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Stay active in Chapelton with The Carved Group

Chapelton is filled with a thriving array of independent businesses, ranging from luxurious beauty and spa treatments at The Lounge on Quarryline Street to the refined craft beers offered by Devenick Drinks Co at The Boxes. But it’s not just the retail spaces that thrive in the community. A local dynamic duo, Katie and Neil, have cultivated a community-driven approach to health and vitality with their thriving online business, The Carved Group.

To delve into the story behind The Carved Group, we had the opportunity to sit down with co-owner Neil to discuss the journey, services, and aspirations fueling the business, and why the Chapelton community should consider getting involved!

424431897_262847313497686_2484864870071900182_n-1024x1024 Stay active in Chapelton with The Carved Group

Image from @theee_carbie_barbie via Instagram

How did The Carved Group come about, and what inspired its creation?

“Katie started her coaching business, Carved by Carbie, over 10 years ago now and I started mine, Back to Basics Coaching, in 2022. At the start of 2023, we had the brain wave of combining the businesses, and for me to join the business full time, leaving my corporate position – a risk that was definitely worth taking as we have grown from strength to strength since then!

“Katie is studying nursing as she has a passion for helping people which ties in perfectly with our coaching business, as the main aim for us is to change people’s lives for the better.

“We are also both competitive bodybuilders (although we don’t expect clients to be!). We focus 99.9% on lifestyle, and for me, it was not only helping people but also about sharing a passion for training and finding the limit (and beyond). We believe that if you combine the two, results will follow!”

What specific fitness services does The Carved Group offer to its clients?

“We currently offer online coaching which is our busiest service. Our coaching focuses on mental wellbeing, building good habits and routines, fitness and physical performance, and self-belief. We also offer a very limited number of 1:1 sessions at Impact Fitness in Stonehaven, where you get everything included in our online package including one face-to-face session per week with Katie.

“Additionally, we also offer Carved Habitual which is our foundation group course. This is a 6-week course focused purely on habit building and mindset work.”

How does The Carved Group provide support and guidance to clients, especially in an online setting?

“Each client has their own WhatsApp group with both of us, meaning someone is always on hand to support if the client requires it. We also often arrange video calls so we can get some face-to-face time with clients. Every week our clients get in-depth video feedback on their unique coaching plan/tracker which they fill in daily, so no stone is left unturned!”

Why should the Chapelton community get involved with The Carved Group?

“We of course live in Chapelton and work from here. Maybe even one day we will run a boot camp in the village! We offer a selection of services for all fitness levels and we also support local where we can, and I guess it’s nice to have that reciprocated.”

What are your future goals for The Carved Group?

“At the moment we are focusing a lot on growing the online side of the business. Our vision includes a wellbeing and aesthetics clinic, potentially a gym or PT studio, and many other ideas. But we always take things one step at a time and focus our efforts on what we are passionate about, and that’s helping and providing services to help people and make them feel great!”

What do you enjoy most about running your own business?

“The hard work! This sounds strange and I think there is a common misconception that being your own boss allows more freedom – it doesn’t! 

“When you are a small but growing business there is no downtime, it’s 24/7. But, it’s incredibly rewarding to see something you work so hard at grow and become recognised in the community. One of our clients, Nicola McGee, is a Chapelton resident and joined The Carved Group as a 1:1 client before moving online to prepare for her wedding. She absolutely loved her experience and couldn’t thank us enough for making her feel amazing on her big day!”

What do you like about living and working in Chapelton?

“I started looking at properties in Chapelton in 2016 and instantly fell in love with how the village felt. It reminded me of a peaceful town of days gone by! Friendly and neighbourly with a strong sense of community, and of course very aesthetically pleasing! 

“It’s close to the city but far enough away to be tranquil, making it the perfect place to live and work. The green areas allow for perfect head space and a welcome break from being buried in a laptop screen. 

“It took 5 years to eventually buy the perfect house for us but we got there in the end and finally moved in spring 2022. We are extremely happy here and looking forward to a good few years here yet.”

In Chapelton’s vibrant landscape, The Carved Group is a hub for wellness and community involvement. Through their personalised coaching, Katie and Neil help people reach their full potential and are dedicated to making lives better, both in Chapelton and beyond.

To learn more, follow Katie and Neil on Instagram: @theee_carbie_barbie and @mr_carved.

Christmas at Chapelton: Festive light switch-on at The Boxes

The frosty mornings and darker nights have rolled in meaning the festive season is officially upon us and we’re bringing in the celebrations with some classic Christmas activities! 

The Chapelton Community Association and local businesses have been hard at work organising an evening of festive enchantment for residents and visitors to enjoy, taking place at 5pm on Friday the 1st of December. 

Set to be a heartwarming event (despite the chilly weather), the public will be able to enjoy music from a local piper as Santa travels from The Hut to Hume Square, before turning on the festive lights to celebrate Christmas at Chapelton 2023. 

With plenty of entertainment on offer throughout the evening including Santa’s Grotto at The Hut and more music from an all female choir, the Sweet Adelines, the festive fun doesn’t stop there…

Trees by Terra Foras

If you still haven’t found the perfect tree to be the centrepiece of your Christmas decor, then be sure to wander the Terra Foras collection which has been hand selected for this Chapelton event. Selling a beautiful selection of 6ft, 7ft and 8ft Premium Nordman Fir Christmas Trees, you’ll be sure to find the perfect shape and style to spruce up your living room. 

