Body

All the research and tips + tricks you should know about your body’s health to help you have more energy, prevent illness, and feel your best!

  • Fall 2021 Spin Playlists

    Fall 2021 Spin Playlists

    You asked for more, so I’m coming atcha with not one but TWO Fall 2021 Spin Playlists.

    I’ve noticed lately that Google searches for my spin playlist posts have been greater than usual. And it’s no surprise why—2020 prompted many of us to get a spin bike at home, and it’s easier than ever to get an amazing cardio workout on your own, without the studio prices or commute. Working out at home is so efficient. It’s what I’ve been doing since I stopped teaching spin professionally. I love it, and I’m here to help you get your daily movement in with these two spicy Fall 2021 Spin Playlists.

    Looking for more? I’ve shared tons of spin playlists on the blog over the years—you can find them here. Don’t miss this awesome playlist from Spring 2021!

    It’s also always so important to spin with proper form, both for your body’s health and so you can get the most out of your workout! Learn about proper spin form here.

    I was a spin instructor for about 5 years in San Diego.

    I love this workout because, for me at least, it doesn’t feel like you’re working out because you get to jam to awesome music. This is actually a form of active meditation—you find a sense of FLOW riding to the beat of the music. It lights my body up.

    Plus, spin is a wonderful cardio option because it’s low impact—easier on your joints. But it really gets your heart rate up and is a highly effective workout! I teach in an intervals style, meaning we alternate from faster tempos to slower, kind of like riding over a bunch of hills. You push yourself and then get the chance to recover, and repeat. This keeps your cortisol down (we don’t need to feel more stressed while you work out, life is intense enough) and is the best method for strengthening your heart.

    I recently had an appointment with a Neurosurgeon about some disk degeneration I have in my neck (this is why I’m really big on neck wellness), and asked him for tips to maintain a healthy spine as I age. One of his top tips was to avoid impact activities like running! Another great excuse to ditch the running shoes for some spin shoes (these Slipstream shoes from TIEM are my personal favorite).

    How to do this class:

    This is a 45 minute spin class where you ride to the beat of the music (like SoulCycle). If you struggle with rhythm, do your best. Find the beat and then think Right Foot, Left Foot, Right, Left etc.

    Always make sure you have plenty of resistance on. For most bikes, at least 2 full turns on your dial is a good minimum. You should always feel a little resistance under your feet but also be able to keep up with the beat.

    There’s always the option to go faster or slower, of course—you’re in charge, so listen to your body. Push yourself, but not in a punishing way, you know? I always teach to work out with self love as the guiding light.

    I’ve also added optional choreography to do whenever the chorus of each song drops!

    Here are the Fall 2021 Spin Playlist breakdowns, with choreography:

    Playlist #1

    Click here to open in Spotify.

    • Take My Breath by The Weeknd: Pulse Elbows Down (towards handlebars)
    • Up by Cardi B: Ride As Fast As You Can
    • Wellerman – Sea Shanty / 220 KID x Billen Ted Remix by Nathan Evans: Sprints
    • Die A Little Bit by KDA, Tinashe, Ms Banks, Karnage Kills: Travels (move hips to the front of the saddle then back)
    • MONTERO (Call Me By Your Name) by Lil Nas X: Tapbacks(tap hips to back of the saddle)
    • Cambia el Paso by Jennifer Lopez: Slow Figure 8s (move hips to the back of the saddle and then the front, tracing a figure 8 side to side)
    • 13 Missed Calls by Zach Hood: Waltz (goes in counts of 3 instead of two — think right, left, right – left, right, left)
    • Off Of My Mind by Icona Pop + VIZE: Travels (move hips to the front of the saddle then back)
    • Hero – Dubvision Remix by Afrojack, David Guetta, Dubvision: Sprints
    • All About You – Tensnake Remix by The Knocks, Tensnake, Foster The People: Weights 
    • Rise by Lost Frequencies: Your Choice (do whatever you want)
    • Pepas by Farruko: Sprints
    • telepatía by Kali Uchis – Cool-down Stretch

     

    Playlist #2

    Click here to open in Spotify.

    • Mad World by Timmy Trumpet, Gabry Ponte: Pulse Elbows Down (towards handlebars)
    • Bad Habits by Ed Sheeran: Motorcycles (lean to the right and left with your torso)
    • Enigma – Doss Remix by Lady Gaga, Doss: Sprints
    • Thunder by Gabry Ponte, LUM!X, Prezioso: Push Out/In
    • Met Him Last Night – Dave Audé Remix by Demi Lovato, Ariana Grande, Dave Audé: Push Up/Tapbacks
    • Rumors by Lizzo, Cardi B: Travels (move hips to the front of the saddle then back)
    • STAY by The Kid LAROI, Justin Bieber: Tapbacks (tap hips to back of the saddle)
    • edamame by bbno$, Rich Brian: Slow Figure 8s (move hips to the back of the saddle and then the front, tracing a figure 8 side to side)
    • Love Tonight – David Guetta Remix by Shouse, David Guetta: Sprints
    • Gimme More – Junkie XL Remix by Britney Spears, Junkie XL: Weights 
    • Inner Light by Elderbrook, Bob Moses: Your Choice (do whatever you want)
    • One Last Time by Alesso, DubVision: Sprints
    • Rather Be by D-Nice, Kiana Ledé – Cool-down Stretch

    I hope these two Fall 2021 Spin Playlists inspire you to have a fun time doing your next workout!

    Happy riding.

    xo,

    Amy

    What songs should I put in my next spin playlist? I’m putting it together—Share your current favorite songs with me in the Comments below! And stay tuned for next month for a very special Christmas themed spin class…

    Photo by Cole Untiedt from my days teaching at Pure Indoor Cycling in San Diego

    This post is not sponsored, but it does contain affiliate links. I truly love these products and know you will, too. Thanks for supporting the blog!

  • Himalayan Salt Lamp Benefits + Why You Need One

    Himalayan Salt Lamp Benefits

    Himalayan Salt Lamp

    What is a Himalayan Salt Lamp, and does they really have health benefits?

    It’s become a wellness cliche for a reason: the Himalayan salt lamp is a beautiful and functional natural addition to home or office décor, and even offers health benefits. It’s no secret that I love these popular decorations—my home is full of them. I mean, I’m a sucker for anything pink, and these magical pieces of nature are lovely to look at. But it’s exciting that they can potentially make us feel better, too!

    Himalayan Salt Lamps are formed from pink salt crystals, and are mined from the edge of the Himalayan Mountains in Pakistan. They’re typically carved out in the center to make space for a light bulb for use as a light source and decoration. These beautiful rocks range in color from light pink to dark pink with an orange hue, depending on their mineral concentration.

    Himalayan salt lamps can add an element of beauty and nature to any space. But aside from just being beautiful, these rocks also offer some powerful proven health benefits! And by proven, I mean actually backed by science. There are a few popular claims that haven’t been supported, but plenty that surprisingly have! So let’s dive in.

    Here’s the first thing to know:

    Himalayan Salt Lamps emit negative ions into the air.

    Salt is pretty cool—it’s a hygroscopic substance, which means it has a net positive ionic charge. In other words, due to its specific electric charge, it attracts water molecules from the surrounding environment and leaves behind more negative ions (versus positive ions) in the air. Wtf is an ion? Well, technically, it’s an atom with a net electric charge due to the loss or gain of one or more electrons.

    Sorry to get all Science class on you—basically, just know that the air is comprised of tiny little parts we can ions that have a charge, either positive or negative. Energy is VERY real. And the state of the air can create an affect when the air ions interact with the atoms in your body.

    The main debate is how effectively Himalayan salt rocks emit negative ions. Negative ions are most often emitted by running water, like waterfalls and oceans. A little motion tends to help. But Himalayan salt lamps also release negative ions into the air—we’re just not sure how much. And even if it’s a small amount, the more negative ions you have in your home, the better! I mean it really can’t hurt.

    Plus I have a theory that placing your rock near a fan or by your AC vent can help get some of those ions circulating.

    Himalayan Salt Lamp

    But we probably can’t say that Himalayan Salt Lamps “purify” the air.

    Read any major wellness publication and you’ll see that Himalayan salt lamps are often said to be effective air purifiers.

    The idea is that pollutants/toxins hanging out with the water molecules in the air are drawn to the salt rock like a microscopic vacuum, where they stick. Voila, cleaner air! This may be true, or not—unfortunately there haven’t been any studies done on this to either prove or disprove the air quality benefits. So it’s all theory at the moment.

    While that hasn’t really been researched yet, the salt rock can’t hurt the air quality, and at best it does help! Plus there IS an exciting benefit to Himalayan salt lamps and their negative ions that actually HAS been backed by science:

    Negative ions can help ease depression.

    As someone who has lived with depression for a lot of my life, I’ll do just about anything to boost my mood naturally. And all you have to do is put a pretty salt rock lamp in your room? I’m in!

    Even though it sounds backwards, negative ions make us feel good, while positive ions in the air make us feel bad. This has been proven by science—check this study from the U.S. National Library of Medicine that concluded “meta-analysis results showed that negative ionization, overall, was significantly associated with lower depression ratings.” They make it clear that the ions didn’t help with anxiety, sleep, mood, or relaxation, but they showed markedly strong results for depression.

    I don’t know about you, but this kind of stuff makes me so hyped. Nature’s medicine in action!

    A great way to get a huge dose of depression-fighting negative ions is to get to a large body of running water. The ocean is ideal—I’ve found being by it has healed me tremendously (there’s a reason I’ve chosen to live in San Diego after experiencing life on Oahu), as well as waterfalls. But if you’re like most people and can’t get to the water on the daily, it just might help to bring a piece of the negative ion benefits into your home with a Himalayan Salt Lamp.

    Himalayan salt rock lamps have been shown to be proven effective in the treatment of seasonal depression. And in a 2010 study, animals exposed to a salt lamp for 14 weeks showed improved tryptophan and serotonin production, leading to an antidepressant effect. (The chemicals tryptophan and serotonin help regulate mood in the body.)

    The negative ions from the salt rocks could improve your mood, increase your energy, and improve stress-relief, naturally. And you know that anything that helps the health of your mind is also improving the health of your body. Win-win.

