Author: alexandriawill

alexandriawill

5 Quick Tips for Summer & Fall Travel

August 21, 2017

5 Quick Tips for Summer Travel It’s officially the summer travel season. If you have been keeping up with me on Instagram or the #whereisalex hashtag you will see I have been hitting the road in the past few weeks. I was asked by Weight Watchers® Ice Cream to create some unique tips celebrating the anticipation of the summer season so here are my five super easy and fun quick tips for summer travel. Switch it Up If you are looking for cheap flights for the summer, make sure you take a look at a variety of destinations within your budget. There are tons of great deals happening to the cities of Dallas, Chicago, D.C. Caribbean and Mexico. Instead of going to Disneyland or Vegas, try going to a new destination in another country or take a cruise. This year, I opted to switch from a traditional cruise trip, which allowed me to island hop and ended up hopping within one island – the famous island of Jamaica. Bring Snacks No matter when or where I go, I always bring snacks. Nothing is worse than being delayed and being famished and irritable. I pack a variety of snacks with me so I can munch on just in case I am not able to buy food or when hunger strikes! A few of my favorites are trail mix, Larabars, Garden of Life Raw Protein and greens and fresh fruit, Make sure to rinse and clean your fruits and veggies before packing or grab an Eat Cleaner wipe to not only clean but prolong shelf life. Stay Hydrated When traveling out of the states, I have learned bottled water is very expensive. I often will bring my filtered water bottled like from lifestraw to have filtered water within seconds. But don’t forget about your hair. Make sure you have a hydrating spray, moisturizing products and daily cream to keep tresses in tact. I love the Brita Water filter water sports bottle, which saves money and offers clean water within seconds. Shop Smart If you’re going to travel, know the best days to buy tickets. According to FareCompare.com, the best days to buy is Tuesday at 3 pm. Don’t forget to compare airfare and fees on a variety of websites. Comparing fares and fees can save you tons of cash. Keep Cool When I don’t travel with this, I also make sure to have loads of foods that are cold. From frozen fruit, smoothies to desserts and low-fat yogurt and popsicles, you’ll appreciate not only the taste but also cooling off with some of my summertime’s favorites. Now that you have a few tips. I want to hear from you on how your getting ready for the summer. Let me know if your traveling anywhere or need to get away.

