December 30, 2015

WORKOUT RECOVERY

I spent a lot of my life as an athlete, and during that time I learned a lot about physiology, the human body, and wellness. One aspect of fitness and wellness that I feel is too often overlooked is muscle recovery after exercise. Since getting in shape is a pretty common New Year's resolution, I wanted to share some tips to help your muscles recover from all that exercise.

1. Epsom Salt Baths - Obviously, warm baths and showers help release muscle tension. Try adding some epsom salt for additional relief. I particularly like Dr. Teal's Eucalyptus and Mint Epsom Salt, because it smells so good and helps open up your respiratory system as well.

2. Light Jogging - Muscle soreness is in part due to lactic acid build up in your muscles, and the easiest way to relieve it is to go for a light jog. It will be painful at first, but once the lactic acid starts to burn off, your legs will feel a lot better.

3. Keep Hydrated - Swelling contributes to muscle tightness also. Keep a cute water bottle with you all day to make sure you hydrating throughout the day, instead of playing catch up after your work out. Swell (no pun intended) bottles are great cause they keep water cold all day.

4. Stretch! - Hopefully this is a big DUH of a bullet point, but it's really important to take the time before and after you workout to cool down and stretch.

5. Biofreeze - Biofreeze is similar to Icy Hot, but without the warm sensation. I find that Icy Hot stings, but Biofreeze is less irritating for me. I break this out after a particularly tough workout to help relieve immediate pain and discomfort.

6. Foam Rolling - I foam roll religiously. It's pretty painful the first few times, or if you did an extra intense work out, but the more often you foam roll the less painful it is. Foam rolling is self myofascial release, so basically giving yourself a massage. If you are new to foam rolling, click here for a useful guide to foam roller exercises.   Foam rolling has really helped with my flexibility and muscle tightness, as well as minimizing any soreness. You might night even realize what muscles are tight until you start rolling them out!



WORKOUT RECOVERY


December 28, 2015

CHARLESTON GUIDE

Over the holidays, I took a quick trip to Charleston. It was wonderful beyond words. I was completely taken with the city's architecture, history, people and food. Although I got just a small peek in to the Holy City, here is what I would recommend.


EAT & DRINK

  • Black Tap Coffee - Studious, hip vibe. Get the flavored latte or the Black Julep.
  • The Park Cafe - A bit off the beaten path, but they have awesome cold brew drinks and great breakfast. Try the Siddhartha (cold brew, almond milk, caramel) or the Eastwood (cold brew, whipped nutella, coconut) and the Veggie Mess (curry veggie scramble). Absolutely adorable decor also.
  • Caviar and Bananas - Upscale market with lots of delicious looking things. Grab a pastry and a iced latte.
  • S.N.O.B. - We ate lunch at SNOB, but I've heard the dinner is great as well. It's a lively atmosphere with a Southern farm to table vibe. Shrimp and grits all the way here.
  • Chez Nous - An absolute must if you are in Charleston. Each day, the restaurant changes the menu and serves only two appetizers, two entrees, and two desserts. Take a friend and order one of everything. Our dinner here was in the top five meals I have ever eaten. Plus, the restaurant is located in an old home, so it's a very charming and intimate vibe.
  • Magnolia's - Another great dinner spot. I would describe the food as upscale Southern food, or "Uptown Down South" as they like to say. Get the fried chicken and fried green tomatoes. 
  • Hall's Chophouse - We went over to Hall's for dessert and drinks only, but the dessert was incredible. It has a very loud and lively bar, and the owner of the restaurant personally greeted everyone who came in the door. The service was just as impressive as our Creme Brûlée and Bread Pudding!
  • Market Pavilion Hotel Roof - The drinks here are pretty standard, but the view is amazing. Grab a drink and hang out next to the pool (day or night) and enjoy views of Charleston and the Arthur Ravanel Jr. Bridge.



