Cassey Ho's Blog, page 40

How Often Should You Really Wash Your Hair?

There’s no better feeling than hopping into the shower after a long day. But for some, needing to wash your hair is just another chore.

It seems like there are two types of people: those who wash their hair daily and those who wait until it’s so greasy that dry shampoo won’t even begin to make a dent in it (honestly, I think we’ve all been there).

If you’re in the camp who automatically goes for the shampoo after using your favorite body wash, you may think that washing your hair daily is keeping it clean and healthy. However, this actually might not be the case.

You might be thinking, “Well, what does she know about hair?” That’s a valid question since I’m not a hair stylist, but I spoke to a few who are and guess what? They are all in agreement that you shouldn’t wash your hair everyday. 

When it comes to how often you should wash your hair, that answer varies based on multiple factors which we’ll get to in a moment. Make sure you keep on reading to find out about how to best care for your strands and some products that’ll give it a boost.

How Often Should You Wash Your Hair?

Drum roll…. The answer to this question isn’t that simple. As I briefly mentioned above, how often you should wash your hair really depends. 

“You should wash your hair depending on your lifestyle (activity level) and your hair type/texture,” says José Rojas, hair stylist and Chicagoland regional training artist for Hair Cuttery Family of Brands.

Hair Type Matters

While activity level plays a role, it’s really the texture and type of hair you have which dictates how often you should wash it. 

Desirae Blais, licensed cosmetologist at Blush Beauty Boutique and member of the Sally Beauty Crew, breaks down the different hair types and explains how you’ll want to go about washing your strands. 

“Most coarse, thick, and curly textures only need to be washed once every 1 to 3 weeks,” Blais says. “This is beneficial to not dry out the hair or disrupt curl patterns.” 

She continues by saying that medium thick hair and extensions should wash their hair once every one to two weeks.

However, fine hair is the hair type that needs the most attention. “Fine hair  should be washed usually once per week as this texture tends to get weighed down or oily the fastest,”says Blais.

@blogilates Anyone else? #fitgirl #fitgirlcheck #pilates #hairwashday #hairwash #fitnesstips #homeworkout #activelifestyle #activewear #KeepingItCute #gymlife ♬ original sound – warruf

Consider Activity Level and Lifestyle

Someone who works out often might find their hair looks oily and feels “dirty” more often than not. In these instances, instead of using shampoo to wash your hair, Blais suggests co-washing in between full washes. 

Co-washing is the process involving using conditioner instead of shampoo on the hair to hydrate and cleanse without the common drying properties associated with traditional shampoo. It’s a great in-between step if you’re looking to prolong the time span between washes while also cleansing and caring for your strands.

How to Actually Wash Your Hair

This might seem silly, but many people don’t actually know how to properly wash their hair. 

“What you need to be cleansing is your roots and scalp, no matter what your hair type is because it sets the foundation for healthy hair,” says Clyde Haygood, celebrity hairstylist and Pura D’Or partner. “I always suggest giving the ends some protection & applying shampoo only at the roots and letting it run through the rest of the hair to cleanse while rinsing.” 

Not only is washing your hair important, but the products used can have an impact on the quality and health of your strands. “You should always wash your hair with a sulfate, paraben, silicone free shampoo and conditioner,” says Rojas. “If you tend to use styling products (gels, creams, hairspray) I would suggest using a clarifying shampoo 1-2 times a month to make sure we get any build up or impurities.” 

If you have color-treated hair, it’s even more important to pay attention to what ingredients are in your shampoo and how you wash your hair. (Bonus tip – wash your hair with cold water to preserve the intensity of the color.) 

“For color-treated hair, I always say the less you wash the better,” says Blais. “This allows for natural oils to build back up in the hair after color services and prolongs the life of your color, toner, or vivid color.” 

In terms of shampoo ingredients, here is a more extensive list of main one’s you’ll want to avoid:

– Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS)
– Sodium laureth sulfate (SLES)
– Parabens (methylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben, etc.)
– Alcohols (ethanol or propanol)
– Sodium chloride (salt)

Best Hair Products?

Here’s what the experts recommend.

Olaplex No. 4 and No. 5

 

“It’s a great shampoo and conditioner if you have color treated and or with highlights/balayage,” says Rojas. 

Shop here

 

 

Moroccan Oil Intense Hydrating Mask

 

If your hair lacks moisture, Rojas recommends this hydration mask best for medium to thick hair. 

Shop here

 

 

 

TPH by Taraji Master Cleanse Targeted Scalp Wash

 

“This is a perfect applicator for getting right to the scalp in hard to reach places like by extension wefts etc,” says Blais.

Shop here

 

 

 

 

Matrix A Curl Can Dream Co Wash

 

“This product can be used no matter what texture or hair type between washes for a refresh,” says Blais. 

Shop here

 

 

 

 

Raw Sugar Living Bounce Back Shampoo

 

A clarifying shampoo to remove all the build up from environmental stressors with its mango, agave, and carrot oil formula. 

Shop here

 

 

 

Pura D’or Argan Oil

 

“Dry and damaged hair needs nourishment,” says Haygood. “I suggest treating the ends with this product before shampooing to nourish and protect.”

Shop here

 

 

 

 

 

Glyphosate in Cheerios? Let’s Talk About It.

I didn’t plan on writing this, but then a TikTok went viral this week that um…presented an opportunity. 