Hottest Half – Half Marathon Review

August 15, 2017

I am officially recovered from my race on Sunday. I completed my first half marathon in over two years. For several years, I have wanted to run in the Hottest Half – Half Marathon by Mellow Productions. Typically in the summer, there aren’t that many races because of the insane amount of heat. The races that are put on are often during the cooler times of the summer or days, but the Hottest Half is typically on the hottest day of the year and is a test of your endurance and strength. This year, we haven’t had the scorching temperatures like normal, but we have had a crazy amount of humidity and poor air quality (UV index) than normal. Sunday I braved the rain, humidity and mid and competed in the Hottest half. It was one of my worst races ever but boy do I have a story about this race yal. Let’s get to talking about this Hottest Half race and things.. Hottest Half – Half Marathon Review & Race Recap Pros of the Hottest Half – Half Marathon Race distance: They had a 5, 10 and a half marathon distances so if you wanted to run the half while a friend ran the 10k it’s a great option. Relatively affordable: The price of the half is around $60 bucks with a $5 discount. It does go up, but this isn’t bad for a half Friendly people: Mellow races thus far tend to be filled with friendly folks thus far. Everyone waves or tried to be nice. Medal: The medals are pretty nice. I can’t complain at all about the medals and like the quality of them Packet pickup: You have the option of arriving early to get your packet, and additionally you have the choice of paying on the spot Less fuss: There isn’t a lot with the race, so for newbies, this might be good option to reduce stress or anxiety. Challenges: They have a few race challenges through out the year and seasons, so it’s good if you are looking to do multiple races and want to test yourself regularly. The combo packages are also a better deal than just buying one race. This race is part of two race challenges. The 4 Seasons or the Summer Half Marathon series. Parking: Parking is free and you don’t have to wait or park extremely far from the starting line. Cons of the Hottest Half – Half Marathon Packet pickup: While it was a good, I have had a few issues when picking up my packet. One race they ran out of bibs, so we had to wait awhile for some to bring some. This time, one computer was down, and a lady was writing them. Additionally, don’t expect much in the packets. You get a shirt, bib and maybe something else in the bag. The course: For the 10th year it was at Trinity grooves area instead of the white rock lake. This coupled with the weather and rain was an epic disaster. This is boring, and not the best for crowd support. Folks can only cheer the first mile of the race, to be honest. Additionally, the rain caused massive mud, sliding and really it was more of a trail run than a road race. Medals: I feel really odd having a medal that says half marathon but I only ran a 5 or 10k. Everyone get’s a half marathon medal regardless. Incorrect Advertisement: So on the website, it states there was supposed to be water stops at about every mile, but it wasn’t. There was one water stop at about 1.5 miles then midway for 10k and then midway for the half marathon. Additionally, most port-a-potties were in the beginning. There was one at the water station and two spread out but meant long wait times for them. I think the other two were public as they hardly had toilet paper in them. Strollers: Yeah they should have banned strollers for 10k. The trail is not stroller friendly at all. No scenic route: I felt like I was going insane looking at the same thing over and over again. I run for the view. No shade: Since this is river front and the trees are away from the trail, there is not a lick of shade. Between the sun’s rays and the insects make sure you overload on the sunscreen and insect repellent. Overall: I earned this medal. I went up against everything I hated and learned mentally how I had to adjust during a race. Also, it makes me realize how much more I want to be a better runner and I enjoy running in races. Would I run it again? At first, I thought I would run another Mellow production race as their first year at this route and things happen. However, I more than likely would never run this and if I did I would never run and pay for this again. It would have to be someone talking me into this race again or I got into for free and needed to test or redeem myself. Other than that. Nah. It’s a pass.

Benefits of Wheatgrass for Hair, Skin & Body

August 11, 2017

I love wheatgrass because of the benefits but I am not a fan of the taste of wheatgrass. Quite frankly it makes me gag at times. Lately, I have been falling in love with wheatgrass powder and making my own drink. I love wheatgrass powder because it’s a concentrated and much cheaper than a wheatgrass shot at Jamba Juice. Chlorophyll is one of the top nutrients from Wheatgrass. Chlorophyll is known to assist with detoxing and liver health and improve digestion. Before you purchase wheatgrass powder, make sure you review my top tips for picking the right supplements. Did you know wheatgrass is good for not just the body but good for the hair? Check out 13 benefits of Wheatgrass for hair growth, your body and much more. 13 Benefits of Wheatgrass for Hair, Body and Skin Benefits of Wheatgrass for Hair Helps hair growth by increasing oxygen: Since Wheatgrass helps increase oxygen in the blood, this, in turn, will be detox impurities but also increase stimulation of hair growth. Revitalize Skin: Wheatgrass can regenerate skin cells and is thus helpful for the complexion. Many people take a wheatgrass shot daily or apply the juice straight to the skin to get rid of acne, overcome dryness or eczema, and treat discoloration. Helps prevent or alter gray hair: According to Under Ground Health Report, regular consumption of the young grass of this common wheat plant can recolor those grays so that you can enjoy your lush, natural color well into your senior years. Got Dandruff? Some sites note a simple way to eliminate dandruff is to massage 4-6 ounces of wheatgrass on to the scalp and cover with shower cap for 15 minutes. After 15 mins, rinse and condition. Here are several other benefits of wheat grass listed below. Benefits of Wheatgrass for the Body Suppresses appetite Boost immune system Stabilize and improves blood sugar levels Improves digestion Contains all minerals and the following vitamins, A, B-complex, C, E, I and K Contains 17 amino acids Removes heavy metals from the body Gluten-free because it’s cut before the grain is formed Antibacterial and natural healer thanks to chlorophyll So I know you are wondering, how can I consume Wheatgrass? I admit it’s a bit of an acquired taste but I did create a simple way of drinking it. You can tweak it as needed but thus far I really enjoy it in a glass of lemonade. Wheatgrass Lemonade So I know you are wondering, how can I consume Wheatgrass? I admit it’s a bit of an acquired taste but I did create a simple way of drinking it. You can tweak it as needed but thus far I really enjoy it in a glass of lemonade. 2 cups water 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice 1 scoop of wheatgrass Stevia or honey to taste 4-5 ice cubes Mix all ingredients in shaker and enjoy!

