Cassey Ho's Blog, page 29

Balletcore: The Dance-Inspired Fashion Trend That’ll Have Your Style On Pointe

Everything you need to rock the balletcore trend.

Calling all dancing queens! This fashion trend is bringing your favorite dancewear pieces from the studio to the street.

Meet balletcore; one of the aesthetics taking over TikTok. We’re breaking it down and showing you exactly how you can make this style all your own. 

Think athleisure, but with some flair

Balletcore includes all the things we love about ballet, from the comfy warm-up wardrobe of wrap sweaters and leg warmers to the delicate pastel tutus and leotards worn on stage. It’s all of the fun, girly things that make us feel like kids again; bows, silk, and lots of pink!

It’s a fun and playful way to dress up your gym clothes or make your work wardrobe a little more comfortable, and you know we love a fashion meets function moment! 

This style takes everything you love about athleisure but gives it an elegant twist. It’s versatile, it’s chic, and it’s something that anyone can incorporate into their look. 

@arminarshe a psa to wear fleece lined tights with your skirts during winter #coquette #balletcore #pilatesprincess #winteroutfits ♬ original sound – hannah

 

How did it start?

Before it was taking over TikTok with over 375 million views for #balletcore, ballerina-inspired style was inspiring couture designers all the way back in the 1930s, when Chanel was making her gorgeous tulle gowns. Then in the 1960s, the ballet flat became a closet must-have.

Now that we’re looking for clothes that are cute and comfy in the work-from-home world, and as many ways to wear athleisure outside of the gym as we can, it’s back and better than ever!

Ready to leap into this trend?

Here’s how to get the look.

Stick to the basics.

Build your wardrobe with bodysuits, sheer skirts, and classic ballet flats.

It's all in the layers.

Layer with leg warmers, tights, and wrap tops to elevate your outfit. 

Comfort is key.

Think soft knits, silky satins, and oh-so fluffy tulle mixed in with your favorite stretchy athleisure materials. 

Head over to POPFLEX and check out the Pirouette Tiered Skort, a tutu-inspired piece that’ll have you feeling like a prima ballerina. You can read my own review on the skirt here.

Embellish your outfit.

Think bows, lace, and tulle accents. The key is creating the perfect balance between elegance and ease. Add some fun hair accessories like headbands or some delicate pearl jewelry to complete the look. 

As much as we love this style, there are some things we want to leave behind.

In the past, ballet has been gatekept from certain communities. While we love dancer-inspired fashion, the industry has not been kind to people existing in larger bodies, nor has it often made space for dancers of color to shine.

While we celebrate this fashion trend, it’s important to create a space where everyone is welcome.

@porsharenaehall When I was younger I was a ballerina. I never got to pointe which I know is the most challenging. Now I love adoring the fashion style and taking Pilates Barre workouts is the closest to reliving the sport right now. *also the bag is actually my vintage ballerina bag when I was younger with my shoes and a couple pieces of wardrobe. (90s) Are you a current or former black ballerina? Would love to know your experience because it’s different for everyone! #vlogmas #pinkmas #blackballerina#ballerinaaesthetic#balletcore#balletstyle#balletfashion#blackballetcore#pinterestaesthetic#pintereststyle#ballerina#pinkaesthetic#blackprincess#princessaesthetic#blackfemininity#balletcoreaesthetic#balletcorefashion ♬ girlfriend – Hemlocke Springs

Ready to give the balletcore look a try?

Now that you’ve learned about balletcore, we can’t wait to see how you make this trend all your own! How do you feel about the aesthetic? Leave a comment below!

Try this if you WFH and can’t find time to work out!

Hey guys!

I am currently in this season of my life where I don’t have time to work out. I know. It’s terrible. I am trying to dig myself out from under a growing pile of new challenges. Challenges due to rapid business growth. So it’s not a bad thing at all (I’m happy to have these issues) it’s just A LOT all at once!

I am tired, but I know that once I’m out, and once the problems have been solved, POPFLEX and Blogilates will be much stronger.

 

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Anyway, until I am able to find time, right now some days my workouts are these walks during meetings. I go 2.5 mph and can get in 4-5 mi easily in a day without much effort! One day I did almost 12 mi. But TBH that was maybe too much because my thighs started getting sore the last few miles!

Anyway, for any of you trying to get in your steps in during the day if you WFH, try taking your meetings on a treadmill! The key is to not be too ambitious with the speed. For me, 2.5 mph is the right pace where I can still talk and think normally.