And for those who prefer a tree on the smaller side, Terra Foras will also have a fantastic range of reusable, pot grown Christmas trees available, ranging between 125 – 150cm. These can be planted after Christmas in the garden or re-used next year through Terra Foras’ recycling service!

Feeling peckish?

There will be no shortage of delicious food on offer with a range of festive treats provided by Chapelton’s thriving local businesses! 

Open until 7:30pm, family-run cafe and lifestyle store Brae in Hume Square will be serving a mouth-watering selection of non-alcoholic mulled cider, mince pies, stovies, sausage rolls and lots of treats for those with a sweet tooth. 

Experts in providing everything ice cream as well as savoury items, Fit’s the Scoop at The Boxes will also have a range of piping hot festive food on offer, accompanied by the Quayside Fish and Chip van which will be serving the British favourite on Friday 1st of December as normal.

For those who enjoy craft beer or cocktails, Devenick Drinks Co will be open during the night, presenting an impressive selection of mulled cider, hot apple rum, local beers, sprits and cocktails – available to sit in or takeaway.

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Gifts galore

Haven’t started your Christmas shopping? No need to worry, local businesses occupying The Boxes at Chapelton will be selling a range of gift vouchers and goodies…

The perfect gift for a loved one in need of some self-care, AB Wellness and Reflexology will be offering bespoke wellness gifts that you can curate to pamper someone special in your life. From 5-8pm you’ll have an exclusive opportunity to enjoy a 10% discount on Fuarain Skincare, where you can also experience the luxurious hydrating facial cream firsthand! Indulge in some relaxed late night shopping and explore brands like Ciora, Hayou, Solasta Skin, and Spacemasks. AB Wellness and Reflexology will also be first stockists of all three Rewild Skincare Oils, created locally by Jo Flett. Don’t forget, you can also purchase gift vouchers at any point during your visit!

For the furrier members of the family, pet product provider Stinky Beasties also has a range of gift vouchers on hand, as well as some festive treats for your four-legged friends including dog stockings, pick and mix gift bags full of toys and treats – perfect for chewing on the big day! 

Providing a stylish selection of eyewear, Very Spexy will be launching its gift vouchers as well as offering exclusive discounts, including 25% off sunglasses, 25% off Jimmy Choo branded eyewear and a huge £250 gift voucher giveaway – ideal for treating yourself or a loved one this Christmas.

Also, you don’t want to miss out on RedRock’s special advent calendar giveaway! Make sure to visit so that you can also browse bespoke bridal accessories, jewellery and other exciting gifts on the night. 

See individual business profiles for more information.

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Celebrations at The Lounge

It will also be the official opening of The Lounge Hair and Beauty Salon at Quarryline Street… 

With a growing team and client base, Chapelton’s luxury salon provides a range of hair, beauty and wellness services and has expanded to larger premises to accommodate demands for its high-quality treatments. Clients are invited to come and see the new space where there will be special offers and gift vouchers available to purchase – making the perfect Christmas gift!

If you can’t make it…

Christmas can be a busy time, so don’t worry if you can’t come along to the festive light switch-on. There is lots going on throughout the course of the month, including later opening times for Brae, RedRocks and Fit’s the Scoop – accommodating all last minute Christmas shoppers! 

For those on the lookout for some festive DIY activities, there will be a Christmas dried flower wreath making with Karen at This is 36 on the 5th of December at Brae.

If you’re in need of some relaxation, Brae will be hosting a Festive Calm Workshop on the 30th of November. A three week mindfulness course, this is the perfect opportunity to unwind during the busy holiday season. Brae will also be taking Christmas and New Year pre-orders, from soup and sausage rolls to sumptuous sticky toffee pudding – all available for collection on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. And don’t miss out on Santa and his elves, who will be parked up in his sleigh outside Brae on the 10th of December…

Exciting New Beginnings: A Q&A with The Lounge at Chapelton

Following seven years of success at its Hume Square location in the heart of Chapelton, beauty and wellness salon, The Lounge, has announced exciting expansion plans to accommodate growing client demand. Set to open the new salon’s doors in September 2023, The Lounge will be moving to a larger space at 29 Quarryline Street. 

In this blog post, we caught up with Kelly Daun, co-owner of The Lounge at Chapelton, who discusses the driving force behind opening the salon, her favourite part about being based in Chapelton and everything you need to know about the brand new premises…

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Image by The Lounge at Chapelton via Instagram

What encouraged you to open The Lounge and what services do you offer?

“Prior to opening The Lounge, we identified a gap in the luxury salon market as treatments seemed to be becoming shorter and more express-driven in order to encourage clients to fit in more over less time. 

“Instead of following this approach, we wanted to create a space where clients could relax, unwind and immerse themselves in a luxury beauty experience, ensuring that they would leave feeling a little bit lighter and looking fabulous.

“We are proud to offer an extensive range of hair, beauty and wellness services and treatments, all found under one roof. From hair styling and colouring to brow lamination, manicures and advanced ELEMIS facials, we can take care of your beauty and relaxation needs from head to toe, leaving you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.”

Why did you originally choose Chapelton for the existing premises?

“We chose Chapelton as we felt the area fitted in well with the atmosphere we wanted to create inside the salon. 

“When we first opened the salon seven years ago, my co-owner Norman and I lived locally with our families in the neighbouring town of Newtonhill and during this time Chapelton consisted of a small local coffee shop and a whole lot of potential.

“Since then, I decided to make the move to Chapelton after falling in love with the town. We are very grateful to have established a brilliant team and growing client base and we can’t wait to continue our journey in Chapelton with our expansion later this year.”