FitFro Expo Workshop

July 28, 2017

Thanks so much for attending the FitFro Workshop. My session is jam packed starting at 2:50 pm in the Collins Cooper Room. Make sure you get there early to take advantage of sponsored items from Women’s Health. Additionally, I made a simple e-guide for attendees. Sign up to download and you will be entered in to win one of 6 giveaways. (Must be present to win.) No matter if you are attending the workshop in person or digitally tuning in, here is everything I am discussing at the FitFro expo. If you can’t attend make sure you are following me on Instagram for a sneak peek at what’s going on. You can also take advantage of some of the book sales and bundles below too! FitHair Workshop E-guide PURCHASE THE FITHAIR BOOK PURCHASE THE FITHAIR BUNDLE The FitHair Bundle include the Kale Queen Mason Jar, an autographed printed copy and a complimentary digital copy of the book. Take a look at the exclusive Kale Queen Jar. FitHair Jars Info Sponsors Rhythm Superfoods Women’s Health Magazine Prebiotin Prebiotic Fiber

Crotchet Braids with Faux Locs | Moisturizing Routine

July 26, 2017

I am so in love with faux locs. I have had them for a few weeks and cannot get enough of them. I have had several questions about how I am maintaining them and keeping my hair moisturized. With so much training and working out, especially in the summer sun, the hair can become very dry and brittle. It is important to protect both your hair and scalp when having any protective hairstyle such as braids, twist, and sew-ins. As such, I made a unique moisturizing routine for my hair with faux locs, which aids in hydrating and preserving the hair and scalp. You can use the products of your choice that best suits your needs. The biggest key in this moisture routine is the use of steam to penetrate the shaft and stimulate the scalp. Items Used The Mane Choice Hair Growth Oil The Mane Choice Tropical Moringa Daily Restorative Spray Q-redrew hair steamer This ultra moisturizing routine is focused primarily for women who work out or are suffering from dry hair due to hotter temperatures. When working out sweating and heat play a big part in losing moisturizer, so it’s critical to add moisture back into the hair on a regular basis. This routine has helped me a lot, and it’s straightforward, relaxing and doesn’t take a lot of time. Night Time Regimen for Faux Locs Bonus: I often do my moisturizing routine before going to bed or in the evenings, so in the video, I also show you how I lock in the moisture at night and reduce frizz or static. My Evolve Satin Hair Wraps is the biggest key to keeping my hair off my face, in place and aid keeping moisture through the night.

Five Multi Purpose Products For Hair, Skin & Body

July 20, 2017

I am trying to simplify my life and make sure I am only using items I need and love. I try to invest in products that will save me time and help me as I work, train and frankly just live. I hate having a bunch of products in my gym bag as it takes up to much space and I often don’t use them all. If you are like me and are trying to simplify your life or just find some new products that are the best bang for your buck, I am listing five product that are great multi purpose products you gotta have. I picked five hair, beauty and/or body products that tackle two (or more) things at once thus saving you time, money and frankly space in your gym bag or carry on if you are traveling. Check out the video below and or hit the links to get ya shop on! Multi Purpose Products For Hair, Skin & Body Items Mentioned Dr. Bronner Hand Soap Brita Sports Bottle Q-Redew Steamer Olay Facial Wipes Rivers et Roses Candle

