Author: Katie Martin

Categories
Fitness Advice x Motivation Sweat

Yes, You Can: Fitness Motivation Tips For Days When You Just Can’t Even

I chase after my kid all day, y’all. I get my professional work done while he’s sleeping.
House and home? Ha!
My chore list just seems to get longer every time I look at it, and yet somehow, I am supposed to also find the time to workout?
Ha. Ha. Ha.
It’s hard to tap that motivational well when all I want to do is eat clearance Valentine’s candy and take a nap, but according to one study, just two weeks of inactivity is enough to reduce muscle mass, slow your metabolism, and increase risk for certain diseases like type 2 diabetes.
Yikes!
Maybe you’re a new mom. Maybe you struggle to get out of bed in the morning. Maybe you have long workdays. Maybe you’re juggling all three scenarios!
If you struggle to find daily fitness motivation because you’ve got a zillion other things going on your life, here are expert tips that’ll encourage, empower, and motivate you to exercise on those days when you just can’t even.

Rise and shine! How to Find Your Morning Fitness Motivation

My cousin gets up at 4:00 every morning and runs five miles before she heads off to her job as pediatric dentist.
I think she’s totally nuts.
Why would you willingly leave your cozy bed to go running at zero dark thirty?
It might not be my cup of tea, but studies have shown that working out in the morning does have its benefits. According to one study by Anne McTiernan at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, morning exercise like a brisk walk or light stretching improved overall sleep quality for participants. Those who exercised in the evening, on the other hand, reported no improvement in sleep habits.
Researchers at Northwestern University have also shown people who got most of their vitamin D from early morning sunshine had lower BMIs than those who were exposed to sunlight later in the day. Exposure to early morning sun may help keep your circadian rhythm (your body’s natural clock) on track, helping you boost your metabolism and maintain a healthy weight.
If you’re an early riser who loves to start the day with a quick yoga flow or a half-marathon training session, keep up the good work!
If, like me, you struggle to get up in the morning, Cassy Velez, a NASM Certified Personal Trainer and ACE Certified Group Fitness Instructor, says “I think the most integral thing that someone can do for themselves in order to ensure that they stay motivated over time and reach their goals is to set their goals properly from day one.”  
Instead of focusing on results (like losing 10 pounds), Velez says that setting process-oriented goals can give you sustainable fitness motivation, even if you’d rather sleep in.
Process-oriented goals are more achievable, Velez explains, because “there are so many external factors that we can’t control on the way to achieving a specific goal. … What you can control is the process and the actions you’re going to take. If you focus on the process, you’ll almost always hit the goal anyway because you’re taking the necessary steps to get there.”
Want a good example of a process-oriented goal? How about committing to one fitness class or sweat sesh a week? Fit it into your established schedule and build a routine up around it. If you’re going to a 7 a.m. barre class Mondays before work, make yourself breakfast Sunday night and treat yourself to a coffee on the way into work. Want to swim for 45 minutes every Thursday before picking the kids up from school? Go early enough to blow dry your hair before leaving the gym and get a good spot in the carpool line.
Rather than focusing on your waistline or shedding pounds, stick to your schedule and enjoy the transformations that come from committing to yourself.

One is the Loneliest Number: Where to Find Fitness Motivation When Your Gym Buddy Deserts You

I am not a person who likes to exercise alone. I need a buddy to encourage me and help distract me from the fact that I’m exercising.
So, when I moved away from my BFF and CFM (Chief Fitness Motivator), I struggled to maintain my motivation to exercise.
While I did miss catching up on the latest Bachelor drama with my bestie, what I missed most was the encouraging emotional support she provided during our workouts. I tried motivational workout apps, but it just wasn’t the same.
If you’re struggling to find the inspiration  to workout alone, Janis Isaman, owner of Calgary-based My Body Couture, a private, one-on-one fitness studio, speaker, movement specialist, and nutrition coach, says that signing what’s called a “commitment contract” with yourself can be incredibly helpful.
“One study found that, just like smoking cessation and retirement savings, people respond with action when they sign contractual agreements,” says Isaman. “Not only that, but they can be encouraged to choose longer durations and higher commitment.”
Commitment contracts can help you stick to a plan, especially if you’re struggling to motivate yourself to work out solo, because you’re obligated to complete the terms of the contract.
I tried Isaman’s suggestion, and used this template to create a fitness motivation contract for myself. I printed it out and stuck it on the fridge, and now every time I see it, I’m reminded that I made a promise to myself to work out. So far, I haven’t skipped one solo workout. What’s more, I’m actually starting to enjoy it.
Isaman’s last piece of advice?
“Contracts are a proven way to help meet your goal. Remember that these aren’t New Year’s resolutions, so take your time before you sign one. Learn about your own personal motivations, develop a tracking tool (there are paper and online journals available) and take the time to customize a truly usable and unique document that is as mentally as powerful as a contract you would sign for a living space, relationship, or employment situation!”

Working 9 to 5? Skip happy hour and head to the gym instead.

I know, I know.
If your only free time to exercise is after work, it’s nearly impossible to find the motivation to go to the gym, when all you want to do is snuggle with your pupper, see what Princess Margaret is up to on The Crown, and call it a night.
But research recently published in the Annals of Internal Medicine suggests that sedentary behavior (like sitting at a desk all day for work) can lead to earlier mortality.
I don’t know about you, but I have big plans to spend most of my retirement in one of those luxe cabanas on the water in Tahiti, so after reading this study, I started moving more during the day.
If your eventual retirement isn’t enough of a fitness motivator, banishing negative self-talk may help you drum up the extra willpower  to hit the gym after work.
Alexandra Allred, a member of the first U.S. women’s Olympic bobsled team and an adjunct professor of kinesiology at Navarro College, says that motivating self-talk is key for success not only in the gym, but in your work life as well.
“For years, I have talked to my own everyday fitness class participants about how they talk to themselves,” says Allred.
How often do you find yourself saying things like, “If I weren’t so bad at my job, I wouldn’t have to stay late and skip the gym,” or “If I could just lose twenty pounds, I think everything would be better”?
“Most people view these as the proper motivational self-talk tools to lose weight, join a gym, push harder, et cetera,” says Allred. “In actuality, these are roadblocks. It sounds so basic, but when a person learns to talk to him or herself in more positive tones, there is a noted shift over time. Positive and proactive self-talk doesn’t happen overnight, so neither will the changes. Just as it takes time to properly lose weight, it takes time to learn how to do … what I call P and P self talk.”
Allred recommends replacing your “if” statements with “I will” statements for fitness motivation.
Start your workday by saying, “I will rock this presentation, and I will go to the gym today.” Repeat this statement as often as you need to, especially when you find yourself tempted to skip an after-work sweat session.

Fitness Motivation for When Your Mental Health is Suffering

Sometimes our lack of motivation to work out is rooted in our mental and emotional well-being. It’s no surprise that many people who struggle with  anxiety or depression struggle to prioritize exercise.
While information from the Anxiety and Depression Association of America suggests that regular exercise can help elevate depressed moods and reduce anxiety, fitness motivation is the last thing on your mind when you’d rather get back in bed or feel anxious about (or even petrified of) engaging yourself physically, going outside the house, or putting yourself in social setting you’d rather not face.
Unfortunately, mental health disorders often sneak up on us. Too often, you may not even realize you’re suffering from depression or anxiety, but according to a resource hosted by the Department of Health and Human Services, if you find yourself unable to get out of bed, losing interest in things you used to love, or feeling hopeless on a regular basis, you may be suffering from undiagnosed depression.
First, know that you don’t have to suffer alone. Reach out to a professional, a friend, or a family member who you trust to support you in finding the help you need.
If you’re having suicidal thoughts, stop what you’re doing and text or call the Suicide Prevention Lifeline.
Claudia Luiz, a psychoanalyst and author of the forthcoming textbook, The Making of a Psychoanalyst says, “It takes a lot of courage and experimentation to know what will and won’t work for you, and then you need the self-love to give yourself the gift of beauty and health. Once you do the deeper work on yourself, finding the courage and self-love to come up with a truly and deeply enjoyable program, executing it will not be very far behind.”
Do try to incorporate exercise into your self-care plan—even if it’s really hard at first. Go for a short walk around the block, a swim at the local aquatic center, or a bike ride in the park. If you’d rather not be around others at a gym or community center, try hiking. Stanford researchers found walking in a natural area for 90 minutes “showed decreased activity in a region of the brain associated with a key factor in depression.” Not up for leaving the house? Unfurl your yoga mat and follow along with a yoga flow from the comfort of your living room.

Baby on Board: Postpartum Fitness Motivation

Even though you may desperately want to lose your baby fluff, all you’re really motivated to do is get some much needed  sleep whenever baby will allow it.
But exercising isn’t just good for mom, it’s good for baby too.
“When my son was six weeks old, I was cleared to return to regular activities by my doctor,” says Julie Lohre, women’s fitness expert, IFBB fitness pro, certified personal trainer and nutrition specialist, and fitness magazine cover model and contributor. “Workout time become my own personal me time … something of a mental health break that allowed me to come back to my baby an hour later energized and re-focused.”
Lohre says to tap into your fitness motivation post-baby, you first need to acknowledge that your health and fitness are not just important to you; your level of well-being will impact how well you can care for your baby.
The first thing you need to do?
Instead of using the scale as fitness motivation, throw it out!
I’m serious. You just had a baby. Cut yourself some slack. While many people will tell you that nursing helps you drop the pounds faster, I found the opposite to be true. My body held onto every calorie because it required extra fuel to make the nutritious milk my little nugget needed. So don’t focus on your weight—focus on the fact that your body just grew and is literally creating food for another little human.
Also, there’s nothing like treating yourself to a little new exercise gear to bump up your fitness motivation. When you have the right gear, like the right jogging stroller or sports bra for your new, milk-filled breasts, it can make all the difference. You might find that you actually love working out when your boobs aren’t flopping around like two bota bags. I know I did!
Finally, to tap your fitness motivation post-baby, you first need to acknowledge that your health and fitness are a top priority.
“The difference [working out after baby] made in my attitude was incredible,” says Lohre. “So often, I see new moms that feel as if they are losing their own identity.  By making fitness a priority, they can gain back a piece of themselves and be better moms for it.”

Categories
Conscious Beauty Lifestyle

Dry Brushing: A Skincare Miracle Or Too Good To Be True?

If you’re like me, you barely have time to pop on a detoxifying face mask once a week, much less head to the spa for a full-body detox session.
That’s why I was so excited to hear about the practice of dry brushing, a process of brushing your skin with a natural-bristle brush that’s supposed to promote energy, reduce cellulite, and drain toxins from your skin. Best of all, dry brushing is easy to do at home: no spa required.
Naturally, I was a little skeptical that simply dry brushing my skin in a certain pattern would actually work, so I before I invested in a dry brush, I consulted the experts to find out whether dry brushing is a skincare miracle solution or simply too good to be true.

Bye, bye cellulite? Not so fast.

