Tag: wellness

Reflections on Day 63 of 75 Hard

by graceisthenewglam, posted in Uncategorized

Bish be sweatin’

I’ve made it through a good portion of 75 Hard and I’ve managed to stay quiet about it for a lot of different reasons. For one, this is my FOURTH attempt at it. I didn’t want to put it out there and only to fail again.

To simplify 75 Hard…it’s (2) 45 minute workouts a day. 1 must be done outside. Read 10 pages of non-fiction a day. Drink 1 gallon of water a day. No cheat meals. Stick to a diet. Take a progress pic of yourself daily (the most hated part of it for me). No alcohol.

So, after reading that, YES IT IS HARD. But it is totally doable and the rewards I’ve seen from this mental challenge is BEYOND my wildest dreams.

Thoughts on the Workouts

The working out part is the easiest part for me, besides the days where it’s just a little busy and you think you can’t make the time….but you can always find a way. I have a strict morning workout routine Monday-Friday and I began taking a 45 minute walk around the park in my neighborhood AS SOON as my work day ends for my second/outside work out. The benefits of the walk outside are ENDLESS – I feel like it’s an intention that the work day has ended…you get fresh air…you feel another burst of energy..you connect with nature and your neighbors…I love it. And I don’t think I’m going to stop it after this challenge ends. It’s THAT therapeutic for me.

Weekends are a bit different, I wake up and have a Nespresso Americano (MY FAVE) and do some reading. I do take long, long walks or runs before the rest of the world wakes up down by the marina here or back in the park. (I wake up at 5AM even on the weekends – it makes Mondays easier). I rotate the other workout with yoga, stretching, the bike, weights…whatever my body is craving.

I HAVE NEVER FELT BETTER.

Thoughts on the Diet

I’m vegan – I’ve been staying vegan throughout this time. There’s ALWAYS tons of improvement needed in my diet, but I eat pretty clean, have my daily smoothie and get in all of the veggies. Do your best. It’s all you can do!

The Water

Easy for me – Drink 3 40 oz Hydroflasks a day. Make it work.

The Reading

Okay – the reading…has been SO BENEFICIAL to my brain. I have always polluted my mind with garbage TV after my work day and it has done nothing for me. This has stopped all together and I just can’t stomach reality anymore. It’s trash – don’t pollute your mind. Read. Books. Instead. Some of the books I’ve read during this thing are The Science of Getting Rich, The Year of Yes, Let Love Rule, Awaken the Giant Within and I’m currently reading Game Changers.

No Alcohol

…I’ve been sober 10.5 years… THE END.

The Progress Pic

ugh ugh ugh! I hate this part – but I guess it will be fun to see the progress on Day 75. I try my best to loop it in my routine RIGHT AFTER my work out. I’m trying to wear the same-looking outfit and stand in the same place so there’s actually ways to see the progression.

Very messy bathroom – and not the most sexy pic but hey, it works

Wrapping it Up

My final thoughts of this 75 Hard thing on Day 63 are these… THIS IS A MENTAL CHALLENGE AND IT’S MEANT TO BE HARD. My brain and my body have never felt better. The mind shift I’ve felt in the days of the 40’s, is astounding. I realized that I’m in change of my life and there’s areas in it that just aren’t serving me. I started up this blog again, began a partnership with my best friend to bring women healthy products to support their hormones, and I’ve tabled the stuff that just don’t serve me. I can’t stomach negativity or reality TV, or pop culture news. It simply doesn’t feed my soul fire these days.

I want to live the best life possible and I’m so glad 75 Hard as opened my eyes a little wider. I’m grateful for that.

The Skinny Bitch Gets Skinnier

by graceisthenewglam, posted in Uncategorized

⚠️ Trigger Warning: Weight Loss ⚠️

Me at OTF preparing for the Transformation Challenge – 125lbs – Jan 2020

I’ll preface this with – I’ve always been a Size 2, I am very proud of my body through all of it’s twists and turns and changes.

I don’t know what happened. I looked at the scale at some point in 2019 and my weight hit 138+. I was shocked. In my mind, I was always 120, so how did this freakin’ happen? Well, I’ll tell you.

Working in an office with snacks everywhere. Unconscious eating. Taking the hormonal birth control pill unknowing of its side effects. Lack of mindfulness and meditation. No self confidence. Being content.

The day I knew I wanted change.

I knew something had to change. Not that I never DIDN’T exercise, but I needed to step up my game. Like majorly. So, I tried Orangetheory Fitness in January 2019 and I fell in love. The HIIT workouts got me, I started jogging, I made friends and it was great. It completely helped me shed a few LBs and I was getting strong and tone – no doubt. But seriously…with all of that vigorous exercise, you’d swear I’d be a twig. I still was not.

