Author

Stephen Morrison

Win Sustainable Valentine’s Day Gifts and show love to the Planet

Valentine’s Day is a time to show love and affection to the special people in our lives, but it’s also an opportunity to show love for our planet. The earth is our home, and it’s important to take care of it not just on Valentine’s Day, but every day. In my Sustainable Christmas Gift Guides, I shared some fabulously stylish and sustainable trainers and clothing.

For this special Sustainable Valentine’s Day Gifts blog, I thought I’d share some ways that we can show our love for the planet, save money, and still treat our loved ones, this Valentine’s Day.

And, as a special treat, two sustainable and ethical brands are giving away some fabulous Sustainable Valentine’s Day Gifts that you can win by simply reading this blog and completing a few actions (more details later in the blog).

Give the Gift of Sustainability

Instead of buying your special other a traditional gift, consider something that’s eco-friendly. You can splash out on a reusable water bottle, pick up a bamboo toothbrush, or a set of cloth napkins. Collectively, these small changes can make an impact on the environment and if you want to show your loved one that you care about the planet, why not invest in a Marine Conservation Society Tote Bag? Not only will it help you cut down on plastic bags, but it will also help support the work of the Marine Conservation Society.

Plan a Romantic Hike or Picnic

Instead of going out to a restaurant (although I did love our visit to Six by Nicho this weekend), plan a romantic hike or picnic in nature. Not only will you be spending time in the great outdoors (read my blog on connecting with nature), but you’ll also be reducing your carbon footprint if you cycle there or take the train.

In addition to reducing your carbon footprint, you’ll also be keeping active and if you are tracking steps walked or miles cycled using an Apple watch, then the first of our Sustainable Valentine’s Day Gifts could be ideal for you.

They say that diamonds are a girl’s best friend and thanks to the good people at the Watch Strap Company, I have a stunning Diamond Edition Stainless Steel Rose Gold Apple Watch Strap.

Yes, it does actually have a diamond set into the strap. And as this blog is focused on ethical and sustainable goods, it’s important and reassuring to learn that the WSC diamonds conflict free and are ethically sourced from, and created by, socially and environmentally responsible labs. Before being set by hand, the in-house UK team of Master Jewellers at WSC meticulously inspect every stone under extreme magnification to ensure that exacting standards have been met and to ensure maximum brilliance and are beautifully flawless (VVS+).

And you can win this stunning watch strap. Competition details are at the bottom of the blog.

Plant a Tree or Start a Garden

If you really want to cut down on the carbon footprint of your meals, why not make Valentine’s Day the day to start a new tradition of planting a tree or starting a garden together. Not only will this be a fun and meaningful activity, but it will also have a positive impact on the environment by helping to reduce carbon emissions and improve air quality. Starting a vegetable garden can be a fun and rewarding way to grow your own food and reduce your environmental footprint.

To help you get started on your a vegetable garden, I’ve provided some great resources below:

The Old Farmer’s Almanac: This website offers a wide range of gardening advice, including a section on vegetable gardening that covers topics such as soil preparation, planting, and care.

The National Gardening Association: This organization provides a wealth of information on vegetable gardening, including planting guides, care instructions, and tips for dealing with pests and diseases.

The University of Maine Cooperative Extension: This organization offers a variety of resources on vegetable gardening, including a guide to starting a vegetable garden, a planting calendar, and a list of recommended vegetables for different regions.

Reduce Energy Consumption

Valentine’s Day is a great time to start reducing your energy consumption together. Turn off lights when you leave a room. Spend more time together in the same room, add some romantic candles (ok, maybe the energy crisis isn’t quite this bad…so far), unplug electronics when they’re not in use, and consider investing in energy-efficient appliances.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, lighting accounts for about 10% of a home’s energy use, and standby power (the power used by electronics when they’re turned off but still plugged in) accounts for about 5% of a home’s energy use. By turning off lights and unplugging electronics when they’re not in use, you can reduce your energy consumption and lower your electricity bill. It’s maybe because I’m Scottish (and a Dad) but I love nothing more than turning off lights. Saving the planet and saving pennies. What’s not to love?

Support Eco-friendly and Ethical Businesses

Show your love for the planet by supporting eco-friendly and ethical businesses. This can include buying products from companies that use sustainable materials, or who have ethical recruitment or production values; or eating at restaurants that use locally sourced and organic ingredients. Wahaca restaurants are recognised for their ethical practices and I’ve been a fan of their Mexican food for years. It’s made for sharing and perfect date food.

And Valentine’s is the perfect excuse to snuggle up to your loved one (especially if your loved one is a Scottish dad who has turned off the heating).

And what better way to snuggle than in a cosy Brand Threads organic and sustainable Winnie the Pooh pyjama set? For 20 years, Brand Threads have been delivering beloved, and officially licensed, character based clothing to childed and adults.

Brand Threads is a family-owned business that sources Organic Cotton and Better Cotton for its clothing, which possesses sustainable benefits and properties from farm to product. Plus, all fleece robes and onesies are made using recycled polyester – reducing the dependence on petroleum, landfill, and soil contamination.

Fun fact: it takes around 22 recycled plastic bottles to make one of Brand Threads’ robes! And if that is not enough to make you fall in love with these adorable robes and pyjamas, Brand Threads also plant a tree with every item bought online.

Win Some Sustainable Valentine’s Day Gifts

And you can win a set of organic Winnie pyjamas. I have one set, size Large, to give away to one lucky reader. To have a chance to win this and the Watch Strap Company Apple watchstrap, all you have to take part in my Gleam competition below.