    Himalayan Salt Lamp

    Himalayan Salt Rock Lamps can also reduce Allergy & Asthma Symptoms!

    In addition to emiting negative ions, salt is known to be helpful for those with allergies, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). And obviously, since it’s COVID times, anything that can potentially help you breathe is a good thing in my book!

    One study from the National Library of Medicine looked at 124 patients with various respiratory diseases, and found that spending an hour in a room transformed into an indoor natural salt cave helped ease most of their symptoms. Salt rooms have also been shown to have some beneficial effects in mild asthmatic children!

    Why? Breathing in tiny salt particles helps clear your airways and break down mucus. You can actually use a Himalayan salt inhaler for help with respiratory symptoms, which is cute and fascinating. You’ve probably also heard of a Neti Pot, which literally rinses your nasal passages with salt water.

    While these studies were done in a large salt room, there’s clearly benefits to having salt in the air, even if it is on a smaller scale. I grew up in the arid desert of Albuquerque, New Mexico, and lived for a couple years on humid, salty Oahu. I have struggled for a long time with seasonal allergies (I’ve shared my favorite tools to help here), and I can attest that I breathed my absolute best on Oahu. The salt air really helps.

    So while one single Himalayan Salt Lamp might not be enough to totally transform your airways, it’s a good way to help.

    My favorite benefit is that they help you wind down for better sleep.

    Himalayan salt rock lamps, when turned on, emit a soothing pink glow that is really calming, and the perfect color tone of light to help signal to your brain when it’s time to wind down.

    You’ve probably heard that Blue Light can disrupt your circadian rhythm and trick your brain into thinking it’s daytime and to be more awake, since it’s the same wavelength as the light from the sun. (psst… I’ve rounded up my favorite Blue Light Blocking Glasses here)

    Well, Red Light is on the other side of the spectrum and helps your brain settle into nighttime and slow down for a good night’s sleep. I use these incredible Himalayan Salt Lamp night lights; they’re the perfect size to plug in around your bedroom while you get ready for bed to help set the tone.

    Plus, Himalayan Salt Rock Lamps are just plain relaxing. They create a more balanced and mindful space thanks to their attractive and organic appearance. They’re grounding—it’s an element of Earth that you bring into your home, apartment, or office, and being in nature is essential for finding peace.

    Himalayan Salt Lamp

    An important tip you won’t often hear but is critical: you need to turn on the light often!

    I rarely see this brought up in articles about Himalayan salt lamps, but it’s so important: the role of the lightbulb is not just to make the rock a pretty light source. It’s important to turn on the light frequently because the bulb inside the lamp heats up the rock, which is what helps activate the ionization process. If you don’t heat it, it’s not bad, it’s just not offering the same potential benefits.

    The more you can light it up, the better the chances are of it interacting with the air to produce those negative ions for all the mental and physical health boosts.

    There’s more benefits that Himalayan Salt Rock Lamps are said to offer, from improving skin quality to reducing static electricity in the air. And all of that may be true, but make sure to light your lamp to help it along! If your rock has a hole but didn’t come with a lightbulb, you can get the right kind of lightbulb here.

    Which Himalayan Salt Lamps to Buy:

    Here are some of my favorites!

    Himalayan Salt Lamp

    The verdict is clear—salt rock lamps are worth the purchase!

    So feel free to embrace your love of Himalayan salt rocks, and go crazy decorating with them. Just because there haven’t been a ton of scientific studies done on the Himalayan salt lamp benefits doesn’t doesn’t mean you won’t experience positive effects—the work that has been done is clearly pro-salt.

    A couple last notes: make sure you purchase an authentic Himalayan salt lamp. There are some lamps out there that look like the rocks but aren’t actually real. True Himalayan salt mostly comes from the Khewra Salt Mine in Pakistan.

    Also—Too much salt can be toxic to many kinds of animals, like cats and dogs, so keep your lamp out of reach if you find your pet enjoys licking it! (My girl Peach, pictured here, thankfully has no interest in them except to sit by and absorb the negative ions.) Mmm, salty…

    » Song Vibes «

    What do you love most about Himalayan salt rock lamps? Do you have some favorites to recommend? Share with me in the Comments in the Disqus section below!

    xo,

    Amy

    This post is not sponsored, but it does contain affiliate links. I truly love these products and know you will, too. Thanks for supporting the blog!

  • The 5 Best Face Masks For Working Out

    5 Best Face Masks For Working Out Pin

    Best Face Masks For Working Out

    Face masks for working out that won’t make you feel like you’re inhaling sweat and fabric with each gasping breath? They do exist.

    It’s hard to believe that it’s officially been a year since the coronavirus upended all our lives. And now that the end is sort of in sight with widespread vaccinations, the shift to reopening is happening slowly, with new rules. In California, indoor gyms are now open (btw: you can find a master list of current Outdoor Workouts in Los Angeles here), but many still require masks to be worn during the workout. So what are the best face masks for working out available now in 2021?

    I did some digging (and guinea-pig testing) and found the 5 Best Face Masks to wear during a workout that avoid all the usual issues. Most masks get soaked and soggy from your sweat and heavy breathing, and the result is—disgusting. You inhale your own spit. IYKYK. I’m not still traumatized by it or anything.

    Another problem with most masks is they don’t wick away or absorb moisture while you’re working out, and that trapped moisture then frequently leads to maskne (aka acne caused by your mask on your cheeks, nose, and chin). Speaking of, you can find more info in this article on maskne from Shape Magazine.

    Masks need to stay mostly dry while you sweat.

    Let’s talk about some other musts. A good mask for working out must be:

    • Sweat-wicking (stays mostly dry)
    • Breathable
    • Adjustable
    • Comfortable

    A note on wearing face masks while working out: the way you breathe matters.

    I get that wearing a mask while sweating can be uncomfortable. Oftentimes people find the sensation suffocating, so I want to remind you to try to relax and try to focus on controlling your breathing. Try to relax—anxiety will just make it more difficult. Wearing a mask is actually a great mild challenge to strengthen your lungs and breath capacity. Once you start breathing deeper, you’ll find it a lot easier to tolerate breathing through the mask.

    Skeptical? Well, if you’ve ever taken a spin class, you know what an intense cardio workout it is. But I’m happy to report that you can totally do it in a mask. I have! It is slightly more challenging only because it requires you to be more mindful of how you breathe. But this is a good thing, because it will help you improve your overall fitness performance whether you’re wearing a mask or not.

    Here’s how to breathe better:

    Aim to take slow, deep breaths in the lowest part of your belly.

    If you’ve taken my online Meditation course about Breathing techniques (Shortcut to Calm, a great way to improve your breathing and mindfulness), you’ve learned how to do this deep breathing during your meditation practice. Think of inflating your ribs like a balloon. Focus on the airflow coming from the lower parts of your lungs and diaphragm, and not on how the air is coming in and out of your nose. Relax your face, mouth, and throat. Try to breathe in a steady rhythm.

    If you’re struggling, back off on your workout. This goes for whether you’re wearing a mask or not–you always want to be able to breathe steadily during your workout, especially cardio. If you’re ever pushing yourself to the point of being red-faced and gasping, you’re over-activating your body’s stress response, which can actually make your workout work against you and cause more inflammation than good.

    One last thing about wearing masks—

    It’s all about how you choose to look at the situation (like every situation we face). For me, it’s a clear and easy way to protect others and myself, and to demonstrate that I care about the health of those around me, vaccinated or not. And if you have the right mask, it’s really not uncomfortable either. Dare I say I sometimes… enjoy wearing one?

    My top mask of choice to stay comfortable while working out is number one on the list below. Remember that choosing to wear reusable face masks helps both you and the environment (but don’t worry, I do you have you covered on a top-rated disposable option as well!). They can all be machine washed with warm water, and I hang mine dry to keep them lasting longer. And they’re really the best of the best when it comes to handling a workout.

    Let’s get into it!

     

    The 5 Best Face Masks For Working Out in 2021

     

    1. Onzie Mindful Masks

    Onzie Mindful Masks

    Onzie is one of my favorite activewear brands, and they now make my favorite mask to workout in (it’s what I’m wearing in the photos on this page)! One of the first companies to react to the coronavirus by pivoting to create and sell masks, Onzie had the right idea from the start: why not take up-cycled activewear performance material and use it to create masks? The result is the unisex Mindful Mask that is comfortable, breathable, cool (in temperature and style), sweat-wicking, flexible, and sustainable. The definition of a top mask to work out in.

    You can currently choose a random assorted 2-pack for the masks, or select specific colors and styles in pre-made bundles. The masks are created with “a multi-layer fabric made of Full Flex Spandex technology for the exterior with a high performance inner lining and soft touch spandex straps.” Onzie also makes a line of Mindful Masks for Kids!

    Even better: During their Mindful Mask initiative, Onzie donated thousands of masks to local hospitals, as well as a portion of proceeds to healthcare workers across America through the Center For Disaster Philanthropy. Gotta love a company that makes good products with a good cause.

    Buy: Mindful Masks, $24 (pack of 2) via Onzie

     

    2. Adidas Face Covers

    Adidas Face Covers

    Adidas Face Covers are sporty, chic, and unisex. The flexible material and stretch bands around the ears provide full coverage, comfort, and ease of use. They’re made with two layers of fabric that are soft, breathable, and ready for your workout.

    These masks are very similar to Reebok Face Covers (btw: they’re owned by the same parent company, and Reebok’s masks also come highly recommended), but I prefer Adidas’ because they’re made out of Primegreen, a high-performance recycled material. Always bonus points for sustainability.

    Adidas Face Covers come in two sizes (XS/S or M/L), so you can get a fit that’s better suited to your face. They also have different color pack options, so be sure to explore their options to fit your look!

    Buy: Face Covers, $20 (pack of 3) via Adidas—Choose XS/S or M/L

     

    3. Athleta Activate Face Mask

    Athleta Activate Face Mask

    As I embarked on my research for this post, I asked my Instagram followers and fellow Facebook Group members about their favorite face masks to wear for working out, and time and time again Athleta came highly recommended. Like Onzie, Athleta makes their Activate Face Masks out of the same material as their activewear—in this case, their performance-driven, comfortable TurboDry™ fabric. They dry sweat as quickly as it comes, and stay feeling light and airy against your skin through long usages.