Remember…this is not a workout so don’t try to go all out and get sweaty – it’s just a thing you can do while working so you’re not sitting on your butt all day!

I Tried Glossier Deodorant for a Month. Will I Keep Using It?

It was only in recent years that I made the transition to aluminum-free deodorant. I’m not a scientist by any means, but as a beauty writer I’ve read a fair share of articles about how some popular deodorants use ingredients that have potentially been linked to cancer and other serious illnesses.

That’s a scary thought, especially as someone who not only works out alot (hello, sweat), but also is generally a sweaty person. And that’s when I decided to take matters into my own hands. I’ve been using Native and Tom’s natural deodorants for the last year, but I came across Glossier’s new deodorant on TikTok and well, I knew I had to try it. 

I figured that if it’s anything like the brand’s matte lipstick and jelly cleanser, then it’s probably great so I decided to give it a go.

Image: Glossier

First, here’s an overview.

The vegan deodorant comes in a refillable container, has a coconut oil base, and is formulated with key ingredients like elderberry extract, magnesium hydroxide, and potato starch. Additionally, it’s available in four scents: Orange Blossom Neroli, Unscented, Glossier You, and Sandstone. 

What does it feel like?

Unlike some other deodorants, this one isn’t gel or too cream-like. It’s what I would describe as a blend between butter and moisturizer. It easily glides onto the skin and almost instantly disappears — yes, it doesn’t leave that unwanted white cast. My favorite part? It wasn’t sticky. The last thing I want is to have my armpits feel sticky as I’m lifting weights or doing anything really. 

What does it smell like?

The ‘unscented’ deodorant has no fragrance whatsoever. As someone who isn’t too keen on scents, I was pleasantly surprised because sometimes even ‘unscented’ can be scented, but this rang true in this case.

As for ‘Glossier You,’ I could definitely sense there was a fragrance, however, it wasn’t extremely pungent. I didn’t notice it every time I lifted my arms which was what I was worried about in the first place .

Does it work?

To give you the best, real-life Glossier deodorant review, I wore it while I was outside at Disney World and during my workouts. That really put it to the test.

According to the directions, you’re supposed to swipe one to two times under each. As someone with a large armpit, I made four circle motions to make sure I covered the entire surface area. Additionally, I made sure my armpit wasn’t moist or damp prior to application so the results could be as accurate as possible.

After a full day out in the sun, my pits were surprisingly not too smelly. There was a bit of B.O. starting to come through, but I only noticed it if I really tried (i.e. stuck my nose directly in my armpit).

As for my workout, I couldn’t believe it.

Usually my armpits are not only smelly and gross after a workout, but extremely wet and damp. However, this was not the case after using this deodorant. They were a bit moist, but considering I just worked out for an hour it was nearly nothing.

As for reapplication, I applied the deodorant twice throughout the day when I was out at Disney World just for some extra coverage. Could I have gone without? Probably. Was I willing to take that chance? Nope. Not if I was going to be standing in tight spaces next to strangers all day.

Not just for pits

I’ll even say as someone who deals with inner-thigh chafing, I usually put deodorant in between my thighs to prevent unwanted sweating and moisture. This was the perfect deodorant for that because it’s so smooth and not-sticky. Unlike baby powder which can get everywhere, this deodorant glides on and creates a barrier between the skin to prevent unwanted friction and chafing whether that’s during exercise or out and about.

It’s worth noting that I’ve been using aluminum-free deodorant for a while so it’s safe to say my body is acclimated to it. However, if this is your first go-around at using aluminum-free deodorant, then the brand says you should give yourself four weeks for your body to get used to it.

@glossier Introducing Glossier Deodorant, launching TOMORROW 1/17. Available in Glossier You, Orange Blossom Neroli, *new* Sandstone, and Unscented. Aluminum free. Refillable, reusable, and recyclable! Check this space for more details to come #glossier #deodorant ♬ original sound – Glossier

 

Packaging

My biggest “complaint” with the Glossier deodorant was the packaging. It took me nearly 30 minutes to pop off the plastic top when I opened it. I even had to Google if other people had a problem because it just would not budge — I even had other people try because I just was not getting it off myself. Eventually I used enough force where it popped off, but I was genuinely concerned I’d have to return it.

The reusable packaging is a winner in my book because I’m all about taking care of Mother Nature and if it means keeping the same vial that’s great. And it’s super chic; it doesn’t appear to be made out of cheap plastic like some other brands.