Dry brushing is actually a centuries-old practice dating back to the days of Hippocrates. As the name implies, the practice involves brushing your dry skin with a coarse, short-bristled brush.
So why do it?
“[Dry brushing] works by stimulating the sebaceous glands, thereby encouraging natural lubrication of your skin; removing the top layer of dead cells, leading to significant exfoliation and skin that’s polished and silky; improving circulation and increasing blood flow to the surface of the body,” says Stephanie Tourles, a licensed esthetician, herbalist, and author of Organic Body Care Recipes.
Because dry brushing increases circulation and blood flow to the skin’s surface, it’s also touted as a cure for cellulite.
I’ll be totally honest, getting rid of my lumps and bumps is one of the main reasons I personally started dry brushing.
But, like most things that sound too good to be true, Tania Elliott, MD, a leading New York allergist and Chief Medical Officer at EHE, Inc., says, “There is no evidence though, to support that dry brushing can reduce cellulite.”
However, many people still swear that dry brushing does improve their cellulite.
“I’ve noticed improved tone in the jiggle-prone parts of my body” says Tourles referring to those trouble spots so many of us face: the upper arms and inner thighs.
In reality, dry brushing does increase short-term circulation. Increased blood flow actually puffs up skin, which can reduce the appearance of cellulite—temporarily—which is why I’m guilty of sneaking in a dry brushing session if I know I’m going to be seen in my swimsuit or if my spouse and I have scheduled some grown-up time. Hey, sometimes a girl needs all the help she can get!
And even if dry brushing doesn’t banish stubborn cellulite, you’ll notice immediate results in the smoothness of your skin after just a day or two of dry brushing, thanks to its exfoliating effects. But since there’s really only anecdotal proof that this practice helps reduce the long-term appearance of cellulite, you may have to wait several weeks to see if you notice a reduction in those dimples on the back of your thighs.

Don’t you know that you’re toxic?

Well, not exactly toxic, more like your skin has toxins.
“Over the course of an average day, your skin eliminates more than a pound of waste, including perspiration,” says Tourles. “If your skin is not carrying out normal elimination due to basic neglect of hygiene, illness, dry skin buildup, medication side effects, repeated application of mineral oil-based, pore-clogging body lotions or waterproof chemical-based sunscreens, or nutritional deficiencies, then your kidneys, large intestine, liver, and lungs may be operating on a subpar level.”  
Dry brushing has recently gotten major buzz as an easy way to detox your skin because it promotes lymphatic drainage, which is supposed to help remove toxins.
According to an article published in the Journal of Circulation Research, the lymphatic system “plays an integral role in the regulation of tissue fluid homeostasis, immune cell trafficking, and absorption of dietary fats” and it works in tandem with the circulatory system to regularly flush toxins from the body.
Similar to the way that dry brushing temporarily energizes circulation, it also aids the lymphatic system by stimulating lymph glands just under the skin.
Your lymphatic system carries internal waste to different “dumping sites” in your body, according to the Circuelle Foundation, a non-profit organization focused on long-term breast health. While the heart helps blood pump throughout the body, the lymphatic system doesn’t have a built-in pump. Dry brushing, like massage, essentially acts as the lymphatic system’s pump, pushing toxins out of the body and carrying beneficial white blood cells throughout the lymphatic system.
“The lymph is very delicate,” says Marie Starling, doctor of chiropractic, a chiropractic internist and functional medicine specialist at the Healing Center in Denver. “Too much pressure will restrict the flow within the lymph vessels. When the lymph is stimulated in this way, it is transported to the lymph nodes where it is filtered. The tonsils, adenoids, spleen, and thymus are all part of this system that helps the body detoxify and fight infection.”
In addition to boosting your body’s ability to fight infection on its own, Starling says that dry brushing can also help decrease water retention, which you may see on the scale as a decrease in water weight and bloating.

Really, all you have to do is brush your skin.

Dry brushing really is that simple.
You can dry brush your skin any way you like, but to get the most out of dry brushing, Starling recommends following these steps to promote lymphatic drainage and circulation:

  • Start with the bottom of the feet and work your way up to the knee with brisk, upward strokes. Do one side and then the other.
  • Then, from the knee, stroke upward in small strokes moving toward the abdomen. Do one side and then the other.
  • At the abdomen, brush in small, upward circles.
  • Then move to the arms, starting with the palms and using short strokes that move in toward the torso on both the tops and undersides of the arms, finishing at the armpit. Do one arm and then the other.
  • Gently brush the chest area using circular motions.
  • Continue with small strokes up the neck toward the face.
  • Use a brush with a handle to brush the back in short, upward strokes.

Starling suggests that women avoid dry brushing their breasts, whereas Circuelle suggests dry brushing benefits breast health and hosts a diagram that shows that drainage associated with a dry-brushing ritual occurs in the breasts and other parts of the body.
“The ideal cadence is no more than two to three times per week—regular use can damage the skin barrier and lead to irritation,” says Elliott. “Remember, the skin is the largest organ in the body and it is the first barrier of our immune system. Over-irritation and skin breakdown can lead to infection risk.”
If you have concerns about the safety of dry brushing for your skin or breast health, it’s best to chat with your doctor.
Dry brushing in the bathroom? Watch out for water! Elliott says that if your brush gets wet, it can become a breeding ground for viruses and bacteria, so it’s important to clean your brush regularly.
To do so, simply wash and rinse with warm soapy water once a week.
“It will take your skin a while to get used to being brushed,” says Tourles, who recommends using a medium-soft, natural-fiber brush about the size of your palm for dry brushing.
“Never scrub though,” says Tourles. “Your body is not the tub!”
Your skin should be rosy pink, but never red, irritated, or itchy after dry brushing.
“You’ll feel wonderfully invigorated when you’re finished, and your skin will glow,” says Tourles. “If you’re just beginning, your skin may be a bit red immediately afterward, but as it adjusts and becomes more acclimated to the treatment, only a pinkish tinge (depending on your pigmentation) will remain for about five minutes until circulation calms.  If your skin remains red or pink for a longer period, or feels irritated, then either the brush bristles are too firm or you’re brushing way too hard.”
For people with sensitive skin, Sejal Shah, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and RealSelf contributor, says “I generally recommend starting once a week and increasing slowly (up to daily) as your skin tolerates. I do suggest starting with a washcloth and working gradually up to something stiffer once you get to the desired effect.”  
Always brush clean, dry skin before hopping in the shower, so that you can rinse off all the dead skin cells you just sloughed off. After your shower, use a rich moisturizing lotion or body oil to help keep skin soft, especially if you have sensitive skin.
After I shower, my go-to moisturizer is still Johnson and Johnson’s Baby Oil, which I rub on while I’m still wet, just before I towel dry. It smells delicious and keeps my skin literally baby soft all day long.
Though most dermatologists recommend dry brushing a few times a week, if your skin tolerates brushing, you can do it daily, ideally in the morning as an energizing part of your routine, says Tourles.
“It doesn’t take me thirty minutes to wake up in the morning, like it used to!  For me, dry brushing is equivalent to a shot of espresso,” says Tourles.
However, there’s nothing wrong with dry brushing before bedtime if that’s when you normally shower.
So, what’s the bottom line?
Maybe dry brushing isn’t quite the skincare miracle some fans make it out to be, but it isn’t completely bogus, either.
I like dry brushing because it’s a quick and easy way to exfoliate my skin and temporarily hide my cellulite for a day at the beach. Coupled with my ten-minute morning yoga flow, dry brushing really does give me a boost of energy.
But if you’re looking for a quick way to detox, most doctors say there is no substitute for taking better care of your whole body. To boost your immune system and stay healthy, eat a healthy diet, drink plenty of water, get regular exercise, limit alcohol, sugary treats, and saturated fats, and consider adding dry brushing to your skincare routine.
Want to see for yourself if dry brushing lives up to the hype?
Here are some of our favorite products for your dry brushing routine:

The Organic Pharmacy Skin Brush

This natural-bristle brush features a long handle for hard-to-reach places as well as a small elastic band to slip around your hand for close brushing. The bristles are firm, but can be gentle enough to use on sensitive skin.

Dry Body Brush Set

This set includes two boar-bristle brushes (one for each hand!) and a cute bag to store your dry brushes. Plus, by purchasing this set, you’re supporting a small, woman-owned business in addition to getting great skin. Win-win!

EcoTools Dry Body Brush

This synthetic brush by EcoTools is the perfect cruelty-free dry brush for vegans or anyone concerned about animal welfare. At a price point under $10, it’s also one of the most affordable dry brushes out there. While the lack of a handle will make it harder to reach your back, the circular shape makes it easy to swirl on your skin to promote lymphatic drainage.

The Skinsoother by DermaFrida

Okay, so this product is technically for babies, but it’s also the perfect alternative to a stiff brush if you have sensitive skin. The set comes with two brushes, so you can have one and baby can, too! Plus, it features a suction cup on the back, so your brush can hang out in one convenient place.

tulasāra Radiant Facial Dry Brush

This Aveda dry brush is specially made for the sensitive skin on your face. It features medium-firm nylon bristles, so your face won’t get irritated. Just as dry brushing can temporarily reduce the appearance of cellulite, it can also temporarily reduce the appearance of fine lines on the face.

Wholesome Beauty Dry Skin Body Brush

This natural-bristle dry brush scores extra points for its long detachable handle. It also comes with a convenient travel pouch and hook, so you can easily reach your dry brush during your morning routine.

Categories
Well-Traveled

The Best Honeymoon Destinations For Every Couple

The best thing about getting married, of course, is knowing that you get to spend the rest of your life with your person.
The second best part of getting married? Definitely the honeymoon. (Wink, wink.)
Couples tend to be a bit more adventurous these days when it comes to their honeymoon, opting for a honeymoon destination that really fits their personality and style as a couple rather than choosing a one-size-fits-all inclusive resort (not that those aren’t great).
Consider this honeymoon destination guide our wedding gift to you (because really, you aren’t going to use 12 fancy place settings). Whether you and your soon-to-be spouse are adventure seekers, foodies, or just want to relax with each other, we’ve got the best honeymoon destinations for you.

The Best Honeymoon Destinations If…You’re Looking for Adventure

Are you the adventurous couple whose first date included skydiving lessons? If you love to go off trail in exotic locations, these wild-child honeymoon destinations are meant for you.

    • Antarctica

      Believe it or not, a cruise to Antarctica is an amazing honeymoon destination. It’s remote, it’s quiet, and it offers plenty of reasons to snuggle up with your babe. But it does require more planning than your average trip to the Caribbean.
      For starters, there aren’t a lot of hotels on the remote continent. In fact, there aren’t any. So you’ll need to book your trip through an Antarctic travel company like Quark Expeditions. To go to Antarctica, you’ll need to take a cruise. Antarctic cruises take place from November to March, because those are summer months in the Southern Hemisphere. You’ll still need to pack super warm clothes, coats, and boots, though; summer temperatures in Antarctica are still well below freezing. Balmy!
      antarctica
      Once you’re in Antarctic waters, you can leave the ship and visit the actual continent. You can look forward to guided hikes, kayaking, and seeing penguins, seals, and pods of whales up close in a truly natural habitat.

Let anyone who goes to a cheesy couples-only resort try to top that.

