Tuesday, January 28, 2014

New Favorite Protein Shake

I've been playing with protein shakes a lot lately and I've finally come upon a recipe that isn't too sweet, too fruity and has enough protein to make me happy.

I usually don't measure the ingredients and see how they mix up when I blend them.  However, these are some approximations for you:

One small carton of coconut water
Tablespoon of organic almond butter
1 scoop protein powder.  (I use hemp protein)
Tablespoon of yogurt (More if you like a thinner consistency and less if you like a thicker shake.)
Ice (If you want it cold, it tastes great without it too.)
1 banana



Blend and enjoy!  It feels a little decadent and tastes like dessert!  If you want to, you can add a little honey or agave to make it sweeter.  Peanut butter would work well too I'm sure.


Wednesday, January 22, 2014

New Addition

I wanted to share with you a little about our newest pack member. His name is Summit and he's a five month old blue merle border collie.  He was born to a breeder who gave him up because he could not sell him.  Glen Highland Farm took him in and adopted him out.  The new owner was unable to control his OCD tendencies and he was returned.  He was happy at the farm but since we have experience with OCD with our other dog and every dog is happier in a home, we decided to foster him.


He came to us about a week ago and everyone is adjusting.  It's odd having two dogs and one who can't hear is a unique challenge.  However, he does not react to the doorbell or any other stimuli.  It's nice in a lot of ways.

Kiran, now Summit, after his first full day with us.

The pack after playing tag.  


He's done a little bit of OCD chasing but I think now that he's happy and active it has decreased drastically already.  We're so thrilled to have another little doggie around!  He loves playing and is just learned to be pet and to snuggle.  He loves food, treats, and racing after Roxy. I've been researching training deaf dogs and we're ready to start sign language training with him quite soon.  He's adorable and soft and so very sweet.



Monday, January 20, 2014

Healthy Eating Made Simple

Okay we're all busy.  We're all racing to the next thing all the time.  So how do we stay healthy, give our bodies what it needs to maintain energy and meet the demands we put on it?  Well the answer is tricky.  I've looked around the tried lots of what I feel are unique products that can be incorporated into your busy lifestyle.  Oh and they actually taste good!
1.  Nocciolata-This might not be the way to start off a healthy blog post, but this stuff is amazing.  It's made some simple stuff with nothing else mixed in.  The chocolaty goodness is great for toast at breakfast, as a dip for fruit or even just right out of the jar.  I will admit to eating it this way more than once :)  This is something you can feel good about giving your family and they will love it!
nocciolata-jar
Click the jar to find out where to purchase.
• USDA ORGANIC CERTIFIED
• ALL NATURAL RAW INGREDIENTS
• NO ARTIFICIAL FLAVORS OR COLORS
• NO HYDROGENATED FAT
• GLUTEN FREE
• NO GMOs
• GENTLY PROCESSED FOR 60 HOURS
• NO PALM OIL