Prime Day Picks for Fitness, Beauty and Health

July 10, 2017

If you follow me on Instagram, you know I am a faithful Amazon Prime user. From groceries to health products, it’s become my assistant in the palm of my hand. Amazon Prime Day is July 11 and is full of nothing short of an epic Day of Deals. From TVs to kitchen products, Prime Day has become like Cyber Monday. Additionally, this is the time to join Amazon Prime or grab any Amazon product items you have been wanting on sale for little to nothing. If you have never shopped on Prime Day then here are a few tips about shopping on Prime Day courtesy of Forbes.com. New deals will be posted every five minutes for 30 hours until 3 a.m. ET on July 12. Downloading the free Amazon App is probably the best tool to guarantee that you don’t miss the deal that you want. And make sure to turn on the alerts! Use your desktop or laptop computer for purchases. While Amazon’s app is great for browsing and finding upcoming deals, it’s best to make the actual purchases on a computer, especially if you’re heavy on the multi-tab usage. If you aren’t a Prime member, it’s a good time to take advantage of a 30-day trial. Make sure your Prime account is in good standing and all personal information is correct and updated — deal urgency is obviously a factor here so any lost time could get be a deciding factor in getting that sweet discount. Now that you got the 411 on Amazon day, here are some of my must-have products on Amazon. Check out the links below to grab some deals! FitHair Foundations: I can’t start my recommendations of things to get on Amazon without giving myself a shout out. Yes, the FitHair Foundation book will be on sale for Prime Day! Here are three ways you can enjoy the sale! For my bookworms, buy the printed edition and get a digital copy for free. For those who are on the budget or just want the digital copy? Grab it for $2.99. Don’t have any money and want to read it? Grab it for FREE with Kindle Unlimited. GET IT NOW! Health & Fitness Nathan’s Sports Bottle Santevia Alkaline Water Filter Matcha Tea Kit Mission Cooking Towels Breville Juicer Omega Juicers My Favorite Sports Bra Blendtec Blender My Favorite Running Shoes Non – GMO & Vegan Protein A range of Supplements & Vitamins Meal Prep Containers Numi Tea Rhythm-Superfoods Clean Water on the Go – Brita Nut Milk Bag Hair & Beauty Camille Rose Natural The Mane Choice Alikay Naturals Slapcap Now Essential & Pure Oils Tarte Cosmetics Burt’s Bees Beauty Dr. Bronner’s Products Hair Steamer Olay Wipes Scunci Accessories Nubian Heritage Bobbi Boss Hair CRYSTAL Essence Mineral Deodorants

How To Make Homemade Raw Walnut Milk

June 22, 2017

Walnuts are one of the best nuts to consume. They are an excellent source of anti-inflammatory omega-3 essential fatty acids, rich in antioxidants. Additionally, they are a great source of manganese and copper and biotin. They are one of the best nuts to consume for healthy hair from the inside out. So if you have hard time-consuming walnuts, why not try drinking it in the form of milk. See how I make my own homemade walnut milk. Items Needed to Make Homemade Walnut Milk 1 cup Walnuts 2- 32oz of Alkaline or spring water 1/4 tsp. Sea Salt Elle’s Best Nut Milk Bag (see below on how to save on this) High-Speed Blender Bonus: You can add a sweetener of your choice if you want your milk sweeter or add a little flair with some cinnamon or vanilla. How to Make Homemade Raw Walnut Milk It is so easy to make your own nut milk and taste so much better than most store-bought and premade milks. Check out this video where I show you how I make the homemade raw walnut milk. Instructions on Making Walnut Milk Soak walnuts for about 4-6 hours or overnight Drain and rinse walnuts in strainer Place all ingredients into blender and blend for about 60 seconds Strain milk through nut milk bag into mason jar Store for up to 3-5 days The Key to Homemade Milk: The Nut Bag Elle’s Best Nut Milk Bag is a large 12″ X 12″ commercial grade nut milk bag made of fine mesh nylon cheesecloth. It is reusable and functions perfectly as an all-purpose strainer and cold brew coffee filter. You can us the bag for many different things such as milk, juice tea, and cold brew coffee. I absolutely love this nut milk bag. I have had a few other ones as I indicated in my pumpkin milk video and they have not lasted as long as this one. Having a quality nutmilk bags actually, saves you in the longer term by providing more product and a much creamier milk. Discount on Ellie’s Best Nut Milk Bag The folks at Elle’s Best offering you a discount on your purchase plus some freebies. You will get a free e-book Ellie’s Best free e-book filled with recipes and how-to videos. Use Product Code: Alexandria to save and with your order. (Note: This discount and special is only for their website and not Amazon or any other sites you may find the bag on.) Now that you got the big secret to it all I know you are wondering… What To Do With The Left Over Pulp? Now that the milk is removed you can store the remaining bag contents in the refrigerator and use in a variety of dishes such as cookies, pancakes, muffins and much more. I add it to my oatmeal to make it creamy and add extra protein. Likewise, you can just discard it. No shame in that!