What is your favourite thing about being based in Chapelton? 

“Our favourite thing about being based here is without a doubt the people. We have incredible local clients who we love to regularly see in the salon and who have made the experience of running a business so enjoyable. When the decision came on deciding where we wanted to expand the salon we couldn’t imagine or even consider moving anywhere else!”

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Image by The Lounge at Chapelton via Instagram

Can you tell us a little bit about your new premises and why you decided to expand?

“Our new premises at 29 Quarryline Street is located opposite The Boxes and only a short walk from the wonderful local coffee shop, Brae. 

“After successfully growing our team and client base, we are excited to open our brand new premises which will allow us to accommodate the increasing demand for high-quality, relaxing beauty treatments and welcome new clients to indulge in a little luxury with us – the part of the job we love!”

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Image by The Lounge at Chapelton via Instagram

What sort of design and decor will you be going for?

“The design of the new salon is incredibly close to our hearts as we have been envisioning the space for a long time, with it undergoing several iterations over the last year. We have been working closely alongside the talented team at Tinto Architecture which has helped to bring our vision to life. We are absolutely thrilled with the way it has come together so far, and can’t wait to eventually unveil the space. 

“Our clients know how much we love interior design and have been at the heart of every design concept for the new premises. We have put a lot of time and consideration into how the space will feel and look in the eyes of our clients as they step through the door.

“You can expect to see lots of clean lines, cosy and relaxing vibes and a couple of surprises along the way that you are just going to have to come in and see for yourself once we open.”

What features and services will the new salon have?

“The new salon is going to be filled with impressive features such as beautiful big windows that allow plenty of natural light to beam into the salon. 

“In addition, we are going to have a lovely terrace where clients can sit back and relax, with the long-term goal of using this space as an events venue to host special occasions such as bridal parties, pampering days/nights and even potentially host events alongside other beauty and wellness businesses.

“We will continue to offer all the exceptional treatments that our clients have come to know and love, with the exciting prospect of new beauty and wellness services on the horizon…watch this space!”

Photo-13-07-2023-10-14-39-1-1024x823 Exciting New Beginnings: A Q&A with The Lounge at Chapelton

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10 reasons you should take part in the Chapelton 10K

Chapelton’s most anticipated running event of the year, the Chapelton 10k will be taking place on the 16th of July, covering a beautiful stretch of multi-terrain through the picturesque Elsick House estate. 

Starting and finishing near The Hut located in the heart of the town, there are trophies and a cash prize up for grabs for the 1st, 2nd and 3rd male and female finishers, alongside medals for everyone participating. Whether you’re a seasoned runner ready to take on your next challenge or a passionate supporter who enjoys cheering from the sidelines, the Chapelton 10k is open to everyone and makes for the perfect day out!

In this blog post, we explore the 10 compelling reasons why you should lace up your shoes or mark your calendar ahead of this exciting event…

Chapelton_10k_run 10 reasons you should take part in the Chapelton 10K

1.) Challenge yourself – this 10k is no mean feat!

Who doesn’t love a challenge? Whether you’re competing with the goal of beating your personal best or have set yourself the challenge to complete your first ever 10k, this race gives you the ideal opportunity to push yourself and strive towards your goals. 

2.) Raise money for a good cause 

By participating in the Chapelton 10k, you have the opportunity to make an impact on the life of others through fundraising and donations. The Chapelton 10k committee has decided to partner with several local charities and businesses including Portlethen Ambulance, Pillar Kincardine, Clan, Newtonhill Pipeband, Police Scotland Youth Volunteering, Portlethen Rainbows and OaKley. The participation fees collected when signing up for the race will be split between these fantastic organisations, making every stride count.

3.) Experience the amazing atmosphere

What makes competing in the Chapelton 10k race so special is the incredible energy and atmosphere on the day. With crowds of supporters and volunteers waiting at the sidelines to cheer you on and music providing that extra boost of motivation, you instantly get a feel for the sense of community spirit and excitement that radiates throughout the town. 

4.) Appreciate the local scenery 

As you make your way around this undulating, multi-terrain course through the magnificent Elsick House estate and surrounding countryside, you’re bound to discover the true natural beauty that lies on the doorstep of Chapelton. 

Chapelton_10k-2 10 reasons you should take part in the Chapelton 10K

5.) Fun for all the family

The Chapelton 10k is not exclusively reserved for adults, as there will also be a 100m toddler dash at 10am for any energetic little ones, and a 1km race for primary school children, organised by Friends of Newtonhill (FON). Registration for the children’s races can be done via email or on the day at Burgess Park which is where the races will take place. Not to mention each child will also receive their own bespoke medal after the race – a great token to remember the day. 

There will also be fun activities to keep your little ones entertained including face painting and a bouncy castle at Liddell Park. 

For more information and to sign up for pre-registration for the children’s races, get in touch via email at fon.newtonhill@gmail.com.

6.) Listen to lively tunes played by the bagpipers

Embracing Scottish traditions, there will be a number of bagpipers playing at the event throughout the day, designed to give runners that extra boost of strength and motivation as they tackle the course.

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7.) Get your hands on a bespoke medal designed by a Chapelton resident

Each year ahead of the Chapelton 10k a competition is run throughout the local community where residents are asked to submit their designs for the upcoming Chapelton 10k medal. The winner of the competition has the honour of having their design featured on the medals that year and adds a unique touch to the event alongside highlighting the involvement of the community throughout the town. 