2.  Health Warrior's Chia Bars-These little gems are awesome.  I love these before a morning run, on my way to yoga or just when I've hit the afternoon slump.  They aren't huge so you can eat on the go.  The chia seeds are the ultimate in nature's energy and the taste is amazing.  Peanut butter and chocolate can't be beat and it also satisfies that dessert craving.  Oh and these are just 100 calories so you won't spoil your diet.  These are Gluten, dairy and soy free. 100% vegan. 100% natural.  I love them and always have one in the car, in my purse, in my yoga bag…well you get the idea.  They them, you'll thank me.  (And I've tried a LOT of bars!)
Click the bars to see more flavors and nutrition information.
Click the bars to see more flavors and nutrition information.
3.  Glee Gum is an all natural alternative to gums made with artificial sweeteners.  It's made sustainably with all natural flavors and it tastes amazing!  It is vegetarian, additive free, lactose free, dairy free, wheat free, gluten free, casein free, egg free, yeast free, nut free, and peanut free. (Soy is present in the facility). Glee is the first gum to be Non-GMO Project Verified.  This is a great tasting alternative to other gums that are full of chemicals and artificial ingredients.  Feel good about what you're chewing.  Good health comes down to even the smallest decisions and this is an easy change to make.  You'll be thrilled you did.  They have LOTS of flavors, sizes and even a sugar free option!  Want a discount?  Just code JOY15 for 15% off through February!
Click on the link to view all of Glee's flavors!
Click on the link to view all of Glee's flavors!
4.  All Beauty Water is a great alternative to plain water.  Each bottle is two glasses of calorie free flavored beverage enhanced with vitamins and nutrients selected to benefit your skin.  Get your glow from the inside out!  These come in two unique flavors Pomegranate Rose and Cucumber Aloe.  During that afternoon slump reach for one of these instead of an artificially sweetened soda and do your body good.
Pomegranate_Rose
5.  Kelapo extra virgin coconut oil is organic, fair trade and tastes amazing.  There are number of reasons to switch to coconut oil instead of other cooking oils.  You can take a look at all of the benefits on their website.  I love coconut oil for all of these reasons and that it is one of my favorite beauty products.  Whipped coconut oil is the best age fighter and moisturizer.  It beats out any lotion I've used, even the pricey ones.  I feel good about putting something healthy and organic into my body and putting it on my skin feels even better.  Kelapo is a great brand to look for.  You can even buy in bulk!
coconutoil
6.  If you still have those chocolate cravings…(and who doesn't), turn to Wholesome Craving's Mixes.  They are gluten and dairy free, low in fat and high in protein.  And yes, they taste amazing.  They are less expensive than other mixes I have come across as well.  Take a peek at all of their mix flavors on their website.  You'll want to have these in the pantry for when you need a "sweet fix".
decandent-chocolate-details_1
7.  When you're shaving a sweet craving or need something amazing on the go, look to Crispy Greens.  Their wide variety of fruit is simply dehydrated so all of the flavor and all of the nutrients are there, the mess is not.  These are awesome for the winter months when fruits may be a little harder to find.  Long car rides where fruit may spoil or get beaten up and business trips where you may not have time to shop when you get to your destination.  Kids will love these and adults will know their value.  They even sell a value pack!
CrispyGreens
8.  A big part of eating healthy is knowing what to have in the house. With Stonefire pitas, pizza crusts and naan, a healthy meal isn't far away.  Their products are made authentically with no preservatives and they taste like they just came from a bakery-seriously.  The pizza crust is delicious and soft.  All you have to do is add sauce and cheese (more toppings if you want of course) and you have an amazing meal.  It's so yummy, even fussy kids will eat it!  The pita is great to dip into hummus, make a sandwich or even just eat as a snack on the go.  The naan is shockingly authentic and it's a welcome addition to any meal. I love to have it with my homemade curry.  It really makes the meal.  Stonefire products can be frozen too.  Their products are available at a variety of stores.
Naan
9.  If you are looking for a decadent treat for your body and mind, try Righteously Raw Chocolate.  Available in flavors such as caramel and goji, these chocolate bars and bites, are amazing and if I do say so myself, almost qualifying as health food.  These are made of raw chocolate, full of antioxidants and healthy enzymes.  And they are sweetened with agave and coconut sugar.  So you can feel good about treating yourself with these amazing treats that are good for the Earth.  They are:
  • Certified Organic
  • Certified Non-GMO
  • Certified VeganCaramel_Cacao_bar
  • Certified Gluten Free
  • Certified Kosher
  • No Refined Sugars
  • Top 8 Allergen Free
10.  Getting enough protein on the go is tough for an active woman.  And lots of protein shakes come with added chemicals, taste like glue or aren't forgiving to those with dietary restrictions.  Svelte protein shakes are gluten free, high in protein, low in sugar, dairy free, vegan and non gmo.  They come in four flavors and every one tastes good.  You'll actually enjoy this protein shake.  They come in a portable container that is resealable if you can't drink it all at once.  These are great before a workout, after a workout, as an afternoon snack or even before bed.  You will love them.  I love that I can grab it and go and don't have to mess up the kitchen and blender and they taste like something from a coffee shop!
Svelte shakes come in four great flavors.  Seriously.  They are amazing.
Svelte shakes come in four great flavors. Seriously. They are amazing.
11.  SooFoo products are made in the U.S.A. and organic and vegan.  You'd think that they would taste healthy, but they are full of flavor.  These mixes come in four flavors; Hint of Curry,Moroccan Melody, Garlic&Herb and Original.  They are full of healthy energy foods-lentils, rice, beans, berries, oats and lots of natural seasonings.  I love adding one of these to a simple dish with chicken and some veggies.  It's fast and easy and looks like I spent all day in the kitchen.  Oh and it keeps my family healthy!  These are also great recipe starters.  In fact, the SooFoo website even have recipes!  Buy all of their flavors on their website.
Soofoo
12.  VROU Water is a great pick me up.  It has only 5 calories, is filled with vitamins and it tastes great.  Instead of reaching for a late afternoon candy bar, treat yourself to a spa like cucumber lime water that will energize you to finish our day strong.  VROU water comes in cucumber lime, orange guava, and pineapple mint.
Vrou
13.  Refueling is a big part of working out effectively.  Fuel Strip provides you with test strips that you test your sweat with and you are provided with a reading that determines exactly how much fuel you need.  There are four readings; red, yellow, green and blue.  Dependent on the reading you are presented with you eat a pre determined number of chews.  It's science and can help you fuel when you need to and not overeat when you don't need the calories.  The chews taste great, and are dairy and gluten free.  You can purchase the strips, the chew or a combo pack!
combopack
14.  If you're looking for a snack with flavor, a crunch and a salty taste, check out Seapoint Farm's Edamame.  They have multiple flavors available; Spicy Wasabi, Goji Blend, and many more.  I love these snacks because they satisfy your craving for something a little salty and popable.  They are high in protein so not only do they satisfy you for a long time, they are nutritious, have 70% less fat and 40% more protein than peanuts.  I love making trail mix with these!