It was a (now removed) “foods I’ll never eat again” video, and the creator kicked off her list with a staple in many households, Cheerios.

Her rationale is based on this cereal being “known to have really high glyphosate residues.” She goes on, claiming that this is because Cheerios are made with oats, which are genetically modified (they’re not though), and therefore exposed to more chemicals – like glyphosate. 

Why is she calling out glyphosate? Because it’s been linked to cancer.  

Whew. Sounds pretty scary, right? Especially since many of us feed Cheerios to our KIDS?! And wait, oats are causing cancer now?! 

Before you run to clean out your pantry, let’s get some things straight. 

What is glyphosate?

Glyphosate is an herbicide. You probably know it as Roundup. Maybe you’ve even seen people on the internet yelling about Roundup being in your food? I definitely have.

Chatter about glyphosate blew up when a number of civil lawsuits emerged back in 2018, claiming that this chemical causes cancer. The International Agency for Research on Cancer looked into the risks and did, in fact, conclude that glyphosate is “probably carcinogenic to humans.” In other words, they’re saying the risk is possible.

But then, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and European Food Safety Authorities chimed in with their own insight, saying that the herbicide probably wasn’t giving people cancer. Hmm.

Here’s what we do know.

The lawsuits originated from people directly exposed to glyphosate.

The person in the Cheerios TikTok and many others before her always seem to leave this part out. The (mixed) research that makes the connection between glyphosate and cancer pertains to people who are directly exposed to the chemical. The farmers and people who are literally spraying Roundup on the crops. Not people eating food that may contain it.

Source: EWG

How much glyphosate is in Cheerios?

Obviously no one is spraying Cheerios with Roundup before it’s boxed up and shipped to your local grocery store. However,  glyphosate is occasionally sprayed on oats as a drying agent. So it’s not surprising that glyphosate has been detected in Cheerios by the EWG, a non-profit activist group.

But how much? 

Small amounts. Like really small. Parts per BILLION (ppb) small. 

To put it in perspective, an average-sized person would need to eat THOUSANDS of servings of Cheerios every single day to ingest a comparable amount of glyphosate to those who come in direct contact with it and therefore may have an increased risk for cancer.

As they say, the dose makes the poison.

As I’m writing this, the original TikTok is no longer on the creator’s feed. I’ll leave a response by Food Science Babe, a food scientist, here so you can see some of the original comments too.

@foodsciencebabe Stop demonizing safe less expensive more accessible foods This is so disappointing to see from someone that should understand food science and agriculture. Hence why the appeal to authority fallacy is a logical fallacy. Check out my many other videos on all of these topics as well. @foodsciencebabe #foodscience #cheerios #healthyfood #ramen ♬ original sound – Food Science Babe

Fear is a red flag for misinformation

The point of this article isn’t to debate whether or not glyphosate is safe. I’ll never claim to be a food scientist, and I’ll never shame someone for wanting to learn more about ingredients or the impact of chemicals used in our food system. 

It’s the fact that the “foods I’ll never eat” videos make my skin crawl. Why? Because they’re almost always used to cause FEAR. I get that this approach gets views, but I instantly question the credibility of the creator anytime I see it.

Is it good to know how to read a label and be aware of what you’re eating? Of course. Do some people need to avoid certain ingredients due to health conditions, food sensitivities, intolerances, etc.? You bet. 

But generalizing and calling certain foods BAD or saying they’re “killing you” is irresponsible. These statements completely disregard that each and every one of us has different needs not only physiologically, but also socially and economically.

Why do people eat Cheerios? They’re affordable, shelf stable, accessible, and a good source of iron and fiber. Some families buy them for their picky kids, or to have an easy on-the-go snack for their toddler. They’re WIC-approved and they’re an easy finger food for toddlers working on their pincer grasp.

What good does it do to guilt a parent about feeding their kids Cheerios? Or ANY food? Especially if the amounts they’re consuming are probably far FAR below anything that would significantly increase risk. We can’t ignore that anxiety over food has long term health effects too.

From my POV, it’s much more valuable to educate parents about ways to add variety and MORE nutrition to their family’s diet. 

Why Menstrual Cups Deserve Your Undying Loyalty

One of my fondest Christmas memories is waking up to Mariah Carey on the speakers, presents under the tree, and bloodstains in my panties. (Yeah, this is going to be a TMI article, but menstruation is a TMI topic.)

While starting the first chapter of “womanhood” wasn’t on my wishlist that year, I’ve reasoned Santa’s choice as this: good girls get Lego sets, bad girls get coal, and hot girls get their period.

Being the hot girl that I am, I’m trying to live more sustainably. That includes ditching regular pads and tampons since stats estimate the average person who menstruates will use 11,000 (!) disposable period products in their lifetime. That’s a lot of plastic waste—like 4,125 plastic bags worth if you’re a pad user. 

During my journey to reduce my plastic footprint, I’ve tried everything from period panties to applicator-less tampons to menstrual discs.

My favorite by far, though, is menstrual cups. I sing their praises constantly, but my friends typically respond somewhere between, “I’m a bit nervous to try” and, “OMG, you just stick your fingers up there?! I could never.” But counterpoint: You can, and hopefully after this article, you will.

 

 

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A post shared by DivaCup (@thedivacup)

What are Menstrual Cups?