Price

Compared to my current Native deodorant which retails for $12.99, the Glossier deodorant costs $22. That’s nearly a $10 difference for a product that works similarly to the other. I’d say in this case you’re paying for the name brand and packaging which are high end and quality, so you get what you pay for but you’ll pay a lot. 

Image: Glossier

Glossier deodorant review: Worth it?

If you’re looking to get into aluminum-free deodorants or try a different one from the current brand you’re using, then Glossier’s is a great place to start. From the scent options to the reusable packaging, it checks off all of the boxes when it comes to finding a solid deodorant (at least for me.)

Although it is a bit pricey, I don’t think it’s a bad idea to buy yourself a tube and see how you like it. I wouldn’t go and purchase all of the scents at once (some of them keep selling out anyways), but try out one or two to get a feel for it and then go from there.

I’ve had the deodorant for over a month now and I haven’t used anything else to keep my pits smelling nice and clean.

 

This Glossier aluminum-free deodorant review contains referral links to products we recommend and enjoy. We earn a small commission from thinks links, at no additional cost to you. 

“Don’t you guys get sick of each other?”

Don’t you guys get sick of each other?”

This is a question a lot of couples trying to work together ask us. And I get it – we live together, we work together, we literally DO EVERYTHING together, so it’s a fair question.

Sam and I have been together for 14.5 years and yes, like any other couple, we debate, we question each other, and we get on each other’s cases hard, but what we’re really good at is knowing when it’s time to stop. These “fights” usually end with one of us looking at the other, holding back a smile while trying to act tough, and saying “k we good?” And then the other will go “k, over.”

In complete transparency, these “fights” are usually work related (not really personal stuff) and only happen because we’re experiencing emotional distress around a new difficulty with the business. But, these fights never last long (5-10 min) because Sam and I know and respect one another’s realm of expertise. Once we let ego and emotion subside, we’re all solutions based – like it doesn’t matter who is right or wrong , it only matters how we can solve the problem.

This won’t be easy or natural for everyone bc different humans process emotions differently, but this is what works for us and has kept our husband and wife relationship AND our business relationship strong (and exciting) all these years.

Now…in the case of this video…

 

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A post shared by Cassey Ho (@blogilates)

The truck going missing thing had just happened that morning so we were both NOT in a good mood. But then, I had an idea, I wanted to film it, and bc Sam knows how important it is for me process my feelings through content creation (writing, editing etc) he agreed to the video idea (albeit begrudgingly but still).

These are some of the special outtakes from the 8 minute “dance rehearsal” that made me laugh so hard I literally cried while gasping for air. You can tell how much he just looooooooooooves dancing, can’t you??

Oh ya, so the answer to that question? No. No we don’t get sick of each other bc we’re never bored of each other!

Thank you Sam for allowing me to share this with you guys. I had to negotiate for 2 days so you better like it.

Enjoy!!

PS: no update on the missing bags yet

Is Breathwork the New Meditation?

We’ve all had those moments or seasons where we’ve been intensely stressed, needed a break, or just wanted to try something new to gain clarity on a situation. When life gets difficult, many of us turn to meditation. But what if meditation doesn’t cut it? Or you simply can’t reach that state of transcendence? Then perhaps it’s time to consider breathwork.

You might have seen breathwork named the “latest wellness craze.” Some people even refer to it as “meditation on steroids.” Buzzwords aside, it’s a truly unique practice that can be life-changing.

Best of all, it’s accessible, doesn’t have to cost anything and most people can learn how to do it. 

What is breathwork?

It’s a practice of mindful, controlled breath.

Breathwork practitioner and owner of Five Sense Collective, Kirscha Cramer defines it as “A practice that employs the conscious use of the breath. An innate ability we all have, with an unconscious intelligence that allows us to self-regulate to improve physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing.”

What can it do for you?

According to breathwork practitioner Ali Levine, there are many benefits of breathwork. “On a basic level, breathwork allows you to find peace, calm, lower your stress, restore your nervous system to a parasympathetic system, rest and digest vs. a fight or flight reaction. It can also help your immune system over time, and your overall health.”

Levine began to explore breathwork after a difficult period in her life and discovered it had an incredibly profound impact. “I became a certified practitioner after going through my own spiritual awakening back between 2019 to 2020. Breathwork was a soul transformation,” she tells me. “I became a daily meditator after meditation saved me when I was going through postpartum depression. After some time, mindset work by itself wasn’t working for me anymore. That’s when I found breathwork, or I would say the breath found me. Once I accessed this wisdom, it became the place I came back to every time and it felt like home. The breath has continued to show up for me in many ways and help me move from breakdowns to breakthroughs and access the highest frequency and consciousness of myself in all situations of my life.”

