Product Review: Natural & Easy 565 Natural Golden Light Brown Hair Dye

Going from blonde to light brown

Hey there, hair dye enthusiasts! If you've been here before you'll know I often change my hair colour. Having been various shades of blonde for a while I decided to go a bit darker again. This time I'm sharing my thoughts about the Schwarzkopf Natural & Easy 565 Natural Golden Light Brown Hair Dye.

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I wanted a brown that would put some warm tones back into my hair but nothing too dark (I'm still not 100% convinced about going darker again and so didn't want to opt for anything too strong. This felt like a good in between level to see how I feel about it).

I've tried various shades in the Schwarzkoft Natural & Easy collection in the past with varying results. As I'd previously had good results when using it to go from light to dark I figured I'd give this one a try.

You might also like: A Guide To Different Hair Dye Colours: Tried and Tested

Product details

Schwarzkopf Natural & Easy Colour Cream - Permanent Hair Colour for Natural Effect Colour, Luminous Highlights and Perfect Professional Coverage of Grey Hair

Advantages: perfectly covers grey hair, ensuring a natural colour result, rich in luminous reflections, and perfect coverage of grey hair; Provides nourishment and softness to the hair

Formula: Vegan formula contains olive oil and French lavender water

Box contents: 1 x 60 ml tube of colour cream, 1 x 60 ml bottle with developer emulsion, 1 x 25 ml nourishing treatment bag, 1 x pair of gloves, 1 x instruction manual

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Review

The 565 Natural Golden Light Brown is a beautiful, warm shade with just the right amount of golden undertones. If you’re after a hair colour that’s neither too dark nor too light, this one’s a perfect balance. It gives off that soft, natural glow, especially when it catches the light. The golden brown tones are warm enough to brighten up your face but not so in-your-face that they feel unnatural.

The formula is creamy, which means it spreads through your hair without dripping all over the place. Even better, it doesn’t have that overly harsh chemical smell that makes you want to hold your breath through the whole process. The instructions are clear, and the gloves provided are a nice touch to avoid any dye mishaps on your hands.

I found the whole process to be quick and straightforward. After applying the dye, I left it on for the recommended time, rinsed it out, and used the conditioner that comes with the kit. It left my hair feeling soft and nourished.

The box promised 100% coverage of grey hairs and it did do a good job... maybe not quite 100% but close. Overall I'm very happy with the result.

NB! Please note that the colour result depends on your natural/starting hair colour.

Product Review Natural & Easy 565 Natural Golden Light Brown Hair Dye - Before and After

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Small Steps That Lead To A Healthier You

A Beginners Plan To Get Fit And Healthy

Thinking about getting fit and healthy but unsure where to start? Don't stress! You don’t have to overhaul your life in one go. The key is to take small, manageable steps that lead to lasting changes. Let’s dive into a beginner’s plan that can help you feel better, move more, and feel proud of yourself – one step at a time.

Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional. The information provided on www.JoLinsdell.com does not, and is not intended to, constitute medical advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available on this site are for general informational purposes only.

Check out these Fitness Tips for Beginners

If you've been here before you'll know that I often encounter problems with my health. I have various chronic conditions that sometimes make 'normal life' a bit of a struggle.

Being tired and ill all the time is no fun and something I've had to deal with for a long time now. I am more determined than ever that this year will be the year I manage to control my health problems and actually get fit and healthy. It's time for a lifestyle makeover!

1. Start with Simple Movement

You don’t have to become a gym rat overnight. Begin by finding ways to move more throughout the day. This could be as simple as taking the stairs instead of the lift, walking to the shops instead of driving, or doing a short walk after dinner. These mini activities will get your body used to regular movement without feeling overwhelmed.

Tip: Try using a pedometer or fitness tracker to monitor how many steps you take. Aim for 7,000–10,000 steps a day, but don’t be hard on yourself if you’re starting from scratch. Celebrate every step you take!

I recently increased my daily steps considerably by taking my dog for a walk after lunch and dinner. He loves it and it adds a good number of steps to my daily count and helps with digestion.

2. Set a Daily Hydration Goal

Drinking water is one of the easiest ways to boost your health. Aim for around 2 litres a day, but this can vary depending on your activity level. If you’re not used to drinking much, start with small increases, like having a glass of water before each meal.

Tip: Carry a water bottle with you to make it easier to remember. If plain water feels a bit dull, infuse it with a slice of lemon, cucumber, or a handful of mint leaves.

I'm currently under doctor's orders to drink at least 2 litres a day which I'm slowly getting more used to doing. Not being a big drinker, it's taken me a while to build up.

3. Add More Veggies to Your Meals

Veggies are packed with nutrients, fibre, and antioxidants that support your body’s natural functions. No need to go full-on vegetarian overnight – simply add an extra portion of veggies to one meal each day. If you’re not a fan of broccoli try something new, like roasted carrots (I love honey roasted carrots. Seriously so good!) or a spinach and mushroom omelette. Start with what you enjoy, and the habit will grow.