Menstrual cups are reusable, usually silicone-based cups that sit at the base of the cervix to catch your flow. Depending on how heavy your period is, they can last up to 12 hours before needing to be removed, cleaned, and reinserted.

The reinsertion is usually what puts people off, but 2 women recently made a menstrual cup applicator to help that process along. Cups are similar to menstrual discs, but there are some key differences:

1. Compared to cups, discs are flatter like a shallow bowl.
2. Cups form a suction seal along your vaginal walls to prevent leaks, while the disc naturally rests behind the pubic bone.
3. Discs were designed to be worn during sex, while cups are a no-go in that department.

 

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A post shared by Cora (@our.cora)

Are Menstrual Cups Safe?

Short answer: Yes! A 2019 study found that menstrual cups were just as safe and effective as pads/tampons. There have been occurrences of menstrual cup use leading to toxic shock syndrome (TSS), but gynecologist Dr. Mary Jane Minkin says that’s extremely rare and also a possibility (though again, very rare) with tampons. (Sidenote: Cups and IUDs don’t get along that well, so it might not be the best option if that’s your current birth control method.)

On another safety note, if you’ve heard the stories of menstrual cups getting stuck, allow me to calm these concerns. Like I said before, the cups work by forming a suction seal along your vaginal walls, and if that seal is really tight, it might be difficult to pull the cup out. If that happens, you just need to pinch the base of the cup to release that pressure.

Cups can also wiggle up towards your cervix, just out of reach for your delicate fingers. In that case, try to remove it while in different positions, or if push comes to shove, ask a medical provider or friend to quite literally give you a hand.

Why do you love them so much? Besides the environment.

I could tell you, or I could tell you in a list. I think I’ll go with the latter.

– When I use tampons, I have to change them every 4 hours during heavy days. Cups last over twice as long for me, which means I don’t have to plan my schedule around bathroom breaks.

– It’s giving savings: One cup lasts for years, which means one $40 purchase instead of a $10 box of tampons every. single. month.

– They’re so comfortable! Once you get the hang of placing cups properly, you barely feel them.

@periodnirvana There really is a cup for almost everyone. @periodnirvana Finding it can be the hard part but my resources are designed to help #menstrualcup #periodnirvana #periodtok #periodcup ♬ Cute – Prod by Rose & Artsounds Chill

Fine, I’m Convinced. Which One Should I Buy?

The OG is DivaCup, which I use in a model 2. But unless your flow is like Niagara Falls (which mine sometimes is), start with the smaller model 1. Cora’s cup is also nice and easy to learn with, which is why The New York Times named it the best cup for beginners in 2020. Lastly, if you’re interested in trying out a disc-style cup, Nixit is a good option. Of course, the best option would be some kind of magic vacuum that sucks out your whole period in 10 minutes, but unfortunately, science is way behind.

“One Thing About Me”… is I Love A Therapeutic TikTok Trend

While scrolling through your For You Page on TikTok, you might have heard Nicki Minaj’s song “Super Freaky Girl” playing in the background of nearly every video — and well, there’s a reason for that.

@kenasue I think i still have the bra somewhere #onethingaboutme #storytime #story #victoriassecret ♬ original sound – Mak

Over the past few weeks, TikTok users have been taking it to this social media platform to share their traumatic stories to the beat of the popular rap song.

I know, it sounds a bit strange. But there may actually be a reason why this trend has gained so much popularity — it can be therapeutic. 

If you’re like myself, then you may always be on the hunt for new ways to improve your mental health. While therapy and medication are great, sometimes you just want to cope in a more lighthearted and relatable way.

The #OneThingAboutMe trend calls for just that.

According to Kristen Gingrich, licensed clinical social worker and certified clinical supervisor, this trend falls into the category of storytelling which is actually used in traditional therapy modalities to work through and heal trauma. 

“Storytelling allows people to connect to their trauma in a way that they have control over,” she says. “It also allows individuals the opportunity to rethink the ways that they see their trauma, address things like cognitive distortions, and give them a way to make sense of their trauma.” 

Videos that have been posted as part of this ongoing trend range in topics from encounters with creepy people to the loss of a parent. The topics vary depending on the individual, but a common theme among them seems to be recalling incidents and events that one felt were very traumatic for them. 

@ramo_akh Based Off A True Story #onethingaboutme #storytime #arab #fyp ♬ original sound – Ramo Akh

Seeing others share their stories can be therapeutic too, says Gingrich.

 

“It gives us a way to connect with others who may have gone through similar things while also allowing followers to connect and feel like they are not alone.” 

One of the great aspects of social media is that you’re bound to find creators and people who have gone through similar experiences, and relate over it. Even Gingrich says she has watched many of the videos and has felt “seen” as a result. 

Singing the song to a beat (or way off the beat in many cases) likely has no real impact on the potential therapeutic benefits itself. However, it might serve as a pathway for people to begin to feel comfortable sharing their stories as it has become such a popular trend. 

 

@mischmacc She’s a super freak for sure. #superfreak #ChewTheVibes #freestyle #dating ♬ Super Freaky Girl – Nicki Minaj

With that said, TikTok is a very public forum and these videos have a tendency to go viral. That means you’ll be sharing your story with thousands, if not millions of people. 