Sustainable Valentine’s Day Competition

As someone who has been a part of the problem for most of my life, I’ve decided that it is time to do something positive. To use what I’ve learned in various roles to help leave a healthier planet for the generations to come. You’ve helped me and others keep active with your support. Now. I’m hoping that you’ll help me keep our oceans clean of plastic as I launch One Sky Collaborative.

So this Valentine’s Day, let’s show our love for the planet and make it a sustainable celebration. Together, we can make a difference. And good luck with the Sustainable St Valentine’s Day Gifts competition.

January 29, 2023 0 comment

Sustainability

Ultimate Sustainable Gift Guide – Part 2

written by Stephen Morrison

It’s probably too late to order from the sustainable gift guide in time for Christmas. You do however have time (although time IS running out) to help save the planet. Brands like Boohoo are filling the news with huge sales volumes but also with questions over staff conditions and pay. As a fast fashion monster, they benefit from our desire for the latest looks at discount prices. Just imagine the environmental and economic impact of producing and transporting billions of pieces of cheap clothing across the world. 10% of CO2 comes from clothing.

Instead, why not pick up a few of the eco-friendly and elegant looking garments below and make a real fashion statement?

Low Carbon Clothing

Rapanui

Using modern technology like robotics, renewable energy, on demand production, and organic materials, Rapanui have become a recognised and respected supplier of circular fashion. I say circular, as Rapanui clothing is designed to be sent back when worn out and then recycled and reused for new clothing. I can’t stress enough how much I am impressed with Rapanui and I’m even thinking of using their clothing supplier arm, Teemill, for my own conservation project.

Watch this video and then check out some of the items below, using my code to get a whopping 20% off when you spend over £50.

T-shirts

Whether it’s collaboration pieces from Sea Shepherd, Surfers against Sewage and the WWF or your own custom design, Rapanui have you covered. My own preference is for a collaboration with an organisation I support (read my blog here), the Marine Conservation Society. I loved it so much, I bought it.

Made with organic cotton and water-based inks, this t-shirt was only printed once I completed my sales order and it will be packaged in eco-friendly paper rather than plastic. At £20 each, these tshirts are a great gift for the nature lover in your life.

Pact

Shopping sustainably has never been easier and we’ve never had more choice. Brands like US based Pact sell eco-friendly clothing for women, men, kids, and even babies. They have a great range of organic and fair trade bathroom towels and bedroom sheets. There’s free delivery to the UK for orders over £40 and if you use this code you’ll get 20% off your first order.

For my readers who like wearing dresses, they have a great range of dresses and skirts for a night out or for the office. Or you might want a shirt dress for working from home.

Pact clothing requires less water, uses less energy and they’ve even made a pact with SimpliZero to offset the carbon footprint of every Pact item sold through reforestation programmes, renewable energy, and community projects that sequester carbon from the atmosphere. These are slightly more expensive than you might be used to, but what price would we pay to protect our planet?

Mammut x Unless

Eagle-eyed readers of the Ultimate Sustainable Gift Guide Part 1 will recognise Unless from my shoe recommendation while readers of One Day in Lauterbrunnen Valley will remember my love of Switzerland and hiking. My next sustainable gift reflects both.

To celebrate International Mountain Day, Mammut have collaborated with Unless to create a commemorative hoodie and t-shirt. Profits from both will be donated to Protect Our Winters Switzerland.

Pact

One of the things I love about this collaboration, other than it is a wonderful example of circular fashion, is that it is opening up sustainable clothing to traditional brands. At £55, it isn’t the cheapest t-shirt in my sustainable gift guide, but I will be rewarding myself with one of these when I drop to size large (maybe by next International Mountain Day). Or I could buy a larger size now and take advantage of the Unless Takeback programme that encourages you to return worn out clothing in return for a credit towards your next purchase.

Neem

If I needed another reason to lose fat, then imagine how smart I could look and feel in some beautifully tailored Neem shirts and jackets. Using regenerative (a combination of using traditional farming methods, less water and cutting edge technology) organic cotton and sustainably certified merino wool, Neem have produced a collection of classically stylish clothing.

And I won’t lie. Neem is also on my watch list as I appreciate that they think about the larger gentlemen with loose fighting hoodies and shirts. Made from merino wool, is there a comfier hoodie on the planet? If you know of any, please let me know.

And if you have enjoyed my Ultimate Sustainable Gift guides and found them helpful, please let me know and I’ll create more sustainable themed content (I think this is my fourth or fifth blog).

I am also putting you on notice. My non-profit project, One Sky Collaborative (yes, I will create a proper blog about it), will be announcing partnerships and supporters in the New Year. I hope that you will join us in helping to rid our oceans of plastic.

Together, we can make a difference, and taking small steps to reduce our carbon footprint can help inspire others to develop sustainable alternatives to plastic based clothing.

December 19, 2022 0 comment

Reviews

Ultimate Sustainable Gift Guide – Part 1

written by Stephen Morrison

It’s that time of year when your favourite bloggers and influencers share their Christmas gift ideas and I thought I would join in on the fun with my Ultimate Sustainable Gift Guide Part 1.

Over the next few weeks you’ll find my Ultimate Sustainable Gift Guide listing some of my favourite eco-friendly gifts (some I own, some I want to own…hint hint). Now, ideally we should be cutting down our consumption of plastic based goods (there’s no debating that we produce and dump too much plastic), but it is Christmas and all the gifts in my ultimate sustainable gift guide are good to give. You’ll be helping to save the planet (that’s my excuse and I’m sticking to it) and supporting the development of sustainable products and alternative materials.