DO

  • South of Broad - Walk along the water on Murray Blvd. and check out all the beautiful historic homes. We walked all the way to the battery and back again, it was a very relaxing morning activity. The homes in Charleston are really incredible and this street has the best of the best.
  • Art Galleries - We popped in a few art galleries in the French Quarter and on King Street. Charleston is home to tons of really talented artists, so this was a favorite activity on the trip.
  • Historical Tours - Unfortunately, we didn't have time to fit in a historical tour, but there is a variety of city tours and plantation tours available. Next time I visit a historical tour will be my first priority.
  • Rainbow Row - Rainbow Row is probably the most recognizable landmark in Charleston. Just South of Broad, the row of brightly colored houses is a great spot to snap some photos and appreciate how uniquely Charleston it is.
  • Shop, shop, and keep shopping (see below).

 

SHOP

  • Candlefish - This was hands down my favorite store in Charleston. They have hundreds of candles from a variety of makers, including their own label. On one side of the shop, there is a library of Candlefish label candles with a bar where you can smell candles similar to how you taste wine. There is a Candlefish employee to walk you through the scents, and reccomend candles based on what you like. The best little detail is they give you a "library card" to mark your favorite candles, and then they keep the library card on file for the next time you visit. I ended up selecting #47.
  • Historic City Market - Located in the French Quarter, the City Market has stalls with local made goods. I especially loved the Charleston History Society booth that had all kinds of great Charleston goods that made great souvenirs and gifts.
  • Hampden Clothing - This shop had a beautifully curated collection of upscale clothing. 
  • Shoes on King - I mostly stuck to window shopping at Shoes on King, but they had a huge variety rom Sophia Webster to Lanvin. 
  • Croghan's - Another window shopping spot, but the jewelry here is incredible. It was a pleasure just to look around in this shop.


December 21, 2015

DOWN TEMPO RUNNING PLAYLIST


For some reason Winter brings on the even paced, mellow runs for me. To go along with it, I have been listening to a lot of peppy, down tempo music that keeps me motivated but relaxed. It gives more space to really enjoy your surroundings (like all them christmas lights!) and to clear your mind.


Here is my current playlist:
Powerful - Major Lazer & Ellie Goulding
Don't Be So Hard On Yourself - Jess Glynne
Rather Be - Clean Bandit & Jess Glynne
Roses - The Chainsmokers
Collide - Leona Lewis & Avicii
Whistle - Katy Tiz
Run Away With Me - Carly Rae Jepsen
Lay It On Me - Rudimental & Ed Sheeran
Hold On - Moguai & Cheat Codes
Omen - Disclosure & Sam Smith
Catch and Release (Deepend Remix) - Matt Simons
Desire (Gryffin Remix) - Years and Years

December 17, 2015

LAST MINUTE GIFTS

Anyone else out there a last minute shopper? If you are looking for any last minute gifts, I've got some cute picks under $25 for ya.

A couple notes on the picks:

  • Barista's Guide to Coffee - I already bought this book as a gift, and it is seriously incredible (if you are very into coffee). It is very, very thorough and informative. If you have a coffee love in your life, I can't reccomend this book more.
  • Voluspa "Crane Flower" - This scent is a one size fits all. It's a rich smell, but still light. I've given this candle as a gift numerous times. Fun fact, Voluspa candles also double as a hard perfume!
  • Cards Against Humanity - This is another crowd favorite. I have a blast every time  I play CAH and would actually love to get it as a gift myself! However, it's wrapped under the tree for another recipient :). 
  • Travel Coffee Mug - I brought this for my book club gift exchange and it was a hit. The print is different famous works of literature, so it's a great gift for any bookworm. 


LAST MINUTE GIFTS


1. Barista's Guide to Coffee, Anthropologie $25
2. Earrings, ShopBop $25
3. Pennants, Scout and Lily $25
4. Candle, Voluspa "Crane Flower" $20
5. Candle, Paddy Wax "Amber and Smoke" $18
6. Cards Against Humanity, Amazon $25
7. Shoe Shining Kit, Nordstrom $16
8. Notepad, Paper Source $8
9. Travel Mug, Kate Spade $18

December 14, 2015

PACKING FOR CHARLESTON

On Saturday I will be headed to Charleston and I have been mentally planning outfits since the trip was booked. It will be quick trip, but the itinerary is jam packed. I'm depending on smart packing and versatile pieces to keep my looks easy yet put together.

PACKING FOR CHARLESTON

Outfit #1 - Travel Day: A cozy cardigan and sneakers are a must for comfortable travel wear. I also have been wearing these Gorjana ear climbers a lot because they are the perfect balance between subtle and statement. 