This year the winner created an outstanding design that managed to capture each landmark spotted across the Chapelton 10k route. 

8.) Indulge in some tasty treats 

At the core of the Chapelton 10k lies community spirit, as people from Chapelton and beyond come together to organise, cheer and participate in this amazing event. One of the many acts of kindness seen on the day takes the form of delicious cakes which have been donated by various individuals and displayed on a stall manned by dedicated volunteers, ready to ensure that each runner gets their sweet fix after the race. 

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9.) Opportunity to support local businesses

Whether it’s pre, post or during the race, there is plenty of opportunity to take a look around the exciting number of businesses located at The Boxes. From bespoke bridal jewellery and natural treats for your four-legged friends to impressive eyewear and reflexology treatments, The Boxes are filled with hidden gems. 

Additionally, if you’re looking to quench your thirst or get your hands on a delicious treat then you’re certainly not short of choice! From brae and Slate & Grain Brasserie to Fits the Scoop and Devenick Drinks Co, these local Chapelton businesses offer everything from warming cups of coffee and refreshing glasses of gin to homemade sausage rolls and sweet treats. 

10.) Win a spot prize

Not only could you be leaving the Chapelton 10k with a beautiful gleaming medal but you also have the opportunity to win one of the many spot prizes on offer. The Stack restaurant located in the nearby village of Muchalls, and all businesses located at The Boxes at Chapelton will be donating a voucher which can be redeemed against their products and services, while beauty salon, The Lounge, will be donating a massage.

Ready to embark on the challenge? Sign-up before the 30th of June to take part in the Chapelton 10k.

Sign-up now

10 family-friendly walking trails near Stonehaven | Houses for sale Stonehaven

Location plays a huge part in where you and your family choose to put down roots and for many, having an abundance of walking trails and loops to enjoy nature is vital when choosing a new home.

With coastal views, a bustling town centre and an easy commute to both Aberdeen city and places down south, it’s no wonder Stonehaven proves popular with househunters. But for those looking for more of a community feel, the nearby, charming town of Chapelton is also a highly sought after location. Its variety of well-designed homes offer the same amenities and benefits as houses for sale in Stonehaven, and is in an enviable position for enjoying the popular scenic coastal routes and peaceful woodland trails that Stonehaven offers. 

In this blog post, we’ve shared 10 family-friendly walks in and around the area, catering to adults and children of all ages and abilities. Whether you prefer an easy morning stroll or a challenging hike, we’ve got you covered!

1.) Dunnottar woods 

Distance: 3.2 – 3.5km 

Route: Circular 

Location: Stonehaven, Aberdeenshire 

Dunnottar woods is a wonderful circular trail located near Stonehaven and is considered a moderate walk. Approximately 44 minutes to complete – depending on abilities – this popular trail is often used by runners, hill walkers and families and is the perfect place to enjoy a gentle stroll on a warm summer’s day. 

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2.) Dunnottar Castle via Stonehaven Coastal Walk

Distance: 4.3km 

Route: Out & back

Location: Stonehaven, Aberdeenshire 

Also considered a relatively easy route, taking around 1 hour and 15 minutes to complete, this coastal walk offers uninterrupted views of the coastline and the famous Dunnottar Castle. If you’re lucky enough, you may be able to spot dolphins and seals swimming in the steely North Sea. 

3.) Three Stones Circular Hill: Short Loop 

Distance: 6.1km 

Route: Circular

Location: Fetteresso Forest, Stonehaven, Aberdeenshire

Following a gentle loop around gravel forest roads, The Three Stones Circular Hill has the option of a shorter or longer trail. For those with younger children, it may be better to opt for the shorter loop which takes an average of 1 hour and 45 minutes to complete. Don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled throughout your journey as deer are often spotted running amongst the trees!

IMG-4611-1024x768 10 family-friendly walking trails near Stonehaven | Houses for sale Stonehaven

4.) Crawton Waterfall

Distance: 1.2km

Route: Circular 

Location: Stonehaven, Aberdeenshire 

Formerly part of a fishing village located on the Aberdeenshire coast, the Crawton Waterfall is a spectacular natural attraction situated only a short distance from Stonehaven. Not to be underestimated, this short walk certainly packs a punch with its impressive views. It’s best to attempt this trail with older children and in dry or calm conditions as the trail runs alongside a steep cliff edge. 

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5.) Chapelton Trail

Distance: 4.5km

Route: Circular 

Location: Chapelton, Aberdeenshire

Starting from Hume Square, the Chapelton Trail is a circular 4.5km route that takes you through a number of marked points including Duke’s Walk, Elsick Burn and Dubbis Stile. Taking approximately one hour, this splendid trail is great for families as there is lots of diverse scenery and local wildlife to explore. 

6.) Portlethen Village and Coastal Walk Circular 

Distance: 3.9km 

Route: Circular 

Location: Porthlethen, Aberdeen

Starting in the popular village of Portlethen, this walk is considered a gentle route taking an average of one hour to complete. One of the many brilliant things about this walk is that it’s open all year round – meaning you can enjoy the beautiful coastal views during the peak of summer or during crisp winter days.

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 7.) Cheyne Hill Circular

Distance: 3.9km 

Route: Circular 

Location: Stonehaven, Aberdeenshire 

Popular with hikers, mountain bikers and runners, The Cheyne Hill Circular trail has the perfect balance of woodland, featuring a mix of different terrains including dense forest and open farmland. 