    These soft and breathable masks are were designed specifically with your active lifestyle in mind, and are perfect for yoga, spin, and beyond. They have adjustable, soft knit ear loops for all-day comfort and a moldable nose piece. The masks have even been proven to have an average 90.3% particle-blocking performance to keep you safe both in the gym and on the street. Athleta also makes a line of similar Made to Move face masks designed for kids.

    Buy: Activate Face Mask, $30 or 2 via Athleta

     

    4. Under Armor Sportsmask

    Under Armour Sportsmask

    This is for all my serious athletes, or those who just want the best of the best. Introducing the Mercedes of the workout face mask collection: the Under Armor Sportsmask. This unisex face mask truly is the perfect face mask for athletes. As their website says: “It’s got the airflow you need, a cool feel, and the best fit for running or training.”

    Specifically designed to be worn for those participating in serious sports, the Sportsmask is really everything you could want in a workout mask. Made with high-performance UA materials, the mask has a structured design that sits up off the face and lips. It has three layers: the outer layer made with light air pockets, an open cell foam to reduce moisture, and an iso-chill fabric interior that is actually designed to stay cool against your skin and features an anti-microbial treatment.

    The Under Armor Sportsmask comes in five different sizes, from XS to XXL. It has a less “sleek” look, but it’s all about function, anyway. The best part? It has built-in UPF 50+ sun protection (you know I’m a big fan of sun protection). Safe to say this mask puts in the work—so you can, too.

    Buy: Sportsmask, $30 or 2 for $40 via Under Armor

     

    5. Sudilo Disposable Face Masks

    If you’re looking for a disposable option, look no further than Sudilo Disposable Face Masks from Amazon. They’re the perfect option for a workout because they’re super light and breathable, don’t get soggy, and are this chic black color. They have 3 filter layers for protection, an adjustable nose piece, comfortable elastic ear pieces, and they’re highly affordable.

    I know, because I put one of these face masks through the TEST. My cousin had a small outdoor wedding a few weeks ago for family, and we had a dance floor. I initially was wearing a super cute fancy silk face mask in rose gold that was the same shade as my dress—it was a 2021 Inauguration monochrome vibe, but that mask was definitely more pretty than functional. Once I started dancing, the fabric pulled into my mouth with every breath and I was actually gasping.

    Luckily, I’d brought one of these Sudilo Disposable Face Masks as a backup. I pulled it out of my jacket pocket, swapped it out, and it stayed put, sturdy, dry, and breathable as I proceeded to dance for 2 hours straight. Safe to say, it passed the test.

    Buy: Sudilo Disposable Face Masks, $11 (pack of 50) via Amazon

     

    A note on disposable masks: please cut the strings when you throw them away! This will help protect marine and wildlife that may encounter the mask as trash in the future. Otherwise, they can get potentially caught and strangled in the mask strings.

     

    Best Face Masks For Working Out

    (Photo credit: Mary Joe Weichel for Carbon38—get 15% off with code AMYBAA15, btw—at Elevate Training)

     

    Enjoy being in WORKOUT CLASSES again, everyone! It feels so good to be together again, even if we do have to wear masks. It’s been a long pandemic, but we’ll be out of it soon. Stay safe and socially distanced out there, and have fun reconnecting with other people again! A big lesson of this whole experience has definitely been that we all need each other, sometimes more than we remember.

     

    » Song Vibes «

     

    Do you know of any other good face masks for working out in 2021? Let me know—drop a Comment in the Disqus section below!

    xo,

    Amy

    This post is not sponsored, but it does contain a few affiliate links. I truly love these products and know you will, too. Thanks for supporting the blog!

  • Spring 2021 Spin Playlist

    Winter 2021 Spin Playlist

    Get excited for a new Spring 2021 Spin Playlist I’ve created for you!

    Do you have a home spin bike? Well, lucky you! I’m here to help spice up your at-home workout, for free, with a full 45 minute Spring 2021 Spin Playlist and class guide. Get ready for a killer workout!

    I stopped teaching spin in July 2019 to give myself the space to focus on growing my Yoga and Meditation career, but I still love spin as much as I ever did. When I stopped teaching, I began looking for a used spin bike so I could keep doing the workout at home—and ended up finding one from a studio that was selling their bikes.

    This was a huge advantage to me when the Coronavirus pandemic hit in March 2020, and spin studios shut down. Bikes began selling out all over, but since I already had one, I could still get my stress-relieving workout in, at home! If you have one, too, you know what a lifesaver it’s been. So I’m grateful for all the steps that led me to where I’m at today.

    When I decided to step off the podium, it was bittersweet. To be honest with you, I’d had a not-great experience as a spin instructor. I was unhappy with the studio I was at, and the demands of teaching weren’t fairly compensated. But I loved spin so much I was willing to take a lot of hits just to be able to keep teaching. And the years I spent teaching spin taught me so, so much.

    And now, I still create new classes just for myself—or rather, for all of us, since I get to share with you all here! Who knows; I may even return to the podium one day.

    Spin to me is the absolute best form of cardio.

    I used to be a runner, in high school and college. But by 2014 I kept hurting my ankles, or my knees (I may be getting older), which is what led me to search for a cardio workout alternative that could challenge me, hold my interest, and give me mental space. I needed a form of high-intensity cardio that was also low-impact and easy on the joints.

    Enter: SPIN.

    If you know, you know.

    I talk about this a lot on the blog, but I really believe in the Holy Trinity of Fitness: Cardio, Strength Training, and Yoga (Active Recovery). Spin happens to be the form of cardio I love the most because it doesn’t feel like working out to me (most of the time).

    Instead, it feels like you’re dancing on a bike. I get lost in the music, and the beat guides your feet. Plus, nothing’s better at burning off anxiety like sprinting as fast as you can.

    How to do this class:

    I’ve created a full 45 minute-long workout class for you to do at home. I used to teach in a choreography-led style of spin, where you do fun moves on the bike to the beat of the music, so that’s what you’ve got here!

    Please do the moves if you know what I’m talking about—and if you don’t, all you gotta worry about is riding to the beat. If you do that, you’re going to automatically be really challenged, since I’ve designed this class to include lots of interval training, like HIIT on a bike.

    Try to always ride with some tension on your bike. It should be difficult to keep moving your feet to the beat of each song, so adjust accordingly, adding more or taking off resistance as you need.

    If you want help with your spin form, read this.

    Disclaimer: Please listen to your body, exercise at your own risk, be smart, etc.

    If you get confused and want my help, just drop me a Comment at the bottom of this page, or shoot me a DM on Instagram.

    Here’s the playlist breakdown, with choreography:

    Click here to open the playlist in Spotify.

    • Physical by Dua Lipa: Pulse Elbows Down (towards handlebars)
    • Lil Bit by Nelly + Florida Georgia Line: Fast Figure 8s (move hips towards back of saddle to front)
    • Ice Cream by BLACKPINK + Selena Gomez: Push Elbows Out + Down
    • Ride It by Regard (Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike vs Quintino Remix): Sprints (x2)
    • Check by Qveen Herby: Travels
    • Booty by Jennifer Lopez + Iggy Azalea (Vice Remix): Tapbacks (slightly lean back to tap your booty to the back of your saddle)
    • On Me by Kelechi: Slow Figure 8s
    • Bonfire by Childish Gambino: Push-up Tapbacks
    • The Business by Tiësto: Travels
    • Luxury by Azealia Banks: Sprints (x2)
    • Rain On Me by Lady Gaga + Ariana Grande (Purple Disco Machine Remix): Weights 
    • I Am by Yung Baby Tate feat. Flo Milli: Your Choice (do whatever you want)
    • Lose Control by MEDUZA, Becky Hill + Goodboys: Sprints (x2)
    • I’m Dope by Tobe Nwigwe feat. David Michael Wyatt – Cool-down Stretch

    Note: For the Weights section, stay seated on your bike, grab a pair of light hand weights (3 – 5 lbs) and do some arm work. Biceps curls, shoulder presses, etc. Or, just ride.

    It’s your workout. Play around and make it work for you!

    I hope this Spring 2021 Spin Playlist helps you all stay sane during the continued pandemic lockdowns!

    I wanted to give you a fresh alternative to streaming from studios online, or good ol’ Peloton, especially since we’ve gone so long now doing the same home routine. Sometimes it’s nice to guide yourself through your own workout, without any distractions. Just great music and the bike.

    Working out has always been as much about mental exercise as physical for me, and I hope that through a fun workout you can discover the stress-relieving benefits of cardio, too. Raising your heart strengthens it, and helps your entire system to process any unaddressed emotions. The best part about working out at home, by yourself, is you can give yourself the space to work through whatever you need. Let your bike become a place of sanctuary, of moving meditation—like being on your mat in yoga.

    The songs in my Spring 2021 Spin Playlist are a mix of upbeat pop, EDM, and hip hop that I’m loving lately, including tons of the latest hits with some older gems sprinkled in. It’s a great playlist to use for any workout, or to get pumped up in general!

    Be sure to share this with any friends who could use a new workout. And let me know if you find this helpful and want me to keep sharing more!

    Happy spinning.

    What songs should I put in my next spin playlist? I’m putting it together—Share your current favorite songs with me in the Comments below!

    xo,

    Amy

    Photo by Cole Untiedt

  • Video: 10 Minute Post-Pregnancy Abs/Core Workout

    Post Pregnancy Abs Core Workout

    Calling all new moms—here’s a safe and effective core workout to help you start to rebuild your abdominal strength!

    I have so many friends who have gotten pregnant recently. I think it’ll be cool to look back and see the numbers for the COVID baby boom one day, because there definitely was one in my social circle. I’ve also worked with a lot of clients who have become pregnant and given birth over my years as a fitness trainer. So I know it can be challenging to know where to start with you core, since you can’t jump back into working your abs the same way you did before.

    Ideally, everyone would have a physical therapist to work with after having a baby, but since that’s not often possible, I’m bringing the PT to you. All of these exercises are ones I did with my own physical therapist this past year and are approved for postpartum strengthening!