Outfit #2 - Exploring Town: Since it's holiday season, a little festive color is in order. This red turtleneck is perfect for strolling around Chuck Town. The scarf also doubles as a wrap in case it gets too cold.

Outfit #3 - Dinner and Drinks: The combination of a statement earring, moto jacket, and lace up flats is the perfect balance of feminine and edgy. It also strikes a great balance between dressy and casual when you aren't sure how formal the restaurant is. 

Outfit #1: Earrings, Gorjana $40 - Sweater, Oasap $24 - Tee, J. Crew Factory $25
Leggings, Zella  $52 - Bag, Azalea $69 - Sneakers, Superga  $65
Outfit #2: Scarf, Old Navy $10 - Turtleneck, J. Crew Factory $44 - Ring, Madewell $26
Jeans, Gap $28 - Boots, Frye $300 - Bag, Ted Baker $89 - Sunglasses, Warby Parker $95

Outfit #3: Earrings, BaubleBar $36 - Top, Haute Hippie $130 - Jacket, Mango $100
Bag, Ted Baker $89 - Flats, Steve Madden $80

If you are interested in reading some Charleston based blogs, take a look at Look Linger LoveDesigner Bags and Dirty DiapersAnnie ReevesHoly City Chic

December 7, 2015

DECEMBER BOOK CLUB


Reading has always been one of my favorite hobbies but not one that I often discuss in this space (or perhaps ever?). Book Club is going to be a new, once a month series to discuss the books I read for the month and a short review. In January I will recap the December books plus my thoughts on them, and introduce the new books for the month. If you are reading any of the same books please let me know!



DECEMBER BOOK CLUB



1. HONY Stories - This book is portrait photos and quotes that give you insight in the subjects life. If you follow the HONY page on Facebook, you know what to expect. I'm about 3/4 of the way through, it's a very quick read. It really reinforces the fact that you never know what people are going through. I definitely recommend this book. 

2. Daring Greatly: How the Courage to Be Vulnerable Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent, and Lead -  This was the pick for my real life book club this month. I haven't yet started it, but I am very excited. The author has one of the most viewed Ted Talks of all time on this very topic. She has done extensive research on vulnerability, and how it is essential in our relationships and lives.

3. Always Pack a Party Dress - I just snagged this book on major sale at Anthropologie after having it in my Amazon cart for awhile. It is my fun pick of the month. I am really fascinated with the fashion industry, so I'm excited to dive in to Brooks memoir of her career trajectory that eventually landed her as the Fashion Director of Barneys. 

October 15, 2015

POSTGRAD LOVES: SWEATER JACKETS

One of my must have items for fall is a sweater jacket (...a swacket...?). It's perfect for those mid temperature days that aren't quite cold enough for a full coat. Plus, you get the coziness of a sweater that twill or denim jackets don't offer. For a work appropriate look, go for a structured, fitted sweater-jacket and for a daytime look opt for a slouchier silhouette.

POSTGRAD LOVES: SWEATER JACKETS

Work
Sweater Jacket, TopShop $68 - Chambray, Madewell $72
Pants, J. Crew $180 - Shoes, Zara $30 - Bag, Aldo $55
Earrings, Gorjana $40 - Rings, Gorjana $32

Weekend
Dress, Zara $20 - Sweater, Madewell $80
Bag, Genuine People $47 - Booties, Jeffrey Campbell $200
Rings, Gorjana $32 - Sunglasses, H&M $12

October 7, 2015

POSTGRAD FITNESS: HOW TO SAVE ON CLASSES

As I've mentioned before, I love group fitness classes. Unfortunately, it can quickly get very, very expensive to take classes at small studios. I also like to mix up my fitness routine, so I nearly always purchase drop-in classes. I've been doing this long enough that I've figured out several tricks to save some money while keeping in shape.

Image Via

1. Gilt City - If you are not familiar with Gilt and Gilt City, you have been missing out. Gilt holds short term sales of various women's, men's, and home brands, while Gilt City features city-focused sales on restaurants, beauty services, fitness, etc. I subscribed to Gilt City emails to keep tabs on what sales are upcoming, and they frequently offer class packs to small fitness studios. You can snag a great discount on classes, plus they often run additional 20-30% off codes.