Even if you aren’t going through a challenging time, Levine tells me breathwork has many benefits including:Reduced stress and anxietyLower blood pressureBetter sleepImproved moodA boosted immune system

 

 

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The basics of breathwork

Much like meditation, you can begin your breathwork practice at any time. The key is to simply commit to it as part of your self-care routine. 

Cramer tells me, “Breathwork can be practiced regularly by setting aside a specific time each day to focus on the breath, such as in the morning or before bed, and incorporating different breathing techniques. You can learn these techniques from your own research or from an expert instructor, such as our Academy breathwork teacher Bryant Wood. As with all new practices, consistency and accountability will be helpful.” 

Give this a try –  “A very simple breathwork exercise a beginner can do, is breathe in (inhale) for four and exhale out for eight and repeat three times. If that feels good in the body, then do it five to ten times,” says Levine.

Cramer also suggests “box breathing,” which is sometimes known as square breathing. “This technique helps to slow down the breath and can be done anywhere, at any time, and can be a good starting point for those new to breathwork.”

Here’s how to do it:

Breathe in for a count of fourHold the breath for a count of fourExhale for a count of fourRepeat

Even better, box breathing requires no prior experience and is even easy for beginners to do. “The technique allows for flexibility and can be adjusted to suit the individual’s needs and comfort level, for example, by starting with a count of two and then increasing to a count of four as the individual becomes more comfortable with the technique,” she says.

 

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A post shared by SAMANTHA breathwork mentor (@samanthaskelly)

 

What to expect during breathwork

Levine tells me that during a breathwork session, as conscious breathing increases, the airways of our lungs open more expansively. “That allows more oxygen in the body which then changes the alertness of our brain. What happens next is our parasympathetic nervous system counteracts this, and brings our body back to a homeostasis state. When we continue this for more than a few minutes, our brain tells our body we are safe and we are able to go deeper with our breath and nervous system.”

While everyone has their own unique experience with breathwork, I’ve tried it several times. Overall, my sessions (especially one I had with Levine) have been profound with my entire body tingling, seeing visions, crying, and being in and out of consciousness. There’s something very psychedelic about a really deep breathwork session.

But keep in mind…

Breathwork can have physical risks. So if you’re not taking instruction from an expert or teacher— it is important to listen to your body and not push too hard. “If you feel lightheaded or uncomfortable during a breathing session—it’s best to work within your limits,” says Cramer.

And as always, check in with your healthcare provider before beginning a new wellness practice.

 

Where should you start?

If you’re interested in breathwork but want to experience it for yourself before working with a practitioner or going to a class, there are always resources online.

While Levine holds online workshops as well as private remote sessions, there are plenty of free resources on YouTube. Wim Hof, who is one of the most renowned figures in the breathwork industry has several free YouTube videos available. You may also want to check out Samantha Skelly’s YouTube channel. She trained Levine and has lots of videos devoted to the practice. 

Have you ever tried breathwork? What was your experience like? Tell us about it in the comments!

This Digital Detox Challenge Changed My Mental State (and Habits) Overnight

In the spirit of the Detoxify Your Life Challenge, I recently completed a 5-day digital detox challenge. For 5 days, I went the first hour of the day tech-free.

Here’s why I did it, and what I learned.

Raise your virtual hand if technology has inadvertently infiltrated every aspect of your morning routine. If the first thing your sleepy eyes open to is the snooze button on your phone – or perhaps a baby monitor where you have a front row seat to your little one trying to escape their crib…again – you’re not alone.

The successive checking of Slack messages, missed emails, Instagram stories and TikTok content can be all consuming. It quickly dominates your head space, priming you for a never-ending list of to-do’s, products you want to further research and big questions like what’s that beautiful park Shay had a picnic at this weekend?!

So, what was it like going tech-free for 5 mornings straight? Surprising, to say the least.

The DL on why to avoid tech in the morning

I’ve heard countless times that it’s *bad* to look at my phone first thing in the morning. But why?

Forbes does an excellent job of breaking down the science behind the statement, namely that by “checking your phone right after waking up you are priming your brain for distraction.” Oh, and not to mention “seeing or reading something negative first thing in the morning can trigger your stress response and put you on edge for the rest of the day.”

First: Yikes!! to the fact that I’m routinely paving my way toward distraction by reaching for my phone upon waking.

