Tag: reviews

reviews

Mizuno Wave Rider 20 Review

November 10, 2016

This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Mizuno If you are following me on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter, you probably noticed I was at DICK’S Sporting Goods Store in Allen, Texas to attend a special intimate event with Mizuno and learn about the Wave Rider 20. Since I am training for my next half and full marathon and RRCA Running Coach, I understand how vital picking the right shoe. Investing in quality and proper shoes helps prevent injuries and damage on your body. Mizuno Wave Rider 20 Review I was able to bring my fellow runner and sneakerhead Monisha of Runner’s Revelation with me as my guest. Since we both run and speak to or assist with runners, we got a chance to learn directly from Mizuno District Manager on their longest-standing shoe – the Wave Rider 20. The Wave Rider 20 reflects 20 iterations of refinement to deliver the right blend of soft cushioning and a smooth heel-to-toe transition. Mizuno franchise was the first to incorporate Wave Technology®. The Wave Rider 20 features new cloudwave® technology – designed using convex (u-shaped) geometry. This gives you a well-cushioned, flexible shoe with the support you need directly on your heel. The curve in thecloudwave® is longer and gentler to convert more of the runner’s heel impact into forward motion. You can identify the wave by looking at the white area on the bottom of the shoe. You will see the wave in pink… Waving* So what’s different? New cloudwave technology is the primary difference between the Wave Rider 20 and previous models.In addition, the midsole has been redesigned with comfort and durability. This improvement allows your feet comfort from running to explosive jump jacks during boot camp. Also, the shoe box is beyond AMAZING! After chatting with the expert and testing it out, I recommend this shoe for Runners who seek a Neutral Cushioned. These shoes are intended for runners who have a higher arch that does not pronate or collapse in very slightly. If your running show is the stability category like myself, then I suggest these shoes for Cross Training or Training Shoes. Training shoes are shoes that are used for the gym or boot camp, which is what I use them. They have enough arch support to allow you to run during workouts but plenty of breathing room and flexible for various gym circuits. After learning about the Mizuno Wave Rider 20, we had a mini photoshoot, scavenger hunt and grabbed a little bit from the uber healthy snack bar. The scavenger hunt was tiring as we had an adventure looking around DICK’S Sporting store for items. I didn’t realize they had soooo much stuff there. They have a little bit for every type of sport. You can check out my Facebook Live Video Anywho. If this interest you then you can check out the Wave Rider 20 nationally at your local DICK’s Sporting Goods, run specialty stores and online retailers with a retail price of $119.99. You can also learn more about the history of the Wave Rider and purchase a new pair at http://bit.ly/2eeZygl This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Mizuno. All opinions are my own.