Enter 2020 – the year of crazy adjustments of working from home and COVID scaries. I had an epiphany that this was my time to really explore my health once and for all. I started researching the side effects to hormonal birth control and they weren’t pretty. I also dug into nutrition. I wanted to be plant based more than ever – after way too many attempts before. I dug into books, recipes, supplements.

I WENT OFF THE PILL in July 2020. I thought, I’m home, I really think this is the culprit to me hanging onto excess weight and if shit hit the fan and I felt like ass or mood swings would slap everyone around me in the face (ahem, my husband), I’d be home and in my comfort zone. I also alerted my boss to my potential health crisis. I read so many horror stories in all of these women’s Facebook groups, that I was prepared for anything and everything. I was transitioning my diet before I did all of this for a few months getting off the pill – which helped A LOT)

The results were astounding. Weight shed off me, I felt lighter, I felt so human that I actually had emotions and I was present. My anxiety was at bay – or at least I can pinpoint what was causing it (like, a sudden work issue, COVID, etc.)

Today, I’m at around 117lbs. That’s 23 pounds of the old me shed. I am healthy, happy, and lighter. I’ll save my fitness, diet, and mindfulness routine for another post and I will admit that I’m doing the 75 Hard challenge that has given me more mental results than physical – I’m on day 56 today.

Present day progress!

I owe my success to: MY DEDICATION AND AMBITION, Dr. Jolene Brighten’s Post HBC Protocol and supplements, Peloton’s bike and app, daily meditation, reading books of inspiration, goal setting,75 Hard and as cheesy as it sounds, positive mindset. CUT. OUT. THE. TRASH. BEHAVIOR. IN. YOUR. LIFE. (reality TV, IG feeds that don’t fuel your fire and trigger judgement and comparison, even friends that don’t serve you etc.) Oh, and try to SLEEP 8-9 hours a night. It’s more important than you think!

Wherever you’re at in your journey, I’m sending you love and self confidence. If you’re looking for inspiration, let me be your guide. Set goals and write them down.

Ode to 2020

by graceisthenewglam, posted in Uncategorized

Yep, it’s old news that 2020 is a shit year. It’s out there and this post isn’t going to rag on 2020 any more. So, if you want more bad news or more negativity to glob onto, move along and click to exit this page on your browser.

All things Corona virus related not included in my love of 2020, but it’s been a really great year.

I started with high intentions, which I always do on every New Years Eve night. I did what I always did. I worked out, continued my mostly-vegan diet and was going into 2020 with a bang as my best year yet. And, honestly, it has been!

The first time a caught a glance at the Eiffel Tower – PURE BLISS. (unedited and pure)

Late February, 2 girlfriends boarded a plane to Paris. We began the trip and strangers and returned sisters. I’ve always wanted to travel to Europe. My longing began when I was in college and I kept putting it off and had every excuse in the book. BUT! I took the plunge, booked a solo ticket in August and convinced the gals to join me. The first one to join asked if I wanted company and I said HELL YEAH! These ladies were not even the least bit reluctant to book, so I knew we were all in for a great time, and that it was. Together, we all popped our Europe cherries, walked probably about 20 miles a day through the streets of Paris, learned how to make croissants, went shopping, explored, took photos, shared stories, bought souvenirs and pretended to be the chicest of chic Parisian women. The 10 days with 2 in London were magical and I am so grateful. Present day, we’re all landlocked back in the states but the 3 of us send each others share photos of our trip often and we’re totally grasping onto faith that our next European adventure happens in 2021. All 3 of us have our credit cards and passports ready!

How my engagement ring was delivered…

Post European rendezvous, Steve and I got engaged. March 17th – exactly 1 year after we adopted our beloved little Jagger Fergus. Another great day in the books. I’ve kept this private and off of social media because I’m totally not one of THOSE people. (YUCK! – and you TOTALLY know the ones I’m talking about) If you know Steve and I, you know that we are quiet and private people – so this night was perfect. We had a quiet dinner from our favorite local Thai restaurant, he prepared dessert and out came little Jaggy with the ring. A gorgeous channel cut diamond band! (that I totally picked out)

Work: I got a raise this year – and also developed pure work/life balance. I started a brilliant routine! And I’ve written about it. For 2021, I’m working on purpose and passion and achieving financial freedom.

Joining the Peloton family was another great thing that happened in 2020. Never did I ever think I would be a workout from home person, but as I got into it, I LOVE IT. Every morning at 5am, I’m working out with THOUSANDS of like-minded folks just like me getting their morning sweat on. Our house now holds so many weights and work out gear, you’d sweat we had a massive garage to put it all in but we’ve made it work in our guest room/office/now gym/meditation room. I LOST 21 POUNDS AND COUNTING. (please, judgements aside, I’ve always been happy with my body, but this was a goal I set for myself and a lot of it was hormone related and being on the BC pill for so long — more on that another time). Buy a Peloton here and save $100!