Click to purchase all of their varieties!
Click to purchase all of their varieties!
15.  A big part of eating healthy is packing your own lunch.  Bentgo allows to you pack your own lunch and to do it in one adorable container!  Use Bentgo for school, traveling (it's awesome for plane flights!) and work.  It's recognizable and stands out in the break room fridge or at the lunch table.  It comes in bright and fun colors; grey, green, pink and blue.  Bentgo includes two stackable containers with lids, built-in plastic silverware, and a secure strap for easy transportation. Not only does the Bentgo look awesome with its colorful and sleek design, it is also microwavable, dishwasher safe, & BPA-Free.  I love packing this up at the start of the day with all of the healthy food and snacks I'll need all day long to avoid the drive through.  Oh and they are affordable!
Bentgo
16.  You know you need to drink more water.  Sometimes it's hard to remember to take water with you during the course of your day and week.  It's also hard to have great tasting water on hand.  Reduce makes both of these problems disappear.  Their Water Week (I tested the Cardigan style) is a set of five 16 oz bottles.  They are BPA free and they sit in an easy to store, easy to move tray.  The whole set take up very little room in your fridge.  These even fit in a mini fridge!  I love the idea of filling all of these up and putting them at your desk so you know how much water you need to drink and how much water you have already consumed during the course of your day. The bottles are highly portable and light weight too.  Better yet, they are dishwasher safe. WW-Cardigan-Main_1024x1024
Filter
If you don't always have access to filtered water, Reduce's Water Filtration Pitcher comes in handy.  It's a four stage filter that lasts for 60 days.  I like the little window in the pitcher so you can see how much water you have left.  If you're having people over, this is a great way to provide water or a great way to get great tasting water, even at the office.  Fill up this pitcher once and it fills all of the Water Week bottles.  I love these products and how they help me stay hydrated!

17.  PackIt offers a line of coolers from large to small in a variety of stylish and modern prints.  These coolers are soft sided so they can be folded up when they aren't in use.  Even their biggest option, the Social Cooler, folds down so small it can fit into a bag.  What I love about these coolers is that the whole bag is insulated!  You don't have to fuss with messy cooler packs.  This cooler can be thrown right in to the freezer and stays cool for up to 10 hours. I love the idea of taking this grocery shopping instead of taking plastic bags for your frozen items.  What a great item to keep in the car!  And it has amazing carrying straps!  PackIt has smaller options for lunches too!
PackIt
18.   Powbab’s Fruit Chews are a vitamin and immunity boost in disguise. They are yummy fruit chews.  One chew a day gives you 100% daily antioxidant dose per chew (3000 ORAC value per chew) with daily dose of Vitamins C & E. Good source of Vitamin A. Contains raw, unprocessed whole fruit & other natural ingredients. Organic Baobab fruit pulp is naturally 50% fiber—no synthetics added. Does not contain gluten, dairy, soy, nuts or eggs. Vegan. No preservatives.  They wrapped individually so you can grab one and go.  I love these when I’m traveling or super busy.  Check out these and their other products here.
Powbab
19.  We all know tea is a healthy option to soft drinks.  However, sometimes loose leaf tea is just enough of a hassle to avoid drinking it. That's where Umbra's adorable Dolphin Tea infuser comes in.  Simply pop the brightly colored dolphin off of the filter and fill it with tea.  Then, drop it in and it floats while the perfect cup of tea brews.  Its fins hang off the side of your cup and it looks darling.  This is a great gift too!
Dolphin


Sunday, January 12, 2014

New Year New Gear

If you're starting a new fitness routine, like so many are in the New Year, it's time to upgrade your fitness gear.  Here are a few things I was able to try out and how they could help you meet your New Year's goals.