I've recently been having fun creating different soups. Perfect for the colder weather and easy to add in a variety of vegetables (even a little of the ones your less keen on). For example, my eldest hates spinach but doesn't even notice it if I throw in a handful of finely chopped leaves into a soup.

Tip: Try swapping out refined carbs for whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, or wholemeal bread. They’re packed with fibre and help keep you full for longer!

4. Find a Form of Exercise You Enjoy

Exercise doesn’t have to mean slogging away in a gym. It could be dancing, yoga, swimming, or even a fun bike ride in the park. Choose something you enjoy, and you’ll be more likely to stick with it. Start with 15-minute sessions and gradually increase the time as you get more comfortable.

Tip: Make it social! Invite a friend or family member to join you. Having a workout buddy can make exercise feel less like a chore and more like a fun activity.

Check out these great low impact, easy walking workouts that are perfect to get you moving.

5. Get Enough Sleep

We often overlook the importance of sleep in our health journey, but it’s crucial for your body to recover and function well. Aim for at least 7-8 hours each night. If you struggle with sleep, create a calming bedtime routine, like reading a book (a personal favourite of mine), doing some gentle stretches, or having a warm cup of herbal tea.

Tip: Try to keep a consistent sleep schedule by going to bed and waking up at the same time each day, even on weekends. Your body loves routine!

Did you know that women need slightly more sleep than men?

6. Focus on Portion Control, Not Restriction

Healthy eating doesn’t mean you have to give up all your favourite treats. Instead of focusing on what you can’t have, try to be mindful of portion sizes. A small treat every now and then is totally fine – it’s all about balance. Try using smaller plates, which can help you feel satisfied with less.

Tip: Try to fill half of your plate with vegetables, a quarter with lean protein (like chicken, fish, or beans), and the other quarter with whole grains or healthy carbs. This will help you maintain a balanced diet without feeling restricted.

7. Be Kind to Yourself

Sometimes, life gets in the way, and it’s easy to feel like you’re falling short of your goals. But don’t be too hard on yourself! Progress takes time, and every step you take towards a healthier lifestyle counts. If you have a slip-up, just get back on track the next day. A positive mindset makes all the difference in your journey!

Tip: Celebrate your achievements – no matter how small. Did you drink more water today? Well done! Did you take a walk after lunch? Amazing! It all adds up.

8. Stay Consistent

The real magic happens when you stick with it. Even on days when you’re feeling low or busy, do something – anything! – to keep the momentum going. If you’ve committed to exercising three times a week, but you can’t get to the gym, do a 10-minute home workout or a short walk. Consistency is key, and the small steps will add up over time.

Tip: Keep a fitness journal or use an app to track your progress. It’s fun to look back and see how far you’ve come!

So there you have it – a simple, beginner-friendly plan to get you started on your journey to a healthier, fitter you. Remember, it's not about being perfect – it’s about making small, sustainable changes that add up over time. Take it easy, enjoy the process, and celebrate your wins along the way. You've got this!

What small step are you going to try first? Let me know in the comments – I'd love to hear about it!

February 2025 Book Blogger Posts Round Up

A collection of blog posts by book bloggers

Welcome to another Book Bloggers Round Up post! Let's see what book bloggers posted about during February.

I introduced this feature here on the blog in May 2021 to showcase blog posts by other book bloggers and as it continues to be a popular series I've decided to continue again this year too.

Each month I'll include a wide variety of content so there's something for everyone. You'll find book reviews, interviews, discussion pieces and more...

So if you're looking for new bookish content to read and/or want to discover some new book bloggers to follow, look no further!

Why I do this feature:

Scanning through various social media feeds to find suitable content can take up valuable time and so I figured I'd make it easier and put together a collection here on the blog.

It's also a way for me to highlight some of the other great book bloggers out there and help promote books and reading at the same time.

How it works:

Each month I do a post via my Twitter, where I offer the opportunity for book bloggers to submit posts published during that month for inclusion in this round up. I do this every month.

Want to be included in future round ups? Follow my Twitter profile and keep an eye out for the submission tweet.

February 2025 Book Blogger Round Up

@ReadingLadiesBC took part in Top Ten Tuesday with her post Love for Family: 10 Books About Families.

@WordsofMystery did a post Five Romances to Read This February featuring a few of her all-time favourite love stories.

Looking for a simple reading challenge to do in 2025? Check out The Clock Reading Challenge

@_forbookssake reviewed Happy Bloody Christmas by Jo Middleton. "If you’re looking for a super intense thriller, then this isn’t it, but the comedy of the story more than makes up for it’s lack of intensity. Despite it being a book about a murder, this has such a fun vibe to it too, as well as hilarious family drama. Like a game of Cluedo but in book form." Read the full review of Happy Bloody Christmas here.

@DanSamEnd reviewed Red Flags by Sophie Jo. "The story perfectly encapsulates first love in all its complicated glory, the wonder, excitement, vulnerability, and uncertainty, as it explores what a healthy relationship looks like and what a “red flag” really means." Read the full review of Red Flags here.

You might also like: Book Blogging in 2024 Survey Results

What bookish blog posts did you enjoy reading in February? Have a favourite book you read in February that you want to share?