MARRIED LIFE: Steve and I tied the know on August 14th. Fast, furious and private. Exactly what we wanted. No circus, no fairy tales, no princess dresses and NO weird posed icky pictures. Those things are all for a different breed of people, NOT US. It was a hot summer day in Norfolk, Steve wore his suit, I wore separates inspired by Olivia Palermo and Carrie Bradshaw’s courthouse wedding. My flowers were from my beloved local Vons Grocery store and my shoes were electric blue and designer… Yes, THOSE shoes.

Those are the highlights – I am really looking forward to a fresh start to the New Year!

I’m in the process of setting goals that I’m excited to share!

5 Things

by graceisthenewglam, posted in health, Uncategorized

I’m losing my blog momentum – lots going on with work, working out and wellness but here’s a little run down about what’s going on in my life and 5 things I’ve been digging. What have you been diggin’ lately?

Amma’s Rose Oil – My Signature Scent  – I love love love this smell. It’s basically a sandalwood and rose oil and I get so many compliments on it. It’s a whopping $35 on Amma’s site (and EO makes it too but they are out of stock A LOT). Trust me, this stuff is gold.

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Afternoons at the Pool – Steve and I moved into our place in Long Beach and we are enjoying every moment of it and taking advantage of the amenities – including this beautiful pool. Sometimes I did to just unplug, reboot and just sit back and relax!

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TSC Bombshell Body Guide – Okay, I’ve never, ever done this before but I bought meal/fitness plan online but I am loving every minute of it. I’ve been in deep for almost 2 weeks now and I’m down 3 L-B’s and I feel great. Like, super great and I can see the difference in my bod. It’s so good, it’s easy and manageable! Try it!

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Tony Robbins – Yep, I’ll admit, I’m a Tony Robbins newbie. I am a self-proclaimed self help book junkie and I’ve never got into Tony Robbins, until now. It took my the documentary I Am Not  Your Guru. At this point, I’m all in! He’s incredible! Check it.

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Zucchini Noodles – Another thing I’m late to the party on is these bad boys. These are gluten free and AH-MAZING. It takes like 7 minutes in a pan with a TBSP of olive oil and BAM!, throw on some red sauce, add some fresh mozzerella and basil and VOILA, perfectly healthy! (I got mine at Whole Foods Market Long Beach)

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Hope you enjoyed reading this one!

What’s 2014 Going to Bring?

by graceisthenewglam, posted in Uncategorized

ImageI came across this article on MindBodyGreen today and I thought it would be cool to share some of my answers. I’m going to take the top 10 – because some of them were really personal and I don’t want to put that stuff in the blogosphere. I am so ready to let go of 2013 and its challenges – and I am ready to really embrace change and a world of love and wellness in the upcoming year. 

Cheers to 2014 and see ya later, 2013! 

1. What am I most proud of this year?

I am proud of myself for taking a leap of faith by moving to San Diego, where I literally knew no one and cultivated a cute little life by the sea while keeping my relationship with my boyfriend stronger than ever. It’s really cool to be back and forth between two locations.

2. How can I become a better (_____leader_____)?

In 2014, I want to become a better leader in all aspects. I want my coworkers looking up to me as well as respecting me. I want to be a leader who leads by example, is constantly inspiring, and create an environment where my coworkers and colleagues want to work their best magic. 

3. Where am I feeling stuck?

I feel not as challenged at work – but that’s going to change at my new gig I start in the beginning of January! 

4. Where do I need to allow myself grace?

I need to allow grace in my actual physical body.  Through a clean 80/20 diet, I want to feel and look great and my best. 

8. How did I spend my free time?

I spent a lot of time walking, shopping, WORKING (of course), and surfing the internet. Shopping and the internet can take a back seat for 2014.

11. When did I feel most creatively inspired?

I thrive in a super busy atmosphere, when my body is rested and relaxed, after a fabulous yoga class, and in the early mornings when everything is so still and quiet.

14. In what ways can I re-structure my time?

Always, always make time for exercising and cooking a healthy and organic meal!

16. Where has self-doubt taken over?

Self-doubt takes over in work; I’m always paranoid over silly things and curious if people like me or not – which is extremely silly and needs to stop ASAP.

17. When have I felt the most alive?

I feel most alive after a great work out, eating a clean diet, and brewing my homemade kombucha. 

22. Where is it time to let go?

Let go of fear and choose love. So simple, but yet so hard! 

The iloveme Ring – and Why You Should Buy It Now

by graceisthenewglam, posted in Uncategorized

Friends,

Everyday I wear this ring called the iloveme ring by Be Well with Arielle. I get compliments on it multiple times per day. I love it so much. 

