I absolutely love. Of course, being realistic, some weeks I don’t have time to do any of this, but the trick is to not beat yourself up about it! I drink my bulletproof coffee and take my YLW day pill. Probiotics and collagen. I try to drink at least 2 litres of water each day and when I’m working from home I try to get outside for at least half an hour. Being post menopausal, I have really struggled with sleep but since I have taken the night pill, I definitely have less broken sleep and if I do wake up, I can tend to get back to sleep a lot easier. I also feel like I have had less anxiety since taking them! YLW came very highly recommended by lots of my sisterhood group, so I was really keen to try them!" What does success look like for you? "Success for me isn’t about money or material possessions, it’s about having time to spend with loved ones. A successful day for me is when I’ve had fun, laughed, got some fresh air and managed to squeeze some work in!" How do you prioritise carving out time for self care each day, considering the unique challenges that women often face in balancing various responsibilities? "I don’t have great boundaries, I would work all the hours of the day if my husband didn’t stop me but my non-negotiables have always been supplements and probiotics. Some weeks I forget to put my HRT patch on but I never forget to take my supplements!" What are three things that make you feel empowered? "My family, especially my husband, sons and my mum who are all so proud of me. My groups of girlfriends, some who have been friends for almost 40 years. They are all so supportive of what I do and I love sharing my success with them. Going to India with the Sisterhood was without doubt one of the most empowering experiences of my life. Having to drive the wrong way down a motorway and cut across 6 lanes of traffic was a do or die moment that has made me realise how cool headed I can be in a difficult situation." Lastly, can you share a fun fact about yourself or something people wouldn't expect with us? "I used to ring the church bells when I was at school for money. We used to get £5 a wedding!" Hannah Murray Hannah Murray caught the travel bug early, living and working across Europe before embarking on an 18-month solo trip through Australia, New Zealand, and Thailand by the age of 20. In 2003, she moved to Marbella—and never left. She began her career at Talk Radio Europe as a producer, landing interviews with stars like Ricky Gervais, Alan Carr, and Heston Blumenthal. Now a seasoned presenter, she hosts TRE in the Afternoon and The Book Show, having interviewed the likes of Eva Longoria, Mary Berry, and Lee Child. Hannah is also a regular contributor to Good Morning Spain and co-hosts the Marbella with Him & Her podcast with her husband PJ Lopez, sharing local insights and events with listeners around the world. What's your go to wellness routine and how does YLW help to support you in your day to day life? "I didn't really get into a regular skin care routine until I turned 40, and I know I don't drink enough water! I eat relatively well though and try to do regular exercise classes - a mixture of spinning, pilates, zumba and body combat. I really love the YLW creams! The lightness of the day cream feels great on my face in the morning, setting me up for the day, and the night cream is definitely more nourishing, great for bedtime. I completely get why the products are called You're Looking Well, as that's literally what people say to you!!" What does success look like for you? "This is a tricky one, as I think most people would liken success to being wealthy. Funnily enough, I interviewed someone this week who said that you're successful if you have found your purpose in life. I'm definitely fulfilled interviewing interesting people, and take pride in coming up with questions that people haven't had before. Guest often say "What a great question", which is nice. I'm also blessed to do a podcast with my husband. We have a similar sense of humour and we're on the same wavelength about most things, which is a blessing." How do you prioritise carving out time for self care each day, considering the unique challenges that women often face in balancing various responsibilities? "It's definitely not easy with all the different things I'm doing...and I don't even have children. I honestly don't know how some women do it! I have to really think about my priorities each day and somehow make it all work! I always do my nightly skin care routine, and take my tablets. But need to be better with my water intake!" What are three things that make you feel empowered? "The support and encouragement of my husband, my father, and my friends is vital. I'm very blessed with the people I have around me. I'm definitely empowered by The Sisterhood too. It's fantastic having such a large group of women all rooting for each other, as it doesn't always happen like that! It really is a great bunch of women." Lastly, can you share a fun fact about yourself or something people wouldn't expect with us? "I'm part of an amateur dramatics group, and a couple of years ago I played one of the leading ladies in 'Calendar Girls'. We actually made a calendar for charity, and I framed the picture of me (Miss October) for my husband for our anniversary. I'm pruning the flowers, which tastefully cover up my chest!"
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Homemade Granola
Crunchy, naturally sweet, and packed with goodness—our latest recipe is a must-try. Free from refined sugar, this granola makes the perfect yoghurt topper or a delicious snack straight from the jar. Wholesome, simple, and seriously moreish! Ingredients 250g oats 50g nuts / seeds 1 egg white 3 tbsp coconut oil 3 tbsp maple syrup / agave Method - Preheat the oven to 160 degrees Celsius- Add all dry ingredients in a bowl and give them a good mix around- Whisk the egg white until frothy, mix into the dry ingredients with the maple syrup and coconut oil- Tip the oaty mixture onto a baking tray and pop in the oven for 40mins, stirring halfway through and adding an extra drizzle of maple syrup / agave if you please- Remove from the oven once golden and crispy, leave to cool and enjoy!
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