In case you missed it, don't forget to check out the January Round Up for even more great bookish posts by different book bloggers.

You might also like: The Ultimate Guide for Book Bloggers

Are you a book blogger? Check out 101 Blog Post Ideas For Book Bloggers

The Benefits of Digital Detox and How to Start

In today’s fast-paced, always-connected world, we’re all glued to our screens—whether it’s for work, social media, or simply staying up-to-date on the latest news. But have you ever stopped to think about how much screen time is really affecting your well-being? That’s where the idea of a digital detox comes in, and trust me, it’s not just about stepping away from the phone for an hour.

This year I'm all about improving my health as much as possible. Due to my chronic health problems I'm having to take a closer look at my diet and physical activity but why stop there? I also want to take a better look at my mental health and a digital detox is a great place to start.

Let’s dive into why you might want to hit pause on the constant buzzing and how you can start your own digital detox journey.

Why You Should Try a Digital Detox

1. Improved Mental Health

If you’ve noticed that scrolling through social media leaves you feeling more anxious or down, you’re not alone. Constant comparisons, news overload, and the pressure to always be ‘on’ can leave your brain feeling overwhelmed. Taking a break from screens allows your mind to reset. You’ll feel less stressed and more present, which can lead to a much-needed boost in your mental health.

2. Better Sleep

How many times have you found yourself scrolling through Instagram just before bed, only to end up wide awake at 2 a.m.? Using your phone late at night messes with your sleep patterns. The blue light from screens can interfere with your natural sleep cycle, making it harder for you to drift off. A digital detox, especially before bedtime, can help you sleep better and wake up feeling more refreshed.

As I like to read in bed on my kindle app I got myself a pair of blue light glasses to help minimise the interference to my sleep cycle. I already struggle to get enough quality sleep so I figured it was a good idea to take any steps that could help.

3. Increased Productivity

It’s easy to fall into the trap of checking your emails, social media, or the news every few minutes. Before you know it, hours have passed, and you’ve achieved very little. A digital detox helps you regain focus and control over your time. With fewer distractions, you’ll get more done and feel more satisfied with your work.

I nearly always feel like there's not enough hours in the day to do everything on my to do list (it doesn't help that I'm constantly adding new things to the list). It's so easy to get sucked into social media scrolling that I don't even realise how much time has passed. By stepping away from social media it gives me that extra time to work on writing blog posts, brainstorming new ones or doing any number of the other tasks on my list. It really makes a huge difference.

4. More Meaningful Connections

Digital devices can make us feel connected to others, but often, those connections are shallow. A detox allows you to reconnect with the people around you in a more meaningful way. Instead of texting or emailing, you can engage in real face-to-face conversations, building deeper relationships with your friends, family, or colleagues.

5. Increased Creativity

When your mind is constantly bombarded by notifications, it’s difficult to tap into your creative side. Taking a break from screens can give your brain the space it needs to think clearly and generate fresh ideas. Whether you’re writing, painting, or brainstorming for work, a digital detox can be the key to unlocking your creativity.

How to Start Your Digital Detox

1. Set Clear Boundaries

Start by setting boundaries with your screen time. For instance, decide that you won’t check emails after 7 p.m. or that you’ll take a full hour away from your phone during lunch. Little steps like these can make a huge difference in reducing your screen addiction.

2. Designate Tech-Free Zones

Make certain areas of your home or office tech-free zones. The dining table is a great place to start. Keeping your phone in another room while you’re having meals can encourage face-to-face interactions and help you stay more present. This is a rule in our house. No phones during meals.

3. Replace Digital Time with Real-World Activities

Rather than scrolling, try replacing your digital time with something enriching. Read a book, take a walk, try a new hobby, or have a conversation with a loved one. Filling your time with activities that don’t involve screens will make the detox feel less like a chore and more like an enjoyable change.

4. Turn Off Notifications

Let’s face it, notifications are designed to grab our attention, and it’s so easy to get distracted by them. Turn off non-essential notifications for a few hours or even for a whole day. You’ll be amazed at how much less anxious you feel when you’re not constantly being interrupted by pings and dings.

5. Start Small and Build Up

If the thought of a full digital detox seems overwhelming, start small. Dedicate one weekend a month to go completely offline, or try one day a week without social media. Over time, you can gradually extend these breaks as you feel more comfortable with the idea of unplugging.

6. Create a Support System

It’s always easier to stick with a new habit when you have support. Try doing your detox alongside a friend or family member, or join a community online (ironically!) that’s all about cutting down on screen time. Sharing your experience and challenges will help you stay motivated.

Final Thoughts

A digital detox isn’t about completely abandoning technology; it’s about finding a healthy balance. It’s about reconnecting with yourself, with others, and with the world around you in a way that’s not filtered through a screen. So, why not give it a try? Start small, take it one day at a time, and see how much better you feel when you give your mind a break from the constant noise. You might just find that less screen time equals a whole lot more joy in your life.

Happy detoxing!

Books: First Lines Fridays 7th March 2025

What is First Lines Fridays?

My Pick For This Week

The first lines of the book:

And the book is...