1.  Look no further for new headphones than Meelectronic's SportFi M6P headphones.
Their headphones have everything you could want; comfortable ear pieces made of memory foam, remote control volume and song control, great sound and even extra ear pieces.
SportFi
I love the bright colors that these come in.  They are easy to find in your bag.  I also love that these are water resistant.  I no longer have to worry if I'm caught out in a sprinkle or I sweat on them :)
Here are some of the details that Meelectonic's site offers:
  • Memory wire that conforms to the ear for a locked-in fit
  • Energetic sound with enhanced bass keeps you motivated
  • Inline microphone, remote, and universal volume control for headset use
  • Noise isolating in-ear design helps you focus
  • Six sets of eartips for the best fit and comfort
  • Sweat resistant design for long-term durability
Want to know something else that's great?  These are AFFORDABLE!  At $39.99 these are a great price point for awesome quality.
No more tangled cords either.  These headphones have a shirt clip and a cable control.  No more getting snagged on things while working out.  I love these for conference calls…that's my little secret.  These are a great motivation gift for yourself or someone you love!
2.  FitDeck is quite possibly a MUST have for anyone who sometimes can't make it to the gym, works out at home or travels.  FitDecks come in a variety of themes including bodyweight, yoga and core blast.  For whatever type of workout you are seeking, there is a FitDeck to match it.  FitDeck is simple.  They are cards that demonstrate how to do an exercise, stretch or movement.  The cards are easy to understand, durable and presented in languae that everyone can understand.  I love that these can go anywhere with you and come in a great plastic carrying case.  They can be adopted for any fitness level and your specific needs and fitness goals.  You can pick cards out ahead of time and design a workout program or shuffle and have a different routine every time you use FitDeck.  These are a great way to beat the winter boredom blues and make working out fun and challenging every day.  At $14.95 a piece (at the time I'm writing this) they are MUCH cheaper than a gym membership!
Click this deck to see all the other themes and options available.  A great gift to yourself to start the New Year off on the right foot!
Click this deck to see all the other themes and options available. A great gift to yourself to start the New Year off on the right foot!
3.  Keeping your hair out of your face while working out is always a challenge.  And, if you don't have time to wash and style your hair again, those elastics leave horrible marks and destroy your hair.  CyndiBands are hair elastics that will hold event he thickest hair in place during the most vigorous workout.  They come in lots of colors so you can match your outfit or your mood.  They are made in the USA and when you're not wearing them, you can slip them on your wrist.  CyindiBands also sells headband in case you need a little extra hair assistance.  These hair ties are more durable than other brands I've tried and have actually stood up to a run and a hour plus yoga class.  They are awesome to give as gifts and you can even get them personalized!
Click on the elastics to see all of the colors they come in!
Click on the elastics to see all of the colors they come in!