2. ZenRez - I just used ZenRez for the first time tonight, but it will definitely become a regularly used app on my phone. Each night at 9, studios post classes for the next day that have spots available at a discounted price. Even better, if you have a flexible schedule, you can snag some dirt cheap classes in the late morning or at lunch time. It's a great way to try a new studio. For $10 off your next class, sign up using this link: https://www.zenrez.com/u/EybY8THJx*.

3. Social Media - Studios often run special promotions on social media, so follow your favorite studios on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.

4. Bring your friends - Most studios offer some sort of referral program, so take advantage. Usually, you and your friend will both receive either a free or discounted class. Plus, it's a great way alternative to happy hour!

5. In-Store Classes - Nike, Lululemon, and Athleta all offer a variety of classes in their stores for free. Classes are offered anywhere from a couple days a week, to multiple times a day.

6. Volunteer - Some studios offer a few hours of front desk work per week in exchange for free classes. This would be perfect for someone who has a flexible schedule! You also get to know the instructors, which is a perk for when you need assistance in class.




*If you sign up using my link, I will also receive $10 credit to ZenRez.

October 2, 2015

FRIDAY LINKS

I'm breathing a big sigh of relief that it's Friday, as I do most Fridays.  I was fortunate to see Years and Years, Jess Glynee, and One Republic live this week, but three nights in a row left me pretty tired. I slugged through the end of the week, but I'm excited to recharge and run full steam ahead into the weekend. I'm headed to Hardly Strictly Bluegrass, so tonight night is going to be full of cooking and Netflix & Chill.

Have a good weekend xx




September 28, 2015

POSTGRAD LOVES: SHONA JOY

Instagram has been an amazing platform to find new designers, makers, and labels. One of my favorites that I've come across is Shona Joy. I love the neutral color palette and loud prints that are seamlessly  mixed together to create unique, beautiful pieces. Many of the clothing is actually two pieces that can be worn to look like a dress, but also worn with a simple t shirt or jeans for a dressed down look. So many of the pieces would be beautiful for a wedding guest and the neutral palette is easy to wear in any season.





4. Coralia Cropped Bra Top and Midi Skirt, $155 and $180

September 24, 2015

AUTUMN BUCKET LIST

While I'm still grasping on to Summer, the start of a new season always feels like a time for a fresh start. This year has flown by, and now feels like a good time to regroup a bit, relax, and focus on important things in life. I wanted to put together an Autumn bucket list to outline some goals that are both specific to the season, and things I have been wanting to accomplish in 2015 and have yet to do.

Image via Treasures and Travels

AUTUMN BUCKET LIST

  • Go Apple picking and bake an apple pie
  • Find the perfect cashmere sweater
  • Run a 10k
  • Take a class (pickling or jam making is on my radar!)
  • Watch Halloween Town and Hocus Pocus
  • Experiment in the kitchen with Autumn produce (like this recipe and this recipe)
  • Perfect an Autumn cocktail
  • Hold a Friends-giving and canned food drive
  • Be Present

September 11, 2015

FRIDAY LINKS

So I was wrong, I predicted I would excited for Fall by now, but I'm not. Not even a little. In fact, I'm still grasping on to the last days of Summer and reminding myself that we still have Indian Summer ahead. Anywho, I spent LDW at the beach (as most people do) and it had me feeling very nostalgic and thinking of traditions. Nearly all my favorite memories include being at the beach. It's odd now to live in a place where swimming and laying out at the beach is not a thing. Darn you San Francisco!

Have a good weekend xx.



September 1, 2015

WORTHY WEEKENDERS



A good weekend bag is a travel essential. I purchased the Lo & Sons Catalina bag at the beginning of the Summer, and I have been recommending it left and right. I've taken it on a few trips and it has held up extremely well and also made packing a breeze. When I was initially looking at weekenders, I found too many bags were a true duffle, just one big compartment with no smaller pockets which makes packing a complete headache and mess.

