All posts by admin

About admin

I am a certified Pilates and Yoga instructor with 13 years of experience. I have a profound love of fitness, healthy eating, fashion and beauty products. Over the years my clients, friends and strangers have inquired about my latest fitness advice, where I purchased my yoga outfit, or suggestions for diet/health. Now I have a forum to express and share all of my favorite things. Enjoy!

Hourglass Cosmetics: A Nourishing Lip Treatment

Beauty

Hourglass-No-28-Lip-Treatment-Oil-5

When I first moved from the balmy climate of South Florida to the arid land of SoCal, my hair, skin and lips dried out immediately. I adjusted hair, face and body products, only to find that my lips were not responding–AT ALL. Enter the brand new Hourglass store (the first of its kind and the flagship) on Abbot-Kinney in Venice. On one of my AK walks, I was delighted to see that my favorite new cosmetic line was literally down the street. I am a huge fan of the Ambient Lighting Powder in Diffused Light, Opaque Rouge Liquid Lipstick in Canvas and Femme Rouge Velvet Lipstick in Peace. I was accustomed to ordering online or driving to a Sephora location in a pinch.

Anyway, after my cracked lips informed the makeup specialist about my need for hydration, she introduced me to #28 Lip Treatment Oil and my troubles disappeared in a cloud of essential oils and vitamins distributed with a cool (literally and figuratively) gold tip. I apply it morning and night, and as a gloss during the day. After only a few uses, your lips and lipstick look and feel more plump and moisturized. Its unique shape travels well, too.

From the Website:

• Contains 28 beneficial ingredients to soften the lips. The number 28 refers to:
– 14 essential oils: bois de rose, lavender, geranium, petitgrain, lemon, rosemary, vanilla, clove, amyris, orange, ylang ylang, eucalyptus, cedar and rose geranium.
– 10 lipid-rich plant oils: hazelnut, kukui nut, rose hip, borage, olive, green tea, cherry pit, sweet almond, jojoba and evening primrose.
– 4 nourishing vitamins: A, B5, C and E.
• The 24kt gold-plated, anti-bacterial palladium tip dispenses product and creates a soothing effect.

Check out my favorites and all of the amazing products at Hourglass. Enjoy!!

http://hourglasscosmetics.com

Shedding, Exfoliating, Renewing: How, Where and Why?

Beauty, lifestyle

I just moved again.  Each time I move (and it’s been many times), I shed–for lack of a better word. I review the items around me and determine what I actually need and/or ask why did I ever buy/keep/use that? Anyway, I began to explore this subject while in my yoga class.  While in Savasana, the teacher undoubtedly reminds us to clear the head; to meditate. I percolate, germinate and fertilize ideas instead, and always have. Some of my most amazing ideas or solutions have come to me in Savasana. So, I already possessed the shedding idea–how it works in so many aspects of life, be it the household, the mind, the body, fashion, money–you name it and there is a way to shed. As I Savasana’d, I thought of all the ways you can shed or rejuvenate–and then decided to share it here. Mainly because  I have taken a few months off to move across the country, and have noticed my own shedding process. And what a great subject for my first post in quite awhile. I am only going to touch on a few categories, hopefully that will inspire you to navigate your own areas that might need a little renewing.

Yes, when you relocate your residence, you tend to shed. It feels right to give away things I don’t use or do not need. I also love Ebay for selling the more valuable items. It also gives you pause when someone sees great value in something you have no use for (whatever the reason). The extra money never hurt anyone either–give it to a charity if you like. It takes a bit of time to familiarize yourself with the site, but after a few posts it’s a cakewalk. Careful though, it’s addicting

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I adore this product–time for a new one.

When it comes to shedding  your skin, that’s a different story. In April I posted on the benefits of dry-brushing . It really does wonders for cleansing the body’s largest organ–not to mention the one that absorbs the most toxins–your skin! You’ll need a good moisturizer afterwards, and I love me some Kneipp almond blossom oil or Argan oil lotion.  You’ll be amazed how your skin will drink that lovely moisture in once the old cells are gone!

 

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My ratty versions of said products–I use them frequently.

