Staying home survival guide
With much of Australia now in lockdown, we went in search of fresh inspiration for interesting ways to spend our hours at home. And who better to share it than some of the chic and interesting women in our community?
Melissa Mason
Digital editor, marie claire and ELLE
What are your favourite ways to spend your off-duty hours at home during lockdown?
I have a knack for filling my lockdown hours with more work – at the moment, that's recording for my two podcasts, You're Doing Great, Sweetie! and Jeans and a Nice Top. But when I do get a second, I've been into puzzles. They're such an exercise in mindfulness, I find they really wind me down.
Do you have any rituals for marking different times of a day spent at home?
My lunch break is spent doing a workout. I go between Fluidform At Home, because Kirsten King is a Pilates god, and Keep It Cleaner. I just got onto the app and the workouts are so home-friendly but leave you sweating! I have found this keeps my mood in check.
Do you have a favourite LUMIRA scent that you’ve gravitated towards during lockdown?
Paradiso del Sole is just so intoxicating during a period of no-travel. I might not be on the Amalfi Coast but it makes my home smell like a beach-side Airbnb.
Which other indulgences or treats do you turn to, to help make this time more positive?
I did not do Dry July and I don't regret it. My evening glass of red has been a really lovely time to sit down with my partner and enjoy whatever TV show we're bingeing (currently it's The Killing, I can highly recommend!). I felt guilty at first, like I should be using the time to detox. But I also think lockdown is a period where we should be kind to ourselves and not put too much pressure on, you know?
Can you share your top lockdown survival tip?
Get up at 7am or earlier. I have found that in the mornings, I'm lacking motivation and I'll sleep in until right before work, then feel sluggish all day. Keep your pre-lockdown routine going – the days I've committed to rolling out of bed early are the days I feel fresh and switched on.
Discover Melissa’s LUMIRA favourite, Paradiso del Sole Candle.
Or try burning No.352 Leather & Cedar as you enjoy your evening glass of wine.
Gabriella Alessi
Showroom Manager, MCM House
What are your favourite ways to spend your off-duty hours at home during lockdown?
Like most others, a lot of time has been spent in the kitchen on lengthy recipes and baking, inspired by places we’ve visited and also channelling the places we dream about visiting next. Potting plants and herbs along our window and balcony has become a little hobby too.
Do you have any rituals for marking different times of a day spent at home?
My colleagues and I have a morning yoga Zoom session twice a week before our Zoom morning meetings start. During the day, cups of Gorgeous Geisha tea by the potful. In the evening, an indulgent bath with face mask on, Persian Rose Candle lit and phone off.
Do you have a favourite LUMIRA scent that you’ve gravitated towards during lockdown?
My bedside bottle of La Primavera keeps me motivated and positive, giving me a sense of renewal for the day ahead.
Which other indulgences or treats do you turn to, to help make this time more positive?
Skincare, haircare, every care – indulging in products, candles and fragrances keeps me uplifted.
Can you share your top lockdown survival tip?
- Cosy socks.
- Fresh air, don’t forget to go outside, walk and absorb some sunlight.
- Good wine (the best on offer, now is the time to open the reserve stock stash.)
- Clock off – don’t work all hours, it will still be there in the morning.
Discover Gabby’s LUMIRA favourite, La Primavera Parfum
Or elevate your evening bathing ritual by burning Persian Rose Candle
Written by Michelle Bateman