So, get yourself comfy, and get ready to fall in love with shoes that won’t leave a carbon footprint, athletic wear that isn’t fast, soaps that won’t greenwash, and books that won’t read you the riot act, but will provide you with more insight into why we all need to act now.

Sustainable Shoes

When it comes to trainers, my personal collection has diminished over the years, as my running days became numbered and since I started to consider not just how good my trainers looked but also how they were made. It’s been encouraging to see more and more brands pledging their support to more eco-friendly and more ethical means of production. Many of the household brands, such as adidas (read my adidas blog here), are using ocean bound plastic in their manufacturing, but I want to highlight to you the brands that are truly making waves.

The Degenerate

The first is UNLESS Collective with their “The Degenerate” Shoes. These are claimed to be the best shoes for the planet and it is hard to disagree. I have them on order for release in January, but what makes The Degenerate special and my number one pick?

Obviously, they look good, but it’s not a matter of style over substance. The Degenerates are made from plants and minerals and contain no plastic or petrochemicals. If that’s not good enough, it’s what happens to them once you’ve walked enough miles in them. Return them to the UNLESS Collective and they will ensure that they are decomposed and returned back to the earth in the form of soil products. This is circular fashion at its finest. From the earth and to the earth, and at $130 they won’t cost you the earth. UNLESS sells all manner of sustainable clothing, but click here for more information about The Degenerate.

The Wool Dasher Mizzle

Before I was won over by The Degenerate, I almost pressed the buy button on these Allbirds Wool Dasher Mizzle shoes (sale items are currently flying off the shelves). I still might, but I am trying to cut down on my shoe buying, remember.

As well as using recycled plastic bottles to make the shoe laces, Allbirds uses ZQ Certified Merino wool, sugar cane based EVA, natural rubber and even castor bean based foam to make a carbon neutral waterproof running shoe. Yes, even the water repellent coating is bio-based and fluorine free. With Glasgow’s drizzle, the Mizzle is still on my wish list. Check out the Allbirds sale page where you can buy a pair of Allbirds for a song.

The Blue Phoenix

A return to Copenhagen might be on the cards next year. No, my marathon running isn’t rising from the ashes (have I ever mentioned that I ran the Copenhagen marathon?). Instead I might be accompanying my partner who might be presenting at a medical conference. If we do go, I will be coming home with a pair of Vaer’s Blue Phoenix.

These stunning trainers use strong materials, including cut offs of jeans and tablecloths, recycled rubber and cotton, and natural fibers to make durable shoes that stand the test of time. Ideally the soles of these will be replaced when needed adding more years to their use.

The Carlo

While brands like Veja and Cariuma are notable omissions with low carbon emissions, my last pick are TOMS’ Carlo trainers. Over the years, I have bought my girlfriend TOMS’ Alps for our summer holidays in the Alps but I’ve recently been made aware of their efforts not only to improve the sustainability of their shoes but also their ethical approach. Sustainability isn’t just about zero plastic production, it’s also about the economic impact of production. TOMS are committed to donating one third of their profits to community projects, with a focus on mental health, gun violence, and on supporting marginalised groups.

TOMS have created an Earthwise collection “rooted in earth-friendly materials and processes” which include The Carlo above. Using bio-based EVA and plant based dyes, TOMS have vowed to slash their environmental impact by 2025. The clock is ticking, but they are making major changes and this has to be applauded.

And that clock is ticking for us all. It is estimated that by 2050 that there will be more plastic in our oceans than fish. One way we can prevent this is by buying less plastic goods and buying more sustainable products. If you are in the market for a new pair of trainers, please do have a look at the suggestions above in my Ultimate Sustainable Gift Guide Part 1 and look out for Part 2 on the best eco-friendly clothing.

December 11, 2022 0 comment

Health Obesity

Tis the Season to Get Fit

written by Stephen Morrison

Tis the season to indulge, so please let me indulge you, dear reader, with my latest attempt to improve my health and to make Tis the Season to Get Fit.

2022 hasn’t been a total disaster, but it has been a difficult year with September being the worst month. I lost my mum in September and, if I am honest, my heart is still broken. I know EVERYONE says this, but my mum REALLY was the best.

I also caught COVID. I had managed through socially isolating (I’m far too good at it for my own good), mask wearing, hand washing, and vaccine taking to avoid it for 2.5 years. However, complacency by myself and a lack of mask wearing by the general public saw me finally succumb.

Two months on and I am still a little breathless on exertion and I’ve been rather sedentary for the past three months (several weeks sitting by a hospital bed didn’t help) as I’ve become far too comfortable with working from home.

One symptom I might have welcomed was the loss of taste, as during my period of grief I turned to food and undid a lot of the good results I had achieved prior to and during summer.

As I said, 2023 hasn’t been a total disaster and if nothing changes between now and the end of the year, I will have ended the year 28lbs lighter than I started it

But change is inevitable, and I am not waiting until January 1st 2023 to make those changes. I turn 50 in January and looking after myself seems more critical. Watching my mum die has possibly made me think more about my own mortality while the history of heart disease in my family cannot be ignored.

