We are all staying at home for the next few weeks to stop the spread of the coronavirus and while it’s nice to dress up as part of a ‘normal’ routine, there’s no denying the mood-boosting factor of cosy clothes. Nightwear and loungewear can be both chic and comfortable. Hoodies, joggers, activewear, sweatshirts, slippers, trainers and pyjamas are now taking over the wardrobe.
Many online retailers have shut down temporarily, but there are still a few ones operating. The multi-brand ecommerce mytheresa.com is still delivering and they have a great selection.
I find the Italian luxury brand Brunello Cucinelli perfect for cosy-chic looks. I love their magnificent flagship store in Avenue des Spélugues, but for now you can visit their online boutique.
One of my favourite menswear brands is the Italian heritage brand Larusmiani. The brand embodies the classic gentleman with a contemporary twist. On 5th December 2019, Larusmiani inaugurated their first store in the Principality inside the Metropole Shopping Centre. For the time being, until they reopen their doors, you can shop online chic looks for lazy days at home or for a picnic in your own garden. Larusmiani is a lifestyle brand, offering unique grooming kits and games to keep the whole family busy during long confinement days.
My gentleman’s shopping guide
This is how I like my man dressed at home!
Bella’s shopping guide
Home spa essentials
Beauty salons are closed, so it is time to learn how to groom yourself and it is actually a great time-killer. With the right products, it is easy to take care of yourself at home.
- Enzyme peel and facial mask by VERSO, Ossential Advanced Radical Night Repair by ZEIN BY OBAGI, Serum C E FERULIC by SKINCEUTICALS
(available at Esthe Coach Monaco and you might be able to request delivery by instant messaging their IG profile) - Body Scrub by MOLTON BROWN
(available at Health store in Metropole Shopping Centre when open) - Body cream, hand baume, foot cream, and exfoliating hand wash by AESOP
- Nails kit for mani- and pedicure (available at Sephora)
- Organic virgin coconut oil as hair mask (available at the bio store ToBe in Monaco)
You are what you eat
Lifestyle, nutrition and supplements to strengthen your immunity:
It is very important now to maintain a healthy lifestyle, eating food that provides essential nourishment and also keeps your blood sugar and weight under control. It appears that individuals with type-two diabetes and other metabolic conditions are at higher risk of complications from Covid-19.
According to studies there are no specific supplements that will help protect against coronavirus, but higher intakes of specific nutrients appear to boost the immune system and lower susceptibility to infection.
I personally believe that the best way to boost your immune system is your habits and your diet, rather than buying supplements. Good nutrition, being physically active, managing stress and getting adequate sleep play a very important role.
Key nutrients to include in your diet:
Nutrients that may help the immune response include micronutrients like zinc, selenium, iron, and vitamins A, C, D, E, B-6, and folate; and whole foods like goji berry, broccoli, green tea, and turmeric.
VITAMIN D:
Fatty fish, like salmon and sardines; eggs; plant milk products; tofu and mushrooms. It is wise to consider a D supplement if you feel you are not getting enough of this important vitamin which is promoting immune response. It has both anti-inflammatory and immunoregulatory properties and is crucial for the activation of immune system defenses.
VITAMIN C:
Oranges, grapefruit, kiwi, strawberries, brussel sprouts, red and green peppers, broccoli, cooked cabbage and cauliflower.
ZINK:
Beans, chickpeas, lentils, tofu, fortified cereals, nuts, seeds, wheat germ, oysters, crab, lobster, red meat and poultry.
PROTEIN:
From both animal (fish, lean meat, poultry, eggs) and plant-based sources (lentils, beans, nuts, seeds).
PREBIOTICS:
Onions, garlic, whole grains, bananas, leeks, asparagus, artichokes and beans.
BETA CAROTENE:
Carrots, kale, apricots, sweet potatoes, mangoes, spinach, broccoli, squash.
AVOCADO:
Vitamins C, E, K, and B-6, as well as riboflavin, niacin, folate, pantothenic acid, magnesium, and potassium. They also provide lutein, beta-carotene, and omega-3 fatty acids. Monounsaturated fat can reduce your risk of heart disease.
Lifestyle:
- Eight hours sleep
- Stress management
- Drink a lot of water and fresh coconut water to stay hydrated. I buy them at Marche U and the bio store To Be.
- Sport: Jogging, run up and down stairs and exercise at home with the Nike App, it is awesome
- Getting sunshine and fresh air where possible
- Moderate alcohol and cigarettes