Cassey Ho's Blog, page 34

How Ayesha Curry is Building Healthy Habits in 2023

The start of a new year is a great time to reset and focus on creating healthy habits for overall wellness, but that doesn’t mean you can’t decide to change your habits at any time you are ready. Wellness is a lifestyle and way of being and there’s no better example than Ayesha Curry – chef, cookbook author, wife of NBA star Stephen Curry, and mother of three. 

Like many of us, Curry is on a mission in 2023 to reach new levels on her own wellness journey. She filled us in on what she’s learned on her journey so far, and the tools she’s using to build healthy habits.

Balancing nutrition with family life

As a busy mother and wife, Ayesha understands the challenges of maintaining a healthy diet while balancing the demands of family life. “Now that my kids are a bit older, I’ve entered a new chapter of life and wanted to reclaim my body and get into shape, but in an approachable and sustainable way,” she tells Blogilates. Recently, Curry also kicked off a partnership with the leading global nutrition and food tracking app, MyFitnessPal, to impart with others how food, hydration and exercise positively impacted her body.

Curry first started her wellness journey three years ago and has been consistently using the app. “It’s truly helped to keep me accountable by seeing how the food I eat and workouts I do impact my body when tracking in the app. For example, if I don’t eat enough protein in a day, I have less energy,” she shares.

Image: MyFitnessPal

As a chef herself with a successful cookbook, “The Seasoned Life,” Curry is aware of how nutrition and food play a part in creating healthy habits. Some of Curry’s favorite recipes to refuel include a tropical post-workout smoothie. All you have to do is toss in some banana, mango, spinach, almond butter, Greek yogurt along with your favorite protein powder or collagen powder, give it a blend and you’re done. In only five minutes, you’ll have a beverage packed with nutrients that will transport you to a tropical paradise offshore.

When Curry has more time to cook, she enjoys preparing dishes that her kids will like. This includes turkey burgers with smashed avocado or her favorite versatile grilled chicken with mango corn salsa grain bowl.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Ayesha Curry (@ayeshacurry)

Learning to look at wellness as a whole

Curry’s commitment to healthy eating is not focused on simply tracking calories. And of course apps that monitor food intake are not for everyone. However, one advantage of MyFitnessPal is that it allows users to visualize the nutritional breakdown in their foods. A macro breakdown is beneficial for some to ensure they are maintaining a balanced diet all day long to keep them energized and full. 

Curry also shows that it is possible to make positive changes, no matter how busy your life may be. In addition to her focus on food, she also prioritizes self-care and exercise.

“I recently realized that aggressive workouts don’t work for me. But my body responds better to a quick 20-minute Pilates class than an hour pushing it in the gym. Mixing it up with a hike outside or yoga at home also helps me break up the monotony of the gym and keeps me motivated mentally to keep pushing towards my fitness goals,” she confesses. 

The amount and type of physical activity that works for each person varies. Something that might work for you, may not work for others. Curry is a prime example of that. 

“Do what works for you. It took me a while to realize this, but there’s no one size fits all.” 

Of course, wellness is incomplete without having an established self-care routine.

Just like the rest of us, Curry has her bad days, but meditation, skincare, daily salutations and 5 minute journaling helps her remain composed and give clarity when she’s stuck in a rut.

“Begin to remind yourself that you’ll feel better after doing an activity and slowly it will become a habit. Keep in mind the ‘why’ of your health and fitness goals, have grace with yourself on the bad days, and celebrate the small wins that you accomplish to keep up momentum. This is a lifelong habit to build and skipping a day or two doesn’t mean you’re back at square one! It’s about balance.”

 

Feel the Self Love With These Journal Prompts

Self-love journal prompts to help you pause and remind yourself of how amazing you are.

Whether you’re feeling down around V-day or just want a reminder of how amazing you are, it’s always a good thing to take time and reflect on what makes you the one and only ~you~. 

What is Self-Love, Really?

Self-love. Sounds self explanatory, right? Well, it’s a little more complicated than just having a positive relationship with your own body and mind. Self-love means that you accept yourself fully, treat yourself with kindness and respect, and nurture your growth and wellbeing.

It’s a lot. And it’s easier said than done. Let’s be honest, there are plenty of times we look down on ourselves; we beat ourselves up for not looking or acting a certain way. No matter what we do, we could’ve done better. Focusing on our shortcomings is such an easy thing to do. What’s a lot harder is giving ourselves permission to celebrate all of the great things we accomplish each and every day. 

Why is Celebrating Ourselves Important?

Giving yourself some love is a form of gratitude. By reflecting on what you’ve accomplished, you are giving yourself the credit you deserve and thanking yourself for all you’ve overcome. Research says that gratitude is associated with greater happiness; it helps you feel more positive, enjoy experiences more, improve your health, and help you build stronger relationships. 

That’s right! Focusing on improving your relationship with yourself can make your other relationships even stronger. How cool is that?

So what are you waiting for? Showing yourself some love starts right now! We’ve collected some self-love journal prompts to help you get started.