8.) Newtonhill-Burn of Muchalls 

Distance: 7.4km

Route: Out & back 

Location: Muchalls, Aberdeenshire

A slightly longer walk than those previously mentioned, this fantastic route takes you along the coastline with plenty of opportunities to take a small detour to stop and admire the views of the rocky headlands, sea stacks and open sea. 

IMG-4600-1-1024x768 10 family-friendly walking trails near Stonehaven | Houses for sale Stonehaven

9.) Crawton Bay and RSPB fowlsheugh circular 

Distance: 3.9km 

Route: Circular 

Location: Stonehaven, Aberdeenshire 

An extension of the Crawton Waterfall, the Crawton Bay and RSPB fowlsheugh circular walk is approximately 3.9km and located just south of Stonehaven. On a late spring or summer’s day, this walk is truly a magical experience with the opportunity to spot some of Scotland’s finest seabirds including razorbills, kittiwakes and puffins. 

10.) Stonehaven- Cowie Chapel

Distance: 8.1km 

Route: Circular 

Location: Stonehaven & Cowie, Aberdeenshire

Combining wide stretching views over Stonehaven Harbour and lots of history associated with ‘the Auld Toon of Stonehaven’ and Cowie Village, this spectacular walk is ideal for families who are looking for a longer trail to fill their weekend plans. 

Before you set out on your journey, it’s important to fuel your body and what better way to do so than by popping past Brae at Chapelton for a piping hot cup of coffee or bacon roll. 

Alternatively, why not treat yourself after your walk to a well-deserved traybake or a spot of lunch? 

To find out more, visit Brae on Facebook or Instagram.

Browse our houses for sale near Stonehaven 

5 steps to making increased movement a habit in 2023

With a new year comes a fresh start, alongside the resolution to make exercise and increased movement a priority. Often falling at the first hurdle, many people struggle to make movement a habit, not a hobby. 

Fitness fanatic, Paul Hosie has been a personal trainer for 10 years and has a mission to help his clients achieve their health and well-being goals. Whether it be to lose weight, gain muscle, improve cardiovascular fitness or simply feel more confident in your own skin, Paul offers a variety of training options suited to all abilities. 

Previously located at The Boxes at Chapelton, Paul’s business has recently expanded to a larger premises within Slate and Grain, demonstrating the success and hard work that has been put into growing the business and its community. 

In this guest blog post, we caught up with Paul who shares five simple and easy steps to help turn increased movement into a habit, covering everything from identifying your goals to staying consistent …

Paul-Hosie-1 5 steps to making increased movement a habit in 2023
[Taken from Paul Hosie PT Instagram]

Identify your goals 

Before you start any journey – regardless of what it may be – it’s important to set yourself clear goals or milestones to aim towards. When it comes to increasing your movement, it’s essential to set goals that are realistic and achievable, as creating overly ambitious targets can damage your motivation.

Start by considering what you want to achieve through increased movement, whether it be to improve your physical fitness, help reduce stress or better your mental health. By having clear objectives, you will feel more focused and driven on your habit-building journey.

Make a plan:

Creating a plan is essential to help build habits as it allows you to stay organised, prioritise your time, set goals and track your progress. A well-crafted plan can provide a clear roadmap for achieving success and should be the starting point of your  journey. Additionally, a plan is a great way to hold yourself accountable as without one, it’s easy to lose sight of your aims.  

The first step in creating a movement-based plan is to determine how you want to incorporate it into your routine and when you will do it. There are plenty of ways to add movement into your daily life, such as going for a walk every morning before work, taking a yoga class once a week or scheduling weekly workout sessions. 

Start small:

It’s important to start slowly and gradually build up your movement habits. If you try to do too much too quickly, you may become overwhelmed and stressed. You ideally want to try and start with small, manageable tasks that are easier to stick to. This will help you build momentum and reduce the chance of burnout. 

By starting small you have the flexibility and control to gradually increase the difficulty or complexity of your goals over time. For example, if you’re in a job which is predominantly office based and juggle a busy family life at home, then it may be unrealistic to set yourself the goal of reaching 15,000 steps every day. Instead, you should start by setting yourself a smaller more achievable target such as 5,000 steps, then gradually build this number up over time. 

Track your progress:

Keeping track of your journey is extremely important because it allows you to see how far you’ve come and measure your current progress. It can give you a strong sense of accomplishment, motivation and encouragement to continue building the habit. In addition, it can help you to identify any roadblocks or challenges that you may be facing, so you can make relevant adjustments or changes to overcome them. 

There are many ways you can keep track of your progress including a journal, a habit tracker or simply putting a mark in your calendar to record your daily movement. All of these suggestions can allow you to identify patterns or trends. For example, you may find that you are more successful at completing your movement goals in the morning rather than in the evening. 

Stay consistent:

Habits take time to form, so you want to be consistent with your routine as this will make it easier for you in the long run. Consistency helps to overcome the initial resistance and discomfort that often comes with forming new habits, particularly those that involve physical movement.

Try to make it a part of your daily routine and be patient with yourself as you work to build the habit. There will be times outwith your control when you may not be able to achieve your movement goal for the day but it’s important not to let this discourage you. 

Paul-Hosie-PT-2 5 steps to making increased movement a habit in 2023

Find out more about Paul’s training services via his website, or get in contact with him on Instagram @paulhosie.pt or Facebook. 

If you’re interested in finding out more about Chapelton’s bustling local community then check out the blog for more information on local businesses, upcoming events and impressive housebuilders. 