  • Essaouira, Morocco

    Casablanca and Marrakesh are the top tourist spots in Morocco, but the resort town of Essaouira is a truly a hidden gem, which makes it the perfect honeymoon destination for adventure seekers. We’ve included Essaouira on our list of best honeymoon destinations for adventure because of how special the experience is.
    Essaouira (pronounced “Essa-wira”) is a bustling port city located on Morocco’s southern coast. It literally means “little picture” in Arabic. And with its pristine beaches, charming blue-and-white medina (the inner walled city that looks like Princess Jasmine should live there), and brightly colored boats bobbing in the harbor, it’s easy to see why. In Essaouira, you can spend days strolling through the souks and perusing the shops’ offerings, kite-surfing off the beach, and drinking traditional Moroccan sweet mint tea.
    essaouira morocco
    Just across the water is the uninhabited Mogador Island, where the ruins of an ancient mosque still stand. Because an endangered breed of eagle lives on the island, there aren’t regular tours, but you can still visit the island from November to March. You’ll just have to obtain a permit from the city and then head down to to the pier, where you can hire a local fisherman to ferry you across.
    We recommend splurging on a stay at the Atlas Essaouira and Spa, located right on the waterfront. You can stroll their private beach then indulge in a spa treatment to wind down from the adventures you two will get into.

  • Maasai Mara Reserve, Kenya

    The Maasai Mara Reserve in Kenya is the ultimate safari honeymoon destination for any couple who truly loves animals. The Serengeti is better known by Westerners, but the Maasai Mara Wildlife Reserve is widely considered the best place to see African wildlife in a natural habitat.
    Maasai Mara Reserve, Kenya
    If you have the time, most tour guides recommend taking at least two weeks to see and do everything at Maasai Mara, including a guided week-long expedition to nearby Mount Kilimanjaro. (If you can conquer Kilimanjaro, the troubles of marriage won’t have anything on you two.) Insiders also suggest scheduling your trip to the reserve between July and August, as more than a million wildebeest, zebras, and antelope migrate through the Maasai Mara Reserve.
    You’ll want to book your stay at one of the all-inclusive resorts around the perimeter of the reserve, like Richard Branson’s Mahali Mzuri, a luxury safari camp just outside of the reserve. There you can get to know the Maasai people, indulge in pan-African meals with locally sourced ingredients, and become closer than ever with your new spouse.

  • Budget Option: Tulum, Mexico

    Skip the spring breakers in Cabo and head to Tulum, a Caribbean city on Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula.
    There’s no shortage of places to stay in Tulum. Nueva Vida de Ramiro is one of the first eco-friendly hotels in Tulum. The hotel doesn’t skimp on luxury but still employs sustainable practices for the least amount of environmental impact.
    One of the best parts of Tulum is its central location to other incredible sites. If you rent a car, you can visit Punta Laguna Spider Monkey Preserve, about 40 miles outside of Tulum, to see more than 800 spider monkeys in their natural habitat. There are also the ruins at Cobá, which contain one of the last Mayan pyramids that tourists can still climb.
    tulum mexico
    Adventure seekers will also love rappelling down into one of the Yucatán’s many cenotes (underground pools of water formed by the collapse of limestone bedrock). It is thought that Mayans communicated with their gods in cenotes, as several skulls (believed to be sacrifices) have been found in some of the underground pools.
    Our favorite part of Tulum is the beach road. The businesses on this road are about 15 minutes south of the famous Tulum ruins, and you can spend days wandering in and out of the restaurants, shops, and bars that are located on each side of the road: right on the waterfront or ensconced in the jungle. Grab a drink and stroll the (free!) public beach as you lovebirds decide what to do that day—if anything at all.

    The Best Honeymoon Destinations If…You Want to Get Your Sweat On

    What’s the saying? The couple who sweats together stays together? Maybe not, but either way, for the newlyweds who are all about working out, you won’t want to miss these fitness-inspired honeymoon destinations.

  • Costa Rica

    Costa Rica may be known for its lush jungles and brilliant blue waters, but it’s also a fitness enthusiast’s dream honeymoon destination.
    For the couple who likes a challenge, climbing Costa Rica’s highest peak, Cerro Chirripó, is a must. The hike covers over 10,000 feet in elevation, but you’ll be rewarded at the top, where you can see both the Pacific and the Caribbean at the same time. To say it’s a good spot for a newlywed photo op is an understatement.
    costa rica
    When planning your trip, take into account that most hikers split the trek over two days, spending the night in one of several mountain huts along the trail, as tents are not allowed. (You’ll also need to make a reservation with the park before you hike. The reservation process can be a little tricky, but this website does a good job of explaining how to get your pass.)
    After an overnight camping trip, book the rest of your honeymoon accommodations at the glamorous Hacienda AltaGracia, a luxury resort that boasts private mountain biking and hiking trails, daily fitness classes, and a full-service spa.

  • Iceland

    Iceland is a popular honeymoon travel destination right now, thanks to lower airfares from a handful of major U.S. cities. For active honeymooners, Iceland is a hiker’s paradise.
    Travel junkie Maria Pimienta says, “If you do one thing in Iceland, Skógafoss Falls is a must-see.” Skógafoss Falls is a dramatic waterfall nearly 200 feet high, where you can see vivid rainbows on sunny days. The falls, which are about as tall as Disney World’s Cinderella castle, are easily accessible and are also located at the trailhead of the popular Fimmvörðuháls day hike.
    iceland
    The Fimm hike, as it’s colloquially known, features countless scenic overlooks as you trek through two glaciers and an inactive volcano. Be prepared: The hike can be done in one day, but to really take in the scenery, most travel guides recommend making it a two-day trip, with an overnight stay at the mountain hut located halfway through the hike. Cuddle up with your sweetie and enjoy the remote landscape at night—fingers crossed that you’ll get to see see the Northern Lights.
    For adventurous accommodations, Pimienta suggests staying near Mount Hekla, an active volcano that erupted four times in the 20th century. Despite being located in an active volcano chain (or maybe because of it!), the Hotel Leirubakki is highly rated on TripAdvisor for its clean rooms, Hekla information center, and beautiful scenery.

  • Kitzbühel, Austria

    If the only thing you know about Austria is that the hills are alive, you need to visit Kitzbühel, an under-the-radar honeymoon destination in Europe’s Swiss Alps. The resort town of Kitzbühel is located about four hours west of Vienna, and with its numerous ski slopes and chalets, it’s the perfect honeymoon destination for the couple who loves to play in the snow.
    Joshua Willis, who honeymooned in Austria in 2017, recommends first flying into Vienna and splurging on a meal at Silvio Nickol at Palais Coburg. “We had dinner [at Silvio Nickol] and it was insane,” Willis tells us. “It is a two-star Michelin restaurant and probably the best dining experience I’ve ever had.”
    Kitzbühel, Austria
    Once you’ve treated yourself to a honeymoon-worthy gourmet meal, book a train to Kitzbühel. Once there, consider staying at the Hotel Schloss Lebenberg, a renovated 400-year-old chalet perched just above the city, where the rooms are as dreamy as the views.
    The hotel also has a full-service spa that will be perfect after days spent tackling the Streif, one of the most famous ski runs in the world.

  • Budget Option: Rocky Mountain National Park

    If you want honeymoon adventure but can’t quite afford the airfare to Europe, look no further than Rocky Mountain National Park in Colorado.
    rocky mountain national park
    Summer is the best time to visit the park, but it’s also the busiest season, which will require a bit of planning. You could stay in a hotel outside the park, but to get the most out of this honeymoon destination, consider packing a sleeping bag and camping at one of the five campgrounds in the park.
    From your campsite, you can access over 300 miles of hiking trails. You won’t want to miss the panoramic view from Flattop Mountain or the stunning vistas from Baker Pass.
    The eastern base camp for the park is the town of Estes Park. Twin Owls Steakhouse has vegetarian and gluten-free options, while Seasoned offers both of those options plus some vegan menu items. In Estes Park, you can also tour the Stanley Hotel, which inspired Stephen King’s novel The Shining. If you see a ghost, take the opportunity to cuddle up!

The Best Honeymoon Destinations If…You’re Looking for Foodie Paradise

If your first date was at an exclusive pop-up from a James Beard Award–winning chef or your idea of a casual Friday night at home is taking a crack at a seven-course dinner for the two of you, you just might be foodies. These are our top honeymoon destinations for the couple who wants to experience gastronomic excellence.

  • Bordeaux, France

    The Bordeaux region of France is best known for its wine, and to add to that, the city has recently emerged as one of the top foodie hotspots in the world.
    “I highly suggest one of the guided wine tours,” says Morgan Anthony, who recently visited Bordeaux on a romantic getaway with her husband. “In order to get to the wineries in Bordeaux, you either have to rent a car, which can be hard if you don’t speak French, or book one of these tours and let them do the work for you!”
    Bordeaux, France
    Anthony recommends booking a private tour with Bordovino, which offers a variety of wine-tasting tours throughout the Bordeaux region. That said, if you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, renting a car and exploring the French countryside is an experience that can’t be replicated.
    “One restaurant in Bordeaux you don’t want to miss is Ô p’tit Bahut,” says Anthony. The bulk of Ô p’tit Bahut’s website is only en francais, but it’s fairly easy to navigate. The restaurant, which loosely translates to “the little buffet,” serves excellent charcuterie and fromage. It’s a perfect lunch stop after a day of touring wine country, but Anthony says reservations are a must, so be sure to call ahead.
    For dinner, you’ll want to try the Restaurant du Loup, which Anthony describes as classy but also cozy and casual. They’re known for their foie gras, but if goose liver isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other delicious menu selections.

  • Tokyo, Japan

    There’s nothing like a culture shock to bring two people together. Although Tokyo is easily one of the most advanced (and astonishingly clean) cities in the world, and Japanese people are incredibly welcoming, it’ll still take teamwork from the both of you to figure out where you’re going—and what to order.
    For a unique gastronomic experience, food writer and photographer Spencer Pernikoff recommends Tora-fugu Tei, which serves only fugu (pufferfish): “You can’t get it like this anywhere else in the world. They show you the live fish, then come down with it broken down, then they do like a five- to 10-course menu using the fish … All of it. Ovaries. Fins. Everything.”
    Tokyo, Japan
    When in Japan, do as the Japanese do: Eat sushi. As Pernikoff notes, “the quality of sushi basically all over the damn country is amazing,” so you really can’t go wrong anywhere.
    Specifically, he recommends Tonkatsu Yachiyo. He says, “It may seem weird to recommend a [sushi] place [that specializes in] fried pork cutlet, but it’s just amazing.” The restaurant is in Tsukiji Fish Market, and Pernikoff tells HealthyWay, “I figure foodie tourists are already going to [the market] anyway, ’cause it’s f***ing bonkers.” That’s a recommendation we’ll gladly take.
    Because of its lively nightlife and entertainment, Roppongi is a great base of operations while you’re in Tokyo. Stay at the ANA InterContinental hotel, and dine at Chef Pierre Gagnaire’s eponymous restaurant, which has had two Michelin stars since 2010.
    But there’s more to this honeymoon destination than food. No Tokyo honeymoon would be complete without participating in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, like this private ceremony in a traditional Japanese garden. You may not think of a tea ceremony as necessarily being romantic, but the quiet beauty of it will have you and your new spouse in reverent mood, perfect for reflecting on your future together.