Bone Broth For Hair Growth

October 7, 2016

When you get sick, often times everyone tell you to drink some chicken noodle soup. I finally learned another reason why is due to the broth. Bone broth isn’t new-new. Many cultures, dishes and even our ancestors have been using it for years. A few years ago, there was a big bone broth hype and I honestly ignored it because it was just another fad to me. It’s been said the vitamins and minerals you get from the broken-down bones have powerful healing properties and can help to alleviate joint and gut pain, boost your immune system, brighten skin and even make your hair shiny. Allison, Communications Specialist for Sprouts and Emilie Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and self-taught intuitive chef who runs the Zen and Spice blog, were on hand to teach us #bonebroth101 and two simple soup recipes using the bone broth. Bone broth can be used by simply swapping water or regular stock. BONE BROTH 101 Benefits of Bone Broth There are countless benefits in bone broth. The ones I was most impressed with the most are Treat leaky gut syndrome Overcome food intolerances and allergies Improve joint health Reduce cellulite Boost immune system Indigestion and gut health You can easily make your own batch of bone broth and freeze it for a rainy day or even use it for savory soups such as in a Shrimp Bisque soup. I attended the event with some of my fellow fitness and nutrition bloggers in the Dallas/ Ft. Worth area. The event was hosted at Sprout’s newest store in Allen, Texas . The new store has fresh juices, unique prepared foods and even a sushi area. You can find out more about new openings in your area here. Most of us had only heard about Bone Broth but honestly we all didn’t understand the benefits of bone broth and mostly the difference in it from broth. Different Between Broth, Stock and Bone Broth Nourished Kitchen has a great explanation of the different in Broth, Stock and Bone Broth. Broth is typically made with meat and can contain a small amount of bones (think of the bones in a fresh whole chicken). Broth is typically simmered for a short period of time (45 minutes to 2 hours). It is very light in flavor, thin in texture and rich in protein. Stock is typically made with bones and can contain a small amount of meat (think of the meat that adheres to a beef neck bone). Often the bones are roasted before simmering them as this simple technique greatly improves the flavor. Beef stocks, for example, can present a faint acrid flavor if the bones aren’t first roasted. Stock is typically simmered for a moderate amount of time (3 to 4 hours). Stock is a good source of gelatin. Bone Broth is typically made with bones and can contain a small amount of meat adhering to the bones. As with stock, bones are typically roasted first to improve the flavor of the bone broth. Bone broths are typically simmered for a very long period of time (often in excess of 24 hours), with the purpose being not only to produce gelatin from collagen-rich joints but also to release minerals from bones. At the end of cooking, the bones should crumble when pressed lightly between your thumb and forefinger. Benefits of Bone Broth for Hair and Skin So, I had to ask the nutritionist for the benefits of bone broth for growing hair and having amazing skin. There are countless but I will highlight the main ones. Collagen is the main nutrient in bone broth. Collagen is a protein found in the connective tissue, tendons, ligaments and bones. Collagen maintains skin elasticity and firmness additionally is assist with helping skin to be smooth and supple. Wrinkles occur when the collagen in your skin breaks down. Some people apply collagen type of products on the outside but many are choosing to start from the inside out. Your scalp is still skin so having a healthy scalp with has Additionally, bone broth contains other essential vitamins for growing healthy hair such as Magnesium (assist with acne issues and inflammation) and Calcium (Deficiency leads to dull hair). Oh and it’s packed with protein, one serving often contains as much as 10g of protein. Boom! Where to Buy Bone Broth & How to Make It Obviously, since we were at Sprouts, I learned you can purchase the bones in Sprouts‘ Old Tyme Butcher Shop. The butchers can custom-cut any meat, bone cuts or anything just the way you want it. They also can help you pick, which ones are right for your particular recipes. You can make bone broth on your own or you can purchase them. Note, when purchasing please review sourcing, ingredients and if collagen has been removed or added. Below are a few recommendations . I listed them in order of how long it takes to make or cook. DIY Bone Broth – Takes 48 hours Jarrow Bone Broth Powder – 5 Minutes Sprouts Organic Bone Broth – None Major thank you to Sprouts for inviting some of my fellow Dallas Fitness Ambassadors out to learn about Bone Broth. Special thanks to Zen and Spice for teaching us some simple fall soups using Bone Borth.

3 Things I Learned | The Boss Network Recap

September 15, 2016

Just a few weeks ago, I attended the Boss Network . I took a lot away from the event as I am continually seeking to evolve as a person and business owner. For those of you who couldn’t’ make it out, I did a recap of the three things I learned at the event. 3 Things I Learned | The Boss Network Recap A Woman In Her Purpose is a BOSS One of the biggest notes I learned before the panelist shared their insights for the night, focused on how the women pinpointed success to being in their purpose. Each woman had a different story and different walk in life. Not all entrepreneurs who hated their jobs and “the man.” Each woman held various positions and are BOSSES at what they were doing. No matter if you’re working in corporate, consulting full-time or owning your own business if you’re living in your purpose then 9-times-out-of-10 you will be successful. As we evolve, it’s okay to take new chances and try new things but remember your purpose. Purpose is everything. “ If it’s not in my purpose then I don’t do it. @RealMichelleW “ Evolving is Critical Evolving is part of your purpose. The honest sit-down chat with Michelle Williams really highlighted how important evolving is. Michelle was open and honest about how she too is evolving, learning and changing on a very personal level. While we know her as part of ⅓ of Destiny’s Child, evolved in the singing channels, did some acting and another shift into being in the home/bedding industry. Years ago, Michelle knew she wanted to design and offer items for the home. Instead of launching tons of items for the home at one time, she started with one department – bedding. No one told her how to do this, but she figured it out. She hired the right people she needed, learned and did it. “Sometimes there isn’t a how-to. Sometimes u do a how-to when u do it.” Evolution is critical to obtaining and walking in your purpose. It’s okay to let go of the past items you did and try new things. Don’t be afraid to show u don’t know. U probably were put in that place b/c u didn’t. @TheBOSSNetwork #leadin2016 EARN IT The last piece of advice I learned at the BOSS Network was the acronym EARN It. E(Education) A(Ask) R(Risks), N(Network) . Whatever you do make sure you earn it. Here is the breakdown. E: EDUCATION Education is vital to whatever you are doing. It is essential in today’s fast-paced world. No matter if it’s a degree, on-line program or an additional certification, always make sure you’re learning in some form. Never stop learning and never stop growing. A: ASK FOR WHAT YOU WANT The a is self-explanatory. We often want things but don’t ask for it. No one is gonna just hand stuff to you – well unless you’re a kid. R: TAKE INTELLIGENT RISKS Risks are a part of life. That is part of evolving; however, be smart about it. Don’t just make decisions just because. Be smart. N:BUILD YOUR NETWORK Networks are critical. It’s not about going to the right networking events or having a million followers. Being authentic and having a great support system and folks within your network that you give and also receiving.