    Nope—I’ve never been pregnant, but I know what it is to lose your core strength from a traumatic injury.

    Which childbirth is, in a sense. It’s a LOT for your body to go through. So first please remember to be super kind to yourself during your recovery period. Healing is slow, but you will get there. You may not notice the changes in your body day to day, but over time you’ll feel more comfortable and strong in your body again.

    What happened to me is I had chest surgery, basically sewing my sternum back down after I had a breast augmentation go wrong. Because of this, I couldn’t use my arms at all for months. My entire upper body became weak. I was literally sewn inward, and couldn’t even stand up straight. I lost all my core strength. And had to rebuild one step at a time.

    It’s important to love your body through it all. It’s amazing what your body can do!

    I mean—you just grew a human. Your body is INCREDIBLE. Love it through every stage—even when you feel your most weak. Our bodies are a sacred vessel that we so easily abuse and take for granted, especially as women who are trained to pick apart our appearance.

    Try to focus instead on gratitude for all that your body can do, rather than what it looks like in any particular moment.

    This simple 10 minute Post-Pregnancy Abs/Core Workout will help you rebuild your abdominal strength from your innermost core out.

    You have to ease back into core workouts really gently, and this video is the perfect way to start exercises once your doctor approves. I offer ways to modify the exercises, but please always listen to your body and consult with your doctor with any questions or concerns. Start slow—a little bit of progress evert day creates big changes. (Remember it took 9 months to grow the baby!)

    When you’re pregnant, your core shifts and stretches (your organs actually move around) to make room for your baby. So, the thing to focus on first is a feeling of cinching in your waistline (all the way around your body) in towards your center, towards your spine. Imagine an umbrella folding in, everything pulling to center. This is what is going to work your very innermost core muscles, called your transverse abdominal muscles. Breathe deeply and focus on the pull in sensation as you exhale

    We target your transverse abdominal muscles bigtime in the below 10 minute Post-Pregnancy Abs / Core Workout video, along with your obliques, back, and chest, which all connect together to make up your core. This will help improve your posture, strengthen your back for holding you baby, and help prevent injury while keeping you healthy all around!

    This workout is also safe and effective for those who have had C-sections; in fact, I made it specifically for a friend who recently had one!

    You’ll do:

    • Plank
      • In this video you’ll begin doing a plank at the wall. You’ll gradually increase the incline by walking away from the wall, then finding a counter or chair, then on your knees on the ground, until finally a full plank—it took me a year to do this, for context. Go slow.
    • Walk the dogs
      • Lift your right arm and left leg, then switch.
      • Try to avoid rocking your hips or chest.
    • Foot march lifts, lying on back
      • Keep a neutral flat back on the ground the whole time (low back is slightly off the ground).
      • Can advance this move by switching feet midair, then trying both feet up and hovering.
    • Oblique leg triangle lowers, lying on back
      • Lower knees down towards the ground/out to the side, then up.
    • Side planks
      • Forearm down, lift up out of your shoulder, hips lift.
      • Can modify by keeping your hips down.

    Click below to play the video and do the workout:

    Let me know how you feel after this core workout — drop me a note in the Disqus Comments section below!

    xo,
    Amy

  • The Best Blue Light Blocking Glasses of 2021

    Blue Light Blocking Glasses - Infinite Embers

    Blue Light Blocking Glasses - Infinite Embers

    Let’s talk about the BEST Blue Light Blocking Glasses of 2021.

    Americans spend an average of 8 hours a day looking at screens—which is why having a good pair of Blue Light Glasses is super important.

    That is, my friends, a third of your life.

    Since today’s New Year’s Eve in 2020, I think it’s the perfect time to launch into the New Year of 2021 with improved eye health and cute glasses!

    And honestly right now, during the COVID-19 pandemic, that screen time number has to be even higher. Most businesses and activities have turned virtual, including school. Kids and teens especially are spending way more time on computers, and our eyes aren’t meant to absorb so much intense light for so long.

    All those Zoom calls start to take a big toll on your eyes, your sleep, and your overall wellbeing.

    Are blue light blocking glasses really that important? What do they do?

    YES. They really are necessary to have in today’s technology-driven world.

    Here’s the deal: too much screen-staring causes us a handful of health problems. Screens are a source of artificial light, and they contain Blue Light waves, which is the big enemy.

    The first main issue Blue Light causes is Digital Eye Strain, which currently affects about 60% of Americans. This can create headaches, dry eyes, eye fatigue, and blurred vision. It can also increase the risk of macular degeneration (a thinning of part of your retina), as well as other long-term vision complications.

    Blue Light also really Fs with your sleep. The Blue Light mimics sunlight, which tricks your brain into thinking it’s still daylight out while you scroll Twitter late at night. This throws off your circadian rhythm, which means your body stops producing the correct hormones to make you tired enough to go to bed, and then wake up feeling alert and well-rested the next morning. This includes a halt in your body’s production of melatonin, which can lead to trouble falling asleep and staying asleep.

    Blue Light is, basically, not the best.

    Thankfully, Blue Light-blocking glasses do exactly what they say and block the Blue Light from getting to your eyes, filtering out the harmful rays from your screen.

    Blue Light Blocking Glasses - Infinite Embers

    The benefits of using Blue Light Blocking Glasses include:

    • Improved sleep
    • Increased energy
    • Improved eye health
    • Prevention of vision degeneration
    • Better mental focus (cognition)

    Everyone I know who has tried blue light blocking glasses agrees—they’re a necessary game-changer. Obviously, the less time you can spend in front of screens in general, the better. But when it’s a necessary part of your life, it’s important to protect your health along the way.

    I like to wear mine for most of the day. I start off without them, since the Blue Light can be okay in the morning to help your body wake up. Then I can usually feel my eyes get tired after a couple hours of screen time, around noon, and that’s when I’ll switch to my glasses. If your main concern is sleep, wear the glasses when the sun goes down/you get home from work, and use them to watch TV and look at your phone, as well as use the computer.

    By the way, if you want help on breaking your phone addiction, read this. But since screens are a mostly inescapable part of life, you might as well get the best Blue Light blocking glasses out there!

    So which ones should you buy? Let’s get into it…

    Blue Light Blocking Glasses - Infinite Embers

    Top 5 BEST Blue Light Blocking Glasses of 2021

     

    1 » Felix Gray

    Felix Gray is at the top of my list because they’re the ones I personally own, after doing lots of research! They specialize in making clear Blue Light glasses, and have gender-neutral styles for both adults and kids. They’re also available in prescription, reading, and even sunglasses. They also have a Sleep line that targets the specific range of deeper Blue Light that impacts melatonin secretion (440-500 nm wavelengths) to help improve the quality of your sleep.

    Buy: Felix Gray, starting at $95 (pictured style: Nash, which is what I have)

     

    2 » Warby Parker

    Warby Parker Simon Glasses

    You may know Warby Parker as the go-to brand for affordable glasses, but you may not know you can add blue-light-filtering lenses to any pair of glasses for just $50, with or without a prescription. They have a genius concept to shop for new frames in the comfort and safety of your home, while giving you an option to try on different frame styles to find one that best fits your face. They mail you your choice of 5 different frames to choose from, so you can try them on before you commit.

    Buy: Warby Parker, starting at $95 (pictured style: Simon, silver)

     

    3 » FLOWER Drew Barrymore Collection at Walmart

     

    FLOWER Walmart Glasses Drew Barrymore

    Beloved actress and certified business mogul Drew Barrymore created a line of highly affordable and super cute Blue Light blocking glasses for Walmart! For only $20 a pair (currently on sale!), they’re a perfect option if you want a budget-friendly option, or tend to lose/break your glasses frequently! The only downside is that their lenses do have a yellow tint to them (part of what keeps the cost down) but still look great on and keep your eyes protected from both Blue Light AND UV rays.

    Buy: FLOWER, $20-29 (pictured style: Violet Frame, Onyx Black)

     

    4 » Baxter Blue Glasses

    Baxter Blue Glasses

    Like Felix Gray, Baxter Blue specializes in making unisex adult and kids Blue Light blocking glasses. Their lenses eliminate glare, block UV rays, and virtually clear, with the option to get them with reading lenses. They’re also a company with heart—for every pair of glasses purchased, they provide a pair of reading glasses to someone in need with the charity organization Restoring Vision. After looking them up to write this post, I’ve kind of fallen in love with Baxter (it’s the pink frames for me).

    Buy: Baxter Blue, starting at $89 (pictured style: Georgie Pink Crystal)

     

    5 » TIJN Blue Light Blocking Glasses on Amazon

     

    TIJN Amazon Glasses

     

    Another budget-friendly winner are these cute frames from brand TIJN on Amazon. They have a kind of cult following—these pictured frames have over 43,000 ratings and all their frames have 4 stars or more. They also have kids’ glasses. These also have a slight yellow tint, though not as apparent in the photos. You can save even more with one of their 2 packs!

    Buy: TIJN, $17-20 (pictured style: Square Nerd, transparent)

     

    Blue Light Blocking Glasses - Infinite Embers

    Here’s to better eyesight, fewer headaches, and a happier work life!

    » Song Vibes «

    What are your favorite Blue Light Blocking Glasses for 2021? Share with the class—drop a note in the Disqus Comments section below!

    xo,

    Amy

    This post is not sponsored, but it does contain affiliate links. I truly love these products and know you will, too. Thanks for supporting the blog!

  • The Ultimate 2020 Holiday Wellness Gift Guide

    Not sure what to give your loved ones this holiday season? I’ve got you covered with this 2020 Wellness Gift Guide!

    There’s nothing that says I love you quite like the gift of wellness — everyone can benefit from taking care of their health and feeling better inside and out, especially during the holiday season.

    November is here, which means it’s time to plan your gift lists for this upcoming Christmas and Hanukkah (and anything else you celebrate). But coming up with new creative ideas for everyone on your list can quickly get overwhelming. Now you don’t need to worry about what to give your Uncle Johnny—these wellness gift ideas will make shopping for everyone a breeze.

    I mean, let’s be real—we’ve probably all given enough candles. (I do LOVE candles, but you can only give so many.) This master list has wellness gifts that are unique and special enough to remember, and are things your loved ones will actually use and enjoy.

