Making parent life easier: 5 hacks from founder Helen

I must open with an important caveat: I’m no parenting expert and very much learning on the job. As the saying goes, we learn through our failures, and I’ve had plenty of those…

I am, however, often asked how I juggle INDI (my first very demanding baby!) with two young children. I’ve been grateful for the advice and support I’ve had from other mums, especially my own, so I’m sharing here some of the things that have helped me survive, and even thrive, over the last few years. Nutrition is, of course, a passion of mine and I’ve been fortunate to have access to brilliant nutritionists who’ve guided me along the way; you’ll find some of their wisdom woven in here too.

1. LOOK AFTER YOURSELF TO LOOK AFTER THEM - AND THIS COULDN'T BE MORE TRUE WHEN IT COMES TO FOOD.

Don’t underestimate the power of nourishing meals and snacks. A healthy, balanced diet gives you more energy, improves your mood, supports better sleep, helps your body recover postpartum… the list goes on.

I get it - you’re tired, time-poor and probably hungry. Cravings for sugar are totally normal; your body is screaming for quick energy. I’ve found that recognising and understanding that craving is the first step to managing it.

Shop mindfully to stock your fridge and cupboards with the right foods. As our brilliant in-house nutritionist says “it’s about crowding out the less nourishing foods by filling up on the good stuff”. A few easy wins:

• Bold Beans are on a mission to make everyone bean obsessed and I’m in. Find easy, delicious recipes on their website.
• Make a diversity jar of mixed seeds and nuts to sprinkle onto yoghurt, porridge, eggs or salads.
• Start your day with INDI Body—a simple, delicious way to pack in fibre, antioxidants, polyphenols, probiotics, vitamins and minerals all at once (with noticeable benefits to how you feel and function).
• Our fresh fruit bowl is always in easy reach on the counter, and I introduce as much variety as possible with every shop.
• Try chef Nina Parker’s Saucy products to make even the simplest meals (eggs, salads, chicken, fish) totally delicious.
• Make dark chocolate your best friend. If you have a sweet tooth, this is a simple smart swap. 

2. NO PHONES UPSTAIRS 

I spend too much time on my phone, desperately trying to keep on top of work and life admin. I’m the queen of multi-tasking… with mixed success. But inevitably screen time affects my mood, attention span, quality of sleep - and, most importantly, time with my family. To remove the distraction, I keep my phone downstairs so my mornings and evenings are device-free. It’s made a huge difference in how my days start and end, and how I feel and operate throughout the day. Try it for a week to embed a new routine and you’ll never go back.

3. I FELL OK IF I LOOK OK

When my hair is clean and my skin is behaving, life just feels a bit brighter! Before launching INDI, I worked in the beauty industry for 12+ years so it’s no surprise that I’m a big believer in good, consistent beauty routines. For me, it’s about self-esteem and not losing myself in the messy chaos of motherhood. Urban at-home facials or manicures are an occasional treat, but otherwise I love my LED mask and embrace my lengthy skincare ritual which also helps me wind down at night. Whatever it is for you, protect that time fiercely.

4. FINDING MY DAILY RHYTHM

Keeping my body in a consistent routine makes such a difference to how I feel. As best I can, I try to wake up, eat meals and go to bed around the same times each day. This steady rhythm helps balance hormones, supports healthy digestion and actually improves sleep quality. I notice that on the days I stick to my regular routine, I have more energy and I drift off to sleep quickly at night. Another thing that’s made a huge difference is eating early, 2 or 3 hours before bed. It gives my digestion time to do its thing, helps keep my glucose levels steady and reduces bloating.

5. MY 2 FAVOURITE KID-RELATED BRANDS: PEACHIES AND LUNE & WILD

We recently did a partnership with these 2 brands, I love them that much. I recommend them to anyone who will listen!

First up, Peachies: Morgan and Rima have taken on the mainstream giants and absolutely nailed it. Their cashmere-soft, super-absorbent nappies are totally leak-proof which means I get more sleep - plus they are better for the planet.

Lune & Wild: Also female-founded, Nadia and Lara are raising the stakes with baby and toddler food. Their meals and snacks are plant-rich, balanced and delicious. A firm favourite in our house, and always in my freezer.

Both brands are kindly offering £10 off for INDI customers. Use code 10FORPARENTS at checkout.