And I will not ignore it. Nor will I go overboard this Christmas. I will enjoy food and the odd gin, but I will not devour chocolate, nor will I use the excuse that it is too cold and wet to stay active. Now, these barriers are indeed barriers to many, but I have waterproof shoes, waterproof jackets and trousers (hopefully I won’t go that far), and even waterproof socks. Not to mention waterproof skin.

I also have a gym membership and enough home gym equipment to open a gym. However, the most important thing I have is determination.

I am not going to spend another year looking back. Wishing I had made different choices. Wanting to turn back the clock. I am going to look at what future me will achieve and it makes me smile. I have a lot to look forward to in 2023 and I’ll share more with you soon.

But back to 2022 and my changes. First one is walking more. And with it being winter, I am going to need a bit of motivation. I’ve set myself a target of just under 500,000 steps between now and the end of January. For old me, this would have been a walk in the park (lots of walks in parks), but with my busted knee, flat feet, and excess weight, I will need to take it easy and be consistent each day. I will reach my target as I’ve bet $60 that I will at Healthy Wage.

Healthy Wage uses cash-bashed weight-loss challenges to incentivize and gamify behavior change. I am a big fan of gamification and those of you who follow me on Twitter will see that I have my own gamified project. More on that soon. The premise is simple. You bet (monthly direct debit) that you will walk x number of steps or lose x number of pounds in x amount of time. When the time comes if you have hit your target, you will collect about four times your bet. Not bad odds…if you reach the target. If you don’t lose the pounds, then you lose the pounds (gbp). Healthy Wage don’t simply take your money and leave you to it. They do provide advice, support and encouragement while I do love all the statistics and data charting your progress. Something else which motivates me. But will it be enough? Will the prospect of winning (or losing) a significant sum of money motivate me and keep me focused on the prize? I’ll do one of my Honest Reviews on Healthy Wage in the New Year, but my honest answer is no. This is how Healthy Wage can pay out large sums to those successfully reaching their targets. Because the majority probably don’t. If losing fat and keeping it off was easy, we wouldn’t have an obesity problem.

To truly suceed I will not only need determination, but also discipline, dedication and the desire to lead a healthier life. I have all of these, but I am not going to leave anything to chance. I will use every resource open to me to ensure success. I will use apps, supplements, equipment, and professionals (more Honest Reviews on the way) to help me win. Not just the bet, but a better life.

Will you join me in making this the season to get fit?

December 1, 2022 0 comment

Mental Health

Make Someone Smile on World Smile Day

written by Stephen Morrison

Dear reader, I’m going to be honest. Life hasn’t been great of late. My mum died, I am currently suffering (what’s this mild nonsense?) from COVID, and a project I spent years working on and promoting has turned sour (COVID has not taken away the taste of defeat). Captaining Maddison and not Haaland last week in my Fantasy Football League hasn’t helped my demeanor either.

I could wallow in self-pity, and I could worry about mortgage rates, fuel costs and my Fantasy Football League ranking, but today is World Smile Day and it is a day to reflect on all that is good in my life. It’s also a day to share with you how you can make others smile.

For World Smile Day isn’t about showing off your pearly whites and grinning like a Cheshire cat. It’s about making others smile and doing good.

So why am I encouraging you to make others smile?

Five Reasons to Smile On World Smile Day

Research (1) shows that smiling boosts our mental health. It can relieve stress, and reduce levels of anxiety. And I think most of us could benefit from that right now. I use a grounding technique that makes me smile when I am feeling down and it works every time. Thanks to Robert Brennan for teaching me that.

When you make someone smile, it can actually make them feel happier (2). One of the easiest ways to make someone smile is to simply smile at them…although you might not want to smile at randoms in the street.

Smiling can also act as a painkiller (3). When we smile, endorphins are released and these can act as a mild pain reliever. Try it when you get your next COVID jab (please do get your COVID vaccinations).

And smiling is contagious (4). Smile and the world smiles with you. It’s a win win.

With all that is happening in the world, who doesn’t want to lower their blood pressure? Smiling has been shown (5) to decrease blood pressure.

5 Easy Ways to Make Someone Smile

One of the most positive ways of making someone smile on World Smile Day is to let them know how much they mean to you. Tell a loved one that you do indeed love them and thank a friend for their friendship. This is something that too many of us do too little.

Compliment someone. Again, be careful with complete strangers (I’ve been watching too much of Dahmer) but letting someone know how great they are, how great they look or how great something is that they’ve done can bring out a smile. You can also do this on social media and while you might not see them smile (they might drop a smiley emoji), there is a good chance that across the interweb, they are smiling.

Be kind. An act of kindness can be anything from donating to a foodbank, holding open a door, checking in on a neighbour, to helping someone cross the street. Recipients of kind acts are in turn more likely to then be kind to others (6).

Say hello. Much to my girlfriend’s embarrassment, I will strike up a conversation with strangers (we can often tell when someone wants a blether). People love to connect and so many people are lonely. Saying hello can be a great opener.

Share someone’s blog. Ok, I’ve snuck this one in. But go on, you’ll make me smile.

There are so many other ways to put a smile on someone’s face. A simple hug. A phone call. A kind word or even letting the person with the one carton of milk go ahead of you in the checkout queue. It costs nothing to be kind and the effect of a smile to the right person, at the right time can be priceless.

So, on World Smile Day and every day after it, have a think about how you can make someone smile or make their day happier. We all have that power within us. We just have to choose to use it.

References

October 7, 2022 0 comment

Fitness

Win a Trip to Los Angeles with Hyprr X WCO

written by Stephen Morrison

The pull-up.