Our Favorite Self-Love Journal PromptsWe’ve all faced challenges. What’s one challenge you overcame and how have you grown because of it?

 

Putting yourself out there isn’t easy. Write about a moment when you felt brave.

 

So often we see the best in others, but not in ourselves. Write a love letter for yourself… really highlight all your great qualities!

 

How can you love yourself more today? Use some of these coping skills as a guide if you need some ideas!

 

Sometimes, we can be our own worst enemy. What current habits are stopping you from loving yourself fully?

 

Try to see things in a different light. Write down one of your weaknesses. Then flip the narrative; describe why it’s actually a strength!

 

It’s about the little things. Describe something you’ve done that makes you proud.

 

Something in your past that you can’t get out of your head? What can you make peace with? Writing it down might help you to let it go.

 

It’s important to know what places in your life are safe spaces. Where can you feel comfortable expressing your authentic self?

 

Putting others before yourself is so easy to do. But it’s okay to put yourself first sometimes. When are you saying “yes” when you really want to say “no”?

 

It’s hard to practice self-love when you feel like you’re constantly drained. When do you feel the most energized? How can you incorporate these moments into your life more often?

 

Create a self-love positive affirmation for yourself. Repeat this mantra whenever you’re feeling lesser-than. 

 

Continue Your Self-Love Journey

Why not get fancy with it? Now that you’ve got some self-love journal prompts to work with, we recommend getting some cute journaling supplies too!

We love these positive affirmation stickers and these pastel journaling pens. Can’t get enough of journaling? Try the POPFLEX 90 Day Journal POPFLEX 90 Day Journal. 

We put time and energy into strengthening our relationships with others and practice giving forgiveness and grace when our expectations for them fall short. So we need to make sure to do the same for our relationships with ourselves. 

Your relationship with yourself is so important; it’s also the longest relationship you’ll ever have. So go show yourself some love! Take part in our 14-day Date Yourself Challenge, listen to some Self-Love Anthems or treat yourself to something a little something from our Valentine’s Day Gift Guide.

 

Feel the (Self) Love With These Journal Prompts

Self-love journal prompts to help you pause and remind yourself of how amazing you are.

Whether you’re feeling down around V-day or just want a reminder of how amazing you are, it’s always a good thing to take time and reflect on what makes you the one and only ~you~. 

What is Self-Love, Really?

Self-love. Sounds self explanatory, right? Well, it’s a little more complicated than just having a positive relationship with your own body and mind. Self-love means that you accept yourself fully, treat yourself with kindness and respect, and nurture your growth and wellbeing.

It’s a lot. And it’s easier said than done. Let’s be honest, there are plenty of times we look down on ourselves; we beat ourselves up for not looking or acting a certain way. No matter what we do, we could’ve done better. Focusing on our shortcomings is such an easy thing to do. What’s a lot harder is giving ourselves permission to celebrate all of the great things we accomplish each and every day. 

Why is Celebrating Ourselves Important?

Giving yourself some love is a form of gratitude. By reflecting on what you’ve accomplished, you are giving yourself the credit you deserve and thanking yourself for all you’ve overcome. Research says that gratitude is associated with greater happiness; it helps you feel more positive, enjoy experiences more, improve your health, and help you build stronger relationships. 

That’s right! Focusing on improving your relationship with yourself can make your other relationships even stronger. How cool is that?

So what are you waiting for? Showing yourself some love starts right now! We’ve collected some self-love journal prompts to help you get started.

Our Favorite Self-Love Journal PromptsWe’ve all faced challenges. What’s one challenge you overcame and how have you grown because of it?

 

Putting yourself out there isn’t easy. Write about a moment when you felt brave.

 

So often we see the best in others, but not in ourselves. Write a love letter for yourself… really highlight all your great qualities!

 

How can you love yourself more today? Use some of these coping skills as a guide if you need some ideas!

 

Sometimes, we can be our own worst enemy. What current habits are stopping you from loving yourself fully?

 

Try to see things in a different light. Write down one of your weaknesses. Then flip the narrative; describe why it’s actually a strength!

 

It’s about the little things. Describe something you’ve done that makes you proud.

 

Something in your past that you can’t get out of your head? What can you make peace with? Writing it down might help you to let it go.

 

It’s important to know what places in your life are safe spaces. Where can you feel comfortable expressing your authentic self?

 

Putting others before yourself is so easy to do. But it’s okay to put yourself first sometimes. When are you saying “yes” when you really want to say “no”?

 

It’s hard to practice self-love when you feel like you’re constantly drained. When do you feel the most energized? How can you incorporate these moments into your life more often?

 

Create a self-love positive affirmation for yourself. Repeat this mantra whenever you’re feeling lesser-than. 

 

Continue Your Self-Love Journey

Why not get fancy with it? Now that you’ve got some self-love journal prompts to work with, we recommend getting some cute journaling supplies too!

We love these positive affirmation stickers and these pastel journaling pens. Can’t get enough of journaling? Try the POPFLEX 90 Day Journal POPFLEX 90 Day Journal. 