“I think a disadvantage of this trend is really putting out personal information to the world and the world responding,” says Gingrich. “I have seen a few responses to some of these videos that were very hateful and even victim blaming which can have an impact on the original poster or even the people who may see the response.” 

Unfortunately, not everyone on social media is nice.

Yes, we’re talking about trolls and haters. But if you have some thick skin and think that hopping on the One Thing About Me trend might not only be therapeutic for you, but also help others, then it may be worth a shot to give it a try. 

Bottom line: TikTok trends come and go.

One thing about TikTok is…trends aren’t forever. “One thing about me” may be popular right now, but if you’re not ready to share your most traumatic experiences with the internet, don’t do it just to stay “relevant.” 

Your story is only yours to tell on your terms and how you want it and there’s power in that. 

I Spent the Summer Trying Non-Alcoholic Drinks. Here Are My Reviews.

My reviews of some popular non-alcoholic beverages are finally in.

If you haven’t been following along, it all started sometime this summer, when we noticed that non-alcoholic beverage brands were suddenly everywhere. Well, I hadn’t actually noticed yet, but all it took was one message in the Blogifam group chat for the algorithm to flood me with the most aesthetic ads I think I’ve ever seen. The marketing is GOOD.

First I wanted to know why the non-alcoholic market was suddenly booming. Are we on a health kick? Is this yet another effect of COVID? So I did a little research (read: I watched A LOT of TikToks) and interviewed someone who embarked and continued on her own sober curiosity journey this year.

As I was writing that article, I started sampling some of the brands I kept seeing on TikTok and IG. It felt neverending – not in a bad way, there are just SO MANY and I had no idea.

And that brings me to my first point – This is in no way an extensive list of all the brands out there, and I’ll probably continue to explore. So if you don’t see your favorite bevvie on this list, let me know in the comments!

Here are the non-alcoholic drinks I tried, and my honest opinions. 1. Vybes CBD Drinks

I have to be honest. I didn’t understand the “point” of non-alcoholic drinks at first. My first thought was, “why not just drink a kombucha or Sprite or something?”

I get it now.

Vybes was the first beverage I tried that contains CBD. These specifically contain CBD isolate, a pure form of CBD that doesn’t contain THC. In other words, this won’t get you high. It may help with stress, anxiety, and concentration though. Research is still pretty fresh to say for sure.

My experience? I definitely felt like it took the “edge” off. And there WAS an edge that day (and pretty much every day for me, while I’m being honest). It wasn’t life-changing and there’s a chance it was a placebo effect, but I’d still drink these even if I felt “nothing,” because the flavors are so good.

My sample box had:

Watermelon Lime (hands down my favorite)Blueberry MintStrawberry LavenderPassionfruit PineappleBlood Orange Lime (2nd favorite – maybe I’m just really into lime?)Peach Ginger

 

I didn’t hate any of the flavors, and I’m still thinking about the Watermelon Lime. The only issue is the price point – these run around $6-7 per bottle. I’d buy them again, but I probably won’t keep my fridge stocked with these, no matter how aesthetically pleasing it sounds.

2. Kin Euphorics

Founded by Bella Hadid and Jen Batchelor, Kin Euphorics seems to be one of the most well-known alcohol alternative brands. Kin is described as a “daily brain care ritual” designed to “set your mind free.” The intention is to replace the social ritual of drinking with self-care.

Are we seeing a trend here? We still want to feel GOOD, but without the icky consequences of alcohol, like hangovers that take us out for days on end and alcohol-induced anxiety.

Kin uses nootropics and adaptogens get you there. “Nootropics” is just an umbrella term for something you ingest to improve your mental performance. Coffee and CBD are examples of a couple you’re likely familiar with.

Adaptogens are natural substances (usually mushrooms and plants) that help your body “adapt” to stress. So instead of spiraling, you’ll find it easier to regulate. If you’re wondering – no, these don’t get you high either

I tried Kin Spritz, which is meant to provide “social energy.” It contains caffeine (50mg), and a proprietary blend consisting of:

GABA – Neurotransmitter that “slows down” your brain. We need more research to say for sure if this is effective as a supplement
5-HTP – Amino acid used to produce serotonin
Citicoline – Also known as CDP-choline, taken as a supplement to improve brain function
L-Theanine – Amino acid found in tea that reduces stress and anxiety
L-Tyrosine – Amino acid needed to produce neurotransmitters for stress and sleep.
Rhodiola Rosea – Herb used to treat anxiety, fatigue, and depression.

I liked the taste! It was somewhere between a sparkling water and an energy drink. I like that it doesn’t contain stevia – I just don’t love the taste.

I drank this before I sat down to work, and I definitely felt focused and like I’d just had a cup of coffee. Not jittery, just refreshed.

I also tried Lightwave, which helps “mellow your mind.” This one is caffeine-free! It contains reishi mushrooms, L-Theanine, L-Tryptophan, and magnesium glycinate.

I tried this one in the evening because I was afraid it would make me sleepy. I didn’t notice much change really – maybe because I was already winding down for the night?Plus I don’t have any issues with relaxing and falling asleep at night, but if you do, maybe this could help!

3. Lyre’s

Lyre’s was the first non-alcoholic beverage brand I tried. I opted to to try the canned beverages, which are meant to mimic spritz-type cocktail. Sounds delish, right?