For the face, one of my favorites is Exfolikate by Kate Somerville. I use it with my Clairsonic for an extra deep scrub. The ingredients are natural and the scent is just that–doesn’t have that funky chemical smell. As always, careful around the eyes or tender areas. Need more? Shed 2.0 with a mask. My all-time favorite is B Kamins therapeutic brightening masque. A touch of water on your clean skin, then apply this thick, lovely mask. You won’t need much. After it dries, remove with warm water and you are renewed! I also dab it on acne spots and leave it overnight.  Dries those suckers right out!

Now that I have your attention, I don’t want to lose you–so I won’t get into shedding  weight, friends, husbands, etc. Nor will I dive into dietary cleanses–I want to keep my audience riveted, so I’ll keep it short and sweet. After all that’s why you’re still reading this, right? See you next time.

Kneipp products can be found in GBS stores or online.

https://www.bkamins.com

http://www.katesomerville.com/?gclid=CIbT-Oyk8MsCFY9ffgodr4YKpg

Variation on the Theme: Karl Lagerfeld’s Way

Style

I remember reading a Harper’s Bazaar article describing 24 hours in (one of my favorite designers of all time) Karl Lagerfeld’s life. One item in the article stood out to me–he has a utility outfit of sorts (again, this is Karl Lagerfeld) that is his go-to look for daily life:

“My latest uniform is actually two looks—a special jacket with tails made by Dior, but not what you wear for weddings. I have them made in tweed and things like this. Then I have another jacket I love from the new Dior men’s collection that I bought five of, so people think I wear the same thing every day, but in fact it’s never the same thing. And then I wear jeans; at the moment they are from my new collection. They are dark gray with my face, my profile, printed in black on them, but you really have to look at it to see it. My dressing room is so full that I can only wear what I see on top of all the racks.”

Think about it–you have a look, right? People notice your style whether you know it or not. Casual look for me is Cady shorts (see my post), some type of blouse or a beater, and wedges. For teaching: splits:59 beater, double zip stella jacket, onzie capri yoga pants and Birkenstock sandals.  Just like Karl (kinda), a casual observer might think I’m repeating, but it’s more like theme dressing. In time, it seems you gravitate toward what compliments you and your daily events, and yeah, throw in a little trendiness here or there.

Coming from a man who has two homes virtually within walking distance, I guess I’m in good company:

“I actually have two houses. This house here, it’s only for sleeping and sketching, and I have another house two-and-a-half meters away for lunch and dinner and to see people, and where the cook is and all that. I don’t want that here. Even if the place is huge, I want to be alone. If I want something, I call them, and they’re next door, they come. The studio is next door, the office is next door. If I have guests and butlers, I don’t want them in my house. Everything is next door.”

See details on Splits:59, Stella, Birkenstocks, Cady in my posts.

The fascinating KL article:

http://www.harpersbazaar.com/fashion/fashion-articles/24-hours-with-karl-lagerfeld-0412

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Vital Choice Wild Seafood & Organics: Purely Delicious!

Healthy Eating

I discovered Vital Choice several years ago via an organic grocery delivery service. I first ordered the canned white tuna in water–amazing and humanely caught. When the service went out of business, I went to the VC website and photofound nirvana! Several options for wild-caught seafood, organic dried fruits, condiments, even omega and other supplements. A staple is the wild-caught Alaskan silver salmon 6 0z portions. They are flash frozen and easy to de-thaw. I pan sear in salt pepper and olive oil for 2-3 minutes each side–makes for a nice crispy outside and a rare inside. Delicious with simple sides and wasabi paste. I also use the omega 3 supplement, and of course I have tried the organic dark chocolate sampler. Try the VC wild-caught salmon side by side with a grocery bought salmon and you will never look back–grocery stores are not required to label fish that are farm-raise or genetically modified. They deliver in dry ice and it is usually in 2 days. Easy, fresh and clean eating!!