  • Mendoza, Argentina

    Like Bordeaux in France, Mendoza is mostly wine country, known for producing Malbec wines. You’ll definitely want to take advantage of the many vineyards in the region, like Casa El Enemigo, the top-rated Mendoza vineyard on TripAdvisor. Pick out a bottle of wine together to take home and save as a special treat for your first anniversary.
    Mendoza, Argentina
    After a day of wine tasting, make like the locals and siesta for the afternoon (the perfect opportunity for some afternoon delight). Since most restaurants in Argentina don’t open for dinner until after 8 p.m., head to Silla 14 for coffee, pastries, and light sandwiches to tide you over until a late evening meal.
    For dinner, 1884, the restaurant of world-renowned Chef Francis Mallmann, is a must-do for any foodie couple traveling in Mendoza. The winery, which houses the restaurant, was built in 1884 and turned into a restaurant in 1996. The restaurant’s menu pays tribute to Argentinian culture, featuring South American items like spider crab and pacu.
    Instead of having dessert at the restaurant, head straight back to your hotel room (which is where we recommend most newlyweds spend at least 75 percent of the honeymoon anyway). On the way, pick up a few postre vigilante, a light Argentinian dessert made of cheese and quince paste that pairs perfectly with a sparkling wine like Siete Fincas Dulce Torrontes. Trust us, you’ll be glad you brought a snack back!

  • Budget Option: Thailand

    Did you know that many Thai spices are said to be sensual aphrodisiacs? It’s true, which is just one reason we’re naming Thailand one of the best honeymoon destinations—in Asia or anywhere else.
    thailand
    Make sure to get in the honeymoon mood (as if you need any help!) by having a delicious green curry meal, which is packed with ingredients such as lemongrass, cardamom, basil, ginger, and asparagus, which are traditionally said to be aphrodisiacs.
    If you only have a short amount of time in Thailand, skip Bangkok and head for the northern city of Chiang Mai to check out the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar, where street vendors sell everything from televisions to sizzling barbeque along a kilometer-long stretch of Chang Khlan Road. At the night bazaar, you’ll get an authentic Thai street food experience with a variety of local dishes like sai ua (spicy lemongrass sausages).
    In Thailand, the farther north you go, the spicier the food becomes. Make sure to visit the hidden local gem Khao Soi Mae Sai for the best khao soi (a spicy curried noodle dish) in Thailand. The restaurant doesn’t have a website, but it’s located at Ratchaphruek Alley. Make sure to get there early, as the restaurant usually sells out of khao soi fast.

The Best Honeymoon Destinations If…You Want One-on-One Romance

Are you a traditionalist who prefers Romance (with a capital R) when it comes to your honeymoon destination? Well, scratch Paris from your short list, because we’ve chosen four of the most romantic honeymoon destinations sure to put you and your forever-boo in the mood for some serious lovin’.

  • Tofino, Vancouver

    If you thought the most romantic thing to do in Vancouver was a Twilight location tour, then you need to visit Tofino, a perfect honeymoon destination on Vancouver Island.
    Instead of booking your stay at one of the several resorts near Tofino, consider renting a private vacation home, like this one, through Airbnb. Home rental rates are often less expensive than hotels, meaning you can splurge on honeymoon fun, like hiring a private chef for a romantic meal. Plus, you won’t have to worry about the nosy couple in the next room when you’re trying to set the honeymoon mood.  
    Tofino, Vancouver
    For a relaxing, romantic day trip, head to Hot Springs Cove in Maquinna Provincial Park, which is accessible only by plane or boat. Once there, you’ll take a scenic walk (a little over a mile) to the springs, where you can take your pick from seven hot spring pools.
    Because it’s a bit of a trek, you should plan to spend most of the day at the springs, so pack a romantic picnic lunch and dry clothes for the return trip.  

  • Florence, Italy

    Like Dean Martin sang, “When the moon hits your eye/Like a big pizza pie/That’s amore!”
    Find your own amore in Florence, one of the best honeymoon destinations in Europe.
    Florence, Italy
    Start your trip by staying at the four-star Torre di Bellosguardo, a luxury hotel with incredible views from high above the city. The hotel even has its own small garden and offers guests the chance to take authentic Italian cooking lessons with the lady of the house, Ana Franchetti, using vegetables sourced from the hotel garden.
    If you can bring yourself to leave your bed (and the hotel grounds), take advantage of Florence’s rich Renaissance art history by visiting the famed Uffizi Gallery. (Be aware though: Art at the gallery is so beautiful, it’s been known to overwhelm those who view it in a bizarre condition called Stendhal syndrome.)
    Don’t forget to visit Boboli Gardens, a centuries-old open-air museum with sculptures, fountains, and plenty of hidden spots where your honey can steal a kiss.
    Mostly, just enjoy your time in Florence. Wander the ancient streets hand-in-hand. Stop (often) for a caffè e gelato. The romance of slowly exploring Firenze cannot be overstated.

  • Big Sur, California

    With its sweeping views and and majestic mountains, Big Sur, California, is easily one of the most romantic honeymoon destinations in America.
    “Start your trip with a drive up the rugged coast on historic Highway 1,” says Jennifer Sparks, who recently visited Big Sur. Because of the mist that’s typical along the coastal highway, Sparks says to be patient at overlooks. “There were moments when you couldn’t see your hand in front of your face [for the mist and fog], but if you waited 15 minutes, the view was completely clear.”
    Big Sur, California
    After a romantic drive up the coast, head into Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park where, Sparks gushes, “When you arrive into the park, you immediately begin to see the huge sequoias. The views are amazing!”
    For a little late-night fun, visit the hot springs at Esalen. They will open the springs between 1 a.m. and 3 a.m. nightly to just 20 guests. Enjoy the view of every little star in the night sky in the clothing-optional pools; it’s an experience you and your love will never forget.
    For the ultimate in honeymoon romance, stay at the rustic-glam Post Ranch Inn, with stunning clifftop views and romantic honeymoon packages. Not feeling the $1,000-per-night price tag? (Shocking!) You might opt to stay at a more affordable bed and breakfast, like Big Sur River Inn, instead.

  • Budget Option: Croatia

    Eastern Europe may not seem like a honeymoon hotspot, but Croatia is quickly becoming one of the best honeymoon destinations in Europe for newlyweds on a budget.
    Elizabeth White, who recently honeymooned with her husband, Matt, in the walled city of Dubrovnik on Croatia’s coast, tells HealthyWay, “Try to find an Airbnb or hotel inside the city walls of Dubrovnik. We were there in the summer, and during the day the city was very crowded with tourists from cruise ships that dock for day trips.”
    But, says White, “When the sun goes down, and all of those crowds leave, the city is a completely different place. All of the restaurants set up tables in the streets, there are musicians everywhere, children playing, and awesome cliffside bars lit by candlelight.”
    croatia
    White says one of her new hubby’s favorite things was walking the city walls. “Just make sure to do it [walk the walls] early in the morning or late in the afternoon, because they get really crowded,” White notes. “My husband loved this activity because we got to visit some of the filming locations of Game of Thrones.”
    May a honeymoon in Croatia be the start of a marriage that’s better than, well, every single one on Game of Thrones.

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Categories
Conscious Beauty Lifestyle

Tea Tree Oil Uses That Can Change Your Skin (And Life)

We’re stepping into spring (thank goodness!) but for most of us, windy days and dry air aren’t completely over. This weather is great for mid-afternoon naps, but these wintry days can wreak havoc on our skin, hair, and nails, making us look more like White Walkers than the Mother of Dragons.   
But what if there was an all-natural product that could could give you a Westerosi glow without having to spend hours in a spray-tan booth or makeup chair?
Sound too good to be true? Well, hold on to your strobing brushes, because there may be such a product. What’s more, it’s fairly inexpensive and can be found in most health food stores.
Intrigued? Try tea tree oil. The number of uses for tea tree oil will quickly make it a mainstay of your winter beauty routine.

Tea tree oil comes from Mela-what?

The name “tea tree” can actually refer to a whole group of common shrubs and flowering trees in the Melaleuca and Leptospermum families. Tea tree oil as most of us know it refers to an essential oil derived from Melaleuca alternifolia, an Australian tree in the myrtle family.
According to the Australian Tea Tree Oil Industry Association, Melaleuca was used medicinally for centuries by the indigenous Bundjalung people. British explorer James Cook observed the Bundjalung drinking a tea made from the leaves of a Melaleuca tree and so named the plant “tea tree.” (Creative, huh?)
Tea tree oil has consistently been a vital part of Australia’s economy. Fortunately, these days you don’t have to travel to Australia to purchase tea tree oil (though we’d appreciate the excuse). Essential oils are undoubtedly having a moment, and you can now find popular oils like tea tree, peppermint, and lemon in most grocery stores and pharmacies.

Tea Tree Oil You Can Trust

Before you buy any essential oil, though, make sure you follow a few guidelines to ensure you’re getting the best quality product.
While you may be tempted by inexpensive prices, it’s best to avoid cheap essential oils. These cheaper oils may be diluted with water or contain other additives, dimishing their therapeutic qualities. Even though you may have to spend a few dollars more, it’s worth it to purchase a higher quality oil, because you’ll only need a drop or two for maximum efficacy.
In addition, beware of sneaky advertising. If you see labels on tea tree oil like “therapeutic grade” or “all natural,” don’t be fooled. The product may indeed be all natural, but the essential oil industry is not closely regulated, so companies can set their own product standards (which may be less than stellar).
Rebekah Epling, a West Virginia–based herbalist who makes her own skincare products, says her go-to brand of tea tree oil comes from Mountain Rose Herbs, an Oregon-based company committed to sustainably sourced products.

Using Tea Tree Oil: Safety First!

So, you’re likely wondering, how can I use this incredible oil? Glad you asked!
“Tea tree oil has antibacterial and antifungal qualities, primarily from a type of oil it contains called terpene,” Epling tells HealthyWay.
Terpene oils are both aromatic and extremely volatile, which is why tea tree oil in particular should never be ingested or applied to the skin undiluted under any circumstances.
“Tea tree oil is most commonly used in aromatherapy, for household cleaning, and topically for issues such as acne, athlete’s foot, fungal infections of the nails, dandruff, dry scalp, and bug bites,” Epling explains.
Although tea tree oil does have antibacterial and antifungal properties, it’s not a cure-all for every skin condition.
Tea tree oil is a popular homeopathic remedy for skin problems like eczema and psoriasis, according to Tara Nayak, a naturopathic doctor based in Philadelphia, but it isn’t the best treatment option if you’re looking for a natural alternative to prescription treatment of these conditions.
“I don’t typically recommend tea tree oil for eczema or psoriasis,” says Nayak. “In fact, rather than give something that kills bacteria in these cases, I tend to prescribe a probiotic instead to add beneficial bacteria to the skin.”
If you do use tea tree oil for certain skin conditions, Nayak says, “Using a probiotic skin spray can also be beneficial after using tea tree to kill off bacterial or fungal skin issues, as it replenishes the healthy bacterial environment on the skin.”
If you have eczema or psoriasis, check with your doctor before treating your skin with any homeopathic or natural remedy.

Dilute, Dilute, Dilute

Despite its name, tea tree oil is actually toxic if ingested, so it should only be applied topically. According to the Toxicology Data Network, if swallowed, tea tree oil can cause drowsiness, disorientation, and loss of muscle control. Yikes.
If you use tea tree oil (or other essential oils at home), make sure that they’re kept on a high shelf or in a locked cabinet away from small children, who are most at risk for poisoning.
You should always dilute tea tree oil before topical use. That’s because essential oils (tea tree oil included) are highly concentrated, so their effects are exceptionally potent. If you don’t dilute tea tree oil first, you could experience skin irritation or even an allergic reaction.
Fortunately, diluting tea tree oil is easy, says Epling: “Simply blend a few drops with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil or jojoba oil or even water.”