Sadly, I didn’t love them. They were much sweeter than Kin and the taste really reminded me of an energy drink. However, these don’t contain any kind of adaptogen or nootropic. So if you’re looking to avoid those ingredients, this may be worth a shot! For me, it brought up the question I had in the very beginning: Why not just drink a Sprite?

I’m not writing Lyre’s off completely though! They have a TON of other products that seem more “for me,” especially after trying some other types of non-alcoholic brands after I sampled these. For example, I have my eye on the coffee liqueur 

4. Recess

This tasted like a sparkling water to me. I’m not a huge sparkling water fan (sorry La Croix fans), so I was a little disappointed when I tried this. AND THEN I used Recess in another mocktail recipe on this journey. You’ll see which one in a few scrolls

5. Ritual

So the pretty drinks with adaptogens, nootropics and CBD to help us focus and calm us the F down make sense. But my mind was actually *blown* when I learned that zero-proof liquor exists.

Non-alcoholic…spirits? Like tequila?

YES. And more. When I reached out to Ritual Zero Proof to learn about this, not only did they offer an interview with their founder, Marcus Sakey, but they sent me all four of their zero-proof spirits to try: Whiskey, tequila, gin, and rum.

…and that’s when I became a mixologist overnight. Not even kidding, I RAN to Amazon and purchased giant ice cube trays and pretty glasses. I skipped the cocktail shaker for now.

Before even taking a single sip of these non-alcoholic spirits, I rated the experience a 10/10.

Ritual Tequila Alternative

I decided to make a paloma with the zero-proof tequila. I used a variation of the recipe from their website:

– 2 oz Ritual Tequila Alternative
– Juice of 1/2 lime
– 2 oz fresh grapefruit juice
– 2 oz sparkling water (I actually used Recess Blood Orange here!)
– Tajín for the rim of the glass

I’ll for sure be making this again. It was refreshing, and the tequila alternative gave the drink some depth without the “alcohol” taste. It somehow still gave me a warm feeling like alcohol does.

Ritual Whiskey

I tried this one straight out of the bottle. Don’t ask me why. I hadn’t tried any of the non-alcoholic spirits yet, so I guess I was just feeling impatient.

Big mistake. Huge.

I’m not saying regular whiskey smells GOOD, but somehow the smell of this almost knocked me out, even without alcohol. The taste was not for me. It’s too smokey, and potent in every way. I’ll give it another chance one day in a cocktail.

Ritual Gin

I used this to make The Bees Knees, a recipe I found on the Ritual website.

2 oz Gin Alternative
1 oz fresh lemon juice
1/2 tsp honey simple syrup

I improvised my own honey simple syrup and then topped this with sparkling water. This was another winner that I would definitely drink again.

Like the paloma, it gave me the familiar warm feeling of an actual cocktail. To be honest, I’m not sure I’ve ever had regular gin in my life, so I can’t speak to how similar this tastes to the real thing.

Ritual Rum

I kept this one simple and mixed together a quick mojito, which is just Rum Alternative, soda water, mint, and lime juice. This one was good too. Looking back, a piña colada would have been the move for this one. I’ll try that soon.

Overall, I loved the Ritual products. I didn’t understand them until I actually experienced how they take a mocktail from tasting like juice to something that truly reminds me of a cocktail. The drink recipes on their website are endless too.

6. Monday

On its own, Monday zero proof whiskey smelled MUCH better than Ritual. It’s actually what made me realize that trying these straight was probably a mistake. I had saved this one for last because I was afraid of what I might have to drink… which makes my experience with this one even better.

Monday actually sent me a cocktail kit, including the zero proof whiskey, a few mixers, and a recipe card with mocktail inspo (this would make a beautiful gift, btw!). I followed the recipe on the card to make a Whiskey Mule – if you’ve never made one (me too, before this experiment), it’s just whiskey, ginger beer, and lime.

My rating? 10/10.

I could sip on this daily.

7. Athletic Brewing

I’m not a beer drinker so I recruited one of my husband’s friends who IS to help me out with this one. We tried Upside Dawn from Athletic Brewing, which I understand is their version of a golden ale.

His review was literally two thumbs up emojis (), which may not sound like a big deal, but just trust me when I say it is. He’s a tough critic when it comes to food and drinks.

I did try it myself of course, and it tasted like beer. That’s really all I can say since I’m not a beer drinker, but I guess that’s a good thing? I didn’t hate the flavor and I found myself sipping on it without forcing it (not something I can say about most beer ).

Did this review make any sense? YES you should try Athletic Brewing.

8. HOP WTR

Another fun non-alcoholic beer alternative!

I’d describe HOP WTR as a cross between light beer and sparkling water. Maybe that sounds gross? I promise it’s not. I liked the different flavors, but they were faint.

This contains actual hops (again a very faint flavor), plus L-Theanine and ashwagandha to boost brain function and stress management.

Basically if you’re someone who likes beer because it’s easy to sip on, this is a good option that won’t get you drunk but WILL hydrate you and maybe help you chill out a little.

Where is the WINE?!

Did I drop the ball here?! UGH maybe. After reading reviews and speaking with people for their input, the consensus is that finding a good non-alcoholic wine is difficult. They either taste like sparkling grapefruit juice like we drank on NYE when we were 12, or they’re just…not good.

Decision paralysis got me here. I should still try some, right? If you have a fave, LMK in the comments.