Adorable packaging holding six neutral CyndiBands.  GREAT gift (to give to yourself!)
Adorable packaging holding six neutral CyndiBands. GREAT gift (to give to yourself!)
4.  We’ve all heard of the boxes that bring thins to your door every month.  It seems as those every product out there has an option to be packaged up and sent to your door step.  I love the concept of this.  You don’t have to leave the house and you get to try new products out every month.
Bulu Box is about a year old.  They offer two box options, Bulu Box and Bulu Box Weight Loss.  The box is filled with snacks, supplements and healthy living products designed to help you stay active.  Each box contains 4-5 products.
This is a great watt to try things out and not have to pay for a full size that you may or may not enjoy. It's also a great way to keep yourself motivated throughout the year!
Bulu
5.  Need to protect your ring while working out?  Ring Cozy is what you need.  I will tell you from experience (I've broken my engagement ring no less than three times) that being active can damage your ring.  And if you have a stone in it, you risk losing it every time you hit the gym or pool.  Put a Ring Cozy over your ring and make sure it stays safely in place.  This is also great for cold winter days where you ring may become a tad too loose!  They are available in various colors and are just $10, a great insurance policy!
RingCozy6.  Have pain after working out and want to relieve it naturally?  Arnicare Gel does the trick.  It absorbs quickly, and helps with muscle pain, bruising and swilling.  The best part?  It's homeopathic so you don't have to worry about introducing things to your body that you would never dream of or even want to think about.  They have a store locator on their website.
Click this photo to see where to purchase Arnicare
Click this photo to see where to purchase Arnicare
7.  If you or someone you know need a little inspiration, a pick me up or a little clarity, these buttons by iadoreme are just what you need.  Each set has seven buttons made of metal and they are what you need to brighten up and coat, bag, or even cubicle.  They are bright and colorful to tap into your inner self and send you a positive message every time you look at them.  These are a great little gift for yourself or for someone who needs a little encouragement.  I like to have a few on hand to give with people when they need it most.
Click on the picture to buy your own set of mini mantras!
Click on the picture to buy your own set of mini mantras!
8.  If you need a little help stretching out,the Hatfield Strap is a good option.  It's designed to stretch your foot, calves and hamstring in a way you haven't been able to before.  It's a great way to relax after a hard workout or a good way to break into stretching if you're just starting to workout.  It's comfortable, effective and easy to use, even for a beginner.
calf-strap01