We put time and energy into strengthening our relationships with others and practice giving forgiveness and grace when our expectations for them fall short. So we need to make sure to do the same for our relationships with ourselves. 

Your relationship with yourself is so important; it’s also the longest relationship you’ll ever have. So go show yourself some love! Take part in our 14-day Date Yourself Challenge, listen to some Self-Love Anthems or treat yourself to something a little something from our Valentine’s Day Gift Guide.

 

Chocolate Protein Baked Oats for Two

I’m just going to tell you right now that when I first tested this Chocolate Protein Baked Oats recipe, I ate almost the entire pan the second I was done taking pictures.

And no, this is not a cute single serving recipe baked in a ramekin like you’ve seen on TikTok.

Okay technically it’s only two servings, so I guess being like “omggg I ate the entire pan guys” is a little dramatic. THEY’RE GOOD, OKAY?! That’s all I’m trying to say.

Chocolate Protein Baked Oats ingredients

Oats – I used rolled oats, but you can use basically any type of oats EXCEPT for steel-cut. Don’t use those.

Protein Powder – I used the Chocolate Shake flavor of Sculpt & Debloat Protein with Probiotics! You can also you vanilla protein powder since we’re adding cocoa powder!

Cocoa Powder – Mmm, chocolate.

Salt – Just a pinch to balance the flavor. A sprinkle of flaky salt on top after it bakes is also *chef’s kiss*

Eggs – We’ll talk more about this later. I wanted to make this baked oats recipe without banana, so I opted for eggs to bind the ingredients together instead.

Monk Fruit Syrup – For sweetness. This is important since we’re not using banana, but you can use any liquid sweetener you like (maple syrup, honey, etc.). Feel free to adjust to your taste!

Chocolate Chips – Yes. More chocolate. My tip is to add the chocolate chips the second you take the baked oats out of the oven. If you sprinkle them on before it bakes, they’ll sink. Still delicious, just not as pretty.

Btw you can leave the chips out if you want, or play around with other add-ins like nuts, hemp seeds, caramel chips, or maybe…a peanut butter swirl?!

Baked oats without banana

The viral TikTok baked oats use mashed banana as the base. These Chocolate Protein Baked Oats are made without banana. I went this route because:

1. With every banana-based recipe comes several comments from people asking how to make it sans banana.

2. These are protein baked oats, so I thought I’d let eggs do their thing.

3. I didn’t want this recipe to be like the 5 million other baked oats recipes out there.

Can I make these baked oats vegan?

One reason you see banana as the base in most baked oats recipes is because it replaces the eggs, making the recipe vegan-friendly. You can absolutely swap the egg in this protein baked oats recipe for mashed banana, pumpkin puree, or even 2 flax eggs.

Keep in mind that I have not tested these swaps for this recipe! Baked oats are pretty forgiving though – give it a shot and report back in the comments!

Let’s make chocolate protein baked oats! PrintChocolate Protein Baked Oats#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-full svg * { fill: #343434; }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-33 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0-33); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-50 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0-50); }#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0 .wprm-rating-star.wprm-rating-star-66 svg * { fill: url(#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0-66); }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0-33 stop { stop-color: #343434; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0-50 stop { stop-color: #343434; }linearGradient#wprm-recipe-user-rating-0-66 stop { stop-color: #343434; }Baked oats recipe without bananaCourse Breakfast, Dessert, SnackCuisine AmericanKeyword chocolate, protein powder, high-protein, oats, blender, eggsPrep Time 5 minutesCook Time 20 minutesTotal Time 25 minutesServings 2Calories 370kcalEquipmentHigh powered blenderIngredients1 cup rolled oats2 scoops protein powder I used Sculpt & Debloat with Probiotics1 Tbsp cocoa powder1 tsp baking powderpinch salt2 eggs2 Tbsp monk fruit syrup or maple syrup½ cup almond milk or milk of choice1 tsp vanilla extract2 tbsp chocolate chipsInstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a small baking dish.Add all of the ingredients except for the chocolate chips to a high-powered blender. Blend for about a minute, until the batter is smooth.Pour batter into your prepared baking dish and bake for 15-17 minutes.Remove from oven and sprinkle with chocolate chips.Notes* Nutrition info is approximate and may vary depending on the products you use. To make these protein baked oats vanilla, just use vanilla protein powder and omit the cocoa powder and chocolate chips. Other add-ins to try: sprinkles, caramel chips, swirled peanut butter.NutritionCalories: 370kcal | Carbohydrates: 46g | Protein: 21g | Fat: 13g | Fiber: 11g

Dessert for breakfast? Yes.

Who doesn’t want to get 21 grams of protein while feeling like they’re eating cake for breakfast?! If you struggle to eat a balanced breakfast that actually keeps you full, you’ll love this. It makes a great snack too….and a dessert.

Not a chocolate lover? That’s ok! Just use vanilla protein and leave out the cocoa and chocolate chips. Add some sprinkles and you have something more like vanilla cupcake baked oats! I also hiiiiighly recommended Cassey’s Cinnamon Roll Baked Oats. IYKYK.