Super Fudgy Three Ingredient Pumpkin Brownies

Fudgy brownies…with only 3 ingredients?! YES.

While I love a good long recipe with multiple parts and components, it’s nice being able to throw something together with a handful of ingredients in no time flat. Even seasoned chefs need a break once every so often!

Plus, it’s more fun for my kids to make dishes with only three ingredients because they can do most, if not all of it on their own. That’s why I created these super fudgy and decadent three-ingredient brownies…to give us all a break during what always seems to be a busy and stressful time of year.

We Love A Budget & Time Friendly Recipe

Between the classroom parties, holiday shopping, crowds and gift exchange dinners, sometimes we just need to whip something up quickly, or give the kids a project so that we mommas get a few minutes of peace and quiet. (That is, until your 10-year-old knocks over a whole bag of almond flour and elbows his sister). But hey, we don’t cry over spilled flour around here! We simply sweep it up and start over… which is easy when a recipe contains only three ingredients

And good news- all of the ingredients come from Trader Joe’s. (I’m not only saving you time in the kitchen, but time running errands, and some $$, because everything at good ol’ TJ’s is so affordable).

Grab Your Favorite Mini Chef

So turn on your ovens, grab a few ingredients, hand a whisk to your little one, and get ready for your house to smell absolutely delicious! Oh, and since this recipe contains no eggs, little fingers can “accidentally” scoop up the rich chocolate goodness. Because, what’s cuter than chubby cheeks sheepishly covered in chocolate?!

These super fudgy brownies are SO GOOD! No eggs, no oil and no dairy make these so easy and healthier than most brownie recipes out there. Plus, you get the added health benefits of pumpkin, which include: fiber, beta carotene and vitamin A.

Oh and in case you were wondering, the pumpkin has a pretty mild flavor. If you want to bring out the pumpkin flavor, add the pumpkin pie spice. If you’re not feeling the pumpkin spice + brownie flavor combo, just leave the spice out! Up to you.

Print3 Ingredient Pumpkin Brownies#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; }Made with pumpkin, spices and a brownie mix, you avoid all eggs, oil and dairy.Course DessertCuisine AmericanKeyword dessert, trader joe's recipe, easy recipe, brownies, dairy-free, vegan brownies, oil-free, egg-free, pumpkinPrep Time 3 minutesCook Time 20 minutesServings 8Ingredients1 box Trader Joe's Brownie Truffle Baking Mix1 cup Canned Pumpkin3 tbsp Allulose (Trader Joe's carries it, or use powdered monk fruit)1 tsp Trader Joe's Pumpkin Pie Spice (optional)InstructionsHeat oven to 350°F. Coat a loaf pan with cooking spray.Add the brownie mix, pumpkin and Allulose to a bowl and whisk until fully combined. Stir in the pumpkin pie spice, if using. This adds a fun fall twist to the brownies.Using a rubber spatula, add the batter to the loaf pan and bake for 20-22 minutes. The center should stay slightly underdone if you like them fudgy. Cool completely before slicing into 8 squares.

Comment below if you give these Fudgy Three Ingredient Brownies a try!

I want to know if you added the pumpkin pie spice or left it out! Looking for more simple recipes? Give these Air Fryer Pickle Chicken Bites a try. If you need more pumpkin spice in your life, try this Healthy Pumpkin Spice Latte.

 

The answer to why I haven’t been posting workout videos…

It’s true. I haven’t posted a workout video in a long time. And you know what? It’s been nice.

Nice because it’s the first time in 13 years of being online that no one has said something mean about my body.

Posting that first video in 2009, I was so scared that someone would comment on my form. But it wasn’t my technique they were after, it was the way I looked. It’s sad that what started out as me very simply teaching Pilates to my students turned into an open forum for body shaming.

Why don’t you have abs?
Why is your butt flat?
Why do you have hip dips?
You’re getting fat.
You’re too skinny.
You don’t look like other trainers.
Where’s your muscle?
Now you look like a man.
Your workouts must not work if you look like that.
If you cared about your career, you’d lose weight.

Stepping away momentarily from the fitness industry has made me realize what a toxic environment I had been living in daily. No more people pushing their ideologies down my throat and telling me how I should look or how I should eat or how stupid I am for not listening to them. In fact, this hiatus has given me the space and breathing room to re-nurture my relationship with food, fitness, and my body.

With the negative chatter silenced, I can now focus on what my body is telling me I need. Not what other people are yelling at me about.

I’ve been having so much fun spending my time driving the product development forward as both POPFLEX and Blogilates brands are growing rapidly.

I’m in a major design groove and feel so in alignment. These days, it feels weird to not be afraid to open my comments. Before I’d have to take a deep breath and brace my body for the hurtful and sometimes hateful comments.

Anyway, here’s my first workout video in a looooong time. Let’s see how this goes.

 

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The workout:

Alt single knee-ins x 10Double knee-ins x 10Pikes x 10

Ps: My sliders are the new Blogilates ones at Target! You can get ‘em online at target.com or in-store! If you don’t have sliders, use towels on hardwood or paper plates on carpet!

How to Have a Feelin’ Yourself Fall with Microhabits

Warning: The PSLs have landed.

Fall is upon us, and I know that because my social feed is all sweater ‘fits and NYFW recaps. But besides the return of our coziest content, autumn is also the time to take stock of the things around you. That introspection could lead to a desire for change, which is where we come in.