    Growing up, I loved watching Oprah on TV after school with my mom, and in putting together this list I’ve totally channeled her annual Favorite Things. Here are all of the best, chic, and affordable wellness gifts for this holiday season that the people in your life will be super stoked to receive.

    I’ve rounded up ALL the best wellness gift ideas in 2020 to fit every budget!

    The wellness gift ideas are organized in categories that are just like this site: the best presents for mental health (Mind), physical health (Body), Yoga, and Fitness. Everything is listed by alphabetical order, and you’ll find something for everyone, in each price point.

    There are ten gift ideas in each category, for a total of 40 different amazing options. You’ll find gift ideas for as low as $8, and this list covers everyone from your super athlete brother to your grandma.

    Also, I highly recommend buying the items below for yourself, too! As the Parks and Rec saying goes: Treat yo self. I actually got most of these ideas based on things I have either been given or have given as gifts myself, so I can vouch that they all are amazing ways to give some self-love (which honestly, I think we could all use a bit more of this year).

    Happy holiday season! Let’s dive in to all the best wellness gift ideas of the year:

     

    2020 WELLNESS GIFT GUIDE

    » MIND «

     

    Affirmators! Affirmation Card Deck

    • These warm and cheeky cards are a hit with everyone I’ve ever shared them with. Each card has a heart-filled affirmation and illustration that provides self-help advice while also keeping it real. My friend Kelsey gave me this deck as a gift a few years back, and it’s one of my favorite gifts I’ve ever gotten. I’ve used them in my yoga classes, and everyone lights up when they see the cards’ humorous and loving vibe!
    • Buy: $13, Amazon

    Crystals

    • For the spiritual friend in your life, you can’t go wrong with crystals! (They’re my favorite thing to receive.) Crystals are becoming more and more popular, and there are endless types with different sizes and colors to suit any energy. If you’re not sure which crystal to give, I always recommend an Amethyst, or Rose Quartz. Or, go with a gift set, like this beautiful Chakra one! Etsy is my favorite place to shop for all varieties of crystals from independent business owners online.
    • Buy: $3o, Etsy (other crystal prices vary)

    Heart Talk by Cleo Wade

    • This book feels like a hug from a dear friend—so, the perfect gift. Cleo Wade is an incredible writer and artist (I featured her in my Black Wellness Leaders list), and this book is one that is meant to be picked up daily. Every page has a different inspirational poem, story, etc. that offers wisdom for healing and self-love. My friend Jessica gave it to me for my birthday one year, and I’ve since given it to other friends who have adored it as much as I do. I still pick it up from the coffee table any time I need an emotional boost.
    • Buy: $13, Amazon

    Journal

    • A journal is such a good way to reduce stress and process how you’re feeling. Keeping a gratitude journal in particular has been shown to improve mental health (learn more about gratitude journals here!). They’re practical, meaningful, and don’t break the bank—an ideal gift.
    • My favorite options from Amazon:

    Palo Santo

    • Palo Santo is a popular way to cleanse the energy of a space (see Sage below). But most Palo Santo is not sustainably sourced, and its habitat (dry tropical forest) is currently deeply threatened. According to this article from The New York Times, estimates are that only five to ten percent of dry tropical forests are still intact around the world. So make your palo santo gift extra special by buying sustainably sourced Palo Santo that does not contribute to deforestation! I’ve linked my favorite seller below on Etsy, who collects the Palo Santo in Peru from fallen branches and downed trees.
    • Buy: $9, Etsy

    Philips SmartSleep Wake-up Light

    • Sleep has a LOT to do with your mental health, and there is no better way to wake up than with this light, especially on dark winter mornings. The light gradually simulates lighting up your room just like the sun, triggering the correct hormones in your brain to be released to tell your body that it’s morning and time to wake up! By the time light has filled the room (so helpful on early mornings), your chosen natural sound completes the wake up experience, leaving you ready for the day ahead. I use this clock and it’s a game-changer when it comes to starting your day. It’s a much more gentle, natural wakeup than your iPhone blaring at you from under a pillow.
    • Buy: $117, Amazon

    Sage Bundle

    • Sage is a long-practiced tool to practice energy cleansing. But, like Palo Santo, it can be problematic. Sage is often not harvested sustainably, leaving limited resources for the Indigenous Peoples who originated the practice. Read more about sage and cultural appropriation here. The best way to buy sustainably grown Sage is from a Native reservation, and I’ve found an Indigenous seller on Etsy in Wisconsin who creates beautiful Sage bundles that are a perfect gift!
    • Buy: $6+, Etsy

    Self Care Gift Box

    • Give someone the gift of a night off with a relaxing spa-at-home gift set! This beautiful Self Care Gift Box includes a hand-poured soy candle, bath salts, French green clay mask (great for all skin types), lip balm, and a decorative matchbox, all with a personalized gift card. Everything is handmade in Austin, TX with natural ingredients and essential oils. You also get to choose between Lavender or Vanilla Orange scents!
    • Buy: $28 (with free shipping), Etsy

    Shortcut to Calm Online Meditation Course

    Shortcut To Calm Meditation Course

    • One of the best gifts you can give someone is a meditation class, since it’s so challenging to learn this practice on your own. I created an at-your-own-pace online course that is a wonderful gift for those who are newer to meditation! It’s a week-long online course to learn how to let go of stress by combining proven meditation and breath techniques. Your friend will get seven different 20 min guided meditation audio downloads, a Basics of Meditation lesson, and special bonus materials! All you need is to sign up, then give your login info to your friend so they can experience this simple-yet-powerful stress-relief practice. Learn more here.
    • Buy: $77, Thinkific

    Untamed by Glennon Doyle

    • Untamed is one of the top bestselling books of 2020 for a reason—it’s amazing. I listened to the audiobook around March while going on long walks outside with my dogs, right after reading Glennon Doyle‘s previous book Love Warrior (the two books as a set is an awesome gift idea if you want to do a little extra). The coronavirus pandemic hit my life hard, and this book is full of loving wisdom that I really needed. Doyle’s raw, beautiful writing aims to empower and show the way for women to fully become themselves.
    • Buy: $17, Amazon

     

    2020 WELLNESS GIFT GUIDE

    » BODY «

     

    Acupressure Mat

    • Acupressure mats are a helpful relaxation tool with powerful healing effects. I wrote all about why they’re amazing here—they’re especially helpful for anyone who struggles with stress, pain, or insomnia. The acupressure mat I have and love is this set from HemingWeigh, which comes with a pillow and its own handy tote bag for easy storage!
    • Buy: $30, Amazon

    Bluestone Sunshields

    • You can learn all about Bluestone Sunshields here, but here’s what you most need to know: they block 99% of UVA/UVB rays and Blue Light and cover your whole face. I got mine a couple years back for the sun protection, but the fact that now face shields are being used as a way to protect against covid outdoors means they’re now doubly special. I actually just broke mine (heartbreak), and a replacement is top of my list this year. Bluestone also has a ton of other visor options, including shorter versions, ones that are clear, and more!
    • Buy: $80, Bluestone Sunshields (use the promo code Sunshield15 for 15% off your order)

    GreenAir SpaGlow Diffuser

    • Diffusing essential oils can help relax your nervous system and improve immunity, but a clunky old diffuser kind of ruins the spa vibe. The SpaGlow by GreenAir is a rare find, and it reminds me of a crystal ball (you even turn it on by pressing on it with your palm). The sphere lights up in different calming pastel colors. It’s hard to find, but I tracked it down! A great wellness gift set idea would be to pair this with a couple different essential oils. Two that nearly everyone can enjoy are Lavender and Eucalyptus.
    • Buy: $45, Bulk Apothecary

    Heating Pad

    • If you’ve ever had menstrual cramps or back/neck pain, you’ll know that a great heating pad is everything. This beautiful blue XL heating pad is super soft, heats quickly, had an auto-off option, and is perfect for treating sore muscles in your back, shoulders, stomach, legs, and arms. Plus, it keeps you warm! This is an especially great gift idea for those who are older or have an injury.
    • Buy: $35, Amazon

    Humidifier

    • A humidifier makes a huge difference in how you feel, especially for kids or if you have allergies. But’s it’s also one of those things that’s easy to think of as a splurge, making it a great gift (in a range of available price points). I love this one TaoTronics because of its sleek aesthetically-pleasing look and the option to produce either hot or cold steam. You can even add essential oils to it!
    • Buy: $90, Amazon

    Juicer

    wellness gift

    • This wellness gift is a wow moment—and something the recipient will use for years! A juicer is a great easy way to get the nutrients of fruits and vegetables without having to eat a ton of salads. This juicer is better than most because it’s a slow masticating juicer, meaning it grinds the veggies slower and with less heat to preserve all the vitamins, enzymes, and minerals with less foaming and no clogging.
    • Buy: $160, Amazon

    Magic Wrap

    • The holidays are looking a little different this year. It’s hard to be away from your loved ones—so if you can’t hug your family in person, you can send a hug in the form of this super cozy Magic Wrap! I am obsessed with mine and use it in the cold mornings and to wind down at night. It’s essentially like a soft wearable blanket, and even has pockets! I have to fight my dog Peach over it because she loves to snuggle in it, too—we recommend getting the Cuddle Fleece version.
    • Buy: $38, Magic Wrap (use the promo code EMBERS for 10% off!)