The key components to a good weekend bag:

  • Separate compartment for shoes and toiletries.
  • Square shape (so you don't hit people with your long duffle)
  • Both shoulder straps and a crossbody strap
  • Sturdy fabric or leather (extra points if it's easy to clean)


WORTHY WEEKENDERS

August 21, 2015

FRIDAY LINKS


Whew! This week flew by pretty quickly. I've been feeling very run down lately and I feel like I haven't had a chance to let my body rest. There is such a strange paradox between living life to the fullest but also taking care of yourself. I feel like I have turned in to a "yes woman", as in "yes to brunch!" "yes to a potluck!" "yes to a concert!" "yes to a spin class!". It makes me happy to have a full schedule, so it's hard for me to plan on down time. Does anyone else experience this as well? I'm still trying to find a good balance so I'm not always running on empty.

Anywho, just random thoughts for a Friday! I hope you have a wonderful weekend x.


Image via The Sweetest Occasion

August 20, 2015

A QUICK HAIR TIP


I have a wonderful friend who is my beauty guru. She is always on top of the trends, whether it be skincare, hair care, or makeup. Recently when she was visiting, she started spraying dry shampoo in her hair before bed. I was pretty perplexed by this, so I asked why. She said "Oh, it works better this way. Then when you move around in your sleep it distributes better in to your hair."

This made so much sense. When you apply dry shampoo before bed, it absorbs the oil on your scalp but when you wake up there is no residue (which leaves your hair looking dull). So next time you are having a dirty hair day, try this tip out and let me know how it works.


If you need any recommendations for dry shampoo, I love Klorane and Dry Bar




August 14, 2015

FRIDAY LINKS


It's hard to believe that we half way through August. Usually I welcome Fall with open arms, but I am digging my heels in as hard as I can to hold on to the last bit of summer. Luckily, in San Francisco, we get a warm Indian Summer to look forward to for at least another month. I've been making an effort to eat dinner in the park, spend time outside while it still stays light out pretty late, but I can still tell the days are getting shorter. Le sigh. 

Ask me in a few weeks though, and I will probably be elated over the idea of fall lattes, cozy sweaters, and cozy nights in. 





August 12, 2015

6 TIPS FOR TAKING GROUP FITNESS CLASSES

We're talking fitness today, but instead of activewear I wanted to focus on my favorite kind of workout -- group classes. One of the best things about living in a big city is that there is a huge array of small studios that offer classes from circus acrobatics to trx to Beyonce dance classes. I've tried quite a few studios in SF, so I am used to being a newbie in classes. I have definitely pushed out of my comfort zone and from that found some of my favorite workouts. I really enjoy the energy of a group class, the encouragement from the instructor, and the being held accountable. It's a lot easier to cut a workout short (or not do one at all!) when you are working out on your own.

So, if you are scared to take a new class (like that Beyonce dance class...) don't be! Below are a few tips for you to make the most of your class.
Image Via
1. Wear the right gear - Before trying a new type of group class, I look into what clothing is most appropriate. For example, in spin class it's really best to wear leggings to avoid chafing and shorts riding up. For a pilates class or yoga class, form fitting clothing is necessary so the instructor can see your form.

2. Get there early! - You likely need some time get set up and get familiar with the class layout, so be sure to give yourself around 10 minutes before the class start time. Plus, you don't want to be the person running into the class after it has started -- it's rude.

3. Tell the instructor you are new - This bit is especially important if you are using any equipment. I was too scared in my first spin class to ask how to clip in and adjust my bike, so I rode the entire time with my shoes not properly clipped in (not really sure how I managed that) and with my seat too far down. The instructor will likely pay more attention to your form and how you are doing during class if they know you are a beginner.

4. Keep up with counting - If you can catch on to the counts and sequences in a class, you will feel far less lost. Pay attention to the instructors count and when the choreography repeats. It will help your confidence and performance when you know what is coming.

5. Don't be scared to modify movements or take a rest - It's your first class, so don't put pressure on yourself to perform advanced moves or push yourself too hard.  In my opinion, it's better to do 10 reps of the modified exercise than 1 rep of an advanced moved.

6. Try out a few instructors - Classes can be vastly different just depending on who is teaching. Whether you like the first instructor or not, be sure to try out a few others for comparison.


July 23, 2015

LACE-UP GLADIATORS

Image via WhoWhatWear

I'm loving the ankle wrap sandal trend, especially with a gladiator sandal. However, because of how an ankle strap cuts off your leg, it can be difficult to find a flattering pair. Try a nude or tan pair close to your skin tone and play around with different ankle strap positions. And don't tie them too tight!