Second: There have been countless times I’ve read a message from a friend, family member or coworker that has instantly made me feel anxious, nervous, concerned, stressed…or if I’m really lucky, all of the above. These feels impact the rest of my morning — realistically bleeding into the rest of my day.

As a dear friend recently reminded me, we’re the only ones who can control what we’re exposed to on our phones. In the spirit of prioritizing my mental health and challenging my perhaps not-so-healthy morning routine, it seemed that a tech-free morning detox was a worthwhile experiment.

My morning digital detox challenge

As my main source of “technology,” I set out to break free of habitual phone usage for the first hour after waking up. What was a seemingly daunting task, well, was.

My phone hosts my calendar, reminder notifications, random notes of things to address on a given day, important to-do’s and is my source for both personal and work communication. Yes, I still call my mom almost every day. Love you, Ma! 

The preparation

Before the first morning, I mentally ran down the list of what I use my phone for upon waking. We use the Nanit (which I love SM), but it also requires me to look at the app on my phone to check on my son. Many of our lamps are connected to smart outlets, meaning I turn them on in the morning using an app on my phone. Not to mention, playing Ms. Rachel on YouTube is the only way I can go to the bathroom in a semi-peaceful state while my toddler stands at my ankles mesmerized by her singing and dancing.

The first learning from this endeavor

My life is intertwined deeply in technology, not just for communication and entertainment. For the purposes of this detox, only necessities were allowed (i.e. baby monitor, light switches, etc.) during that first hour each morning.

Now, how was I going to hold myself accountable for the hour-long wait I set out to complete? I turned my phone on Do Not Disturb at night and deleted Instagram so I wasn’t tempted to scroll. Your fingers have muscle memory too, friend, so if you just *happen* to open a social app because you’re used to doing it, I’d recommend removing this (and any other) literal clickbait for your digital detox.

Pro tip: if you’re embarking upon a digital detox challenge and want to avoid your phone entirely, check out the Hatch all-in-one nightlight, sleep and sound machine. You can set it to wake you up at a specific time each morning with hand-selected calming colors and soothing sounds instead of your standard ring ring ring! that’s frequently snoozed. Aaand…if you’re a parent of little ones who’s reading this and thinking to themselves “I have a built-in alarm clock sleeping across the hall,” I see you and I’m cheering you on. 

How it all went down

The first hour I’m awake each morning is typically a hasty one. I run and grab my son out of his crib, make his breakfast, sneak in a few sips of coffee that will inevitably be reheated 2-3 times, clean big people dishes, scrub baby bits and bobs, change multiple diapers (and often clothing), and pack his snacks for the day.

While there isn’t typically a lot of time for me to be on my phone, there was a noticeable difference in my routine when I knew my phone was off-limits. I had a mental check-in each time I mindlessly reached for it in between tasks, and when I let it be, I felt instantly more present and accomplished my morning to-do list quicker than usual.

As the week went on, I felt better each successive morning

I mean noticeably better. Instead of tuning into my feed, I tuned into the sound of the birds chirping outside my window, giving me a sense of calm and connectedness. Rather than catch up on emails, I caught up with my son by being increasingly present and available to meet his needs. Instead of letting my phone dictate my thought pattern, I let my mind wake up at its own pace, and was even surprised by how well I managed my to-do list without referencing the notes on my phone.

I felt empowered, as if I was bestowed greater confidence because I didn’t have to rely so heavily on my phone for planning or intermittent entertainment. This was the healthiest “cleanse” I had ever done that gave me immediate results with a lasting impact – no green juice was required to feel lighter, almost instantly.

The most glaring result of my digital detox challenge

I found myself less and less attached to my phone throughout the day. By not reaching for it first thing in the morning, I found I could go longer periods without checking it. And it felt so good.

What we don’t realize when we’re constantly plugged into our phone, email or otherwise is that we’re missing the little things in life that light us up. I, and so many, fall into a pattern of constant consumption. It’s consuming what others are doing, saying, thinking and experiencing – and it leaves little room for you to feel, process and live on your own terms.

The week was freeing in ways I hadn’t anticipated, leaving a lasting impact on how I plan to start each day moving forward.

But, did it help you sleep better?

Did I sleep better during my AM digital detox? No, but only because I have a toddler who wakes multiple times in the night. I did overall find myself more peaceful – which my husband will attest to – and falling to sleep faster, what I believe is a result of spending less time in front of a screen overall and more time being active and present during my day.

I found myself feeling more exhausted in a physical sense than a mental sense, which I typically feel the reverse of pretty strongly. 