    Massage Pillow

    • Selfishly, I want someone to give me this gift. This massage + heat pillow by Viktor Jurgen is like having your own private masseuse at home. Powerful 3D rotating massage nodes give you a deep-kneading shiatsu massage while it provides heat, relaxing sore muscles. You can use it on your neck, low back, feet, etc!
    • Buy: $40, Amazon

    UrthBox Healthy Snack Box Subscription

    • Everyone loves food—but what do you honestly give your vegan cousin or someone trying to eat healthier? UrthBox! It’s a monthly subscription gift box that features a collection of the best (full-sized) healthy snacks in Classic, Gluten-Free, Vegan, and Diet options! My dad and his wife got me this one year and it’s been one of my favorite wellness gifts ever. They have different gift options (based on box size and length of subscription from 3-6 months) to indulge everyone on your list, or yourself.
    • Buy: $89+, UrthBox

    Weighted Blanket

    • A weighted blanket is one of the best tools to help reduce stress and anxiety and ensure your Secret Santa gets a good night’s sleep. The blanket’s weight relaxes the body because the pressure mimics a therapeutic technique called deep pressure stimulation. Deep pressure stimulation relaxes the body’s nervous system, and basically feels like a really comforting hug, like you’re being held. They’re worth the hype!
    • Buy: $40, Amazon

     

    2020 WELLNESS GIFT GUIDE

    » YOGA «

     

    2,100 Asanas: The Complete Yoga Poses Book

    • This is a gorgeous, coffee-table-sized color book that’s a great gift for the yogis in your life. I bought this book for myself when I first did my yoga teacher training—I wanted to have a bible of sorts of all the possible asanas (poses). There is no one master book to that covers all of yoga (since there are many different branches), but this is the closest I’ve found for a master list of asanas, with photos for each. I do wish the models were more diverse, but as a textbook this book is super helpful both to plan classes (for teachers) or to deepen your own yoga practice.
    • Buy: $25, Amazon

    Glo Online Yoga Class Subscription

    • There’s no better yoga gift than yoga itself! Give yoga classes from the best teachers in the industry with a gift subscription to an online yoga platform like Glo. I’ve been using Glo (formerly YogaGlo) since 2016, and it continues to have some of the best yoga classes I’ve ever found. I’ve learned so much from taking class with the biggest names in yoga (I especially love Sara Clark, Jo Tastula, and Amy Ippoliti [pictured]), and it has everything from Meditations to Yoga Philosophy Classes to Pilates Core workouts. It’s great for someone just starting yoga, or who wants to continue to practice any time, anywhere with Glo’s easy apps and website.
    • Buy: Gift packages available from $18-$216, Glo

    Lady Magic New Moon Mist

    • This incredible small-business created essential oil spray smells like heaven. Each of Live With Moxy’s mists has been charged under the moon and infused with a custom blend of crystal elixirs, herbal allies, and essential oils to create true magic in a bottle. The vanilla and citrus New Moon spray is my personal favorite, and is perfect to enhance a meditation or yoga practice.
    • Buy: $15, Live With Moxy

    Laure B Paintings Yoga Watercolor Art

    • Omg, I love these paintings. How much? So much that I own three of them. Laure B is a local San Diego watercolor artist, and I fell in love with her work when I saw it for sale in the hallways of Trilogy Sanctuary, where I used to teach. I have a mix of her yoga and aerial yoga prints, and am all about the vibrant rainbow colors! Laure has a wide variety of prints and original paintings for sale on her Etsy store, and I basically want them all.
    • Buy: Etsy (prices vary)

    Manduka PRO Yoga Mat

    • This is called the PRO yoga mat for a reason—it’s the best of the best. I’ve tried a ton of different yoga mats, from the $7 Walmart variety all the way to this one, and this one from Manduka is a clear winner (different colors available). With a nice thick 6mm cushioning, a grippy surface, and an available extra long length of 85″ (ideal for those who are taller), it makes for a really comfortable yoga practice. It is a bit of an investment, price-wise, but that’s what makes this such a nice gift, and this mat really does stand the test of time. Years and tons of use later, the one I got five years ago looks the same as it did on day one.
    • Buy: $120-146 (free shipping), Manduka

    Mat Carrier

    • There are a lot of different yoga mat bags and carriers out there, but I love this one from Manduka for a couple reasons: It can fit any size mat, from the heavier PRO to thinner ones. It’s more sturdy than the kinds that are just straps. And it has a handy large storage pocket for your valuables, like keys and wallet. It’s also weather- and water-resistant!
    • Buy: $32, Manduka

    Yoga Pose Christmas Ornaments

    • I feel like ornaments are the ideal present for those who celebrate Christmas, because everyone uses them and you can’t really ever have too many! In my family it’s always been a big part of our holiday traditions to unpack our ornaments and relive the memories from whoever gave them to us while we decorate the tree. I absolutely adore these female yoga pose ornaments hand-created by IronMaidArt on Etsy. They’re made of aluminum and can even be customized!
    • Buy: $12 each, Etsy

    Yoga Pose Cookie Cutter Set

    • A staple of the holiday season? Cookies—and what better way to have fun with your baking than with yoga cookie cutters! This (gender-neutral) stainless steel cookie cutter set from YummiYogi has five of the most popular and recognizable asanas: Tree Pose, Downward-Facing Dog, Warrior 2, Warrior 3, and Crescent Lunge. These would be so fun to decorate and can be used all year round.
    • Buy: $40, Etsy

    Yoga Towel

    • It’s normal to sweat a lot during a typical yoga class, especially if your loved one does Hot Yoga or Vinyasa. Using a yoga towel makes a huge difference to prevent slipping, and to help keep you and your mat clean. This soft microfiber towel from lululemon comes in a variety of beautiful colors and is sized to perfectly lay on top of your yoga mat.
    • Buy: $38, lululemon

    Yoga Wheel

    • The yoga wheel is a unique and useful tool to help stretch and release tension in the back, chest, shoulders, stomach, and hips. It feels so good to lay on it, and it can be used in multiple ways, including adding difficulty to your practice or working your core. The Dharma Yoga Wheel is the OG—the first yoga wheel that launched the trend, and it’s comfortable, durable… and fun!
    • Buy: $39, Amazon

     

    2020 WELLNESS GIFT GUIDE

    » FITNESS «

     

    Alo Yoga City Zen Duffel Gym Bag

    • I am very particular when it comes to my gym bag (since I live and work out of it), and this sleek gender-neutral duffel by Alo Yoga is IT. It’s a functional carryall with a bottom zip compartment for shoes/sweaty clothes, plenty of inside and outside pockets, soft carrying straps, and even additional stretchy straps on the front that hold a yoga mat. It holds everything you need to go directly from work to the gym or off on a weekend getaway. It’s worth the price tag for its durability and multi-functionality!
    • $198, Alo Yoga

    Bala Bangles

    wellness gift

    • Bala Bangles are not only effective, they’re also sleek and stylish to wear (these ain’t your dad’s velcro ankle weights). They’re a great way to add more difficulty to any workout! The Bangles are available in 1/2, 1, or 2 lb sizes in various colors and can be worn on your wrists or ankles.
    • Buy: $49, Carbon38 (use promo code AMYBAA15 at checkout to save 15%)

    lululemon Hooded Define Jacket

    • Buying clothes for other people can be tricky, but not with this universally flattering athletic Hooded Define Jacket from lululemon! This jacket was the last thing I purchased in a store, days before the lockdowns in February, and it is everything I’ve ever wanted in a light sports jacket. It’s buttery soft, just the right amount of warm, and comes in a variety of colors, sizes 0-14. I love lululemon because their products do last for years, even with daily wear (I wore my last one for three years straight).
    • Buy: $128, lululemon

    Perfect Pushup Elite

    • This is a great gift for any fitness lovers in your life, and they’re not likely to already have it. The Perfect Pushup Elite handles are a serious secret workout game-changer! They challenge your muscles more when doing exercises like planks or push-ups, AND they are ideal to use for anyone with sensitive or injured wrists. You can learn all about them in this post.
    • Buy: $26, Amazon

    Resistance Booty Bands

    • There are a lot of resistance bands out there, but these ones don’t mess around: they’re made of a nice thick fabric, are well-structured, and offer a lot of resistance. This is an awesome wellness gift for the gym lover in your life that doesn’t break the bank but will be adored. I use them to improve my squats and have gotten so much stronger since I got them in July!
    • $12, Amazon

    Standing Desk Balance Board

    • These days, lots of people know that sitting for long stretches is not so good for your health and have standing desks (learn more about the benefits of standing desks here). But there’s another element that’s also important—how you stand. It’s important to shift positions and keep your muscles engaged. This balance board by Fezibo is honestly the missing piece to the puzzle we’ve been looking for. It puts your body into better posture and keep your core and legs active while you work, relieving fatigue for the lucky recipient of this unique wellness gift!
    • Buy: $59, Amazon

    Sunny Stepper Machine

    • Exercise has been difficult this year, with limited access to gyms or fitness classes thanks to covid. Plus add in the challenges that most workout equipment typically costs thousands of dollars and the winter months make it hard to go move outside. Enter the solution: this stepper machine. Your loved one will be able to get in their 10,000 daily steps or an elliptical-like workout with the Sunny Health & Fitness Twist Stepper, which also twists and has resistance bands to target your core and upper body for a total-body workout. The best part is, it takes up very little space, is durable, and actually affordable!
    • Buy: $77, Amazon

    Theragun Massage Gun

    wellness gift

    • Basically everyone has knots and sore muscles that need to be worked out, especially if they’re super active. But while buying someone a massage is nice, gifting them a Theragun is like giving a lifetime of massage, on demand, for the same price! If you haven’t used a massage gun, it’s amazing—the machine vibrates to give you a deep-tissue massage. You can use it on yourself, and this massage gun from Chirogun has 15 head attachments so you can treat any muscle in your body, at a price that’s more affordable than the Theragun brand but works the exact same way.
    • Buy: $99, Amazon

    Travel Foam Roller

    • Do you know someone who likes to workout even while traveling? They’ll absolutely love this gift: a travel-sized foam roller! Foam rolling is such a useful tool to massage out sore and tight muscles and loosen connective fascia, like the massage gun. This TriggerPoint Grid Foam Roller Mini is the one I have and love—but they don’t make it anymore, so it’s really hard to find. Luckily, I tracked down an online store that’s still got some for sale, making this a special rare gift you should jump on quickly!
    • Buy: $22, L9 Sports

    Ultimate Ears Boom 3 Speaker

    • As you can see below, I’m a BIG fan of music (I always post a song to set the mood). Especially as a fitness instructor, I don’t play when it comes to speakers. Trust me, THIS is the speaker to get. It may be small, but the Ultimate Ears Boom 3 has better sound than any other portable speaker I’ve tried. It has Bluetooth, 360 degree sound with deep bass, a 15 hour battery life, comes in different colors, and is waterproof and virtually indestructible. I mean—come on. It delivers enough sound to more than pump you up for a workout. (They also make a Megaboom if you want even more features!)
    •  Buy: $147, Amazon

     

    Happy holiday shopping! Your friends and family (or you!) will love these wellness gifts.