Whether you’re looking to jumpstart a wellness journey, revamp your style, or even just read more, any new task can seem like a huge undertaking. (Really, just getting out of bed takes a Herculean amount of strength some days.) We want change, but getting there? Oof. Unless, of course, you have a plan, and that plan should be microhabits.

@marynorawolf micro habits are honestly so cool and make #adhd manageable (usually) #routine #morningroutine #morningmotivation #microhabit #asmr #fyp ♬ original sound – Mary Nora Wolf

What are microhabits?

According to Dr. Alice Boyes, an author and former clinical psychologist, microhabits are similar to regular habits—behaviors we consistently do in response to an external or internal cue—just smaller. “Regulary going to the gym for an hour is a longer habit. The microhabit might be that the first thing you do when you go to the gym is get on a particular machine,” she says.

While Dr. Boyes stresses that the principles behind habit formation are the same no matter the size, it can be easier for smaller habits to become automatic. For example, pouring cereal in before the milk could become a habit faster than working out for 30 minutes a day due to its low-lift nature. 

The reasonable next question is, “How will one tiny habit help me achieve a big goal?” Glad you asked, because I did, too, and Dr. Boyes says it could be easier to add up multiple smaller habits than to start a large one. Let’s say you’re studying a new language and want to learn 10 words a day. Instead of telling yourself to do vocab for 30 minutes every day, it might be easier to look up one word every time you scroll social media. That’s a tiny action that doesn’t require much time, making it easier to stick to.

 

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How do I approach starting habits?

First, you have to get yourself in the right mindset. A universal truth I doubt will ever change is that it is much more fun to be told you can do something than to be told you can’t do something. The same applies to goal setting.

Behavioral scientist Dr. Ayelet Fishback (who literally wrote the book on motivation) calls these “approach” and “avoidance” goals, and says “avoidance goals are hard because they bring to mind the thing you’re trying to avoid.”

That tracks, because every time I’ve told myself not to eat sweets, I immediately want to devour the world’s largest brownie. So, if you’re endgame is to improve nutrition, you’re more likely to get there if you frame your habit as eating more fruits and veggies instead of eating less fast food.

What’s the right habit to set?

Honest truth: I’d love to be a runner. I would also adore having glazed-donut skin thanks to a meticulous skincare routine. There are like 29 more things on my wishlist, but they all have one major issue: none of them feel like me.

As Dr. Fishbach says, “Setting a target is effective to get you to do something, but whether that thing will become a habit depends on how well it fits with your life.”

We could all force ourselves to try anything for a few days, but if we hate it, it’s never going to work long-term. I’ve tried running at least 3 different times and always quit. Then I found pilates and actually looked forward to afternoon workouts. Some people hate pilates but love hot girl walks.

It all depends on the person, so if you have a broad self-growth goal like, “I want to become stronger,” it’s okay if your way there isn’t the same as everyone else’s.

 

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A post shared by Ayelet Fishbach (@ayeletfishbach)

 

Once I decide on a new habit, how do I stick to it?

This might seem obvious, but there is a huge difference between, “I want to start meditating,” and, “I want to meditate every day for 15 minutes.” The first statement doesn’t clearly define our desired habit. When do you want to start meditating? How long do you want to meditate for? Answering these questions to create measurable goals can help us follow through.

It also makes tracking progress way easier. In the meditation scenario, it’s clear if you accomplished your goal. If you only “ohm”-ed 4 days last week, you know something was off during the other 3 days. Was there a last-minute work assignment that threw your game, or was that the day Netflix dropped the new Love is Blind episodes? When your goals are measurable, you can see when you’re staying on course, but also what’s throwing you off.

The Blogilates October 2022 Workout Calendar!

Hey guys!

Omg where did September go?! It was a really busy month for me – I had the Blogifam retreat, immediately followed by a Creator’s Summit with YouTube. With both events, plus planning for each one, plus launching some exciting new POPFLEX and Target products…YEAH. It’s been a crazy (but amazing) month!

That means my workout schedule has been nonexistent too…which I’m actually totally fine with. I had the opportunity to mix in some different types of activity, like SUP yoga. SO FUN.

Anyways, after a month of craziness I’m ready to settle back into a routine. So let’s take a look at the October Workout Calendar, shall we?!

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How To Follow The October Workout Calendar

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

If you don’t have the BODY By Blogilates app yet, GET IT! Seriously, it will make your life so much easier when you follow this calendar. 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 October 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 around 45 min of exercise.

REMEMBER! If you download the BODY By Blogilates app (on Apple or Android devices), you’ll have the calendar and workout videos in one place! Omg can we also talk about how motivating that “workout complete” check mark is?!

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.

Is the weather getting fall-like where you are?! Tell me all about your fall plans! 

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Trader Joe’s Fall Haul: Part 2!

I’m baaack with more fall Trader Joe’s reviews!

This time, I dragged my husband with me while we were out celebrating our anniversary. Maybe not his ideal date night but he DID get his favorite meal before (steak and fettuccine) and his favorite TJ’s sweet (dark chocolate pb cups).

We got lucky finding most things in stock at 8pm, and the store was far less busy than usual. That’s important because I’m sure I looked ridiculous taking pictures of all the seasonal items as I shoveled them into my cart like an episode of “Supermarket Sweep.”