That deceptively simple looking exercise that is regarded by many as the true measure of fitness.

Presently, I can do none.

Despite being close to 40lbs lighter, I still have another 60lbs to lose and it will be some time before I can again perform a full pull-up.

But, what I can do is watch those who make pull ups look easy compete at Battle of the Bars at TheFitExpo in Los Angeles (LA) next month.

While it’s most likely that I will have to be content with watching Battle of the Bars live exclusively on the World Calisthenics Organization’s Hyprr.com profile, I would much rather watch it in person in LA.

And thanks to the teams at the new Web 3 social media platform Hyprr.com and the World Calisthenics Organization I might be able to (although maybe I shouldn’t share the news to increase my chances of winning) when I win a trip to Los Angeles.

For today, Hyprr and the WCO launch a free to enter competition to give one lucky Hyprr user a grand prize of flights to, accommodation in, and spending money for Los Angeles to watch Battle of the Bars for themselves and one other person (expect lots of friend requests) at TheFitExpo which takes place at the Los Angeles Convention Centre between May 21st -22nd. 88,000 people are expected to attend over the two days with Battle of the Bars being one of the most anticipated events at TheFitExpo. You do not want to miss this once in a lifetime opportunity to win a trip to Los Angeles.

All you have to do to enter the competition and to win a trip to Los Angeles is create an account on Hyprr.com, follow the World Calisthenics Organization Hyprr profile, and comment on their competition post. Hyprr will then randomly select the lucky winner who will be jetting off to Los Angeles with their best friend.

The competition opens on May 1st and you have until May 6th to create your profile and complete the required competition actions. The winner will be announced on May 7th.

This amazing Hyprr X World Calisthenics Organization prize includes:

Flights for 2 people to Los Angeles
Airport pickup and 4* hotel accommodation for four days and three nights close to the venue from Friday 20th to Monday 23rd May 2022.
Entry to the LA Fitness Expo 2022 for the 2 days.
Plus $500 spending money
You will also get to meet WCO CEO Brendan Cosso, his team, and the athletes.
And you will maybe even get to do a pull-up.

This is a competition for fans of calisthenics, fitness lovers, and absolutely anyone who fancies a couple of days in LA. Sign up to Hyprr.com, follow the WCO, comment on their post and you could win a trip to Los Angeles.

**Create. Earn. Own. and Win** **a Trip to Los Angeles.**

Hyprr X WCO Giveaway Terms and Conditions 2022

These are the terms and conditions which apply to the Hyprr Competition in partnership with the World Calisthenics Organization (WCO) in which one individual will win flights and accommodation for two people to Los Angeles to attend the WCO competition being held at The LA Fit Expo on 21st and 22nd of May 2022.

By entering this Competition you agree to be bound by these terms and conditions.

Entry to the competitions is free and open to applicants who are available to travel to Los Angeles on 20th May 2022 and return on 23rd May 2022. The applicant and their guest must hold the correct visa entry requirements for entering the USA, apply for an ESTA (if applicable) and are subject to any relevant Covid travel requirements or restrictions which may be in place at the time of travel and are liable for any related costs. The winner and their guest must both be traveling from and returning to the same destination. Hyprr Inc and WCO do not take any responsibility for applicants travel entry requirements and any winners unable to travel will forfeit their winning entry.

Upon confirmation of flights, both ‘The Winner’ and guest will be required to board the scheduled flights. If for ANY reason ‘The Winner and Guest do not board the scheduled flights, alternative flights will NOT be offered by Hyprr Inc or WCO. Any failure to board the scheduled flights ‘The Winner’ automatically forfeits their winning entry. Hyprr Inc and WCO are not responsible or liable for air carrier travel delays, or changes to flight schedules.

Hyprr Inc and WCO are not responsible for covering, arranging or otherwise assisting with the travel or dining requirements over the course of the 4 days. A $500 cash prize is included to help cover incidentals(such as travel) and subsistence costs. The ‘Winner’ and guest will be required to make their own travel and dining arrangements.

Hyprr Inc, Hyprr UK Ltd and WCO employees, agencies, licensees, freelancers, contractors (and those of any of our promotion partners, associated companies or prize providers) and their immediate family members or households (whether related or not), and anyone else professionally involved with this competition, are excluded from entering this competition.

Entrants must be over 18 years of age and only one entry per person will be accepted.

To enter the competition you need to do the following between 2nd – 6th May 2022:

Create a Profile on Hyprr
Follow the WCO page on the Hyprr app.
Comment on the competition post.

Entries must be submitted in the formats specified above by the closing date of 6th May 2022. Hyprr Inc and WCO reserves the absolute right to reject any incorrect, incomplete or late entries.

Hyprr Inc and WCO reserve the right to reject any entry on any grounds that it may from time to time consider appropriate. The decision of Hyprr Inc and WCO to accept or reject an entry is final and no correspondence will be entered into.

The competition can be extended or canceled at any time without notice and at the discretion of Hyprr Inc and WCO.

Competition winners will be announced on 7th May after the close of the competition.

Hyprr Inc shall be obliged to contact the prize winner only via their Hyprr account. Any prize not claimed within 48 hours of sending a notification of a winning entry shall be forfeited. Hyprr Inc may award the prize to another entrant.

No alternative cash award or otherwise to the stated prizes are available.

Hyprr Inc may require winners to take part in post-competition publicity.

By entering the competition each entrant gives consent for Hyprr Inc to contact them via their Hyprr account. Hyprr Inc will only contact entrants in relation to this competition.