    » Song Vibes «

    What else should I add to this 2020 Wellness Gift Guide? I’d love to hear what you think in the Disqus Comments section below!

    xo,

    Amy

    This post is not sponsored, but it does contain affiliate links. I truly love these products and know you and your gift-ees will, too. Thanks for supporting the blog!

  • What Are Ear Seeds? All About The Stress-Relieving Wellness Trend

    Ear Seeds Vie Healing

    Ear Seeds Vie Healing

    Ear seeds help promote stress-relief and healing in the body. And they look cute, too!

    You may have seen someone wearing ear seeds lately, especially if you live here in LA where they’ve become a popular wellness trend. But they’re far from new, and have been used for a long time in acupuncture to promote healing and wellbeing.

    I was first introduced to ear seeds at an acupuncturist’s clinic in San Diego almost 2 years ago. He offered to put some on me before I left after a treatment. I’d never heard of them before, but they stayed on for a week and I really liked how they felt. It’s soothing to press on them and get a little micro ear massage.

    Then I began seeing them on more and more people around town, which made me wonder—

    What exactly are ear seeds?

    According to traditional Chinese medicine, specific points on our ears correspond to different organs and systems in our body. If you apply stimulation to those points, you can help balance the body and heal those parts that are ailing.

    This method of treatment is also called auriculotherapy, or “ear therapy”—acupressure or acupuncture that focuses on ears.

    Ear seeds, which have been used for over 2500 years, promote overall healing by regulating your nervous system to keep it in the Parasympathetic (what I call the Rest + Restore) state, instead of the stressed-out Sympathetic mode. This is where healing can occur.

    Using ear seeds can help with stress, anxiety, pain, headaches, sleep disorders, digestive disorders, and hormonal imbalances.

    Ear Seeds Vie Healing

    How do the ear seeds work?

    From Vie Healing, an acupuncturist clinic and wellness center in LA:

    When pressure points are stimulated on nerves, they send signals through to the reflex centers of the brain. Once the reflex centers are stimulated, endorphins which are the body’s natural opiates are released.

    When endorphin activity is stimulated – individuals experience relief of pain and sensations of improved well-being. Importantly, in the reward cascade, endorphin release inhibits the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA, and consequently dopamine is also released.

    By applying ear seeds to different points on the ear, you increase blood flow and help drive your nervous system’s awareness to that space. It’s like adding little highway signs to your injury points so your systems know where to direct their healing energy.

    Your body’s really good at healing itself. It just sometimes needs to be pointed in the right direction with some attention.

    What are all these special points? Well, to get specific:

    » via Vie Healing «

    These points on your ear are traditionally stimulated in acupuncture with needles—which I’ve done and is awesome! It put me into a deep, relaxed sleep.

    But when you’re at home or don’t have access to acupuncture, what’s a gal to do?

    Stick on some ear seeds, of course!

    There isn’t really any scientific research on the effectiveness of ear seeds. But in the very least, rubbing the seeds gives you an ear massage, which we do know has relaxing effects. I say try they’re worth trying.

    You should think of ear seeds as a tune-up tool; you don’t need to use them all the time. Using them once in a while or whenever you’re feeling off balance is great, unless you find they really help you!

    Ear seeds are, traditionally, literal seeds. But I’m a big fan of these pretty gold ones.

    Ear seeds are traditionally made either from seeds from the vaccaria plant, or metal.

    These gold ones take it a step further and are so pretty, like jewelry. They’re  from Vie Healing (I’m genuinely a fan, not sponsored). You can buy them here on Amazon with free shipping!

    Traditional ear seeds are effective but …not cute. Like, they look like what they are: little seeds stuck on with mini band-aids all over your ear. Trust me when I say that these are a MAJOR upgrade.

    Ear seeds stay in place up to 5 days, and you can wear them while you sleep, shower, sweat, and swim. So their benefits are long-lasting!

    Where can you get them?

    It’s always a good idea to have a professional put them on for you, especially if it’s your first time in the acupressure world. (By the way, if you want to explore more tools, I highly recommend this acupressure mat and these sandals!)

    Start by asking your local acupuncturists if they offer ear seeds. There are also more and more wellness spas offering them as a service, so do a quick Google for places in your area that might be able to apply them, too.

    You can also put them on yourself. And if you have someone to help, even better. It’s totally something you can easily do at home!

    You can buy your ear seeds on Amazon, or tons of other online stores. I’m also guessing Whole Foods or other natural stores will carry them, too. Here’s the link to my 24k gold ones!

    If you’re more budget-minded, these are the best deal on well-rated ear seeds I could find.

    Ear Seeds Vie Healing

    How to apply your ear seeds:

    Step one: get a mirror! And a pair of tweezers. Like I mentioned above, this is also easier to have a friend do for you, so enlist help if you can.

    I want to note that you do not want to put the seeds inside your ear canals. These are only to be used along the outside of the ears. They should not cause any redness or irritation (and if they do, take them off).

    Begin by wiping your ear clean with rubbing alcohol (I use a cotton pad).

    Using your tweezers, peel an ear seed off the backing of its packaging. Hover the seed over the area you want to apply it. Then press it down onto your skin with a finger. Keep going on one ear and apply all the seeds you want, then switch ears.

    According to Vie Healing, you want to apply to these points:

    Ear Seeds Vie Healing

    The following five basic points you want to get are the ones shown on the left, in what Vie Healing calls the Foundation Protocol. You can add as many ear seeds as you want! Feel free to progress to the middle and right stages, especially if you’re feeling sick or in pain.

    • 1 – SHEN MEN: grounds the body, calms the spirit, increases receptivity
    • 2 – POINT ZERO: resets the nervous system; brings balanced energy while calming anxiety and relaxing muscles
    • 3 – HEART: regulates blood flow, balances emotions
    • 4 – BRAIN: balances brain chemistry; controls pain perception, movement, and proper function of all organs
    • 5 – ENDOCRINE: regulates endocrine glands and hormones, maintaining homeostasis and regulating metabolism

    Once they’re on, apply pressure by rubbing them in a circular motion for a few minutes! This will produce the calming benefits as well as ensure they stick in place.

    The ear seeds will stay put for up to 5 days, and you can wear them while you sleep, shower, sweat, and swim.

    They’ll naturally fall out on their own over time. If you want to remove them early, the easiest way is with a pair of tweezers.

    Check out this video for more on how to use them:

     

    @infinite.embersHave you tried ear seeds? ✨ ##TikTokWellness ##LearnOnTikTok ##TikTokTaughtMe♬ YOU’RE THE ONE – KAYTRANADA

    I want to see your ear seeds if you decide to give them a try—post a photo to Instagram and tag me!

    I hope they help you feel your best!

    » Song Vibes «

    Have you tried ear seeds? I’d love to hear what you think in the Comments below!

    xo,

    Amy

    This post is not sponsored, but it does contain affiliate links. I truly love these products and know you will, too. Thanks for supporting the blog!

    Photos by Matthew Hanley, edits by me

  • List of Socially-Distanced Outdoor Workout Classes in Los Angeles

    Los Angeles Outdoor Workout Speir

    » Speir Pilates «

    Tired of at-home workouts? Try one of these socially-distanced outdoor workout classes in Los Angeles!

    If you’ve been going a little stir-crazy after 6+ months of COVID-19, or are feeling like it’s hard to keep your motivation up to exercise at home, you’re not alone. But luckily if you’re located in sunny Southern California, you can now try outdoor workout classes!

    Los Angeles is currently unable to host indoor classes due to pandemic restrictions, so studios and trainers have pivoted to offer safer outdoor workout options instead, taking their classes to the city’s parks and rooftops.

    I was inspired to put this master list together after my friend Arielle Berneman did one for her blog Sweat in SD. If you’re in San Diego, click here for her list of SD outdoor workout classes!

    Although I usually call San Diego home, I’m currently living in Los Angeles again during the pandemic. And after doing some research, I realized I couldn’t find a similar comprehensive list of socially-distanced outdoor workout classes being offered in LA.

    So here it is! Big thanks to everyone who helped me put this together.

    Doing an outdoor workout is a great way to get the class experience without the fear.

    I miss teaching in person, and going to fitness classes. I know you do, too. And working out is incredibly important, now more than ever. Exercise boosts your immunity, strengthens your body, and can help with mental health issues like depression, anxiety, and loneliness.

    Gyms, studios, and trainers have all been hit hard by the effects of the coronavirus. If you’re able, keep supporting your favorite trainers by taking their classes, whether virtually or in person at one of the spots listed below. (I offer my Meditation and Yoga classes online and on YouTube, and hope to start teaching in LA soon!)

    When you go to an outdoor workout class, you’ll be able to keep a safe 6 ft+ distance from others, get some fresh air, and feel more connected. The CDC has recommended doing activities outside because the open air keeps virus-containing particles moving away from you.

    And don’t forget that just being outside has health benefits, too!

    I’ve been doing my daily yoga practice in our backyard each morning to help break up the monotony of being home all day, and to get some time with nature, which has also been proven to boost your health and mood.

    I actually really prefer exercising outside (teaching beach yoga over the years has spoiled me), so I think getting to do our favorite studio workouts in the open air is a real treat!

    For this list, I grouped all the outdoor workout classes below by rough location throughout Los Angeles, then by alphabetical order. LA’s huge, so this list covers mostly just the main city area, from Downtown to Sherman Oaks to Redondo Beach-ish.

    Happily, traffic isn’t nearly as bad as usual in LA right now (maybe the one bright spot of COVID?), and getting in a workout is definitely worth a short drive!