2023 wellness wisdom with Sally Munro

As a self-confessed wellness warrior, local Chapelton resident Sally Munro is a Nutritional Therapist, Yoga teacher and Swim School Director who is helping her clients to optimise their health and wellbeing. Through supportive nutritional therapy and lifestyle adjustments, Sally has successfully helped her clients to lose weight, increase their energy levels, improve their sleep and so much more.

In this guest blog post, Sally shares her thoughts on how to live well in 2023, and create meaningful health goals you can stick to in order to live a happier, more fulfilled lifestyle…

Image-28-1-1 2023 wellness wisdom with Sally Munro

Welcome to 2023! 

Grab yourself a glass of water and take a seat. It’s time to ask yourself how you and your body are feeling right now on this very day. Are you refreshed from a relaxing holiday period or still feeling frazzled and tired? Are you rolling into January with a list of resolutions, diet and exercise goals and high expectations on how life will be better with such notions? 

Most folks start with gusto and then they crash. We are all human, we all want more of the things we think we need to be happy, successful and loved. My suggestion this year is to ditch it all and take the pressure off. That said, if you are a goal setter and this works for you, keep on trucking my friend!

If you’re hoping to make some positive changes and make 2023 your best and happiest year, these are my words of advice on how to truly live well…

Image-30-682x1024 2023 wellness wisdom with Sally Munro

Assess your needs

We are blessed with this one wild and precious life. Yes, we could all be doing something different, so where do we start? We start by asking ourselves what do we truly need to live a healthy, satisfying life? Do we need the gym membership or can we commit to walking for free outdoors to start with? Do we need to spend money we don’t have on weight loss programmes? Maybe we just need to simplify.

Slow down and enjoy the seasons 

In theory, winter is a time for slowing down, nourishing and resting our bodies so that with the arrival of spring we can then burst into more action, seize the day and enjoy the lighter nights. 

Many people have moved away from seasonal living, replacing it with a go go go attitude, 24/7, no downtime, no self-care, no rest, no wholesome foods. We are expected to reply to messages and emails ASAP, work into the small hours, attend all events and sacrifice our relationships. Before you know it, you are racing full steam ahead into another New Year, to the tune of everyone saying how quickly that came around! Was your year full of laughter, love, connection, movement, joy?

If you ask me, New Year is actually a great time to really slow down and reflect on what it is you truly want and need. It’s time we got back to living more seasonally and dance to the beat of our wonderful seasons, rather than rushing through life.

Plan for success

New Year often brings thoughts of cleaning up our diets, taking a break from the excesses many of us indulge in over the festive period and hitting the gym. While these are great objectives, there is only so much salad one can eat before falling off the wagon. 

The key is planning and preparation. Taking the time to choose some nutrient dense and filling meals will help you stay on track. Ensuring quality sources of protein, such as fish, chicken, eggs, tofu in your meals will help you feel fuller for longer and give your body nutrients that are essential for repair and maintenance. 

There are many books and websites sharing thousands of recipe ideas. I highly recommend some of The Body Coach Joe Wicks books for his simple and easy to follow recipes if you are short of time or ideas. 

Image-27-684x1024 2023 wellness wisdom with Sally Munro

Remember to start slow

In regards to exercise, if you are just getting started please take your time and ease yourself in gently. Gradually building up your stamina and fitness takes time and commitment; it is not a quick fix sadly! 

The benefits of regular movement are endless. Even if you just try to incorporate a daily walk. Depending on your current fitness level you will need to monitor how you feel and increase as the days go on. Start with a walk around the block, a few more trips around the garden, or up and down the stairs. If you fancy taking up a new activity, ask a friend to join you. Having a fitness buddy might help as you can keep each other motivated. Using body weight to perform exercises is also a great cost-effective way to start getting fit. Squats, standing press-ups against the wall, triceps’ dips on the side of the bath – the list is endless. 

It is important to know that sometimes you will get tired, your muscles might ache a bit, but that’s all normal and you should have some rest days in between. Once you push through, you will start to feel stronger, get the buzz and you’ll get excited to exercise more – trust me! Despite exercising, you might find you are more energised and you may experience better sleep patterns. 

If you need any support with what to eat for your body, how to start an exercise programme or how to be more mindful, please get in touch. 

A checklist for a happy life

To live a simple life, is to live in the moment with full awareness.

Here are some top tips for adopting a simple life:

  • Say yes to the things that make your heart sing.
  • Say ‘no thank you’ when that’s really how you feel.
  • Give yourself some peace away from people, devices and noise.
  • Drink water.
  • Eat real foods.
  • Dance.
  • Sing, even if it’s badly!
  • Sit and breathe, count in for 4 and out for 6, for at least 2 minutes, increase as you wish. 
  • Read up on the benefits of meditation and mindfulness. Apply!
  • Read a book, with full presence.
  • Have regular technology breaks. 
  • Play card games. 
  • Flex your brain muscles and play games to improve your memory and concentration.

One last thing…

This is NOT going to be a ‘New Year, New You’ kind of vibe, because quite frankly, I find it grating! We are who we are, day in and day out. Whatever we choose to do, we will still be ourselves. The actions we choose to take, however, might lend to an improved version of our current selves. 

For more about me and how I can help you reach your wellness goals, visit my website.

You can also find me on Instagram @Salthewellnesswarrior or contact me directly on 07894505661.

Take part in our photo competition for the 2024 Chapelton calendar!

We’re excited to announce we’re producing a Chapelton calendar, but we need your help creating it! Each month, we will be hosting a photo competition and the winning image from that month will be featured in our first ever calendar. 

Available for 2024, the calendar will feature entries taken by the community to show off the town and its stunning surroundings. 