Should you try a digital detox challenge?

If you’re reading this and wondering “should I give this a go?” my answer wholeheartedly is yes…within reason. Make the parameters work for you, as I did by allowing myself to turn on Ms. Rachel when running to the bathroom.

If your work week feels too hectic to unplug for the first hour each morning, you could designate one day a week where you prioritize going analog, or even opt for weekends when you aren’t rushing out the door to an important meeting or dropping the kids at school followed by endless errands.

If you try the morning digital detox challenge, I hope you find a bit of joy and peace in your experience as I did. We all move through life differently, but giving myself space to exist without my phone was a game-changer.

When the reality of being an entrepreneur hits you in the gut!

Hey guys!

What’s up with me? Just…entrepreneur things

 

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Ok but for real though. The past couple weeks have been extremely challenging for me, and then just when I think I’m about to break, we get notified that a REALLY important shipment full of POPFLEX Sloane Totes (yes, THOSE totes you’ve been waiting to restock) was stolen and now the truck has gone missing.
…

Like, is this for real?? Is the truck driver okay? Is he/she missing too? Or is it just the cargo? Did the truck driver run away with the goods and now we’re gonna see my babies popping up on eBay or Amazon!?

Honestly, my heart and body went numb when I heard the news because as a small business owner, every single unit counts.

That’s a huge punch in the gut – not only in terms of loss of inventory and loss of sales, but now, a lot of people will be upset and frustrated that they can’t get something they’ve been waiting for for so long, and may very likely buy elsewhere. So, we lose the opportunity to build a customer relationship.

But what I can do? Complaining won’t help. All I can say is…

’tis life. 

Sam and I looked at each other, shook our heads, and honestly, there was no time to feel sorry for ourselves. We quickly went into our next meetings, smiled through our reality, and continued on “business as usual”.

I have no idea if we’ll ever see those bags again or if the shipping company will ever refund us (we filed a claim but they said it will take up to 1 year to get any type of compensation, that is, if it even gets approved by them) – so yah. Life isn’t perfect, or fair, it’s just a game with lots of obstacles.

I cherish every day that I get to live the life of an entrepreneur and the immense freedom that comes with it, but there’s no one protecting you or looking out for you. So when stuff like this happens, you’re on your own.

Anyway! Sam and I made ANOTHER reorder so hopefully the reorder of the reorder of the Sloane Totes will arrive in a few months (if we’re lucky). If you’ve been waiting, I’m sorry for the extra long wait, but if you could hold out for another few months that would mean everything to us!

Thank you

Entrepreneur things…UGH

Hey guys!

What’s up with me? Just…entrepreneur things

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Cassey Ho (@blogilates)

Ok but for real though. The past couple weeks have been extremely challenging for me, and then just when I think I’m about to break, we get notified that a REALLY important shipment full of POPFLEX Sloane Totes (yes, THOSE totes you’ve been waiting to restock) was stolen and now the truck has gone missing.
…

Like, is this for real?? Is the truck driver okay? Is he/she missing too? Or is it just the cargo? Did the truck driver run away with the goods and now we’re gonna see my babies popping up on eBay or Amazon!?

Honestly, my heart and body went numb when I heard the news because as a small business owner, every single unit counts.

That’s a huge punch in the gut – not only in terms of loss of inventory and loss of sales, but now, a lot of people will be upset and frustrated that they can’t get something they’ve been waiting for for so long, and may very likely buy elsewhere. So, we lose the opportunity to build a customer relationship.

But what I can do? Complaining won’t help. All I can say is…

’tis life. 

Sam and I looked at each other, shook our heads, and honestly, there was no time to feel sorry for ourselves. We quickly went into our next meetings, smiled through our reality, and continued on “business as usual”.

I have no idea if we’ll ever see those bags again or if the shipping company will ever refund us (we filed a claim but they said it will take up to 1 year to get any type of compensation, that is, if it even gets approved by them) – so yah. Life isn’t perfect, or fair, it’s just a game with lots of obstacles.

I cherish every day that I get to live the life of an entrepreneur and the immense freedom that comes with it, but there’s no one protecting you or looking out for you. So when stuff like this happens, you’re on your own.

Anyway! Sam and I made ANOTHER reorder so hopefully the reorder of the reorder of the Sloane Totes will arrive in a few months (if we’re lucky). If you’ve been waiting, I’m sorry for the extra long wait, but if you could hold out for another few months that would mean everything to us!