LACE-UP GLADIATORS

Steve Madden $70 - J. Crew $88 - Gap $40
Splendid $108 - J. Crew $130 - Loeffler Randall $107 

July 20, 2015

GINGHAM DRESS FOR SUMMER

This weekend we we're lucky with incredible weather. On Saturday, I headed up to Sonoma for a friend's birthday and Sunday in the city was clear, sunny skies. It's one of the first times that Summer has actually felt like Summer. It had me mentally planning barbecues, picnics, and pool days... with a wardrobe to match.

FEMININE, GINGHAM DRESS

Dress, Modcloth $24 - Sandals, Even&Odd $36 - Bag, LucLuc $26
Earrings, Kendra Scott $32 - Signet Ring, Banana Republic $35

July 16, 2015

EASY, HEALTHY RECIPES

These days, it seems like people are always busy, doesn't it? But really, everyone is. Between working long hours, hitting the gym, happy hours, maintaining friendships and relationships, and keeping up with The Bachelorette, it's hard for me to find time to dedicate to cooking each night. I'm constantly browsing Pinterest for recipes that have the magic combination:

  • Minimal cook time
  • Minimal ingredients
  • Minimal pans and dishes
  • Easy instructions 
Ain't nobody got time for washing 10 pans and spending 2 hours stirring pots.

Anyways, it's proven difficult to find recipes that incorporate the above AND are healthy AND are fresh and exciting. The three recipes below have been on heavy rotation and are perfect for Summer. 


EASY, HEALTHY RECIPES

1. 5 Ingredient Easy White Chicken Chili from Gimme Some Oven - This recipe is so incredibly fast to make, and so flavorful. I made a huge batch of it and ate it a few times over the next couple days. It worked well both as a side and on it's own. This will definitely be a staple in my weekly meals!

2. Peanut Soba Spring Rolls from Lemon & Lemons - Spring rolls have been a long favorite of mine, and I recently realized how easy they are to make at home. I've tried tons of different combinations, but this recipe is my favorite. Plus, I think they are a impressive dish for company. Or take it up a notch and have a build your own spring roll dinner par-tay. 

4. Sweet Potato Chickpea Buddha Bowl from Minimalist Baker - Similar to spring rolls, I make all kinds of savory bowls for dinner. Taco bowls are another favorite, but the buddha bowl  is lighter and incorporates more vegetables. Plus, the tahini dressing is tasty. This recipe is easily adaptable to any starches and veggies you have in your pantry. 

July 14, 2015

BRUNCH IN SAN FRANCISCO: OUTERLANDS.

Last weekend, I had the most wonderful, leisurely Saturday. Seriously, I want to replicate it every weekend.

We woke up on a mission to have brunch at Outerlands. It's a popular spot and has been on my SF bucket list for awhile, so we drove across the city ready to brunch. We expected a long wait, so we headed on over to Trouble Coffee a few doors down and grab an ice latte.  (Side note, This American Life did an amazing interview with the Trouble owner. Click here to listen.)

Next door to Trouble is The General Store. We wandered in, lattes in hand, and oogled at all the pretty things. It's a design lovers dream. Full of magazines, small housewares, and vintage clothes. You will want to buy everything and take style notes from the girls working in the shop.


And then they finally called our name at Outerlands! The interior of the restaurant is beautifully paneled in drift wood with tons of windows and dark, concrete bar tops. I want the pendant lighting for my apartment. 

Everything on the menu looked so good, I couldn't decide. We ordered:
  • Toast with Strawberry Jam
  • Dutch Baby with Strawberries and Homemade Ricotta
  • Dutch Baby with Bacon
  • Rice Porridge
  • Fresh Squeezed Orange Juice

Dutch Baby with Strawberries and Ricotta Cheese
Rice Porridge and Toast with Strawberry Jam
All of the food was amazing, but the rice porridge was my favorite item. It's really comforting and flavorful, without feeling too heavy. The orange juice was also so, so good. I've heard good things about the lattes as well, but I skipped one since we grabbed some at Trouble. 


We ended the day with beers and card games in the park with friends. And that is how you have the perfect Saturday.