April 28, 2022 0 comment

Physical Activity

Earth Day Announcement- How I Plan to Raise Millions

written by Stephen Morrison

It is Earth Day and:

“These days, you get accused of being a woke leftie, if you say you are a conservationist, don’t you?”

Paraphrasing Stewart Lee aside, wanting to protect the planet and wanting to give our children a future shouldn’t be and isn’t a preserve of the left. Nobody (or almost nobody) enjoys seeing forest fires, oil spills, or polluted rivers, and I am sure that most of us would welcome opportunities to live more sustainably (read this for some ideas) and to reduce our carbon footprint.

I cycle to work (another 7lbs lost since my last blog), I recycle plastic and clothes, and I do try to shop more sustainably. I’ve swapped to brands such as adidas and I’m at the age when I go around switching off lights and asking loudly if the boys think it’s the Blackpool Illuminations.

However, I do have two loves that contribute significantly to my carbon footprint. The first is flying. We do love travelling and I am aware of the huge amounts of emissions our flights to Italy and France this year alone have generated. My offsetting at home probably doesn’t come close to cancelling out my flights but that doesn’t mean I can’t try (good Earth Day resource here about travelling more sustainably). Spending more of our holiday weekends holidaying in the UK has helped (also been wonderful exploring this beautiful isle) but there is another activity I enjoy which contributes to greenhouse gases.

Non Fungible Tokens or NFTs

I collect them, I write copy for various NFT projects and I am even involved in organising a summer Tech and NFT Festival in Glasgow. Over the last year I have made so many new friends and I have supported and worked with a diverse group of artists while a few of the projects I work with are focussed on addressing poverty and encouraging good acts.

But I also know that my minting (creating) of NFTs on the Ethereum blockchain has potentially had a detrimental effect on the environment and I know that most people are either dismissive or downright hateful of NFTs. They view those involved with NFTs as scammers and as uncaring tech bros focused on greed.

And, as a self confessed people pleaser, I want to change practices and opinions while raising millions of dollars for marine conservation charities (one is already on board). Yes, I said millions.

Earth Day Announcement

So, it is fitting that my Earth Day Announcement is that I am bringing together at least 42 NFT communities with over 500,000 members, and charities, marine biologists, sporting bodies, celebs and maybe a brand or two to take part in an international beach, lake and river clean in September of this year.

Over the years, my blogging and campaigning have connected me with amazing people and organisations. I’m now bringing them all together to do good and to show the world that the world of NFTs is filled with caring and good people from all walks of life and political persuasions.

In the next weeks and months, I will be sharing details of my team, partners, supporters, and the charities benefiting from our auctions and mint. I’ll also let you know how you can get involved and will tell you more about the Tech and NFT Festival. However, if you are keen to contribute now, DM me on Twitter at @howmanymiles_

It’s Earth Day. Let’s invest in the planet (and my charity NFTs) and let’s commit to doing better and to doing good.

April 21, 2022 0 comment

Swimming

Everything is Going Swimmingly with Swimathon

written by Stephen Morrison

It’s been some time since my Hyprr Fitmas post. Christmas, New Year, Valentine’s Day and a couple of holidays have passed since I’ve shared my thoughts, progress and reviews. I have been extremely busy working on a few projects. More on that soon but one aims to raise millions of pounds for marine conservation charities via NFTS, while another will be rewarding people for being good. Yes, being a do-gooder can be rewarding in many ways.

But back to my fitness.

Fitmas was a relative success. I lost about 14 lbs and have managed to keep it off. I didn’t lose much more (ok, any more) in the first few months of 2022 but neither did I gain weight.

Part of the reason has been trips to Paris, Naples and Rome, where carbs were consumed in quantity and where Peroni beer has never tasted so good.

Then there was my motivatio, or rather lack of it.

The projects that I am working on and for are amazing; the people I work with are awesome. But truth be told, I was doing too much and subsequently not giving everything and anything my all.

In stepped Leylne (more on this in a later blog) colleague Benedikt Oehmen who offered to provide some coaching and over the last couple of months we have been having weekly sessions. He helped me reflect on what drives me forward, what holds me back and what gets in my way.

And the answer to all of these is ME. However, it’s also me, and some tools suggested by Bene, who held the solutions and I’ve made some changes.

Less time on social media (much less)
More time with family (not enough)
Earlier to bed and earlier to rise
More reading
Daily physical activity
Less negative self talk

I also looked at everything I was involved in. NFT projects, social impact projects, festivals, and sports promotion. I reflected on what mattered most to me and what brought me the most joy and two things stood out. I wasn’t moving enough and I wasn’t promoting sports enough. They go hand in hand.

However, there was the small matter of my knees. No longer my good and bad knees. Now, just my osteoarthritic knees. Walking is painful and although surgery has been mentioned, I feel far too young to follow this path so soon.

Instead, I have been focusing on reducing the load my knees are carrying (yes, losing fat), strengthening the muscles around my knee and on getting back onto my bike and back into the swimming pool

The pounds are again starting to drop, my cycle commutes are becoming easier and, as a family, we are starting to go out on longer rides at the weekends. Teresa wants a new bike as her current bike is about 11 years old and I want a new bike because of the n (bikes you currently own) +1 rule. Although I will probably donate a few bikes to Bike for Good in Glasgow

I also joined a gym, Pace Health Club, with a swiming pool. I looked out my trunks and my swimming goggles and set my alarm for 7am. More importantly, I got out of bed when that alarm went off and I went for a swim. I hadn’t previously been in a pool in three years but with my shoulder fully healed and with the country opening up (I’m still wearing a mask…not in the pool), a return to an old but treasured role has reignited my desire to swim.