Benefits of Pineapples for FitHair & Body

August 5, 2016

Pineapples are one of my favorite fruits to have after a workout and as a great snack when I am feeling sluggish. Pineapples contain a variety vitamins and minerals, which make them a great fruit source for your hair and body. The top two nutrients in pineapples are Vitamin C and B6 and even Folate. Benefits of Pineapples for FitHair & Body Vitamin C: Vitamin C is critical to keeping the immune system strong. If you have a cold, eating some pineapple each day may help to shorten the duration and alleviate your symptoms.Vitamin C content in this fruit helps to fight against hair loss. Simply eat some pineapple each day to strengthen your hair follicles from the inside out. B6: B6 is one of the most essential vitamins hair and skin. It helps the body produce antibodies, break down proteins in order to supplement them to your body systems. Folic acid: B9 known as Folic acid is also another essential B vitamin. It’s a key focus essentially for women who are pregnant as it’s been said to help protect the fetus from certain defects Pineapples Helping Joints & Inflammation Pineapples have been used medically for decades in assisting the body with inflammation. Enzymes are fascinating and essential biological catalysts that are involved in almost every single process in our bodies. Systemic enzymes work holistically—meaning they work throughout the entire body—supporting overall joint health. Bromelain is the pineapple enzyme in Wobenzym N and one of the main ingredients in the product. This product is used by athletes in order to help recovery and maintain healthy joints, mobility and flexibility. Giovanni Cosmetics 2chic® Ultra-Sleek Leave-In Conditioning & Styling Elixir Detangles hair for easy manageability Tames frizz & flyaways Provides protection against heat damage Conditions & hydrates each strand for an enviable shine Nourishes each tress with vitamins Pineapple Green Juice 1 Cup of Pineapples Scoop of FitHair Green Supplement Ice and water Blend together and enjoy! Pineapple Watermelon Salad

DIY CROCHET FREETRESS SENEGALESE TWIST

May 3, 2016

I love crochet braids. Now that I have learned how to cornrow my own hair, using pre-twisted hair helps me achieve the look of twists in a few hours. It’s a great protective style while working out or just to switch up your hair style for a few weeks. I love this style even more because it’s much easier and healthier on the hair than individual boxed braids or twist. Here are a few tips and products that will help you install and maintain your crochet twists. DIY CROCHET FREETRESS SENEGALESE TWIST MY TWIST: FREETRESS SYNTHETIC HAIR SENEGALESE TWIST SMALL (1B & 1B/27) RESULTS USING SMALL FREETRESS SENEGALESE TWISTS Results of crochet in Freetress Sengalese Twist on my hair. I talk about the amount of packs I used, as well as the way I added my signature blonde in. RECOMMENDED PRODUCTS FOR SENEGALESE TWISTS Products Mentioned Evolve “Perfect Edge” Bamboo Brush The Mane Choice Biotin Infused Styling Gel OBIA Natural Hair Care Curl Hydration Spray Nourish Organic Replenishing Argan Oil with Pomegranate & Rosehip NOW Avocado Oil Stay Connected Instagram | Twitter | Facebook @Alexandriawill Instagram | Twitter | Facebook @TheFitHair Just Alex Facebook Twitter Instagram Tumblr Pinterst: The FitHair Way Facebook Instagram Twitter: This video is not sponsored. Disclaimer

Going Gluten Free

April 1, 2016

Happy April! I am celebrating the start of the new month by going gluten-free with Bex of Bexlife.com. It’s a great way to start a habit of researching the ingredients and see also see if you have any unknown gluten allergies. The best part about the series is it’s free! Check out Bex’s Blissed Detox Healthy Nutrition series where she is offering members – An invitation to her private Xen Bliss Facebook group – Her official “Gluten-Free Detox Tool Kit” shopping guide – Exclusive access to interviews with top wellness experts – Several chances to win some amazing prizes – and much more.. Even if you aren’t joining on Day 1, it’s perfectly find to start at any time. A few great items to grab on the detox are “Go With Your Gut” and “Eating Clean: The 21-Day Plan to Detox, Fight Inflammation, and Reset Your Body,”and Grain Brain books and my new favorite supplement, Greens Blend. Bex gives you a lot more so sign up for more information and guidance.