Tea Tree Oil Uses

Now that we know what it is and how to use it safely, let’s get down to how to work tea tree oil into your routine. Whether you’re looking for at-home cures or beauty tips, these six uses for tea tree oil will make you an essential oil convert.

  1. 1. So Fresh and So Clean

    Depending on how you use it, tea tree oil can be harsh on the skin. If your tea tree oil mixture is too strong, says Nayak, “it can kill off not only the bad but also the beneficial bacteria” that your skin needs.
    This can lead to dry, flaky skin and a higher sensitivity to ultraviolet (UV) rays.
    The more diluted tea tree oil is, the less harsh it will be on your skin, but no worries: You’ll still reap the antiseptic benefits.
    Nayak suggests consulting with a dermatologist before you incorporate tea tree oil in your skincare routine. If they give the all clear, it should be fine to use tea tree oil as a part of your beauty arsenal.
    “Tea tree oil does make a great facial cleanser,” says Epling, who makes her own face wash. “To make your own tea tree oil face wash, combine 1 tablespoon of activated charcoal, ½ cup of aloe vera extract gel (the clear kind you can purchase at any drugstore), ⅓ cup raw honey, and 2 tablespoons of either jojoba or sweet almond oil. Mix together and store in an airtight container such as soap dispenser.”
    This homemade face wash should be fine for daily use, but if you notice any skin irritation, scale back use to every other day or every couple of days.

  2. 2. Get Glowing Skin with Tea Tree Oil

    Thought you left blotchy skin behind in your teens only to have it resurface in your thirties? You’re not alone, girl. Worry not! You can get rid of bumps and clogged pores by making your own detoxifying tea tree oil face mask.
    To make the mask, “mix about 3 tablespoons of a cosmetic grade clay such as bentonite, french green, or white kaolin clay, 3½ tablespoons of activated charcoal ([which] can be found at health food stores or online), about 5 drops of tea tree oil, and enough water to make a medium-thick paste,” says Epling.
    Leave the mask on your the skin for about 15 minutes and then rinse with lukewarm water. Although tea tree oil is soothing, Epling warns that your face may be red after you remove the mask because clay draws impurities to the surface of the skin. Make sure to treat your skin to a sweet moisturizer to calm any irritation you might feel after.

  3. 3. Zap Zits

    According to a 1990 study conducted by the department of dermatology at the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital in New South Wales, Australia, tea tree oil was found to be just as effective as benzoyl peroxide at treating mild to moderate acne. The study found that although a 5 percent tea tree oil gel treatment did take a little longer to work than a 5 percent benzoyl gel, fewer overall side effects were seen in patients who used tea tree oil.
    To use tea tree oil as an acne spot treatment, dilute a couple of drops of tea tree oil with about 30 drops of witch hazel and swab on pimples with a cotton ball. Only dab the mixture on once per day. It’s tempting to try to clear zits fast, but overuse of tea tree oil can dry out your skin, ultimately causing more zits to pop up as your body produces more oils to combat dry skin.

  4. 4. Tea Tree Oil Cleans Your Tools

    If you wear makeup, your brushes might be the culprit for any small breakouts you’ve experienced, especially if you don’t clean them regularly. Get bacteria and old makeup off your tools by cleaning your brushes regularly. Lucky for you, you don’t need to invest in a fancy brush-cleaning solution.
    To clean your makeup brushes, mix a few drops of tea tree oil, about a cup of hot water, and a drop of dish soap together. Swirl your brushes in the mixture, then gently rub the brush on a clean cloth. Repeat this process until your brush rubs clean against the cloth. To keep skin healthy, clean your brushes at least once a week.

    5. Fight Flakes with Tea Tree Oil

    No, not your flaky ex, which tea tree oil unfortunately can’t cure.
    We’re talking about dandruff.
    Dandruff has a variety of causes, including dry or oily skin (seriously), not shampooing often enough, or even fungal infections. A doctor can tell you what’s causing your dandruff, but if your pesky white flakes are being caused by a fungus, tea tree oil’s antiseptic properties make it ideal for fighting fungal dandruff.
    “You can replace dandruff shampoo, which typically contains many harsh chemicals, by adding it to a homemade shampoo recipe of your choosing or adding several drops to a gentle or natural shampoo,” says Epling.

  5. 6. The Fungus Among Us

    “Tea tree oil is also an anti-inflammatory, so it calms down the irritated immune response to something like a foot fungus and takes down potential swelling,” Nayak says. “In using tea tree oil for fungal infections you can either make a powder with dried ground tea tree leaves (i.e., a foot powder) or put a few drops in water as a foot soak or oil as a liniment.”
    In addition to treating fungal foot infections, tea tree oil can be used to treat fungal nail infections. To treat a nail fungus with tea tree oil, mix a couple of drops of tea tree oil with the carrier oil of your choice in a dropper bottle (which makes the solution easier to apply to your nails). Place a drop at the cuticle and rub into your nail daily.
    But Nayak cautions that you should always visit a doctor if you think you have a fungal infection of any kind before self-treating with tea tree oil.
    “It’s of course important to rule out more serious issues when dealing with a suspected fungal skin infection. In immunocompromised patients—such as the very young or the elderly—a fungal skin infection has a higher risk of spreading and becoming systemic, which is a much more serious issue, requiring aggressive treatment.”

Categories
Fresh Fashion Lifestyle

Reduce, Reuse, Resell: How To Cash In On The Online Resale Site Revolution

Online resale sites have skyrocketed in popularity in the last few years and it’s easy to see why.
Sellers get to offload their scarcely worn clothing, make room in their closets for the items they truly want, and get a little cash while they’re at it. Trendy minimalist movement? Making intentional wardrobe choices? Working that side hustle? Check, check, and check.
For the shoppers among us, consignment shopping is a huge bonus for closets (and consciences). As the memes say, there’s no ethical consumption under late-stage capitalism. Plus when you’re on a budget, trying to shop for clothing that won’t fall apart after three washes can feel impossible. When you thrift, though, you’re not (directly) contributing money to a potentially shady clothing corporation and you’ve got the opportunity to get on-trend pieces on the cheap.
The new age of thrifting is taking place online, on apps that serve as part personal resale shops (where members can sell and buy new and gently used clothing and accessories) and part community platforms (where members can haggle over price points, make trades, and show off their wares). Like brick-and-mortar consignment stores, each site takes a small percentage of each sale, but unlike typical consignment, sellers are typically empowered to upload their own photos and set prices for items.
Put away your sensible shopping shoes, friends. Now is the time to join the online resale revolution.

What’s in it for me?

I’m so glad you asked, ma petite chou.
As noted, using an online resale app is an easy way to free up closet space.
But did you know that the average person throws out 81 pounds of textiles, including clothing and accessories each year? That’s roughly 26 billion pounds of clothing that ends up in landfills annually. Yikes.
Using online resale sites helps keep textiles out of the trash, which is much better for the environment. After all, that vintage jean jacket you’re throwing out could be another woman’s gently used treasure.
Plus, did we mention online resale sites are a great way to earn extra income? According to thredUP’s 2017 Fashion Resale and Trend Report, the online resale industry generated $18 billion this year! That’s a lot of sweet moolah that could be in your pocket.

So which online resale site should I use?

Online resale sites have popped up like crazy in recent years, and it can be hard to figure out which site you should use to sell your goods. The good news: We did the research so you don’t have to!  

Poshmark

Pros: Easy to list and ship items

Cons: High volume of goods means your items may not sell quickly

Poshmark is the OG online resale site. Using the app is super fast; after downloading and creating your profile, most items can be listed on the site in about a minute. Poshmark users who follow the brands you’re selling can shop your closet and purchase items. Once an item is selected, Poshmark sends you a shipping label, and all you have to do is drop the item at your local post office.

thredUP

Pros: Hassle-free way to get rid of your stuff

Cons: Depending on the brand, you may not get top dollar for your items.

Unlike Poshmark, thredUP doesn’t allow users to sell their goods directly on the website. Instead, thredUp will send you a bag and a preprinted shipping label. They set the prices for you, so while you won’t have the hassle of going back and forth with someone who wants to pay you $5 for a pair of Lulu yoga leggings that didn’t quite fit, you also won’t be able to pass on those offers you find downright offensive. You’ll ship the items you want to consign to thredUp, and once they receive them, they’ll send you money for your stuff. Pro tip: Use thredUp’s payout estimator to tally up your potential earnings before you ship items in.

TheRealReal

Pros: Selective about the items they accept, so you’re guaranteed to purchase a legitimate designer item in like-new condition

Cons: Selective about the items they accept, meaning your items may not make the consignment cut

TheRealReal is a luxury resale site, meaning it’s a bit more selective in the goods it will accept. It’s the perfect place to sell expensive, out-of-season handbags, or that designer dress you only wore once. If you live in one of 21 cities, you can drop your items off in-person or you can just request a consignment kit online. If TheRealReal accepts your items, you’ll receive up to 70 percent of the retail sales price.

What should I be selling in 2018?

Poshmark did their sellers a solid and released a report sharing the best-selling items across the United States. However, the best-selling brands differ based on where you live. In the South, the most-listed brands are Kate Spade and Lilly Pulitzer; try to sell those in the Northeast, though, where Zara and Michael Kors are popular, and you might be out of luck.
This year, Poshmark says that the hottest brands with the best resale value include Hunter, Ray-Ban, and David Yurman. These must-have brands will probably go quickly, but how do you know if your other stuff is worth trying to sell?
thredUp and TheRealReal only take clothing that is less than 10 years old and in gently used, but preferably like-new condition, so if you have those items, try using an online resale site to list them.

When re-selling just isn’t for you…

If your items aren’t selling—or you just don’t feel ready to give online resale a go—don’t throw them out. There’s still an option! Before you toss older clothes, consider donating them instead. Even if they’re too worn out to actually clothe a person, recycling is still the best choice you can make. According to the Secondary Marketing and Recycled Textiles Association, “The used clothing industry provides lower income people around the world with affordable clothing. Clothing that is damaged is recycled into wiping rags or ground up into fiber to create new products like, paper, yarn, insulation and carpet padding.” Check out their tips on where to recycle textiles here.
Turns out whether you end up selling your long-loved (but still gorgeous) clothing online or donating your shabbier pieces for a good cause, it’s a win either way!
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Categories
No Gym Required Sweat

Rainy Day Fitspiration: Indoor Workouts That Ensure You’ll Feel The Burn Despite The Downpour

Spring is here! The days are slowly getting warmer, which means I can finally exercise outside again.
Jk.
I live in Florida. Despite being nicknamed the Sunshine State, Florida experiences daily downpours during spring and summer that have a serious knack for starting just as I’m lacing up my sneakers for an outdoor run.
Rainy days can be a bummer when you’re trying to work on your fitness, but you don’t have to cancel your workout just because it’s wet out. Before you skip your workout to watch Golden Girls reruns, try one of these indoor workouts, perfect for building up a sweat on rainy days.