Let me know in the comments if you try these!! 

PS – If you want some more easy, high-protein recipes check out Cassey’s protein cookbook!

What A Beauty Writer Would Buy From Alix Earle’s Amazon Storefront

*This list of product reviews from Alix Earle’s Amazon Storefront may contain referral links for products we love, and all opinions are our own. We earn a small commission from these links, at no additional cost to you.

As a beauty writer, I’m always on the hunt for the latest viral makeup and hair products to try out. So far, my favorite viral products have been Tarte’s Shape Tape Concealer (which you’ll see on this list) and Youthforia’s BYO Blush Color Changing Oil.

However, I’ve decided to expand my horizons when looking for beauty products and turned to no one other than influencer and University of Miami student Alix Earle. After browsing through Earle’s Amazon Storefront, I came across several hair and makeup products that I knew I had to try (and review).

@alixearle SHES TAKEN #umiami #grwm #wedding ♬ original sound – alix earle

 

Alix’s influence on TikTok

Alix is known for her ‘get ready with me’ posts, where she does her full makeup routine while chatting about her previous night out or plans for the day. But it’s not just her stories of attending Miley Cyrus’s NYE party or meeting Channing Tatum at a movie premier that have everyone in a chokehold.

It’s the skincare and makeup products she uses. Suddenly everyone is using white eyeliner on their waterline, dotting their face with contour, and aggressively curling their eyelashes before applying the latest viral mascara she’s raving about.

People are running from TikTok to her Amazon Storefront to shop her entire routine. It’s not uncommon for her to sell products out completely.

Shopping Alix’s Amazon Storefront

Keep on reading to see what I thought of 5 of the top-rated viral products from her storefront, and whether or not they are worth a buy. Note that because some of these products are sold out on Amazon, I linked to other places to shop. 

Tarte Maracuja Juicy Lip Balm

Tarte Maracuja Juicy Lip Balm

 

I’m not one to opt for lip fillers, but when it comes to plumping lipsticks you can count me in. This vegan lip balm claims to plump the look of lips and smooth lip lines. Additionally, it’s made with ingredients including maracuja oil, grapeseed oil, acerola, blueberry, watermelon, strawberry, peach, and more. 

Normally, I’m not a fan of makeup with fragrance, however, the coconut smell did not bother me. It actually smelled pleasant and wasn’t even noticeable after application. And for a lip gloss, it wasn’t too glossy, but offered more of a sheen to the lips.

I didn’t notice my lips change drastically in size by using this product, but I did appreciate the rosy color that appeared. It was a hybrid between a neutral pink and mauve color for a natural look that worked well with the rest of my makeup. I liked how buildable it was so I could either use it as a lip treatment or to add more pigment to my lips when needed. 

I’d give the Tarte Maracuja Juicy Lip Balm a 8.5/10. Plus, a few extra brownie points for the extensive shade range with 11 different colors to choose from.

 

It’s A 10 Miracle Leave-In Conditioner Spray

 

Miracle Leave-in Conditioner Spray

Since I have color-treated hair, it’s very important to use professional-grade products on my strands. I’ve heard wonders about It’s A 10 Haircare Miracle Leave-In Conditioner Spray, but never used it up until this week when I snagged it from Alix’s list of hair essentials on Amazon. Now I don’t know how I’ve lasted this long without it. 

The brand advertises the spray as being able to do the following 10 things:

1. Nourish hair

2. Protect from thermal damage

3. Detangle

4. Help protect hair color

5. Restore shine

6. Help reduce frizz

7. Provide natural UV protection

8. Help replace lost proteins

9. Enhance hair’s natural body

10. Help prevent split ends

Now, it’s hard to say with certainty if the spray was able to replace lost proteins per se, however, I definitely noticed my hair was less frizzy and more shiny after using this spray. And after a long day in the sun, I didn’t experience the typical dry strands I normally encounter which was a bonus. The best part? It helped detangle my hair super easily so I wasn’t tugging through the knots when I brushed it. 

I can see why this product is viral and why people are quick to grab a bottle because it really is a miracle hair care product. I’d give this spray a 9.5 out of 10 because I can definitely notice a difference after using and a little goes a long way so you don’t have to replace it often.

Tarte Shape Tape

Tarte Shape Tape

I’ve been using Tarte’s Shape Tape Concealer for a minute, probably since 2016 when the product was first released and was all of the hype on YouTube from popular makeup artists on the platform. When I came across this on Alix Earle’s Amazon Storefront I wasn’t surprised because it really is the ultimate concealer. 

Available in 35 shades, this creamy concealer provides full coverage with a matte finish. According to the brand, it helps to smooth and blur the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while brightening the undereye area. Now, this may seem too good to be true, but I’ll tell you that it really does work. 

