Lisa Murdoch on Mindfulness, the Great Outdoors, and More [Interview]

18 Sep 2018

 

Today, we’re talking to Lisa, a cheery Yorkshire lass who runs Mathilde heart Manech, a charming blog on film, fashion, food, and positivity. Like Lisa, we love the great outdoors, and the kind of outlook that helps us all find joy in life’s everyday gifts. We caught up with her to find out more about her passion for nature, life in Yorkshire, and more.

 

How did you first get into blogging Lisa?

I started “Mathilde heart Manech” over 8 years ago following a career change and house move. I began blogging because I needed a creative outlet really, and I thought writing a blog would be the perfect place for that, as well as practising writing after a long hiatus since University. I now blog on a variety of my interests including fashion, interiors, wellbeing and countryside living. The blog is named after Mathilde and Manech, two characters from one of my favourite films, A Very Long Engagement. I’m an old romantic at heart!

Mathilde heart Manech blog

 

We love your blog’s focus on taking things slow, finding joy in the little things, and mindfulness. If you could share one quick tip with our readers for breathing a little more positivity into their day-to-day life, what would it be?

Take a break. Any time I’m feeling overwhelmed by my day I try to change my environment, even if it’s only for 5 minutes. Purposefully taking time to relax brings you back into the ‘moment’, and you can gain some perspective from that I think. This and putting the kettle on, of course.

Vintage tea - Unsplash

 

We love the countryside and small market towns, and thoroughly enjoyed your Whistle Stop: Hebden Bridge post. Are there any other highlights in Hebden Bridge or the surrounding area you’d recommend to first-time visitors?

I’ve listed lots of my favourite eateries and shops in the blog post you mentioned, but my first recommendation on visiting the town is to take a walk up into the hills, even if only for an hour, to enjoy the breath-taking views. There is a strong creative community of designers, makers, writers, musicians and artists in Hebden Bridge, which makes it a unique place to live and visit, so keep eye an out for seasonal events, of which there are ample.

As a writer, I’m very lucky to live in a place with strong literary heritage, inspired by the landscape I’m surrounded by. If you’re staying in the area for more than a day, take a trip over the moors to Haworth, home of the famous Brontë sisters, and only 30 minutes away.

Mathilde heart Manech blog

 

You mention in your blog that you never used to be an outdoorsy type. What advice would you give to a homebody who wants to start getting out a bit more?

I started walking when we got our dog, Polly (a very happy and mischievous golden retriever). I know this isn’t an option for everyone, but if it is something you’re considering, and you are aware of the responsibilities of dog ownership, then I wholeheartedly recommend it. If not, simply start small; try walking to the shop or your work instead of driving or make walking a social activity and involve your friends and family too. For more ideas, I’ve written 5 Ways to Enjoy the Outdoors, a blog post with tips on making outdoors a part of your everyday.

Mathilde heart Manech blog

 

How are you enjoying the WoolOvers new season? What would you like to see more or less of in today’s fashion industry?

I adore the new collection, but I especially like the patterned designs including the Fairisle jumper. I love the modern abstract design, and the navy/pink/green colour combo too. Because I’m outdoors a lot, I like lighter knitwear that I can layer with other items in my wardrobe but designs like this are also versatile to dress up – perfect for the weekend, and winter party season too.

As for the fashion industry, there’s a lot that has changed since retailers began selling online but I still think there needs to be better transparency in how and where clothes are made. I’d also like to see a wider representation of model sizes, to make buying clothes online easier.

WoolOvers Womens Raglan Abstract Fairisle Jumper

 

What are your favourite and least-favourite things about Autumn/Winter and why?

The only bad thing I can mention about A/W, is the lack of light in the evening but I can cope with that as long as I can walk outdoors during the day with the dog, and get my dose of vitamin D. As for the positives, how long have we got? The autumn leaves, sweet chestnuts, open fires, slow cooked seasonal food, candlelight, cosy knitwear, hot chocolates, long walks (wearing wellies and a warm hat) with a flask of hot tea for company, books and blankets… I could happily go on.

Mathilde heart Manech Instagram

 

Photos ©Mathilde heart Manech and Unsplash

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