Aquatic Fitness Classes

Aquatic fitness classes are so much more than water aerobics (although those are great too).
Aquatic fitness classes like water jogging are awesome rainy day exercises because they combine cardio and light strength training. Plus, just because you’re not dripping with sweat doesn’t mean you’re not feeling the burn.
According to an article in the Daily Mail, it’s estimated that water jogging can burn up to 11 calories a minute compared to regular jogging, which is less fun and only burns six calories a minute. That’s because working out in water is deceptively easy. The water provides resistance, forcing your body to work harder—building muscle and burning calories at the same time.
Plus, many aquatic fitness classes are offered at local YMCAs and aquatic centers, which usually offer childcare for busy moms.

Pole Dancing Classes

Before you say, “But I could never do that!” hear me out.
Pole dancing is a great rainy day workout!
Why?
Well, for starters, pole dancing fitness classes are inside. Plus, you get to wear high heels and fishnets to work out, a la Mariah Carey!
Pole dancing fitness classes can also burn major calories (up to 500 an hour!) and in addition to getting your heart rate up, pole classes are great for strength training. You’ll use your own body weight to help you achieve those crazy twists and leave feeling spent and sexy, regardless of what the weather has in store.

Dance it out.

If you don’t have childcare, or just don’t like going out in the rain, you can still get a major cardio workout right in the living room with the help of the Fitness Marshall.
Never heard of the Fitness Marshall?
Allow me to introduce you.
Caleb Marshall, otherwise known as the Fitness Marshall, burst onto the fitness scene in 2014 with his high-energy dance choreography YouTube videos.
My personal favorite is his Usher choreography, which automatically takes me back to my glory days as a college freshman.

You can still find all of his dance videos on YouTube, or check his tour schedule to dance with the Fitness Marshall in person (which I highly recommend).

Set on working out in the rain? Practice these safety tips:

If you don’t mind getting a little wet, exercising outdoors on rainy days is totally fine—as long as you do it safely.
For starters, make sure you wear reflective gear, like this reflective water repellent softshell from illumiNITE.
Excess water can cause your shoes to loosen up, increasing your risk of slipping. If you’re exercising outside on a rainy day, make sure your shoes are laced up the right way before heading out of the house.
Finally, never run during a thunderstorm. According to Virginia Tech Emergency Management, if you can even hear thunder, you’re at risk of lightening striking in your area. Stay indoors until at least a half hour after the last thunderclap before venturing outside to exercise.
If you are exercising outdoors and get caught in a thunderstorm, find shelter as quickly as possible. If you’re unable to find shelter during a thunderstorm, you can still take safety precautions. To stay safe during a storm, find the lowest geographical area away from light poles and tall trees, and stay as low to the ground as you can without lying down until the storm passes.

Categories
More Than Mom Motherhood

The 5-Minute Postpartum Skincare Routine All New Moms Need

Bye, bye, pregnancy glow. I hardly knew you.
There are so many things no one tells you about how your postpartum body will look and feel. Even after you’ve lost the pregnancy weight, your midsection will probably look like a blob of dough. Your hair will likely fall out by the handfuls in the shower, even though you’ve been promised by your doctor and hair stylist this is only temporary (it is). But worst of all, no one told you about the resurgence of teenage acne. No one warned you about having skin that is somehow both dry and oily at the same time. And what about all the other skin issues that rear their ugly heads post-pregnancy?
If all this has got you feeling more like a zombie extra on The Walking Dead and less like your usual gorgeous self, we’ve got you covered. You may not think you have a moment to spare for yourself, but this five-minute postpartum skincare routine is so easy you can squeeze it in between a feeding session and tummy time without missing one minute with your sweet (but exhausting) munchkin.

Back to Basics

Fayne Frey, MD and creator of the educational skincare site FryFace, explains why it’s so important we pay attention to our skin: “The skin is an organ. It protects the body from outside elements like bacteria, fungus, allergens, and the damaging effects of ultraviolet light.”
Even if you aren’t wearing makeup as you’re holed up in your house with a newborn, you still need to give your face some love.
So how should you care for your skin? Frey advises getting back to basics with a simple three-step routine.
[sol title=”Act like you’re in a Neutrogena commercial.” subheader=”Lights, camera, glowing skin!”]
Okay, so I did actually try this once and made a horrible mess everywhere. But you should start your new routine by washing your face with a gentle cleanser to get rid of the baby food, makeup, and other residue that has accumulated since your last shower—whenever that was.
I don’t know how it’s possible, but I have skin that’s both oily and dry, which is almost impossible to deal with. My favorite cleanser is Clinique’s Take The Day Off, which is a balm gentle enough for all skin types. You can rub it on dry skin for a minute or two and wipe it off with a wet washcloth.


[sol title=”Stay hydrated.” subheader=”Trade the baby bottle for a water bottle (and gel hydration).”]
To maintain healthy skin, it’s important to stay hydrated. This means drinking lots of water during the day and hydrating your skin with a good moisturizer. Frey says, “When the skin is hydrated it functions optimally. Skin is always losing water into the environment, and studies show that it does so even more during pregnancy and shortly thereafter.”
No matter your skin type, you still need to use a moisturizer after every cleansing sesh (ideally twice a day) to keep your skin balanced.
This non-oily gel cream from Laneige is great for oily, combination, and normal skin that needs hydration. On the other hand, if your postpartum skin is feeling tight and dry, try out Peter Thomas Roth’s Water Drench cream, which contains hyaluronic acid for optimum skin hydration.


[sol title=”Protect your skin.” subheader=”SPF isn’t just for baby.”]
“Ultraviolet light is the single most damaging influence on our skin, before and after childbirth,” says Frey. It’s important to finish up your skincare routine by applying sunblock liberally, even if you’re only outside for a few minutes each day. Adding sunscreen to your everyday skincare routine will ensure that you wear it daily, not just when you’re headed to the beach.
Sunscreens can be notoriously pore-clogging, though, so make sure you choose a sunscreen that is specially formulated for the sensitive skin on your face and neck. I like the Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen. The formula feels weightless and at SPF 40 with broad-spectrum protection, using it every morning sets my mind at ease. (FYI: Chemical sunscreens like this one should be applied before your moisturizer!)

Bonus Step: Throw in a little extra.

While your five-minute skincare routine is complete once you’ve cleansed, moisturized, and applied sunblock, if you have a few extra minutes (it’ll happen one day, we promise!), consider applying a hydrating face mask once a week.
I like to apply mine after baby goes down for a morning nap, while I’m still in my robe and slippers. I pop on a mask for 20 minutes, heat up my cold coffee, and turn on my favorite podcast.
It’s as close to a spa day as I’ll get anytime soon, but you know what? Knowing I’m intentionally creating time for myself is just as refreshing.

 [related article_ids=3076,16199]

Categories
Happy Home Lifestyle

DIY Your Own Small-Space Succulent Garden

I love having plants around the house. I wept tears of joy when my cactus, which I had nursed back to health after purchasing it from the grocery store clearance bin for a dollar, bloomed this year.
My husband, who has vigilantly watched me for signs of postpartum depression, thought I needed to call my doctor ASAP when he found me shedding tears over a houseplant.
While postpartum hormones probably did contribute to the crying, I was just so overjoyed to see my little plant thriving.
Usually I bring home houseplants only to find them brown and droopy a week later despite my best efforts. But this time, my little cactus that could beat the odds!
That’s what so great about succulents. Even if you’ve killed every houseplant you’ve ever had, odds are you can keep a succulent alive because they thrive with minimal care.
What’s more—a study by NASA suggests that houseplants like succulents are beneficial for your health because they actually remove toxins like benzene (a chemical commonly found in household cleaners and building materials) from the air.
In addition to improving indoor air quality, according to a 2015 study, interactions with indoor plants like succulents may reduce physical and mental stress. The study involved 24 subjects who completed a computer project, then transplanted an indoor plant. After working with plants, the subjects reported feeling soothed, less stressed, and more comfortable. The subjects didn’t just feel better after the transplant task; scientists noticed that participants’ blood pressure was also significantly lower after working with plants, proving that indoor plants can have a positive impact on both physical and mental health.

Because of their size, succulent gardens are also ideal for small spaces. Even if you’ve only got a windowsill or small shelf to spare, you’ve got room for a succulent garden.
Not sure where to start? Here’s a handy how-to guide for creating your very own succulent garden.

Succulent Succulents

The word succulent comes from the Latin root word sucus, which means “juicy” and, everyone’s favorite word, “moist.”
And that’s exactly what a succulent plant is.
Succulents are plants with extra fleshy tissues that are able to retain large stores of moisture, making them well-suited for arid climates with little rain. Succulents are also usually pest-resistant, which is just another reason they’re so easy to care for.
While succulents generally require little maintenance, you do need to know a little bit about succulent care to start your own succulent garden. I spoke to Justin Hancock, Horticulturalist and Garden Expert at Costa Farms, a house and garden plant company headquartered in Miami, about everything you need to know to grow your own succulent garden.

Dirt is dirt, right?

Au contraire, ma petite plante succulente.
“Outdoors, any sandy or well-draining soil works well for succulents,” says Hancock. “If your ground is heavy clay, it’s best to grow succulents in raised beds or containers so the roots don’t stay too wet.”
For indoor succulents, Hancock recommends getting a potting mix made specifically for cacti and succulents, like this custom-mixed soil from Farmbrook Designs, and using a pot with drainage holes at the bottom instead of a solid base.

So how much should I water my succulents?

“Outdoors, in general, you may not need to water your succulents at all if they’re in a spot that’s exposed to natural rainfall,” Hancock explains. “If they’re in pots or you’re going through a severe drought, water them on an as-needed basis.”
Hancock goes on to say, “Indoor succulents may need watering once every 10 to 20 days or so, depending on conditions (the type of succulent, how big the pot is, how dry the air is, how warm it is, etc.).”
So how can you tell if your succulent needs water?
“One way that’s fairly straightforward to tell with indoor succulents is to insert a toothpick up a drainage hole at the bottom of the pot, says Hancock. “If the toothpick comes out clean, your succulent will probably appreciate a drink. If it comes out with little bits of potting mix sticking to it, there’s usually enough moisture in the potting mix.”
Outdoors or indoors, if your succulents are thirsty, the leaves may turn a grayish color or develop purple tones around the edges. Just like your skin, if succulents get really, really thirsty, the leaves may start to wrinkle.

Help! My succulent is growing out of its pot!

“Most cacti and succulents have relatively small and tidy root systems, so they grow well in small pots,” Hancock explains. “As a general rule though, if the plant gets too big for the pot and wants to tip over, the pot is too small.”
To successfully repot a succulent, you’ll need potting mix and a new pot with drainage holes that is between two and three inches larger than your succulent in diameter.
Fill the new pot with potting mix and water until the soil is wet, but not saturated. When you see water leaking out of the drainage hole, it’s time to stop watering.
Next, gently place your succulent in the new pot, taking care not to injure the roots as you take the succulent out of its current container.
Cover the succulent with the dampened potting mix, but do not water it again. Wait about a week before watering to prevent the roots from rotting in the pot.

Succulents need vitamin D, too!

“If you’re growing succulents inside, the biggest thing to know is that they like lots and lots of light,” says Hancock. “If you have a succulent in a dim spot, it’s not going to be happy and thrive.”
A good spot for an indoor succulent is a windowsill that gets indirect sunlight for most of the day.
While succulents do like lots of sunshine, they can actually sunburn just like people do, especially if they’re planted in an outdoor garden.