Although the formula is a bit thick and creamy, it really does work to cover dark circles, blemishes, and dark spots with just a tiny bit of product. While I don’t think it makes my skin feel smoother, I can say it does create the illusion of smoother and less-textured skin with added brightness. It provides a “filter-like” effect so it’s a great product for people on and off camera. I’d give the concealer a 9.5 out of 10 because it gets the job done and lasts a while as a little really does go a long way. 

e.l.f Monochromatic Multi-Stick

e.l.f. Monochromatic Multi Stick

E.l.f. Cosmetics describes this as being an all-in-one product that can work on the eyes, cheeks, and lips. It’s made with ingredients like shea butter and Vitamin E to nourish skin and add moisture where it can usually lack. 

After using the product on the eyes, lips, and cheeks, I think it’s best suited as a blush. I don’t think it did much for my lips and didn’t provide enough sheen on the eyes as I would have hoped. However, for a blush, it gave my cheeks a rosy appearance and even a highlighter-like effect. Luckily, I have dry skin so the product didn’t look too greasy, but if you have a more oilier complexion, then you might want to steer clear as you’ll definitely experience even more shine and glow with just one swipe. 

I’d give this stick a 7 out of 10 because although it can be used for the eyes, lips, and face, I’m not too sure if it should. On the other hand, the small size makes it great for using on-the-go when you can’t fit lots of makeup into your purse and you still want to touch up throughout the day.

Benefit Porefessional Face Primer

Benefit POREfessional Primer

 

As someone who spends a lot of time in the sun, finding a primer that will keep my makeup on all day is a necessity. I’ve heard only great things about this primer in terms of reducing the appearance of pores and increasing the longevity of makeup. 

After using it just once, I noticed a difference in my complexion. My skin felt ultra-smooth like it hasn’t been in a long time. My makeup went on seamlessly and the primer created a smooth base for it to adhere to. I can’t tell whether or not it was the primer that helped my makeup stay on all day, but it did last a full day out in the sun so that’s definitely something to make note of. 

The only downfall with this product is that you need to use a few dollops to cover the entire face which means you’ll run out fairly quickly. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, but it means you’ll be buying it pretty often. 

What viral makeup products have you in a chokehold?

Are you shopping Alix Earle’s Amazon Storefront, or staying true to your ride or die products? Let me know what your must-haves so I can add them to my list to try!

The Blogilates Date Yourself Challenge: 14 Days of Self-Love!

Hey guys!

So I was thinking…what if we did a new challenge EVERY MONTH of 2023?!

I guess you could say I’m just not ready for the vibe of our January challenge to be over! Because I enjoy coming together for a challenge SO much. You really motivate me!

Plus the Good Mood Challenge truly put me in a GOOD MOOD (yay it worked!). I loved the reminders every day to do something for me – I looked forward to every little challenge! Plus I never felt obligated like I do sometimes with a strictly fitness challenge. Instead, each day felt more like an opportunity. Why not keep that going?!

So that’s the goal…a new journey we can embark on together each month. But these challenges won’t just be another version of the Good Mood Challenge – Some will be fitness-focused, some will zero in on nutrition, and we’ll touch back in with whole-body wellness when we need it.

For February, the theme is self-love.

We’re a month into the year, which is when a lot of us are hard on ourselves. Maybe you didn’t stick to your New Year’s resolution as well as you wanted….or maybe you gave up completely. Maybe you were diligent with your plan but you’re not seeing the results you hoped for.

Before we embark on a journey of challenges through 2023, the first challenge must first be to accept and love yourself where you are right. now.

So with that, I hope you’ll join me in…

The Date Yourself Challenge

Download JPEG

A 14-day self-love challenge

We tend to be our own worst critic. We are so hard on ourselves every chance we get, and sometimes, we overlook the things we should be proud of.

BUT NOT ANYMORE.

After spending 14 days loving on yourself and doing things for YOU, you’re going to fall deeper in love with yourself. We’re taking ourselves on min wellness dates (think fitness breaks and movement goals), treating ourselves to our favorite things, and taking the time to do what we love.

Your first task is to create a mixtape-like playlist for yourself, and then listen to it! Think of it like your self-love anthems for February!

Ready to date yourself?!

 

You can do this challenge Feb 1- 14 so the dates line up, or you can start any time you want! This is your self-love challenge, so do what works for you!!

Let me know if you’re IN in the comments! Omg and should we make a hashtag and share pics from our daily dates with ourselves??! Let’s do #dateyourselfchallenge !!

15 Non-Cheesy Valentine’s Day Gifts for Him

*This list of Valentine’s day gifts for him may contain referral links for products we love, and all opinions are our own. Blogilates.com earns a small commission from these links, at no additional cost to you.

With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, there’s not much time left to get done shopping for the special guy in your life. For most people, you can’t go wrong with some chocolate and a flower bouquet. However, for your him, you might be looking to spruce it up a bit with some hygiene products, daily essentials, cooking tools, and more.

On the other side of the spectrum, you may want to trigger the nostalgia with some childhood favorites like video game controllers and teddy bears. To help you narrow down the list, we’ve gathered 13 of the best Valentine’s Day gifts for your boyfriend you’ll want to get your hands on before February 14 rolls around.