From Gym to Glam

June 8, 2017

This week I had a really hard workout and I just couldn’t deal with another wash-and-go yal! I am for real. I just couldn’t. So, I decided to switch it up and hit up a beauty supply store with a few bucks and came home to tame the mane and give me a new look. If you are struggling with your hair, I adore wigs as a great way to keep your hair moisturized and as a quick and easy style. Wigs, Gym, and Quick Hair Style The magic key is to pick out the right wig for your hair texture. I was in a rush so I stopped a local small beauty supply store and found this hidden gem for $19.99! You cannot beat that at all! Most natural hair wigs cost at least 4x this price. This is a BohemiuamWig by Pure Natural Samba #2. It’s about the same price online so still a steal for those of you who can’t find it in the local store. You can catch out the details of how I styled it in 10 minutes on my youtube video but I wanted to show you a close up of the wig with my actual hair. You can’t tell my actual hair from the wig so it looks super natural. After styling and cutting in the video, I put some makeup and bam!! Glammed up! See what $20, 10 minutes and a pair of scissors can do for a girl.

Top Five Vitamins & Supplements for Healthy Hair

May 12, 2017

I love supplements for a variety of reason but I preach laying the proper foundations for healthy hair from the inside out. There are a ton of vitamins and supplements aimed to help your overall well-being but not every vitamin or brand is created equal nor has the same formula. It can become overwhelming so here are my top five essential vitamins that are great for healthy hair from the inside out. Top 5 Vitamins & Supplements for Healthy Hair Multi-vitamins: Since many folks don’t gather the right amount of nutrients in a day, multivitamins are a great way to cover the basic vitamins you are missing. This is a non-negotiable vitamin for me. Every day one-a-day. B-complex: These vitamins assist with keeping our bodies running on a daily base. For example, B12 helps oxygenate the blood vessels, which leads; while B6 helps stop thinning hair. These vitamins directly assist in our energy levels and the conversion of food to fuel. Omegas: Lack of proper amount and ratio of omega fats in your diet could not only cause issues with hair loss but also the entire body. For example, a deficiency in omega-3 can cause brittle nails, change in skin condition, mental concentration, depression and much more. Probiotics: Gut health is the foundation for overall health and thus good gut health will help your body produce healthier hair. Probiotics help improve intestinal flora balance, inhibit harmful bacteria, promote good digestion, boost immune function, and increase resistance to infection. Fermented foods such as kefir, sauerkraut, and miso are some options fo natural probiotics. Vitamin D: This is an uncommon and an overlooked vitamin because the body naturally produces it when it’s directly exposed to sunlight. Vitamin d helps with depression, weight loss, blood pressure, fighting diseases and much more. Low vitamin D levels are associated with increased risks of cardiovascular and neurological disease, cancer, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders. Yes, lack of vitamin D can even cause hair loss as one of its symptoms. These are the basic essentials not just to hair but also overall health. Not every vitamin is created equal so make sure you compare the amount, sources and various types of supplements and vitamins that are best for you. Other supplements may vary on your daily lifestyle needs. Grab Your FREE E-Guide to learn more! WANT MORE TIPS ON HEALTHY HAIR FROM THE INSIDE OUT? CHECK OUT MY FIRST BOOK – FITHAIR FOUNDATIONS, NOW ON SALE AT AMAZON.COM. GRAB THE PRINTED VERSION AND GET THE DIGITAL FOR FREE-99