So how do you know if your succulent is sunburned?
Look for white discoloration on the outer edges of its leaves or deep brown scar-like ridges on the parts of the plant that were in direct sunlight.
If you notice your succulent is getting too much sun, move it to a shadier location immediately. If the sunburn is mild, moving it to a better location will help reverse the sunburn. If the sunburn is severe, the damage is permanent and the plant will just have to grow the damage out over time.
“We say all the time how easy succulents are to grow, and it’s true from a watering standpoint,” Hancock says, “but only if they get the right amount of brightness.”

How does your (succulent) garden grow?

Even if you’re not the artsy-fartsy type, a succulent garden is the perfect way to really let your creativity show. Jess Riddle, who grows and designs gorgeous succulent gardens with her two assistants, rescue pups Eddie and June, and showcases her work on Instagram, shares her favorite succulent garden design tips:
“Consider the color palette of your space and what colors would work best with your surroundings. If you have a warm space, try some succulents with orange, red, and golden tones. If you have a more tranquil relaxing space, then try a mixture of blue, pink, and purple tones,” says Riddle. “But, you can never go wrong with a classic green succulent in any environment!”
Riddle also advises beginner succulent gardeners to choose a container carefully, making sure that any succulent container you choose has a way for water to drain away from the plant’s roots.
“Think of your container as a canvas that helps the plants in the arrangement to really pop,” Riddles says. “Personally, I prefer a simple white ceramic pot with minimal design detail. I find that simpler pots tend to allow the succulents to shine instead of taking away any of the spotlight. Also, concrete and terra cotta pots are great for wicking away excess moisture from the soil. The aesthetics of these pots also lend themselves to either traditional or more modern spaces.”
Riddle goes on to say, “Arranging succulents is dance between the mixture of color, texture, size and, most importantly, the succulent’s own individual needs.”
You may need to experiment a bit to find which succulents work best together, but don’t be afraid to play around and find a combination that you love.
“When I create a succulent arrangement I try to include a range of sizes from tall kalanchoe to chubby medium-small sized echeveria and sedums that drape over the edge of your container,” Riddle says. “Including a range of sizes and shapes creates a more dramatic and engaging arrangement.”

Succulent Garden Guide

Not sure what to plant in your succulent garden? Here’s a handy beginner’s guide to the best succulents for your space:

Single and NOT Ready to Mingle

These succulents don’t like to share. They grow best solo in a single pot.

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is one of the most well-known succulent plants because it has been used medicinally for thousands of years. Aloe vera can grow quite large, so it’s best to plant aloe in its own pot and place it in a sunny spot. I keep my aloe plant in the kitchen, where I can easily reach it if I accidentally get a minor burn or scrape while cooking.

Mother-in-Law’s Tongue

Sansevieria, more commonly known (in my opinion, a little harshly!) as mother-in-law’s tongue, is a hardy succulent great for gardening beginners. Sansevieria is also one of the best plants to grow for indoor air purification.
According to the NASA air quality study, sansevieria removed benzene and formaldehyde from indoor environments in large quantities. Be careful, though: This succulent is toxic to dogs and cats, so if you have pets, keep it somewhere safe.

These succulents love the great outdoors.

Have a small outdoor garden spot? Consider planting stonecrops. These colorful succulents in the Sedum family are adorable, low-growing plants that come in several varieties and are perfect for mini gardens and ground cover.
Three pretty stonecrops to put in your outdoor succulent garden are:

Sedum Makinoi (Ogon)

This bright green succulent is ideal for outdoor gardens in USDA gardening zones 6 through 9 (these zones are the gold standard for determining planting seasons, so get to know yours), which includes about two thirds of the U.S. Ogon is perfect if your garden is a little on the shady side, especially if you live in a hot, humid climate. This little succulent grows super fast and blooms with little yellow, star-like flowers in the summer months.

Blue Pearl Sedum

Blue Pearl Sedum is a charming little stonecrop that, as its name implies, has brilliant blue leaves and bright pink blooms in summer. If you’re doing your part to save the bees, Blue Pearl is a great addition to a backyard garden space designed to attract pollinators.

Sedum Spathulifolium

Also called broadleaf or Colorado stonecrop, Sedum spathulifolium grows in tiny little rosettes low to the ground. This succulent doesn’t need a whole lot of attention, which makes it ideal for spaces in your garden where you can’t get anything else to grow.

Everything’s better in miniature.

I can’t be the only only who loves tiny things. If you love adorable miniatures, Sempervivum are the perfect tiny succulents for a miniature indoor succulent garden. Also known as hen and chicks, Sempervivum is a family of cold-hardy succulents that grow in a variety of sizes and textures. These succulents are perfect for propagation, because they produce many little “chicks” from one “hen.”
To propagate a Sempervivum, follow the same steps as repotting. Then, pluck a chick from near the bottom of the main Sempervivum and just press it into the top of the soil (no need to dig a hole). Water only when the soil feels completely dry. 
While there are hundreds of varieties, here are three of the most popular and easy-to-grow Sempervivum succulents for a miniature succulent garden:

Sempervivum Tectorum (Royanum)

Sempervivum tectorum, also known as Royanum, is what most people associate with a hen and chicks variety of succulent. This petite succulent’s leaves are bright green, with a deep red border, sort of like little red and green pine cones. These succulents multiply quickly, so you’ll need to snap off chicks or repot if your garden starts getting too full.

Sempervivum Calcareum (Sir William Lawrence)

A little succulent with a big name, Sempervivum calcareum, known more commonly as Sir William Lawrence, compliments Royanum in a small succulent garden because of its similar coloring. Sir William Lawrence rosettes are still the same brilliant green color, but only the tips are red, unlike Royanum.

Sempervivum Arachnoideum (Cobweb Hen and Chicks)

The only spooky thing about this succulent is its name! Cobweb hen and chicks gets its name from the wispy, white hairs that cover the small rosettes. This cute succulent is perfect for a rock garden because it requires very little water to thrive.
Whatever succulents you choose for your garden, take Riddle’s advice: “As long as you are enjoying yourself, you’re doing it right!”

Categories
Mindful Parenting Motherhood

More Than Just A Tantrum: Signs Your Child Is A Highly Sensitive Person

A kindergartener with an infectious smile and a big personality, Bella often has meltdowns over seemingly little things, like the tags in her shirt or combing her hair.
Her mom, Gail, has heard it all.
She’s just spoiled!
Don’t worry, this is just a phase.
But Bella is not spoiled, and she’s not just going through a phase. Bella is a highly sensitive person. As an infant, she was diagnosed with sensory processing disorder (SPD), a neurological condition that results in an inability to process certain sensory information correctly.
According to the Star Institute for Sensory Processing Disorder, as many as one in 20 people may be affected by SPD or be considered a highly sensitive person.
Garland noticed something was different about Bella when she was about two months old.
“She was inconsolable, she didn’t fancy anything as most babies do such as a bouncy seat, a play mat, or toys. She constantly sniffed everything. She screamed every time I changed her like she had never been through it before.”
Christy Watson, whose daughter Lucy has also been diagnosed with SPD, vividly remembers the moment she realized Lucy needed treatment.
“Lucy was particularly bothered by her brother Emmett’s shrill newborn crying and would cover her ears and scream whenever he would cry.”
She says she was in the kitchen making lunch one day when Emmett started to cry. “Only a minute passed between the time he began crying and the point when I walked back into the family room. Lucy had taken a pillow from the sofa and had it placed over Emmett’s head in an attempt to get him to stop crying.”
“Highly sensitive children have debilitating aversions to light, noise, pressure,” says Michelle Collis, a North Carolina-based speech language pathologist. “Tags and seams can cause light pressure and touch, lights can be too bright, and a small buzzing from a fluorescent light [can seem] so loud the person cannot function.”
That’s because a highly sensitive person, like a child diagnosed with sensory processing disorders, can’t tune out stimuli, and processing literally everything at once can be completely overwhelming.
Because sensory processing disorder is not currently a recognized condition in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, the diagnostic guide used by most mental health professionals, kids with SPD are often misdiagnosed with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism, anxiety, or obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD).
Still, Lucy Jane Miller, PhD, OTR, and author of Sensational Kids: Hope and Help for Kids With Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD), believes that SPD is a distinct condition.
In a 2012 study Miller and her colleagues determined that while ADHD and sensory modulation disorder (SMD)—a specific type of SPD—share similarities, children diagnosed with SMD had more sensory complaints than those diagnosed with ADHD, leading Miller to determine that ADHD and SPD are distinct diagnoses.

So how do you know if your child is a highly sensitive person with sensory processing disorder?

“Tantrums for no apparent reason, eyes closed or squinted, or even turning the head and looking from the side of the eye are all markers of a child with SPD,” says Collis. “Kids with SPD may also cover their ears with their hands or tense their shoulders in response to noisy stimulus.”
An obsessive preference for a few items of clothing or demanding to wear the same shirt every day is another indicator that your child may have a sensory processing sensitivity. A highly sensitive child with SPD will get easily distracted by an itchy seam or tag in their clothing. The offending item of clothing will be all they can focus on until it is removed.
“Sensory seeking children may enjoy  banging items, climbing, and hanging upside down from furniture,” says Collis. “In addition, a child with SPD can exhibit a constant need to be leaning, hugging, or touching another person.”
It might seem like your child is acting out or misbehaving, but really, they may just be trying to process sensory information. When your child clings to you after a meltdown, they’re clinging to their constant—a parent or loved one—in an effort to calm down after sensory overload.

I think my child has a sensory processing sensitivity. What now?

“I battled [SPD] for five years alone,” says Garland. “If you suspect your child has a sensory processing sensitivity, please do not do that. Go find the resources that your child needs.”
As a parent, you may not be sure where to start if you think your child may have a sensory processing disorder.
Elaine Aron, PhD, is a leading psychologist in the field of sensitivity and sensory processing disorders. If you suspect your child has SPD, Aron suggests filling out her free online questionnaire. If you answer yes to 13 or more questions, it may be worth getting your child tested for sensory processing sensitivities.
If you only answer yes to one or two of the questions on Aron’s questionnaire, your child may be highly sensitive, and could still benefit from certain treatments. Either way, Aron stresses that the questionnaire is not a diagnosis. Rather, it is a tool to help parents who may be at a loss with their child’s behavior determine if something like SPD may be part of the equation.
If you believe your child may have SPD, an occupational therapist trained in sensory issues can test your child for sensory processing sensitivities.
A diagnosis can often provide relief for both parents and children.
“I just thought I was a bad mom,” says Garland. “It was very hard to understand sensory processing because no one I knew had a child with any issues.”
But a diagnosis gave Garland and her daughter a path forward.
Watson says that pre-diagnosis, it was difficult to bond with her infant daughter, and she carries a lot of guilt because she didn’t initially understand SPD.
“Toddlers are moody and angry a fair number of times in a day, but Lucy was convulsing with rage, screeching at the top of her lungs, and dropping tiny bows more often than she was happy from about age 1 to 4. I realize now that this was because she would become so overstimulated, and she did not have the language skills to communicate her needs to us.”
Watson goes on to say, “It was hard to take and, truthfully, kept me from fully bonding with her for a long time. I know that sounds terrible, but it is inordinately more difficult to develop a healthy relationship with a child who is constantly screaming and unhappy than it is to bond to a calm, loving, and content baby.”
After Lucy’s diagnosis shortly before age five, Watson says she can now look back and clearly see the signs that Lucy had sensory processing issues, but even with testing, struggled to get help.
“She was much more irritable and discontented that most babies, and as a toddler she would melt down almost constantly. It was exhausting. Her speech was delayed, and I had her evaluated twice between the ages of 1 and 3, and each time, I was told that she was on the low end of normal and didn’t qualify for services. I still feel like she needs speech therapy but because she is on the fringe of that normal range, she is still not eligible for certain services.”
Because sensory processing disorders are not officially recognized medical conditions, it is hard to get kids with SPD the therapy they may need.
Garland, who lives in rural North Carolina, says getting Bella in-school services and treatment has been especially difficult.
“Living in this rural area even in public school the amount of help she can get is limited,” says Garland. “Her teacher is not familiar with sensory disorder nor is her dentist or the fill-in doctor we are using since ours left.”
Both Watson and Garland agree that parents of highly sensitive kids have to be advocates for their children.
“Early intervention is key!” says Watson. “If you suspect there is a problem, go to the doctor! If the doctor doesn’t listen to you, get a new doctor. You know your child better than anyone.”