9.  Working out on a busy schedule?  Get Motion Medica's No Time To Shower Mist.  It's exactly what it sounds like…a spray to help you stay at your freshest until you can get to a shower.  It smells great and is effective in killing bacteria and odors.  It does it while being chemical free too.  The little two ounce bottle is the perfect size to throw in your gym or yoga bag, a desk drawer or your purse.  You'll find yourself using this all the time!
 Shower
10.  Working out is great for your body, but it isn't always that great for your feet.  Sometimes you get cuts, hot spots or even blisters.  Stop them with Foot Gloss.   The fragrance and paraben free mixture comes in a small, portable stick.  It's easy to apply and discreet too.  It forms a barrier between your feet and the shoes.  It doesn't feel greasy or sticky.  As a matter of fact, you really don't know you have it on, except that you don't have blisters or cuts later on.  I love keeping this in my purse, especially for long days walking around New York City.  The minute I feel a hot spot coming on, I use Foot Gloss and prevent it.  I love it!
Click to buy Foot Gloss.
\Click to buy Foot Gloss.
11.  If you need to workout on the go, Body Works Band is a good solution for you.  It's a strong resistance band that fits into even the smallest carry on bag.  The band serves as a portable set of weights, allowing you to workout even in a small space like an office or hotel room.  My favorite part of the band is that there are exercises printed right on the band!  So often travelers have no idea how they can get a complete workout in a small space and with a tight schedule.  This is the perfect travel accessory.
BWB_footer_04
12.  Hate it when the cold air hits your lungs?  Have asthma and can't run in the cold?  If you want to hibernate because breathing cold air is painful, try out the ColdAvenger. It humidifies and warms the air before you breathe it in, making breathing easier for you while being outside or working out.  The ColdAvenger I tried is made of soft fleece and was surprisingly comfortable to wear.  It did make my neck sweat a little bit but my face didn't get hot like I thought it might.  I know I look a little silly, but for someone like me, with asthma I'd rather wear this and get outside than stay inside all winter long. This would be great for hiking or skiing as well.  It also keeps the wind off your face and it is still easy to talk.  This is a great gift for someone who braves the winter elements to get their workouts in!ColdAvenger
13.  If you want to join the barefoot revolution and reap all of the benefits of being barefoot while hiking, running or walking, try out Xero Shoes.  These sandals come pre made or in a do it yourself kit (where you can pick the color of the base and the color of the lace!).  They go on easily and they are super comfortable. If you want to walk as nature intended but still have foot protection from sharp objects (and since you can't walk around barefoot in public!), these are a great option.  There's a lot to learn about barefoot shoes and why you should wear them.  Learn more on Xero Shoe's website and take a look at their seemingly endless sandal options.
XeroShoes
14.  Winter means short daylight hours which means that you don't have a lot of time for working out and if you are going to venture out, you need to be safe.  Personal Reflectors has just what you need to make sure you stay visible.  Their reflectors come in various shapes, sizes and colors and can be affixed to a leash, hat or really anything you are wearing or carrying.  I love that they can be easily moved from outfit to outfit and they really provide more than one point of visibility unlike most jackets or reflective devices.  These are inexpensive and great to give to anyone who is outside after dark.  Stay safe!
Click the photo for more ideas on how to use them and to purchase.  Reflectors start at just $2 and shipping and always free.
Click the photo for more ideas on how to use them and to purchase. Reflectors start at just $2 and shipping and always free.
15.  Want to workout inside instead of braving the elements?  With XBox1's new game, Zumba, World Party, you can break a sweat without leaving the living room.  With 44 songs, 40 routines and 30 dance styles you will find something you love and get fit while doing it.  This is a great way to get the whole family involved in working out.  At less than $50 (at the time I'm writing this), it's also an affordable way to workout through the winter months without buying expensive equipment or a gym membership.
Zumba
16. Tribe Sports has a wide range of comfortable, stylish and technical apparel for men and women.  Their Performance Half-Zip top is slimming and soft against your skin.  It is wicking and it isn't too think.  There are areas for your body to breathe and it still regulates your body temperature.  I love the zip for staring my run and then opening it up to keep cool mid run.  There was no chafing and it doesn't stink afterwards. I could have used a little more length in this garment, but it was so comfy that I loved it just the same. It also retails for much less than other athletic brands.  Tribe
Bra
I also tried out their "Seamless Crop" (sports bra).  It was wicking but still held everything in place.  I liked it as the straps didn't dig in and it wasn't hard to get on or off.  It retails for just $28.
17.  If you want to workout all winter and hate the thought of staying inside, YakTrax can help you brave the elements and stay safe.  They attach to the bottom of any shoes and provide you with instant traction.  They are made up of a combination of rubber and metal springs and they grip to snow and ice.  You can run or walk in them without the worry of slipping.  They are inexpensive and durable.  They are sold in various sizes so you will get a custom fit that's right for you.  YakTrax also sells models specifically for running, walking and skiing, among others.  Check out their full line on their website.  These are a great idea for seniors who need to get the mail or for anyone who needs to walk to and from work in a slippery parking lot.  YakTrax
18.  Every girl needs to look fabulous on the go and have some great bags to carry hear gear in.  I recently discovered LillyPond bags and they are the epitome of fashion meets function. Their Cypress Wallet may be my new favorite accessory!
Lilypond 2014 Location Otter Creek 93
It's just big enough for a phone, a chap stick, pen and of course, all your credit cards.
Here are some technical specifications:
  • 100% recycled Lilypond CYCLEPOND™ exterior fabric
  • • 100% recycled Lilypond CYCLEPOND™ contrast interior lining
  • • Wide-mouth main compartment opening
  • • Four interior slash pockets
  • • Zippered coin compartment
  • • Credit card storage pockets
  • • Removable wrist strap
  • The sophisticated light teal blue color matches everything and is beautiful.
HCB-S
The Hummingbird Cosmetic Bag is perfect for going to the gym or to and from yoga class.  It's material is water resistant and its interior pockets hold everything you need to get cleaned up on the go.  This is also a great option for a business traveler.
 It's just $35 and I love it even for every day use, even at the office.
If you have a LOT of gear and need a cute bag to carry it in, check out their waxed canvas Silver Sky Shoulder Bag.  It's enormous capacity is coupled with adorable trimmings and durable fabric.  Even stuffed full, it is comfortable carry and looks sleek and stylish.
MHB-S-E

LillyPonds Magnolia Shoulder Bag is Goldilock's dream come true.  It holds everything you need for a day at the office followed by a day at the gym, coffee and dinner.  It looks great with any outfit, dressy or casual and holds up to the office floor, locker room and Starbucks table.
Ergonomically shaped, the YogaForce A-Line Mat is 68.5 inches long, 19.5 inches wide at the feet and 29.5 inches wide at the shoulders, this offers more room to maneuver in a crowded class. The mat is 4 pounds and comes with the adjustable shoulder strap for easy, hands-free transport. The removable wallet fits an iPhone.19.  The Yoga Mat from YogaForce is a beast among yoga mats. Unlike traditional yoga mats, this one is wider is at the top to match the width of your shoulders and features tapered edges and a slightly narrow base. Orange alignment guides ensure proper positioning to help both beginner and advanced yogis reach perfect posture in every pose.
YogaForce
20.  In order to keep that warm post workout bliss, try Gaiam's Essential Thermal Wrap.  It's eco friendly, made sustainably with organic cotton, comes in beautiful colors and best of all, keeps you warm and snuggly.  I love its large pockets.  I can wear this with anything, casual or more dressy and it keeps me warm, feels soft against my skin and looks great at the same time.  It's made in the USA and can be layered over or under other layers.  A versatile piece to take you through the winter months!
Gaiam
21.  If you are still planning on heading outside for a workout, take the MDID Cadence with you.  The band is waterproof and low profile.  It fits under all your winter layers. The band comes with a one year membership.  You simply enter the password and code that come with your band and then set up a profile.  It takes just a few minutes to enter in your medial information, medications and emergency contact details. Then, with a quick scan, emergency personnel can find those details that will potentially save your life.  This is a great item to have for someone who walks their dogs, goes for runs on the road, bikes or even for senior citizens who may venture from their home.  I like that it doesn't scream emergency bracelet and doesn't give out information to anyone who can get close enough to read it.
MyId