    A few things you need to know:

    • This list is up to date as of Jan 7, 2021, but of course things are constantly changing. The best way to get the most recent info is most likely the studio’s Instagram, or their websites linked below.
    • Yes, you’ll still need to wear a mask. At this time, I believe you also still have to wear a face covering during the actual workout, but that may change.
    • I know it’s obvious, but I just want to reiterate: all of the classes listed below are OUTDOORS, so bring sun protection like sunscreen, hat, and a jacket. Take care of your pretty skin.
    • I highly recommend Bluestone Sunshield’s face visors–they offer 99% UVA/UVB protection and are way more comfortable than a mask to wear during workouts that require you to continue to wear a face covering—win/win. They even have a new clear shield with UV protection! Use the code Sunshield15 for 15% off. I’m not affiliated with them in any way, just a super fan.
    • Also, bring water. And remember to keep your social distance from your fellow workout buddies.

    Have fun!

    Downtown

    Depot Fitness – CrossFit

    Lagree 213 – Lagree Megaformer

    Sanctuary Fitness – HIIT/Boxing/Yoga (pictured above)

    SoulCycle DTLA – Spin

    Silverlake/Echo Park

    Anatomical Alchemy – Private Reformer Pilates

    Hype Silverlake – Spin/Yoga/Strength

    Modo Yoga – Yoga

    One Down Dog – Yoga

    Quarantine Boxing Club – Boxing

    Pasadena

    One Life Yoga – Yoga

    Burbank/Toluca Lake/Sherman Oaks

    The Camp – HIIT, Strength + Conditioning

    Cat’s Club Fitness – Gym Space Rental, Personal Training

    Dragonfly Cycling – Spin/Strength

    Hot 8 Yoga – Yoga

    MoveHER Fitness – Strength + Conditioning

    Nomad Gym – Group and Personal Training

    Pilates with Teeky – Pilates Fusion

    Pure Barre North Hollywood – Barre

    Sweat Cycle – Spin

    Trish Ignacio – Personal Training

    West Hollywood/Mid City

    Barry’s WEHO – Bootcamp

    Body By Tara – Personal Training

    Bunda – Stair Master + Glute Training

    Brick – CrossFit/Gym

    Carrie’s Pilates Plus – Megaformer Pilates

    Dr Pilates – Mat Pilates

    Hot 8 Yoga – Yoga

    Kardio Krunk by Jeffrey Adams – Cardio Dance

    Modo Yoga – Yoga

    Natural Pilates – Reformer Pilates

    The Phoenix Effect – Strength + Conditioning Gym

    P.volve – Glute + Functional Strengthening

    Reebok Crossfit Lab – Crossfit

    Speir Pilates – Reformer Pilates

    Sweat Yoga – Yoga

    Training Mate – HIIT

    Ultimate Health – Personal Training

    Urban728 – Yoga

    Yoga at The Hollywood Roosevelt hotel – Yoga

    Culver City

    Anytime Fitness – Full Gym

    CycleBar Culver City – Spin

    Pure Barre Culver City – Barre

    The Studio MDR – Lagree Megaformer

    Sweat Pilates – Mat Pilates + Trampoline

    Brentwood/Santa Monica

    The Bar Method Brentwood – Barre

    Basecamp Fitness – Strength + Conditioning

    Body Fit Training – Strength + Conditioning

    Box N Burn – Boxing

    CycleBar Santa Monica – Spin

    Heart Dancer Experience – Afro Fusion Dance

    Laughing Frog Yoga – Yoga

    Love Yoga – Yoga

    Mighty Pilates – Mat Pilates

    Natural Pilates – Reformer Pilates

    Pilatesmith – Reformer + Mat Pilates

    Platefit – Vibration HIIT

    Row House – Rowing

    Sabertooth Fitness – Bootcamp

    Santa Monica Bay Club – Spin/Yoga/HIIT

    SoulCycle SAMO – Spin

    Tribe Pilates – Reformer Pilates

    Venice/Marina Del Rey

    Light on Lotus – Yoga

    Modo Yoga – Yoga

    Sweat Yoga – Yoga

    Yogaqua – Stand Up Paddle-board (SUP) Yoga

    Manhattan/Redondo Beach

    Afterburn Fitness – Full Gym

    The Bay Club – Full Gym

    SELF Fitness – HIIT/Yoga

    Shine Studio – Cardio Dance + Strength

    Soul Fitness LA – Yoga

    Yoga Six Redondo Beach – Yoga

    Multiple LA Locations

    Club Pilates – Mat Pilates

    Coreology Fitness – Pilates-based Training

    DMN8 – Yoga/Circuit Training

    F45 – HIIT

    Lindsey Gentile – Personal Training

     

    Los Angeles Outdoor Workout Sweat Cycle

    » Sweat Cycle «

    I hope this list of outdoor workout classes in LA helps you find greater health and connection during this difficult time.

    Remember, we’ll get through this together!

    » Song Vibes «

    Do you know of any other Los Angeles outdoor workout classes I should add to the list? Share with me in the Disqus Comments section below!

    xo,

    Amy

    Studio photos via PureWow

  • How To Fix Camel Toe: JIV Athletics

    JIV Athletics | Infinite Embers

    Comfortable thong underwear that also delivers on its promise to fix camel toe?

    Unbelievable—until you try JIV Athletics thongs for yourself. (btw, this post is pure love, not sponsored) Now, I personally have never been that bothered by camel toe, my own or otherwise. I embrace that all bodies are bodies, so it’s nothing to be ashamed of.

    It’s so important for us to love ourselves and the bodies that house us.

    If you tend to get camel toe—it’s okay. It’s normal and natural. Getting it depends on anatomy and what you’re wearing. But it’s also clearly not cool if it makes you feel self-conscious or uncomfortable.

    Sometimes it’s just gotta go.

    What’s camel toe?

    It’s what happens when your leggings/shorts/etc ride up in your crotch, around the labia. So it sort of outlines the genitalia, giving the appearance of a camel’s foot, which is a cloven hoof. It’s also called a vagina wedgie. To get specific.

    As a full-time yoga instructor, I wear leggings all day long as my uniform. And I wear them most of the time when I’m not teaching too, to be honest. They’re they most comfortable clothes I have! Some of my leggings do tend to give me camel toe, and I want to keep things professional.

    Unfortunately, the glaring truth is that as womxn, you know it can be important to not draw in unwanted attention. (If it’s wanted, then great and more power to you!) But I feel safer knowing I’m not going to draw people’s eyes down. When you fix camel toe, you eliminate that distraction.

    We all want to feel as comfortable as possible—especially while exercising.

    When you feel confident in how you look, that confidence translates into the quality of your focus. This means you’ll get a better workout/dive deeper inward during your yoga flow. You want to be able to focus on yourself, and how the movement feels in your body—not worrying about how you look.

    So what you’re wearing is pretty important. If you feel like you’re constantly quickly tugging down the ol’ camel toe creep-up, you’re not going to get as in the zone as you would otherwise during this time.

    JIV Athletics | Infinite Embers

    Luckily, there’s now a super easy solution to fix camel toe.

    The secret’s in the underwear!

    JIV Athletics is a female-owned small business that was created specifically with the active user in mind. Their thong underwear is designed to be worn with leggings, both low and high rise. But they’re honestly so comfortable, I wear them all the time.

    JIV first came onto my radar because they’re based in San Diego. Nika Cleaver, the Co-Founder, did a pop-up sale at PURE Indoor Cycling, where I used to teach spin. I loved the idea and the product right away!

    Nika is an elegant, warm, and inspiring entrepreneur who, in partnership with her mother, took an idea and made it a reality. She has a fashion degree from FIDM and a business degree from Pepperdine University, as well as the hustle to go out and pass out advertisement cards at yoga festivals. So I have a feeling her business will do very well.

    I love Nika and JIV Athletic’s mission, which is to empower all womxn to feel confident in their athletic-wear.

    JIV is a Hindi word that means a “living being” and “an entity instilled with life force.” It also means to “breathe” and “be alive.” So beautiful!

    Their underwear have a higher price point than the average thong (averaging ~$30 a pair), though they definitely feel 100% work the price. I waited a little until I had enough extra change for the splurge for this set, their High Rise Thong and Athletic Bra, which is limited edition but now one of my favorite bras.

    They’re both so comfortable. I know I keep using that word to describe them, but it’s the way the fabric slide so smoothly across your skin. They are luxury underwear for sure, and are comfortable enough to even work out in.

    And yes! They really work and get rid of camel toe completely.

    JIV Athletics | Infinite Embers

    (Click to zoom in. You can see on the left photo that the center line seam on my leggings is starting to go up and IN. To be honest, I chose the mildest photo I got of my camel toe to share here, because after a little movement it got way worse and it felt a little X rated lol. In the photo on the right, with the thong on, my leggings lay nice and smooth!)

    How do they work?

    JIV Athletics makes their thongs with three layers (which creates a light padding). First, there’s the smooth outer shell fabric—it’s breathable, moisture wicking, tag-less, and roll-proof.

    The real magic is in their patent-pending middle layer insert, a 3D tech spacer. From their website:

    This cutting edge fabric is the key to looking flawless in your tightest leggings. A full coverage gusset to smooth out unsightly silhouettes and the perfect placement to protect you from the most embarrising front wedige……#saynotocameltoe

    Lastly, the inside liner is made from soft cotton, which is the safest fabric for your V.

    Also, I’m so excited because JIV gave me a special promo code to share with you all, if you’d like to buy online:

    Use the Promo Code INFINITE20 for 20% OFF your purchase from JIV Athletics!

    Doesn’t get better than that! I love their products so much, and I know you will, too.

    JIV Athletics | Infinite Embers

    I hope they help empower you to feel even more confident in your form-fitting looks.

    That’s the ultimate goal: for you to feel your best! Confidence has such a big impact on your mental health, and thus your happiness. It helps you form self-love.

    If your camel toe’s been bothering you, you can buy JIV Athletics online (with free domestic shipping) or in select stores. They currently offer three styles of their Athletic Thong: Low Rise, Mid Rise, and High Rise. This is so they correspond to your leggings so they stay invisible and seamless while you move.

    Over my eight years of teaching, I’ve seen every form of camel toe (and worse) you can think of. At the end of the day, we’re all human.

    But if you can be a more confident, legging-rocking human who does not have to think about camel toe when you go into downward facing dog and can focus on connecting your mind-body-spirit instead… then even better!

    » Song Vibes «

    Do you have any other tips to fix camel toe? Have you tried out JIV Athletics? Let’s talk in the Disqus Comments section below!

    xo,

    Amy