15 Non-Cheesy Valentine’s Day Gifts for Him

You really can’t go wrong with any of these picks to show your guy some love this V-Day (or any time, really!)

1. Dylan’s Candy Bar Variety Tackle Box 

Dylan's Candy Bar Variety Tackle Box

Something sweet always makes a winning Valentine’s gift for him. This gift ventures away from the classic box of chocolates and allows for something more unique while still providing a sweet treat. To make it even more special, Dylan’s Candy Bar provides the option to add a customizable note so your special someone knows it’s from you. 

 

2. Grazia Drizzle & Sizzle Bundle

Graza Drizzle and Sizzle

If your partner is a master in the kitchen, then surprise them with this duo pack of extra virgin olive oil. The easy-to-squeeze bottles make it a breeze to add on top of many dishes or to saute vegetables to add some enhanced flavor. Even better, if they are looking to make you a romantic dinner, they can use their new EVOO to give their dishes a quality upgrade. 

 

3. ThreadWallets Black Elastic Wallet

ThreadWallets Black Elastic Wallet

We hate to say it, but some boys are just disorganized (not all, but some.) When it comes to keeping money, credit cards, and ID’s secure, give them this minimalist pocket wallet. The tight knit elastic provides little room for unwanted movement and it’s small enough to fit in the tiniest pockets without being too bulky. They are available in different colors and patterns from black and chocolate to hound and bonsai. 

 

4. Bean & Bean Cold Brew Kit

Bean & Bean Cold Brew Kit

For the coffee-lover in your life, especially if he likes it strong. This valentine’s day gift comes with everything he needs to brew his own cold brew at home, including some beans specifically roasted for cold brew. The best part? You can use this kit to brew hot coffee too.

 

5. Urban Skin Rx Exfoliating Face Wash + Scrub

Urban Skin Rx Exfoliating Face Wash

Skin care isn’t just for girls — everyone should have a skincare routine. This exfoliating face wash and scrub is made with salicylic acid, jojoba beads, and niacinamide which work to minimize and wash away dirt while buffing away dead skin cells for a more even and smooth complexion. The best part? It’s sulfate and paraben-free so there’s no need to worry about harsh ingredients causing potential irritation and unwanted redness.

 

6. Backbone One: Xbox Edition

Backbone One for iPhone

If you don’t have a game controller to use, then turn your phone into one with a connector that is compatible with any phone from iPhones to Androids. It has a lightning port to direct it onto a larger screen and charge the phone at the same time. Your partner can use them on the go whether that’s at work, at the gym, or anywhere in between.

 

7. Pair Eyewear The Twain

Pair Eyewear - The Twain

Give the gift of sight this Valentine’s Day with eyeglasses from Pair Eyewear. These glasses have more of a rounded shape to frame the face, particularly designed for those with smaller heads. You can get them with a prescription or without and can choose from progressives, readers, and single vision. And they are scratch resistant and anti-reflective. 

 

8. POPFLEX Vegan Suede Yoga Mat

POPFLEX Vegan Suede Yoga Mat

Whether he’s hitting the gym, working out at home, or joining you in a yoga class, a high-quality mat is a must. The POPFLEX Vegan Suede Yoga Mat is famous for it’s comfy cushion for joints and it’s vegan suede that gets more grippy as you get more sweaty. And for the first time ever, you can snag this mat in solid navy.

 

9. Knock Knock What I Love About You Book

What I Love About You by Me

Ditch the super sappy card and fill out this “What I Love About You” book for your boyfriend. Not only will it make you reflect on how lucky you are, but will let them know how much you appreciate them. Find prompts inside like “I love how you…,” “I am kind of obsessed with your…,” and “you have the greatest taste in…” 

 

10. Brooklinen Super Plush Robe

Brooklinen Super-Plush Robe

Made from Turkish cotton, this soft robe is a great way to dry off our lounge around in style after hopping out of the shower or coming home from work. It features wide sleeves, pockets, and an adjustable tie waist to keep it in place. It’s available in four different colors including white, striped flamingo, smoke, and graphite and in sizes XS to XL. 

 

11. The Small Everywhere Zip Backpack

Away - The Small Everywhere Backpack

This backpack is ideal for those spontaneous adventures and dream vacations with its water-resistant nylon fabric and breathable back panel to keep your back sweat free. There’s a 13-inch laptop sleeve, water bottle holder, and a detachable key clip to keep everything together while on the go. And for travel, it’s the perfect size for a carry-on so you can keep the essentials on you at all times.

 

12. Therabody Theragun Prime 

Therabody Theragun Prime

For those days when you’re not around to give your boyfriend a massage, this handheld massage gun will do the trick. On a full charge, the massage gun can last up to two hours and uses QuietForce technology for an essentially sound-free and relaxing treatment. And with five built-in speed settings, there are ample ways to relax the muscles and let the body destress. 