Highly sensitive kids benefit from occupational therapy.

“Occupational therapy made Lucy a different child,” says Watson.
While the first few weeks of Lucy’s occupational therapy were hard, Watson says she began to notice a change after about six weeks of therapy.
“Her behavior improved dramatically, her fine motor skills, her gross motor skills, her auditory and tactile sensitivity—everything—everything continually improved,” says Watson. “After a year of OT and counseling, she had improved so much that she no longer qualified for services!”
In addition to occupational therapy, there are some things parents can do at home to help highly sensitive kids process sensory information.
“Blue or red cloths can be placed over fluorescent lights at work or school to decrease bright light,” says Collis.  “Seamless clothing is hard to find, but Target has a new kids’ line for sensory sensitive children. If a preferred clothing has been found, parents often buy multiples of the item. I have children who wear headphones at school and public places to decrease outside noise.”
During a sensory overload, a child’s ability to process language can decrease dramatically. A child with SPD may not be able to communicate what’s wrong, which leads to further frustration. Collis says picture cues can be helpful communication tools for kids with SPD.
“I have even used written sentences for readers,” says Collis. “During a ‘meltdown’ language should be used to reassure and tell the child what behavior to do: ‘I will use my earphones when it is too noisy.’  ‘My earphones help the noise go away.’ ‘I will keep my hands to myself.’”
It can be incredibly frustrating to parent a highly sensitive kid or a child with an SPD diagnosis, but Garland says watching Bella grow and learn has been the most rewarding experience of her life.
“Mothering a child with sensory issues is hard,” says Garland. “I have cried. I have prayed. I have at times given up and at times I have been so proud I felt like my heart might burst.”

I’m an adult. Can I be a highly sensitive person?

Short answer? Yes. While sensory processing disorder is becoming a more accepted diagnosis, many highly sensitive people have been misdiagnosed with OCD, ADHD, or even anxiety.
Writing this article has actually opened my eyes to my own struggle with being a highly sensitive person. As a kid, I was always labeled “a handful.” I made good grades, but I struggled to stay in my seat or be quiet. I get what I call “overstimulated” easily, even as an adult.
I’m extremely outgoing, but if I’m at a loud party with lots of people, I get easily overwhelmed. When that happens, I have to remove myself from the situation and find a calm, quiet space or a meltdown is inevitable.
According to Aron’s adult questionnaire, this is actually common for highly sensitive people. Aron also says that it is a common misconception that women, children, and self-described introverts are the only individuals who can be highly sensitive.
According to information on Aron’s website, “We know that as many males as females are born [highly sensitive], although they obviously will be different in many ways because of their gender and how their family and culture has viewed their sensitivity.”
Aron goes on to explain that men typically score lower on the self test, which she believes is because men begin to sense their own vulnerabilities and may not answer their self-evaluations honestly.
In addition, the majority of highly sensitive people are introverted, but that still leaves a large percentage of extraverted individuals who are also highly sensitive. If you are extremely outgoing but need lots of downtime, Aron says you may be a highly sensitive person.
Unfortunately, treatment for highly sensitive adults has been lacking. According to Sarah Schoen, PhD, Director of Research at the STAR Institute for SPD, “We know that children don’t grow out of sensory processing disorder and many do not receive the necessary treatment when they are children, meaning symptoms persist into adulthood. Additionally, there are many adults who have been misdiagnosed and are just beginning to become aware of their sensory processing issues.”

The good news?

Treatment options for adults with SPD are growing. Working with an occupational therapist is still the best treatment option, even for adults, says Schoen. But it’s not always easy to make time for a lengthy therapy appointment when you barely have time for a grocery store run.
“That’s why our occupational therapists started to create educational content for adults that can be accessed from home,” says Schoen of the STAR Institute’s resources. “Many of the adults we treat say they have been misdiagnosed with a mental health condition or illness and have unnecessarily been taking medication. An important part of their treatment is to understand their sensory issues and differences so that they can participate in a program that includes the introduction of a sensory lifestyle with modifications to their daily life, alterations to their environment, and self-advocacy.”
Most importantly, know that you are not alone. If you suspect that you or your child is highly sensitive, there are online resources, like Aron’s website or SPDStar.org that can inspire your first steps toward treatment.
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Categories
Fresh Fashion Lifestyle

Treat Yo’ Self: Why You Should Buy Yourself Lingerie This Valentine’s Day

If I didn’t have to change diapers and give my dog daily dandruff baths, my personal style would be a combination of White Diamonds–era Elizabeth Taylor and Dolly Parton (in any decade).
Mama likes to look sexy, y’all.
That’s why I buy myself gorgeous underwear and lingerie on a regular basis, and you should too.
I like knowing that beneath the same pair of black leggings that get washed once a week (if they’re lucky) and an old maternity t-shirt, I’m wearing a hot push-up bra and barely-there underwear.
I wasn’t always the confident lady you’ve all come to know and love, though.
The first time I bought lingerie for myself, I morphed into a 13-year-old girl trying on her friend’s mom’s bras at a sleepover.
I giggled awkwardly as I perused teddies and strategically-placed keyhole undies until I finally settled on a piece of lingerie that was slightly more sexy than a nightgown that Laura Ingalls might have worn on Little House on the Prairie.
But I took it home, and when I put it on, I immediately felt bolder. It was totally empowering to buy lingerie for myself.
So I bought more.
If you think that lingerie is reserved only for anniversaries or to spice up your sex life, it’s time to think again, you beautiful tropical fish.

Here’s a secret: Buying lingerie is basically the same as going to the gym.

Okay, that’s not exactly true. But according to Kimberly Hershenson, a New York–based therapist specializing in eating disorders and body-confidence issues, putting yourself first can have a powerful positive effect on your health.
“In our society, we are often taught that if we put our needs first, we are being selfish; however self-care and being selfish are two different things,” says Hershenson. “Self-care involves activities and practices that we engage in to help enhance our health and well-being. Wearing lingerie just for yourself is a great form of self-care. Lingerie has a way of making one feel sexy and confident. It can be an effective way of boosting your self-esteem.”
Sort of like when Samantha wants to buy herself a particular expensive ring in Sex and the City—there’s something very empowering about buying yourself lingerie. But unlike the new shoes your kid had to have this week or new tires for your car, lingerie is a totally frivolous, fun purchase just for you.
You’re allowed to be selfish sometimes. And sometimes that means spending money on lingerie that no one will see but you.
Because listen up, ladies:
It’s 2018! And though some people feel that women can’t do certain things, like eat regular Doritos, you do not need to have a partner to buy yourself lingerie this Valentine’s Day.
Lucky for you, I went lingerie shopping (hey, it was all for research!). Here are a few of my favorite lingerie pieces for every style.

Make like Vin Diesel and go XXX.

See what I did there? Or is that joke too dated?
Either way, if you feel like (a lot) less is more, the Hollywood Exxtreme Lace Teddy ($48.50) from OG lingerie retailer Frederick’s of Hollywood is totally impractical, but it’s also a really hot piece of lingerie. I dare you to feel frumpy when you put it on.
If the teddy is a little too racy for your bedtime routine, channel your sexiest Morticia Addams in this Oh La La Cheri Eyelash Lace Robe Set from Bare Necessities ($35.50) which comes in sizes small to 4x.

Sustainability never looked so sexy.

Want lingerie that makes you look good while doing good?
This Origami Customs Cage Bra ($37) from Bluestockings Boutique is sustainably sexy, stylish, and completely handmade in Canada. Bluestockings Boutique’s mission is “to empower people who have been marginalized by the mainstream lingerie industry and to offer them an experience that reflects their identities, their bodies, and their values.” Whatever your lingerie style, they’ve truly got something for everyone, no matter what pronoun you use.
Azura Bay only carries sustainably and ethically produced lingerie, like the Floral Lana Lyocell Bra ($89) from Underprotection, which is fair trade–produced in India with eco-friendly materials, so you don’t have to worry about your underwear being bad for the environment.

Maternity Lingerie? Yes, please!

Have you seen the mesh panties the hospital sends you home in?
The only thing they share in common with lingerie is that both are designed to cover your lady parts.
Treat yourself to some seriously sexy maternity lingerie, like the Chloe Maternity/Nursing Bra $59.99 from Nestling and Co. Pair it with the matching Chloe underwear ($17.99) for a lingerie set that will make you feel like a million bucks, even though you haven’t showered in days.

Comfort is key.

You know what? I’m just going to say it.
No one really likes thong underwear.
You know what women do like?
Being comfortable and sexy at the same time.
Hands down, the most comfortable lingerie I’ve ever bought is the Gilligan & O’Malley Long Line Bra ($14.99) from Target. It’s ultra-flattering for every body type but comfortable enough to wear every day—and its price point can’t be beat. Plus, it comes in a ton of colors.
If your definition of comfortable means wire-free lingerie, then try Else Sheer Bare Sporty Top, a barely-there take on the classic sports bra ($85) from Journelle.

Ready to take your lingerie to the next level?

Teddies, babydoll nighties, and sexy bras are great, but sometimes you need lingerie that’s just a little extra.
That’s where an open-cup or peekaboo bra like the Vintage Lace Shelf Bra ($22.21) comes in. All the important parts of the bra that provide lift and support are there, but your breasts will be on full display. You can choose to wear a cute pair of pasties, like this gorgeous rhinestone set ($40) from Etsy seller Gothfox Designs, or go au naturel for a more daring look.
For a lingerie set that will make you feel sexier than Claire Fraser and Anastasia Steele combined, consider pairing a peekaboo bra with a pair of crotchless panties. Only you have to know what you’re wearing, and that can provide an extra boost of bravado when you need it most.
Edible underwear are the punchline to many a joke, I know. And most are really sort of gross. But, I actually don’t mind this rainbow candy g-string. For one, it’s the only edible underwear I’ve seen that actually looks anything like underwear.
Second, I didn’t so much wear these as snack on them while binge-watching The Crown, but hey—you’re buying them for you, so do what you want! Still, if you’re looking to sweeten your lingerie game, candy undies are deliciously appropriate.
If you’ve never treated yourself to lingerie, then now is the time. So take advantage of those Valentine’s Day sales and buy yourself a little something sexy.
Because single, taken, or just here for the party, you deserve it!