 

http://www.vitalchoice.com/shop/pc/home.asp

KT Tape: Support Your Workout

Fitness

object001_1Do you have an injured area or a former injury that needs extra stability during your workout? I need support on my left knee and foot (have arthritis in both) and this really does the trick. It stabilizes and supports nicely for athletic tape. I like the natural fiber but there is also a synthetic fiber tape at a slightly higher price point. You can apply this tape and leave it for several days if you want. I like to remove it after exercise to keep the area clean. The synthetic tape left quite a bit of adhesive after I removed it and that is why I prefer the natural fiber.
The website claims the following:

KT TAPE is applied along muscles, ligaments, and tendons (soft tissue) to provide a lightweight, external support that helps you remain active while recovering from injuries. KT Tape creates neuromuscular feedback (called proprioception) that inhibits (relaxes) or facilitates stronger firing of muscles and tendons. This feedback creates support elements without the bulk and restriction commonly associated with wraps and heavy bracing. KT Tape gives you confidence to perform your best.
All I know is that my knee and foot hurt less and I move easier through yoga poses and Pilates workouts. Now for the fun part: The colors are so bright–pink, purple, neon green–I was able to find camo online at Amazon. So, you can use black or you can have a little fun while keeping your workout safe. For more information, see website link below.

http://www.kttape.com/store

Tees By Tina: Seamless = Effortless Style

Fitness, Style

object001_2Tees By Tina, I love you! Just found this line while on a little stay-cation with my husband. Many cute items in the gift store of the W Hotel on South Beach. WOW. Easy (and seamless) ballet style top with 3/4 sleeves in navy and a simple black tank were my takeaways..perfect. Then visited a friend’s Pilates studio for a trunk show and there’s Tina again in all her seamless glory! This time in fab, fab seamless capri workout tights with a surprise tie-dye burst–again comfort and style–gym and/or street wear. Too perfect. Finally I perused the site– a full line of seamless dresses, skirts, tops–adorable! Take a look for yourself.

http://www.teesbytina.com

Replenish Mind, Body & Soul at Canyon Ranch Tucson

Fitness, Travel

photo 1If you have a decision to make or if you are at a crossroads in your life–this is your destination. If you want to have a healthy vacation with over 40 daily activities available, this is your destination. If you wish to be pampered and relax by the pool interspersed with spa treatments, this is your destination. Detecting a pattern?? You design the program at CR.
I tried a little of everything. There was a tough off-site hike that certainly challenged me (you choose the level). Guides were knowledgeable and all supplies were taken care of. There were plenty of seminars to choose from–communication and decision making to cooking demos–I chose the communication seminars and also chose a spectacular massage and sat by the pool for a few hours (I did not try the underwater treadmill). I also decided to physically delve into the opposite of my norm–no pilates or vinyasa yoga. I completed a circuit training that combined cardio and strength machines, restorative yoga and stretching. Works for me!! Sleeping was a pleasure as there was only the unique sounds of the surrounding desert to lull you to sleep–or the bone-weariness felt after a 2 1/2 hour hike.
The delicious and expertly prepared food added to the experience. Again, it is your choice. Decide to limit calories–they make it easy by disclosing it on the menu–or try a bit of everything. My favorites were clams in white wine and mashed cauliflower. For dessert there were perfectly portioned choices like soft serve ice cream, sorbets, cookies and gluten free cookies–my favorite? flourless chocolate cake. There is always a salad bar stocked with lots of fresh goodies and daily changes in offerings. The portions remind you of what healthy eating is all about.
And here’s the easy part–everything is included and there is no tipping allowed. Some of the activities have a charge and it is clearly noted on the schedule. You also have the option to utilize the world class medical minds at CR and you may peruse the catalog of services at program advising. In fact, once your reservation is made you are contacted to plan your schedule in advance–if you like.
I learned and re-established my healthy habits at CR. I challenged myself with different (for me) forms of movement. I learned helpful steps toward improved communication/decision making. I also noticed how pleasant and content the CR staff was–they seemed to be very well compensated and HAPPY. How nice! I also noticed there was no sales pitch or pushiness for visitors to ‘upgrade’ their experience. It really felt like I was in charge of my time–and I was. I would do it again in a heartbeat, and chances are it will have a completely different outcome depending on my wishes–My kind of vacation!!

http://www.canyonranch.com

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Off the Radar Hair Essentials