For I am once again an ambassador for Swimathon, the annual swimming event for everyone that raises much needed funds for Cancer Research and Marie Curie.

Swimathon 22 takes place in swimming pools across the UK between Friday 6 – Sunday 8 May 2022, with the more flexible My Swimathon (kinda swim as you go) version taking place between Friday 29 April and Sunday 15 May 2022.

It’s free to all participants who raise more £50 via Justgiving and normally £14 per person, regardless of distance.

However, as a Swimathon ambassador, I am able to offer a 50% discount to all registrations made between now and April 13th 2022.

Simply register and use the code SMSWIM22 to activate your discount.

I’m really enjoying my time in the pool. At 8am, it is usually just me and my thoughts. I’ve yet to decide on my Swimaton distance. My ego says 4 or 5k as I am now a relatively competent swimmer having been coached by not one but four Olympians, but after two years of being relatively inactive I have to be realistic. 1.5k or 5k over multiple visits might be a more sensible decision. I’ll swim 1000 metres in the next week or so and see how I feel. All I know is that it feels great being back. Not only is my fitness improving but my confidence is also returning.

I might never run again but that doesn’t mean that I can’t enjoy other activities.

I’m Howmanymiles and I am a swimmer. Come swim with me and others during Swimathon.

April 3, 2022 0 comment

Fitness Obesity Physical Activity

It’s a Hyprr Fitmas with HowManyMiles

written by Stephen Morrison

‘Tis the time of the year when many bloggers publish a review of the last 12 months. If truth be told, I botched up the first 11 months and the less said about it the better.

That’s not to say I haven’t looked back at the mistakes, choices and decisions made and considered what I should have and could have done differently. I have spent significant time ruminating about where I am now and how I got here.

Here and Now

Here is 309lbs (only 45lbs lighter than my heaviest weight back in 2011, albeit with more muscle) with a “dodgy” knee, imposter syndrome, a neglected blog, a pinch of self loathing, and a partial eclipse as a belly.

However, I can either continue down this path of self destruction or I can excuse myself from this pity party for one.

That Lie

I won’t lie. Seeing 309lbs on the scale frightened me. I’ve had many chances to reverse this gradual weight gain but I have always used the excuse that “at least I wasn’t over 300lbs”. I have continuously lied to myself that I was in control, that I was not in danger.

Well, now I am and you might be wondering what I am going to do about it.

Normally, I woud chastise people citing this reductionist view, but I am simply going to eat less, move more and create more.

And hopefully win more (I have a cunning plan).

Time for a Cunning Plan

December is traditionally a month of parties, long lunches and general gluttony (well, for me at least) but this year I am going to do a Hyprr Fitmas Advent. 24 (minimum) days of being physically active and posting daily about my progress on Hyprr.

One of my excuses has been a lack of time. Yes, I am working on a few projects (more about one soon). Yes, I do also have a day job and yes, I am trying to spend more time with my family, but I am also spending too much time watching Netflix and too much time looking at expensive jpegs. I am then working late into the night/early morning (ironically writing this blog).

Yes, I am tired and yes, I am struggling with motivation but I cannot remain at this weight. My knee needs less load on it and the memories of being 354lbs have never left me.

So, what is my cunning plan and how can you help me and even take part?

FlexFM and Hyprr Flexmas Advent

My friends at London radio station FlexFM and at new social media, entertainment and NFT platform Hyprr are giving away gaming consoles, Merlin passes, spa breaks, shopping vouchers, HYPEs to spend on Hyprr.com, and much more every weekday from now until the 24th December.

All you have to do is create an account on Hyprr (available on desktop, iOS and Android), follow FlexFM and look out at 7.30am (yes, 7.30am) each weekday when they will ask the daily question. Comment with the correct answer on the post, then stay tuned to the FlexFM Breakfast Show and wait to see if you’re selected at 8:15am when you’ll join DJ Miss LA and DJ Sollie live on air to check behind the advent door for your prize.

And HERE is my plan.

I’ll get up early (from Dec 1st), comment on the FlexFM post at 7.30am, work out till 8.10am and win a prize at 8.15am, giving me time to shower and have a proper breakfast and prepare lunch before work. Every weekday. It’ll be my very own Hyprr Fitmas Advent.

Simples.

Best Laid Plans

However, we all know that it isn’t quite that simple. It requires preparation, commitment and consistency. And for me, a little bit of fun.

And this is where you come in. Every day, I will be posting a Hyprr Fitmas video of my workout, thoughts of the day (there may be expletives) and updates on my progress (possibly more expletives) on my Hyprr profile. And every day from Dec 1st to Dec 24th, I will award 1 HYPE to my favourite comment on my update.

And, if you want to, share your own Hyprr Fitmas video workouts using #HyprrFitmas. On Christmas Day, I’ll award 20 HYPES to my favourite video.

Whether it is going for a walk, doing some yoga or crossfit, or watching Netflix on a treadmill (it all counts) let’s all move more this December and spend less time on Telegram, Discord and PancakeSwap (mmmm…did someone say pancakes?).

Oh, and as a reward for reading this far, guess what my weight will be on Dec 24th and the closet will win a Garmin vivofit 3. Simply reply to this blog post before Dec 7th and the closest will win.