Thank you

If the Jeans Fit: When and How to Get Rid of Clothes

How do you know it’s time to get rid of clothes? There’s always a “what if,” whether it’s a piece that served you well in the past, or something that still has tags a year after you bought it.

Cleaning out my closet is emotional for me. Who knew clothes could be so nostalgic? Plus it sometimes makes me yearn for my pre-baby days when I had the BEST boobs and hips and didn’t look bloated from my feet to my face. My body has never been the same after having two kids in my 30’s- And that’s OK!

But it doesn’t mean I don’t miss my old clothes…

The case for holding on

I’ll hold on to a few old dresses I wore in the 90s and early 2000’s because eventually they’ll come back in style, right? Every 90s teen and young adult remembers how popular Betsey Johnson dresses were, so of course, I saved some of her dresses in an old suitcase to pass down to my kids or nieces someday, along with my fave Express dress from 2004.

I also saved clothes from designer brands that just aren’t around anymore, or as “trendy,” because I love that they’re considered ‘vintage.’ (For example, I have a pair of Todd Oldham jeans I wore to death in college that are so nostalgic to me, and remind me of good times. I just can’t toss them. I’ll never fit into them again, but I still love them. Into the storage suitcase they go.)

I lived in Manhattan in my early 20s, and loved vintage clothing shops back in the day, so I’ll never toss old vintage jackets I got on Bleecker Street, or this grey dress I wore on dates and Girls Nights back when NYC was feeling vibrant again in a post-9/11 world.

 

@bri.hull Not ready to donate? No problem #colorpalettecloset #closetorganization ♬ Bartender – yukia

They no longer fit, or no longer make you happy

I asked two fellow mamas how they organize and toss their clothes

“I have two methods for the best time to part ways with clothes,” says celebrity wardrobe stylist, Pilar Scratch. “When the clothes no longer fit and no longer make you happy. If I look at a garment and I’m not excited; I get rid of it.”

Adds Pilar: “As a mother, my weight has gone up and down since giving birth to my son. Once I reached a size four I knew it was time to get rid of my 8+ clothing. I typically donate my clothes to the local Salvation Army or my favorite thrift store. If the clothes aren’t wearable I will toss them out.”

Pilar does have a favorite shirt that she has “great memories in — I will absolutely keep the garment.”

Getting rid of clothes can feel like the end of an era

My last full-time office job was 10 years ago, and I wore formal pants and polyester tops every day for 8 years…all those Ann Taylor and Banana Republic clothes, although nice at the time, never really felt like “me” (think black cigarette pants and pleated, floral tops) and so I donated them years ago to Housing Works in Tribeca, NYC. Because my career changed from in-office to in-house, so did my attire.

Nicole Murphy, veteran model and founder of beauty and wellness brand yFOY, talks about her old maternity clothes. “Honestly, after being pregnant five times I couldn’t wait to get rid of my maternity clothes. I did not want to look at them anymore, so I donated them.”

I can relate to this, but I kept a few cotton maternity tops because they’re comfortable to sleep and lounge around in. I donated or tossed everything else.

Using the beloved jeans as “inspiration”

I’ve definitely done this, and Nicole admits she has too. “Sometimes I’ll pick up those jeans and say, ‘Ohmigod, these are so cute! If only I can still get back in them — I may be able to fit these jeans again.’ Now recently I came to the realization that I’m older and my body is just not the same. I have to work extra hard to lose weight and I have to realize there’s no way I’m getting back into those jeans anymore and I need to let them go because my body is different.”

@nutritionalsarah But also, leggings totally work too #momtok #baby ♬ originalljud – absolutesnacc

 

Nicole points out that letting go of your old jeans can also be an excuse to buy some new ones.

We love a silver lining.

I also personally toss old t-shirts and tank tops, especially if they’re faded, stretched out, and the cotton is thin from so many washes. Besides, do I really need 15 T-shirts? Most of which are from concerts I saw in 2006?

“No, they’re not necessary–but isn’t it funny how we all tend to wear certain things out of our closet constantly and we don’t touch the other part of our closet?” points out Nicole.

I am guilty of this. I have a whimsy denim dress with floral patches hanging in my closest I like, but haven’t worn in ages….and yet, I live in my fave black leggings and a grey GAP tee. I’ll even Febreeze them and wear them two days in a row. (Hey! Old college habits die hard.)

Declutter your house and your mind

Cleaning out your closet is also a great way to just clear out clutter—from your home, and your mind. Knowing this can make tossing easier.