ImageHere’s the story on why I love it so much…. I was in a great transition of my life at the time with a new job, new apartment, new car, happily single, etc. I was starting to channel in the new me.  This ring was the ultimate treat for myself.  I wanted and admired it and loved the meaning behind it – simply ILOVEME. At that point of my life, I was half way there to loving myself. Today, I love all of myself and the ring and many self help books were the start of it. 

Arielle is offering $50 dollars off of the iloveme collection on her website for the summer – so now is the time to buy. I may even get another one because 2 rings looks so sexy and sassy! 

Learn more about Arielle here. 

My Day…

by graceisthenewglam, posted in Uncategorized

Today was a little bit rough for me. The mental chatter just wouldn’t calm down! Over and over my broken brain kept telling me – Am I not good enough, I am not the best, People are judging me, etc, etc. It’s so not fun but I know I’m not alone in this. Taking a look back at my day, it was pretty damn good.  I woke up at 5:30, did my morning routine, went to work, exercised, and then came home to work on a 2nd gig I have – (and now blogging, of course). All of these things I am so grateful for.  And I’m also in gratitude for my routine that I stick to and the person I am. 

So, when in this cluster of a mental frenzy, I watch “Jessica’s Daily Affirmation”. It takes me straight back to the thoughts I SHOULD be thinking! I love my life, family, boyfriend, yoga, exercise, being sober, my rad apartment, the beach, my hair – and so on and so on. Watch and love – and if you’ve already seen it, watch it again! 

Wellness Wednesdays – Feeling Brave

by graceisthenewglam, posted in Uncategorized

These last few weeks have been a whirlwind and I am really starting to feel brave in my ripe age of 30. Last week, I posted this blog to my network of friends which I was deathly afraid of. I’m going for an opportunity at work that I never thought would come available and never thought I’d be supported on – and I faced my fears of health and got blood work done to see if I am indeed healthy. 

ImageBeing Brave by releasing my blog: I decided I’m really going to put myself out there and not be embarrassed of who I am. I’m spiritual. I’m sober. I believe in God. I pray every night and meditate in the morning. I used to be afraid to admit these things to people – because I was afraid of judgement. With putting my fear aside, I may actually be able to help someone – which is a miracle. 

Being Brave at work: I get really uncomfortable with work stuff because I had a few rough spats in my career over the past 15 years. After a long journey, I’m in a job and company that I love and want to grow with.  After talking the talk of wanting to move up – I’m going for a new opportunity. Pretty rad, huh? Wish me luck! 

Being Brave at the Doctor’s: I was lucky to meet the fine folks over at Bloom Natural Health through my job.  It led to me doing a full bloodwork panel that I’ve never done before – because I was deathly afraid I was going to find out that I’m dying. I faced my fears and got my results back today. Surprisingly, I am not dying – and I am one healthy young lady, but I do have areas to work on. My brave face paid off and I feel so much better! 

So,  beautiful people, I encourage you to be brave.  Take chances. Face your fears.  In the end, you feel a hell of a lot better. Life is too short!

Release your fears in the comments section (and to the universe). 

Dear Sugar…

by graceisthenewglam, posted in Uncategorized

This is my break up letter to sugar. And my public declaration that I’m completely over it. Friends, please keep me in check if you see me going for a cookie or cupcake! Love you! 

Dear Sugar, 

I am officially ending our hot, sneaky, steamy, secret love affair.  It causes me nothing byImage guilt, sadness, and inflammation in my body.  The high is great after we meet is amazing, but it’s just not worth it anymore.  I’ll admit, I’m completely addicted to you and I’m also madly in love with you and your many personalities….cookies, donuts, cupcakes, ice cream, etc. This madness has to end.

I forgive you and I forgive myself for all of this insanity. We need to go our separate ways. I’m onto bigger and better natural foods – like maple syrup, honey, and fruit juice. To be honest, I don’t event think I’m going to miss you.  You made me feel bad about myself and it’s because of you I put on a few pounds. 

Forgiveness is key here.  See you maybe on special occasions, but please know that we are finished. 

xxxoo

Lahotski

Ellie.com for Fitness Lovers

by graceisthenewglam, posted in Uncategorized

This is pretty awesome! Ellie.com has extended a 20% off discount code to the readers of Grace Is The New Glam! What I love about Ellie is that their fitness wear is so comfortable with great materials. Sweat? Not a problem with these duds.  I personally love their capris for spin class and yoga!

I love looking and feeling chic and cute at the gym or in the yoga studio. It makes working out definitely more pleasant and I certainly smile more.

Sign up for a fitness-wear subscription – the price is certainly right.  You get to pick what you want and you get first dibs on new styles.  Pretty rad, huh? I’m sold. Click the pic below to get the ball rolling. See you at the gym!