Terms and Conditions. Hyprr and FlexFM competition is only open to UK citizens aged 18 or over. My #HyprrFitmas competition is open to all Hyprr users (with an active wallet) while the winner of the Garmin VivoFit 3 needs to reside in the UK. Should more than one person correctly predict my weight, I will do a live draw on Hyprr.

November 30, 2021 3 comments

Feet For Life Physical Activity

Parley vous sustainability avec adidas?

written by Stephen Morrison

As well as being likened to Del Boy Trotter by some extended family members due to my wheeling and dealing, I’ve also accepted the monicker of Stephen “all the gear, no idea” Morrison. Over the years I’ve been someone who has all the kit and gadgets anyone would ever need (recently bought myself a DJI Mavic Mini 2 drone) without the expertise to use them (although I am quite proud of my drone videos so far).

Time for Change

As someone who varies in size as often as the seasons change, I also own enough clothing and footwear to stock a Peckham market stall. Some of it was unworn and even had tags attached.

I had chests of drawers, baskets, boxes and bin bags full of clothing that I would one day wear again. One day.

That day has been coming for about 3 years and over the October holiday, I made a decision to have a clear out.

I would give most of it away. The running kit in size small and some in size medium went to my two teenage step sons. Expensive jackets, unworn shorts and some running tops that I didn’t even know I owned.

The rest (with a few exceptions) went to our local charity shops and I made myself I vow.

I would limit my spending on clothing, shoes and kit and I would put an end to my yo-yoing weight (more on that soon). Owning full wardrobes of clothes in sizes medium, large, extra large and now extra extra large isn’t sustainable or good for my mental health.

That’s not to say that I wouldn’t buy myself new kit. Recently, I’ve been experiencing significant knee pain again and while I no longer run (never say never), I’ve looked out my orthotics for general everyday use having had Magic Mandy at Hampden Sports Clinic prescribe them.

I wear running shoes every day so I’ve had to go through my running shoes to see which ones best fit my orthotics and will need some new shoes and/or new orthotics.

When I buy new shoes, it’s not only the fit I am going to consider but also how they are manufactured.

As a consumer I am going to consider the ethical and sustainable working practices of the brands I purchase from. COP26 comes to Glasgow next week and climate change is something we cannot continue to ignore. We also cannot ignore how wasteful we have become and how our actions are threatening to make our planet inhospitable.

While it’s absolutely not hypocritical to support sustainability while still being a consumer we can make smarter choices (see my previous blog for some more ideas).

There are brands who I will no longer buy from (looking at you, Lululemon) until they improve their practices and there are brands that I will fully support.

Sustainable Brands

One such brand is adidas. Since 2015, they have partnered with Parley for the Oceans and have used plastic retrieved from the oceans in the manufacturing of their shoes and clothing. Over the years, I’ve owned a few pairs of adidas Ultraboost Parley shoes and each pair has been manufactured using around 11 plastic bottles.

However, I’ve also seen first hand the plastic washing up on our shores and collectively we need to do more and we need to shop smarter.

In addition to making Ultraboosts my shoes of choice (it’s a hard life) I’ve also been buying kit from the adidas sustainability range of clothing.

Primeblue is another range from adidas made using recycled plastic from the oceans and beaches of the world. By making a switch to recycled clothing we can reduce our environmental footprint. It has no impact on the look or feel of the product but it absolutely reduces our impact on the planet.

As well as being sustainable they also come in size XXL and as I lose fat I will replace each item with a smaller size and donate the old kit to charity.

At Christmas, I tend to direct my family to Lululemon to buy me gifts but this year, I’ve made it clear that I only want sports gear from adidas As a parent, I do not want to force my opinions on to my children, but Santa will be bringing them some sustainable adidas kit (so much that I am close to the exalted “Icon” status on the adidas app).

To help me get started, adidas kindly gifted me a new pair of Ultraboosts (pictured above) and some kit. Regular readers will know that I am generally uncomfortable with sponsored posts. I want this blog to be somewhere you find honest reviews and an open account of my experiences. If I work with a brand or organsiation, it is because I genuinely share similar values or approve of their business ethics.

Adidas is genuinely a brand that I respect and whose shoes I have been buying for years, but I decided to also use this opportunity to raise funds for an organisation and cause whose values and cause I absolutely support.

Fundraising

The Marine Conservation Society organises beach cleans across the UK and provides resources and education on how we can reduce the waste being washed up on our shorelines.

Now, I am not Mr Beast and cannot recruit the world’s biggest creators (he didn’t pick me) to help clean our oceans, but I did manage to recruit the early adopters of a new social media platform Hyprr.com which launches soon to help me via this post.

Tipping using the platform token Hype, I was able to cash out approximately £175 which I am donating to the Marine Conservation Society (I’ll top up to £200). Huge thanks to those that donated but I also have one final ask.

Community Challenge

If we work together, how many of you would be interested in a coordinated worldwide (hey, my readers and friends come from all over the globe) beach or park clean next year using Hyprr (and hopefully another soon to be announced partner) to organise, fund and share our work?

Ideally we would need a minimum of 8-15 (COVID19 restrictions may vary) in each location and the only resources you will need are litter pickers, gloves and bags.

If you are interested, reply to this blog, comment on my Twitter feed at @howmanymiles_ or Hyprr.com at @Stephen with your location and I’ll respond.

My friends at the World Calisthenics Organization have already vowed to support my efforts. Will you join them?

October 24, 2021 0 comment