 

13. Ultimate Ears Wonderboom 3 Bluetooth Speaker

Ultimate Ears Bluetooth Speaker

Whether at the beach, by the pool, or in the kitchen, this bluetooth speaker is the best way to crank up the music for everyone to enjoy. It can be submerged in water for up to 30 minutes and is dirt-resistant, drop proof, and portable for easy travel. Choose from one of four colors including black, pink, gray and blue. 

 

14. Quince Bamboo Sheet Set

Quince Bamboo Sheet Set

If your boyfriend is a hot sleeper, then you can give him this set of bamboo sheets for Valentine’s Day. The sheets are made to regulate body temperature, wick moisture away, and minimize unwanted odor. And not only are they comfortable and lightweight, but breathable so they don’t feel too heavy as you lay on top of them at night. 

 

15. Audible Membership

Audible Membership

And last but not least, arguably one of the easiest Valentine’s Day gifts for him – A gift membership to Audible. This is great for the guy who doesn’t need anything, or maybe the one who has a long commute. With Audible, he can listen to books or podcasts while he drives, works, exercises, or does the dishes.

That concludes our list of Valentine’s Day gifts for him!

Hopefully this made your shopping a little easier! Come back to this list any time you want to make the guy in your life feel special.

 

A Playlist of Self-Love Songs to Celebrate YOU!

A playlist full of self-love songs – or should we call them your February anthems?

Calling all boss babes! We love our Blogilates community so much and hope that you’re all giving yourself some love this Valentine’s season! Whether you’re nourishing your body with one of our delicious recipes or treating yourself to your dream workout wardrobe, it’s time to treat yourself. 

Our Valentine’s gift to you? A playlist full of self-love songs that’ll have you feelin’ yourself and dancing all day. We’ve put together a list of 37 confidence-boosting anthems to encourage that self-love feeling. Listen to it while getting ready for a Galentine’s brunch, getting some work done (you go girl!) or even while working hard at your workout.

Find our playlist of self-love songs on Spotify!

Sing along with confidence queens like Lizzo, Beyoncé, and Miley Cyrus. Belt your favorite verses with Demi Lovato and Ariana Grande. And with M.I.A., Rihanna, and Doja Cat on deck, I dare you to resist an all-out dance party for one.

 

What songs make you feel like a boss? Comment them below!

What playlist do you want to see next?!

Let us know in the comments! If you’re loving this playlist, check out our Y2K Workout Playlist, 2022 TikTok HIITs, and Cozy Vibes Playlist playlists too!

 

6 Non-Scale Victories Totally Worth Celebrating

Believe it or not — we are nearly one month into 2023! 

You may be rounding out January by checking on your progress toward your goals, including analyzing the number on the scale or the size tag on your “goal” jeans tucked in the back of your closet.

While these metrics can certainly help determine your progress towards some of the health and fitness goals you may have bounded into the gym or group fitness studio with on January 1, they are certainly not the full picture of your progress and your overall health. And, more than that, they take time and don’t often follow a linear path (that’s life!). 

Weight is a snapshot of a day — not your overall health.

Most of us grew up hearing otherwise, but we’re here to tell you: weight isn’t the most accurate picture of health. 

While a pound is a pound, it’s not always equal. Muscle is denser than fat. Thus, the number on the scale may not reflect the changes to your body composition. 

Beyond that, your body has mechanisms for keeping your weight stable (within 2-10 pounds), so it can be hard to shift the number on the scale significantly in just a month. 

What are non scale victories?

If you’re feeling discouraged that you haven’t already hit your 12 month fitness goal on January 31, don’t get down yet. Instead, get mindful and motivated by paying attention to non scale-victories (NSVs).

These metrics and benchmarks can often go unnoticed if you’re focused solely on the scale or pant size, but NSVs are key health improvements that can help you tap into a more comprehensive picture of your overall health, which is multifaceted. And, health is the ultimate goal, right? 

If you’re looking for signs that your tireless efforts on the mat, at the weight rack or on the local trail are paying off, here are a few markers that you can pay attention to and celebrate. 

1. Energy Levels + Performance Metrics

Have you noticed a boost in your energy outside the initial endorphin spike following a sweat sesh? Perhaps you can walk up the stairs without pausing or haul groceries through the front door without the usual feeling of exhaustion.

These wins may seem trivial at first, but instead, they showcase how functional fitness is positively impacting your daily life. If you want to assess energy in terms of exercise, notice if you are pushing for five seconds longer in a HIIT interval, shaving a few seconds off your mile time or adding an extra push up or squat to your circuit. 

2. Sleep Quality

Have you been settling into bed easier without counting sheep for hours? Have you been waking up feeling more rested and ready to take on the day? Research suggests that losing belly fat may positively impact sleep quality, so while you may not visibly see the loss, your body is reaping the reward of deep sleep, which is crucial to your long-term fitness journey.

Deep sleep helps repair muscles, regulates the production of appetite-inducing hormones and modifies your cortisol levels, which are often correlated to inflammation. Peep your Fitbit or Oura Ring to see how your sleep is stacking up month over month.