To take part, submit your photo by the last day of each month to this Chapelton email address, events@chapeltonnewtown.co.uk. 

Entries will be judged by expert photographer, Rory Raitt and the winner will be announced by the 7th of the following month.  November and December entries should be submitted by November 7th to allow for printing time before the end of the year.  

Helping ensure you capture the perfect image, Rory has shared his top tips along with some of his example imagery to spark your creativity…

NGitq4ndsluCCm0XiffoQmQMhoVrSWR4ngFEnmTRJfw-yAB--ncrNO6wu63eKGmlXsLYW5C1wFxdx9YGoR9sGRxkJEAZjCrQqI5OVt9XM_qPUQPyPiNcke3ZFlFCNJIOf-3bu_fKlOtINiheZZ7n_RltztQJMi9r2h5VdYzJvQGP8mSELxt2slvVsGaCIg Take part in our photo competition for the 2024 Chapelton calendar!

If you’re using a camera… 

  1. Pay attention to light quality! 

Light can massively impact a photo, but not just its brightness, consider colour temperature too. The warmest light naturally occurs around sunrise and sunset, so if you’re looking for a golden glow, this might be the time to take your shot. 

  1. Compose your photograph carefully

Composition is key! Ever heard of the rule of thirds? It’s an important term in the world of photography. Essentially your image will be broken down into thirds and it encourages you to balance your photos better. Think having everything centred is the best approach? Think again, using the outer thirds makes it look that little bit more natural. 

  1. Check the exposure 

Exposure can dramatically affect the quality of your image. If it’s over-exposed, some parts of the photo may lose sharpness and blend into the background or not be as eye-catching. One of the main advantages of digital photography is the ability to check the photo on the camera’s rear LCD. 

  1. Reduce camera shake 

Having steady support could really elevate your photo to ensure its crisp and clear as well as supporting your composition goals. For those wanting something simple, try using a solid support like a tripod. If you’re becoming increasingly more interested in photography and wanting to test out different lenses and go handheld, you should use shutter speeds. 

  • 50mm lens would need 1/60s shutter speed
  • 100mm lens would need 1/125s shutter speed
  • 200mm lens would need 1/200s shutter speed 

Also bear in mind, if you’re taking an action shot and it’s a fast moving subject, this would require a faster shutter speed compared to photographing a landscape. 

  1. Aperture + focal length + distance from subject 

Aperture refers to light passing through the camera and it can be adjusted to allow more or less light in. The smaller the aperture (such as F1.8), the more your background will be blurred for portraits etc. The larger the aperture (such as F22), the more your background will be in focus, ideal for landscapes. 

xuS9GkM8Syf_vXp3PDDLuO2FqyavwMuj1PqFrVVkFD-QgF3F1nkyNN2o76n44nD64tBl1PwSnuMW3LEOZDoPOlEaHqqKt1vVEoMLAfvwR1UKxeq63FzHyyZv-tkn1sVOALRy1GmifwSnjypEBdkXp3vm4DsWLammaAbo_4YC7YmO2Kp7tev5MQvxiees7w Take part in our photo competition for the 2024 Chapelton calendar!

For those of you that will be using your phone’s camera, bear in mind the above, but use the below top tips to maximise quality! 

  1. Lock the focus to ensure your subject is always sharp 
  2. Shoot in portrait mode to blur the background 
  3. Shoot horizontally as well as vertically 
  4. Use the exposure setting, a bright background will cause the foreground to be under exposed 
  5. High Dynamic Range (HDR) can give a dramatic effect, play around with it!
  6. If you’re shooting an action shot, try using the burst mode function 
3MEbhMZHkIujd1dBWbK85JZ2Q9-YKY8fdQC2d6Ik-UoQ5jm2ElJFzPt0-E3uU1zea9mn0e0KgmERRVOAletAyya5-kkG6TIrBdyI6vgX3IZkid5x2Wlhv472ERy5afmm_V0vwqaFMIhq6qbZYuVcrfHU1vlJkcH4R-S86WmU9gdWkkyL6VMXkvtalJRfCw Take part in our photo competition for the 2024 Chapelton calendar!

We can’t wait to see all your submissions and of course share them on our channels throughout the year!

Guest blog: Geocaching; a modern day treasure hunt!

If you enjoy the great outdoors with a side of adventure thrown in, then Geocaching could be a new hobby for you. From simple strolls around your neighbourhood to discovering new places, enjoying scenic walks or even scaling Munro’s, there’s a geocache to be found. 

To find out more about this exciting and adventurous activity, we caught up with Ann Proctor, who has recently created a circuit around the Chapelton Trail for all to enjoy… 

B-1G6br8qHXiA2pwPaqZcozeyPInyKQ53XYrQXcjHpTQ7tMb4eW14FZaRT6XbXNwIdom8R2UoJqwoAx9YMhQ6khMK-wztfd7SObwLicJIgAMSYlT_Ud0K2Loo3WkwV2DESestcSW1XCxR5OaTHLkU5nYrSd2CGidDi2UL8Hu9hizXtmS3K-Tl_aaP2tUyA Guest blog: Geocaching; a modern day treasure hunt!

What is geocaching? 

“Think of it like a modern day treasure hunt guided by a GPS enabled device (usually your mobile phone).  Geocaches are waterproof containers hidden in a specific location that you are guided to by means of coordinates, which have been uploaded by the hider to the Geocaching application.  

