We caught up with content creator, podcast host and author, Lindsey Holland, about new ventures, new style, and the new normal...
Tell us about you and the journey of how you got to where you are today.
“I went to University straight from college to study Dance. I had the time of my life and, of course, got to dance every day! I developed an injury in my hip that meant I had countless physiotherapy appointments, and without my treatment I wouldn't have been able to continue dancing for as long as I did. I gave up to become a physiotherapist myself instead. I wanted to be able to help people the way that my physio helped me. I practised for years, specialising in elderly care and absolutely adored it. Unfortunately the NHS Trust I was working for didn't have enough budget to give me the help I needed in terms of staffing on the ward and I became really burnt out. As I was about to turn 30, I handed in my notice for some respite. That was 3 years ago now and I can't believe where the time has gone! My blog always ran alongside my physiotherapy studies as a hobby, and at some point, also moved into Instagram. I still can't really believe how lucky I am to have turned my hobby into my business. More recently my friend Lizzy and I started a podcast called 'Things You Can't Ask Yer Mum', which is like sitting with your two older sisters as they talk through all the things you just couldn't ask your mum!”
How has a typical day in your life changed in the last year and have you learnt anything new about yourself since spending more time at home?
“Goodness, where to start with this! Pre covid, I would be in and out of London so much that it was unenjoyable. I am a really social person; I love having a plan, I love seeing my friends, but I was taking on way too much and never allowing myself any time to relax or settle at home. This past year has absolutely forced me to stay still. It's been really difficult and stale at times because I was so used to running around and having lots of focus during my days. The best thing to come out of this time is that I now feel much more comfortable being less busy. I’ve had to prioritise and listen to myself, especially on the days my mental health has been bad, where I would usually gloss over that by making myself busy instead of dealing with it.”
How are you feeling about life returning to “normal” and will you continue to embrace anything from the lockdowns?
After the first lockdown I was really anxious about returning to normal, this time, I'm just so excited! I think being in a big crowd at a festival or gig again will be a bit jarring for me, but in terms of being able to see and hug family and friends, I just can't wait. I will say that I am increasingly ready for some culture and some sunshine (that doesn't come from the UK)! I will absolutely try to find more balance in my days post lockdown; looking after myself more has felt like such a turning point for me.”
How do you stay inspired about fashion in this time, and how has your style changed?
“This has been tricky! My inspiration comes from places, things and people I see, and since we've been at home all the time, it's been so difficult to even want to get dressed, let alone to know what I want to wear. I've always been quite paired back when it comes to my style and honestly, I need an event ASAP to inject some life back into the way I dress myself otherwise I might live in tracksuit bottoms forever. During this time, I've barely bought anything new (tracksuit bottoms aside) and it's made me revisit pieces in my wardrobe that I already love. Less is absolutely more when consuming fashion.”
What makes you feel good or boosts your confidence when you need it most?
“Talking to my friends is always the best medicine for when I'm feeling low in confidence. I always find that taking time to look after my skin, having a bath and putting something I love to wear on helps so much, too. Whether that's my favourite lingerie or pair of jeans; making an effort, or forcing myself to, really does make a difference.”
We all love your podcast. Do you have more episodes planned and what else is coming up for you this year?
“Thank you so much! We absolutely love doing it. We've got some really brilliant episodes to come this month! And, we have just announced our book of the same name, which is completely crazy! It is available for pre-order now ahead of publication day on the 27th May 2021. We are SO excited! I can't believe I've written a book!”
Lindsey wears: Natalie Lace Triangle Bra, Natalie Lace Knicker, Abbie Clean Tulle Soft Bra, Abbie Clean Tulle High Waist Knicker, and the Paige Lace Trim Soft Bra, all in a UK10.
Find Lindsey here: @lindseyholland_
Listen to 'Things You Can't Ask Yer Mum' here.
Pre-order the upcoming book here.