22.  Want to avoid the post workout stink?  Sometimes workout clothes even hold that horrible odor after they have been washed.  That's where Vapor Fresh comes in.  Their detergent is free of fabric softeners, artificial scents, and it's formulated for sports gear.  It leaves your clothes actually clean and fresh and not just heavily scented.  It's made to target your nasty body oils and break them down.  A container will last you over 30 loads of laundry and it is environmentally friendly.  They also sell a spray that's designed to take the stink away from your gear.  I will tell you I've tried sports detergents in the past and they have never worked as well as this one.  And the spray?  It can even tackle my running shoes.
Laundry
22.  Want a bag to take back and forth tot he gym that doesn't stink and prevents the rest of your gear from getting gross?  And looks cute?  Sounds like too much to ask but the Ultimate Workout Bag from Curves looks like a designer tote but has all the bells and whistles you want.  It's a sophisticated purple color with faux leather straps and trim. The inside has pockets so your water bottles will stand up right and your west towels don't stink up the rest of your clothes.  And, when the bag does get a little gross, you can just wipe it off!
UltimateWorkout
23.  Thorlo's 84N Runner's sock is just what you need when wearing thick winter boots or starting a new workout routine.  Designed with lots of foot protection to prevent hot spots and blisters they are a must have for every women's sock wardrobe.
When your boots start to rub the wrong way or you want to protect your feet, reach for these socks.  They will wick moisture away from your feet while staying in place and providing maximum foot comfort.  I love these for winter runs where my shoes are a bit heavier and sometimes my feet get wet.  I never get a blister wearing these.
Thorlo

24. If you're tired of plain water the Citrus Zinger is a great option.  Simply unscrew the bottom cup of the Zinger, flip the vessel on the top cap, and press a citrus half into the reamer. Screw back on the bottom lid, add water through the cap opening, shake and enjoy.  The bottle is cute too!  Here are some more of its features:
  • finger hole provided for easy carrying
  • easy to add ice via the bottom opening
  • Imported bottles with America-Made BPA/EA-free Tritan plastics from Eastman.
  • easy to clean, removable citrus press
  • reusable
  • carbonated water friendly
  • 28oz bottle
citruszing-orange
25.  I love yoga.  However, I don't like the sweat and stink that often come with it.  (No one does.) That's where Manduka's eQua yoga towel comes in.  I love these towels and I've tried lots of them!  The towel covers you whole mat (it comes in various lengths) and it provides you with a non slip surface.  If your mat is a little slick or your hands start to sweat, this towel becomes even more grippy.  It absorbed your sweat too so you're not dripping everywhere.  I love that it also dries quickly and if you re borrowing a mat, this provides you a clean surface. The eQua towel comes in a variety of pretty colors so you will be sure to find out that fits your style and mood.  Take a peek at all of them here.
Flow
It's also important to wash down your mat.  After a yoga session, use Manduka's Mat Renew to disinfect your mat and leave it with a fresh and calming scent.  I tried tranquil lavender and it smells amazing on my mat.  I use this after every yoga session and sometimes even before a class on my towel.
Click to purchase
Click to purchase
26.  One more thing….if you're going to be active outside, you need to protect your eyes.  Native Eyewear's Roan sunglasses are polarized so they protect your eyes but they are cute enough so they protect your style too.  Their durable blue frames are just what you need to compliment your running wardrobe or look great to and from yoga class.  Native Eyewear has an entire line of sunglasses for men and women that meld fashion with function.  Check them out!  
Roan