“Along with coordinates and a map of the area, there will be information provided about the individual cache, a difficulty and terrain rating and a helpful hint to point you in the right direction! Once at the location you undertake a search to find this container, which can vary in size and shape.  

“Inside the container there will be a log book for you to date and sign and usually some treasure in the form of small trinkets left by the cache owner or other geocachers who have visited it too. The general rule of thumb is if you take a trinket, you should leave something of similar or greater value – erasers, badges, bubbles, marbles etc are always nice for kids to find!

“Re-hide the cache as you found it for the next geocacher to come along, there’s lots of us!  The last step, which can be done at home, is to log this find on the Geocaching app.  You will be rewarded with a yellow smiley face on the map and feel a huge sense of achievement.” 

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How long has Geocaching been about? 

“This hobby has been enjoyed by many for around 22 years. Its humble beginnings, a solitary cache in Oregon, quickly spread to 75.  Today that figure is closer to 3million worldwide, you can literally enjoy this hobby anywhere you go!  

“I personally started caching six years ago to have a cheap and easy hobby to do with my then young sons. Caching has taken us to many lovely locations and hidden gems over the years that we would otherwise never have known about.  Some abroad on holiday and some right on our doorstep.” 

How do you start? 

“I believe there are a few applications available, but I downloaded the free and official Geocaching app to my mobile phone.  From there, you create an account with an email address and a unique username, this will allow you a basic membership with access to a limited number of nearby caches.  

“If you become slightly obsessed with this new hobby, there is an option to upgrade your membership to premium, which for about £20 per annum, will allow you access to all the various types of caches. For more information, I recommend visiting Geocaching.com.

“Once you are all set up you can create a list of caches you’d like to attempt on your outing.  By downloading the offline data at home, it will be readily available when you are out and about and not reliant on using precious mobile data.  

“Finally, pack a rucksack, you will need a pen, tweezers (some caches are tiny), trinket swaps and I recommend taking hand gel and baby wipes too. Throw in a picnic and you are good to go!”  

Are there caches around Chapelton? 

“To mark my sixth year of Geocaching, I have created a caching circuit around the beautiful Chapelton Trail.  This circuit consists of eight caches of varying sizes, five of which are available to all basic members.  

“This is an ideal trail for families with easily accessible containers and can be completed in one outing, which would take about an hour or in a few shorter walks with little people! 

“So all that is left to do is pack that rucksack and step outside. Happy caching!” 

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Guest blog post: Meet LouSells

Lousells, The Mini Edition is one of the most recent local businesses to join The Boxes at Chapelton. With a passion for recycling and reusing clothes, this boutique offers preloved childrenswear and footwear plus a selection of new wooden toys, books and gifts. 

To find out more about the business we caught up with the owner, Louise McIntosh…

LouSells-July-2022-2-1024x683 Guest blog post: Meet LouSells

Tell us a bit about your background/family and how you started the business?

“I’m Louise, I live in Newtonhill with my husband, three children, our dog Calvin and our bunnies Cheddar & Nibbles. After having my youngest and leaving my job in HR, we desperately needed a clear out of all things that no longer fit or weren’t used any more that the five of us had accumulated. Hating the thought of anything going to landfill that still had life in it but knowing that despite donating lots there were items that I felt were worth selling so our family could get the use of something new to them with the funds raised by selling. 

“After realising that others were in the same position and lots of plotting and planning, the Facebook group was started and shared with close friends. It gave details on how the process would work and the sorts of things we would try to sell on your behalf. We had everything from glassware & golf clubs to jewellery & clothes. For the first year or two we sold locally on Facebook and through eBay and the page grew steadily. The corner in the spare room that I used became the entire spare room and the bed and furniture moved out to create a work and storage space. Towards the end of 2017 I made the decision to focus on fashion.”

How do you relax? What do you do in your spare time?

“Any business owner will appreciate that time to relax is few and far between but luckily I really love what I do so I thrive on the busyness of it. When I do switch off I enjoy hanging out with my family, socialising with friends & family, going for walks and exploring local areas we don’t visit day to day. During lockdown one of my best memories was taking the kids out and playing ‘This way or that way’ and we would let them take turns choosing which way we would go. Made the daily walk much more interesting.”

LouSells-July-2022-1 Guest blog post: Meet LouSells

What do you enjoy most about your job?

“The people! Without a doubt the people that I get to meet daily. Some days in the shop it is like an episode of Loose Women with lots of chatter about life, fashion and issues us women deal with daily. Seeing someone get that perfect outfit for an occasion when they couldn’t find anything on the high street and had exhausted all the online brands they knew of. We stock such a vast array of brands that you get the chance to try on something you likely didn’t know existed and often it was just what you were looking for.”

How did you discover The Boxes at Chapelton?

“We are lucky to live within walking distance and I’ve had a keen eye on Chapelton since planning was put in place. I had been keeping in touch with the team about progress over the years and had hoped one day that a space just right for LouSells would come up. The Boxes are exceptionally deceiving and what looks like a relatively small space can easily be turned to suit a variety of business requirements. When we got the call to say that one was coming available, we jumped at the chance to see how we could make it work.”

What do you like most about Chapelton and why?

“Without sounding like a wannabe twenty something, The Vibe! Chapelton has such a great feel, contemporary but classic. Since joining the boxes it has opened my eyes to just how supportive other businesses are of each other. These last few years have been hard on small businesses so it is great to have that business community behind you as well as customer support. We love being a part of Chapelton Life.”

Find LouSells on Facebook and Instagram or get in touch via email at Lou_sells@outlook.com

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