Beauty, Style

object001_4Yes, washing and conditioning are equally important, but styling and finishing touches are vital for gorgeous hair. I have sunk many dollars trying EVERYTHING and have finally ended all that ‘trying’ with a few amazing products that are not mainstream–unless you’re friends with a hairdresser, or you are reading this now…here are my styling mainstays.
First and foremost, Phyto Defrisant Botanical Straightening Balm has been around for ages–although when I first began using it it was a ‘cult favorite’–it’s relatively mainstream now. After washing/conditioning apply this to smooth the cuticle–straight hair shinier and waves non-frizzy and smooth. Aquage SeaExtend Silkening Oil Treatment is a more recent favorite. I use it with the phyto–just one pump–it’s very rich. It has a base of sea minerals and a rich oil-like texture that actually isn’t oily–more slippery. One of my favorite Italian lines in Alfaparf and the Cristalli Liquidi is insanely fantastic–it smells delicious and one tiny drop shines your entire head–I use it always but especially after a blow out or iron. Last, but definitely not least is Oscar Blandi Dry Shampoo Powder. I can pack it to go (it’s only 1 ounce), and use it at home. Also has a slight fragrance. Just a little sprinkle and a fluff and you get another shampoo-less day! Wow–and Allure Magazine gave it an editor’s choice award!
So, there you have it–my own personal must-have stash for perfect styling. Hope you like it as much as I do. Be prepared for shiny, healthy hair and lots of compliments!

Phyto products can be found and GBS and many online outlets such as Amazon.
Aquage I discovered at the hairdresser, but this one is tough to find live at a store or salon. Go online–Amazon or Aquage website.
Alfaparf products can be found at GBS, Ricky’s NYC or online at Amazon.
I found Blandi on the checkout line at Sephora–where they keep the travel sizes.
http://www.aquage.com
http://www.phyto-usa.com
http://usa.alfaparf.com
Oscar Blandi Hair Products | Sephora

Zella & Stella

Fitness, Style

object001_5For a few years I’ve been obsessed with Adidas Stella McCartney workout wear. It’s pretty pricey, but you can find end-of-season sales on Zappos and the Adidas website. Stella styles are sexy, funky and versatile–and at full-price, some items qualify for PWR (per wear ratio) status.
A bit lower and price, but never lacking in style or substance is Zella, a line exclusive to Nordstrom. A helpful salesperson told me Zella is created for Nordstrom by a former Lululemon designer. That may be true–Zella appears to be the offspring of a Lulu and Stella encounter. The price is right and it holds up well.  Photo is one of my go-to jackets: moto style with snakelike fabric. A few clients and many strangers have done an unapologetic fabric check to be sure they’re not crazy–yes, it’s PETA approved snake print fabric.
Back to the jackets—I must have a double zipper–and Zella and Stella both meet my needs. For pants, I’m most comfortable in capri tights–colorful or not–love Onzie, and Lulu capri’s wear well. As far as Stella/Adidas and Zella are concerned, these colorful, stylish and comfortable looks can go from studio to errands to lunch–AND you can sweat in them looking oh so pretty!

http://www.adidas.com/us/adidas-by-stella-mccartney/_/N-1z13svo
http://shop.nordstrom.com

Calisto: Stylish, Comfy Wedges

Style

object001_6I absolutely love this shoe. I obsessed over it until I bought it in beige and black. The look is chunky and weighty, but they weigh about 7 ounces–that’s because the cork wedge bottom is made of lightweight plastic/rubber material that is incredibly light and comfortable. Callisto offers many styles, but I find ‘Sawyer’ the most contemporary and versatile. They go with everything–shorts, skirts, maxi’s, jeans, you name it. They look current and, go figure, it is a tall wedge and is supremely comfortable. I am a wedge girl all the way, and this style qualities as a staple.
To wit–over the last several days wearing my beige Sawyer’s I’ve been asked by perfect strangers “Where did you get those shoes?” So, I remove a shoe and hand it to them–so light! So comfortable! Gorgeous! What better reason to post them here??
I purchased mine at Nordstrom. They run small, so you might find yourself a half or full size from normal (I was a 40 EU and I am usually a 38/39), so you’ll want to try them on. Heel height is 4 1/2” and platform is 1 1/2″, price: $79.95.
And of course you wear OPI ‘I Reached My Gold’ pedicure with them, right??
Be prepared to chat with (stylish) perfect strangers….

http://shop.nordstrom.com