I once heard (and I don’t know from who—I will just say Oprah for the sake of it) if you haven’t worn it in a year, you’ll never wear it again. I make that my mantra when cleaning out most of my clothes so I’m not hanging onto pieces that are just collecting dust.

Sell, donate, or swap

“I don’t like clutter—so when it starts getting crazy, I know I have too much in my closet. Time to get rid of the stuff I don’t wear!,” says Nicole. “What’s great now is that there are apps where you can sell your clothing, which you can use for cleaning motivation– or you can just donate items. There are so many new options now.”

Apps for selling clothes:

PoshmarkThredUPDepopMercariOfferUpCurtsy

 

Another great option: Hand it off to your bestie. Trading clothes with friends is a clever way to toss your crap and upgrade your own wardrobe.

Give upcycling a try

And, of course, I like to upcycle and recycle. I’ve dressed my kid’s large teddy bears in old, shrunken college tee’s of mine, and used ratty clothes as dish rags (including cut-up cotton leggings) that I store in a “junk” bin under the sink. I’ll even cut up old shirts and leggings—only cotton ones—and use the to apply my Witch Hazel (astringent) at night because I find when I pat the fabric on my face it’s just as comfortable and soft as a cotton pad.

In a pinch, you can even use old, stretched-out tee’s as pillowcases; which I’ve done when my kids had an accident (or even food poisoning…) in their beds and I can’t seem to find a fresh, new, clean pillowcase at 4am.

Didn’t I say old college habits die hard?

Got Sore Muscles? Try This Massage Hack

Hey guys!

I looove a good massage. It’s probably my favorite form of self-care and it’s seriously one of the only ways I can get super relaxed. It sounds weird, but the more intense, the better.

But lately, my muscles have been BEGGING for some love. I saw a massage therapist on the reg before the pandemic stopped almost all of our “normal” routines. I remember asking Sam for a massage instead, but that would last about two minutes before he would fall asleep.

Sooo on to Plan B. Self-massage!

Did you know that you can actually give yourself a deep tissue massage?

YES! You can! And it’s actually pretty amazing once you get the hang of it. After learning how to do this a few years ago, it’s become part of my regular routine!

Wanna learn how? Go grab some balls (no, seriously), and try this home massage hack!

@blogilatesDeep tissue massage on a budget. ##massage ##deeptissue ##relaxation ##selfcare ##blogilates ##fitnessroutine ##postworkout ##soremuscles ##selfcareroutine♬ Aesthetic – Xilo

What you need for an at home deep tissue massage

A ball!

Specifically, something small and hard, but not TOO HARD. Depending on the pressure you want, try a tennis ball (lightest), a massage ball (medium), or a lacrosse ball (deepest).

Otherwise, all you need is a mat to lay on. Also, you really need to lay on a flat, sturdy surface. A bed won’t work.

How to give yourself a deep tissue massage

Okay, here’s how it works.

Gently lay on your ball, making sure it’s not pushing directly on any bone or joint! Only the meaty parts.Roll the ball around and explore! If you hit a spot that feels “good,” feel free to hold and really focus on it. If you experience any kind of shooting pain, STOP.For a deeper massage, when laying down, lift your butt or even one leg up. For less intensity, ground both feet on the floor or keep your butt on the floor.Roll around for about 1 minute per area, or as long as it feels good!Make sure you BREATHE. When oxygen flows then blood flows and then your muscles can become nourished. Plus, breathing helps regulate the intensity and clear your mind.

Small warning – this can be pretty intense if you have some really tight spots that need to be worked out. Start with lighter pressure and hold for a shorter amount of time until your body adjusts!

Areas to focus on


GlutesHamstringsShouldersUpper backLower backLatsFeet


Try this massage hack to relieve sore muscles!

Working out, sitting a lot throughout the day, and not-so-great posture can all lead to tight muscles. Deep tissue massage gets in there and loosens up knots in the muscle, brings more circulation to the areas that need it, and decreases inflammation. Not even kidding –  I feel like a new person after a good massage! But it’s also super important for workout recovery.

My favorite part? It also helps me RELAX.

Start slow and let your body adjust to deep tissue massage. Your muscles and mind will thank you if you incorporate this massage hack into your self-care routine!

Want a full stretch routine using the massage ball?

I loooove this stretch routine from the  #21DayTone challenge. If you’re checking off Day 10 of the Detoxify Your Life Challenge and want MORE – a longer routine that includes both the massage ball, yoga straps (or a towel works, too) – you’ll love this.