3. Pain Relief

Have you noticed less joint pain and stiffness both in your workouts and throughout your daily routine? If your weight is slowly decreasing, you may be feeling less joint pain as weight loss can reduce the stress on your weight-bearing joints (think your knees and lower back!).

If daily stretching is on your 2023 habits list, you may also see additional pain relief in sore muscles and some of the areas that ache after a long day of sitting at any desk job. Muscular relief can help you move around easier on the day-to-day and push you in workouts along your fitness journey. 

4. Clear Skin

Are you glowing? Have you used fewer acne patches in the last few weeks? It’s not just a rumor: sweat and a plant-forward diet can help your skin shine. While it seems contrary to popular belief, sweating during exercise actually helps your skin detox and remove toxins that can produce acne and clogged pores (just remember to wash your face after the gym!).

Plus, a diet full of fruits and veggies nourishes your skin with all the nutrients it needs to shine. And, if you’re considering long-term health, a diet full of antioxidant-rich foods can help prevent DNA damage from sun exposure. So today’s glow is just the start.

5. Blood Pressure

Has your blood pressure dipped? You may associate blood pressure with the tight-gripping mechanism at the doctor’s office, but it goes deeper. Blood pressure, which is largely impacted by nutrition, exercise and stress, can help indicate if you are at a higher risk of cardiovascular disease.

Whether you use an app like Blood Pressure Companion or ask your doc to read your BP next time you are up for a physical, take a peek at the stat to see how your overall health is looking month to month. 

6. Good Mood

Have you been feeling peppier or more resilient? Regular exercise, nourishing foods and good sleep can slash stress levels and improve your mood, which is a victory we will certainly take. And, shameless plug: if you’re looking for other ways to boost your mood, check out our 30 Day Good Mood Challenge.

Shift your focus to non scale victories

Here are two tips to help you shift your focus from the scale to the many other amazing things your fitness journey is doing for you.

Your journal is your new BFF.

All of these NSVs may seem overwhelming, and some may seem subjective to measure. That’s why we recommend taking pen to paper. 

Throughout the course of your fitness journey, take daily or weekly notes on the metrics above. Over time, you’ll start to notice subtle shifts, which will build into big changes and big results.  

Patience is a virtue.

Amid lots of social media chatter and one-month progress pics flooding Instagram and TikTok, it can be challenging to stay motivated if the numbers aren’t where you expect them to be in a month. 

But, celebrate your non scale victories. These mean your body and your mind are changing! And, above all else, keep in mind that your journey is your journey and that you are brave and powerful for your consistency and commitment! 

The Blogilates February 2023 Workout Calendar!

Hey guys!

Okay so let’s check in. We’re one month into the new year, and fresh off of the Good Mood Challenge. Did you complete all 30 days?! I hope it helped you sail into 2023 with confidence and clear motivation for what you’re truly capable of.

And if you’re still working through the challenge, keep going! That’s the beauty of a challenge like this one. There’s no end date! You can take your time, or repeat the days that felt realllllly good.

Anyways.

January ended kind of weirdly for me. I discovered that Shein stole one of my designs, which I knew would happen eventually but I was still NOT prepared for it to actually happen. I spilled alllll of the tea in a blog post and encourage you to read and share so people can see how truly damaging this company is on so many levels.

For all of the kind comments on this that you’ve already sent – THANK YOU. I cannot say it enough.

NOW for some exciting news

The February Workout Calendar is HERE!

Download JPEG

How to follow the February Workout Calendar

Check the Blogilates YouTube playlists to find all of the videos you need for this month’s calendar!!

OR you can get everything you need (and more motivational tools!) on the BODY By Blogilates app! If you don’t have the app yet, it will making following along to this month’s workouts even easier! You can access not only the calendar, but all of the videos in one place. Find challenges and free programs like the Glow up Sessions and the 200 Ab Challenge there too!

Now that you know where to find your workouts, here’s what you can expect each day of the February Workout Calendar. You ready?!!!

SUNDAY: Recovery
MONDAY: Total Body
TUESDAY: Abs
WEDNESDAY: Booty
THURSDAY: Total Body
FRIDAY: Arms
SATURDAY: Legs & Thighs

Do each video once (unless otherwise stated) and check off as you go! Most days will be 45 min max of exercise.

If you get the BODY By Blogilates app, your workout calendar and workouts will all be in one place! And it’s so fun and motivating to get that “Workout Complete” checkmark

And you MUST check out the new Social feature in the app!

The Blogilates community is the BEST. So, I wanted to create a space where we could all feel a little more connected to each other! The social feature (in the most updated version of the app) is a place where you can share photos and/or text thoughts and comment on each other’s post. Think the good ol’ days of Instagram!

If you're just getting started...

Or want to ease into working out, my Beginner’s Calendar is a great place to start! It’s a free 4-week program to get you stronger so that you can join in on the monthlies when you are ready.

Let's do a little check-in

Now that we’ve completed the first month of the year, how are you feeling?! What progress have you noticed? What goal are you crushing this month?

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