Anyways.

Let’s get into the reviews!Non-Dairy Maple Oat Beverage – 8/10

I have to mention the speed at which my cousin texted me to add this to my next haul as soon as she saw my Part 1 post. She’s right though! I buy this every year because it’s really that good. Love or hate oat milk, this stuff is tasty.

It makes a great coffee creamer, but my favorite way to enjoy it is in oatmeal. Add some chopped apples, and you have a filling, autumn-in-a-bowl breakfast.

Mashed Sweet Potatoes – 10/10

I love a simple frozen veggie that makes my life easier. These frozen mashed sweet potatoes contain just one ingredient: sweet potatoes. You can prepare them on the stove or in the microwave and then you have the freedom to add whatever (I like a little butter) or use them however you want.

This is a perfect example of something I keep in my freezer for times I just need something colorful to throw on my family’s plate. When it’s Thursday and the fresh veggie selection is looking pretty sad (let’s be real my patience for cooking is gone by the time in the week too), frozen veggies to the rescue.

Helloooo 4g of fiber per serving!

Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese Bites 8/10

If you love the Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese, you’ll love these too. They’re crispy on the outside, and filled with the sauce we all love with macaroni noodles. Mine were just a little dry, but still yummy. These would make a great game day app!

Caramel Apple Mochi – 5/10

I tried this with Cassey and a few other Blogifam foodies at our retreat. Reviews were kind of mixed! I didn’t like the apple flavor – it was too sweet and almost artificial tasting? I wish the caramel was salted to bring the flavor out more. Basically, I’d say this tastes more like a candy apple than a caramel apple.

Pumpkin Spice Cashew Yogurt – 4/10

I’m starting to wonder if I’m just picky about yogurt? You’ll have to let me know if you agree with me on this one. I had high hopes for a good cashew yogurt, but this one was too runny and the flavor was just weird for me. I’ve heard the vanilla flavor is better though, so I’ll give that one a shot!

If you’re wondering about nutrition, this yogurt has 140 calories, 6g fat, 19g carb, 11g added sugar, 3g protein. If you DO enjoy this yogurt, don’t be discouraged by the low protein content. This yogurt doesn’t have to be your entire snack, and ideally isn’t your entire meal. So pair it with something else for more protein if you want, like some nuts, seeds sprinkled in, eggs, or scrambled tofu.

Spicy Pumpkin Samosas – 10/10

SO MANY PEOPLE recommended these to me, and they lived up to the hype! A samosa is an Indian pastry, typically filled with veggies and spices with a savory flavor. This one is a little different than traditional Samosas, with more of a warm, spicy-sweet flavor. It’s not too sweet though – there’s <1g added sugar per serving, meaning most of the sweetness comes from pumpkin. And we love a flaky pastry.

I saw someone on IG dipping them in the Pumpkin Spice Greek Yogurt – genius.

Pumpkin Cheesecake Croissants – 8/10

These are really good. The filling is light and airy, and I didn’t think they were overly sweet. It’s also fun to see how they puff up when they bake. And no proofing, which might be the best part! My only complaint is that there are only TWO in the package…but then again these are more of a fun fall treat vs. regular breakfast/snack.

Organic Vegetarian Chili – 6/10

I wanted to love this because I love finding super easy lunch/dinner staples to keep in my pantry. Buuuut this wasn’t my favorite canned chili.

I heard that the recipe USED to be really great but they’ve changed the plant-based protein source at least once (not 100% sure on the history here, but people seem disappointed with the recipe change).

Anyways, this one lists textured pea protein on the label. I’m not sure if the texture was an issue for me, it just wasn’t my favorite tasting chili. Would I still eat it on a day I need a heat & serve lunch? Probably.

Pumpkin Chipotle Roasting Sauce – 8/10

I am so excited for this! Full disclosure: I haven’t actually roasted anything with it yet (I bought it like 2 days before leaving on a trip), but I did taste it and I love the flavor. It’s smoky-sweet (which you probably guessed already), but neither flavor is overpowering.

So, what should I make with it? I’m thinking chicken to pair with a salad, or shred and put in tacos? Or maybe some roasted veggies?! Definitely roasted veggies. Salmon?! If you have other ideas, let me know!

Pumpkin Butter – 9/10

Who doesn’t get this when it’s fall?! It’s like apple butter, but pumpkin. I love it swirled into my oatmeal, or with cream cheese on a bagel. I’ve also been known to add it to plain yogurt or on apple slices. And yes DUH it’s delicious on toast.

Brussels Sprouts & Uncured Bacon Ravioli – 5/10

Ugh this one was sooo disappointing! I think it was the Trader Joe’s fall item I was most excited to try…and I didn’t like it. I like Brussels sprouts, but the flavor in this was just too strong.

But…my toddler surprisingly loved it. So maybe it’s just me?

Pumpkin Spice Espresso Beans – 8/10

I haven’t seen anyone talking about these! They’re like a PSL in snack form… which I honestly assumed would be gross. But they’re actually good. Of course you need to be someone who likes espresso beans though. I know they’re not everyone’s thing.

And that concludes my Trader Joe’s Fall Reviews

If you tried any of these, do you agree or think I’m crazy? And did I miss anything? Let me know in the comments! And be sure to check out Part 1 of my Trader Joe’s Fall Haul if you missed it!