Julia Pearl Southern Cuisine Review

February 18, 2016

A few weeks ago, I went to the new Julia Pearl restaurant in Plano, Texas. It’s a unique restaurant offering favorite southern staples with a twist. The restaurant is a Southern-inspired restaurant from chef Tre Wilcox, the creative director, will feature dishes such as deviled eggs topped with crispy chicken skin and the famous shrimp and grit signature dinner. According to the release: Leading the kitchen as Culinary Director is renowned chef Tre Wilcox. With experience helming some of Dallas’s best restaurants, Wilcox is providing his expertise in menu and recipe development, pricing, food cost, staff training and restaurant operations. The menu reflects the team’s dedication to serving fresh meats, produce, bread and dairy sourced from local farms and ranches whenever possible…With an open layout featuring a range of materials including exposed bricks, wood and leather, Julia Pearl Southern Cuisine boasts 6,000 square feet of space, complete with a main dining room, private dining room and a spacious bar showcasing a vast selection of local beers and craft bourbons. The warm and hospitable environment is perfect for relaxing with family and friends for lunch, dinner or weekend brunch. Local art will adorn the walls to complete the atmosphere as diners linger over good food and good drinks. Now that the formalities are out of the way, here is my quick review of Julia Pearl and recommended foods to have at the restaurant. Julia Pearl Southern Cuisine Review Cocktails: Jazzy Belle or any wine The restaurant has a unique list of handmade cocktails but my pick was the Jazzy Belle. If this isn’t your cup of tea, I recommend the wine as they have a nice selection. Appetizers : Devil eggs We choose the gumbo and fried green tomatoes but after speaking with multiple people the devil eggs seems to be the winner. Note: Anytime I see fried green tomatoes on the menu I get it because I love them. Being blunt and honest, I was disappointed the fried green tomatoes. Biting or cutting into the appetizer should result in one flavor combustion but it didn’t. Simply adding extra sauce from the shrimp might solve this issues. The gumbo, my friend really liked it but I am stickler on gumbo due to my family being part cajun so it’s no Bueno for me. Meals: Anything… One of the signature dishes is the shrimp and grits. I can’t say much more than you guys have to try this dish and then thank me later. There isn’t much I can describe except go have it now and again in a few weeks. It’s just that damn good. I tried the catfish dinner because the photos on the site looked good and I wanted a non-signature dish to test the restaurants flare. Let me pause to give a round of applause for the perfection of this piece of catfish. From the crispy batter to the oozing flavored packed juices made each bite down-right heavenly. The mashed potatoes and green beans served on the side become optional dipping sauce for the fish in my plate. By the way, Chef Jermaine, the executive chef, answered a lot of questions regarding the concept, restaurant, food and confirmed this perfection of fish was fried not baked. LOL I also gave feedback regarding my dish as well. Major Kudos to him. Desserts: TBD Since I was told they had exceptional desserts, we had the lemon pound cake with ice cream and berries. Unlike most traditional lemon cakes, the lemon flavor is mostly drizzled onto the cake instead of being being mostly baked into the cake. You may or may not like this depending on your preference. Other options are bread pudding and velvet cake. There is a third option, but I don’t consider vanilla ice cream and fresh berries a special dessert if you get my drift. I am iffy on the dessert options so I am returning at a later date for dessert and wine. Brunchin For my brunch loving folks, Julia Pearl Southern Cuisine, is now serving brunch. The menu will include house-made biscuits, sausage gravy, parfait with yogurt, fried catfish with cheese grits and scrambled eggs. Do I recommend the restaurant. Yes. I do. Will I be back? Yes. Especially for brunch. Make sure you hit the gallery for my quick pics or secure reservations on there website juliapearlsoutherncuisine.com

3 Sports Bras for Large Breasts

October 5, 2015

If you haven’t noticed, I “suffer” from large breast syndrome. HA! It sucks but until/unless I have surgery to decrease them, I have had to live with them. Run with them. Swim with them. Bike with them. Sleep with them. You get the picture. I am a firm believer in wearing the right size bra and type when it comes to exercising. Let me also mention I am petite so it makes finding a bra even more difficult. This has resulted in me becoming a guru or expert in picking sports bras for women who have large breast. Hopefully, this blog post will help you on your fitness journey by offering a few sports bras to tame those bad boys. Recently, I attended the Title Nine Bra Fit Fest for the Media. (Don’t worry they are having a special one for the public on October 7 & 8 in Dallas, Texas. See below for more details.) Title Nine is dedicated to finding the right sports bras for us fitness chics. The best part was being with my fellow founding Dallas Fitness Ambassadors as we took the bras for a fitness spin. Title Nine has tested thousands of bras and found just the right ones to support our workouts and our curves, whether you’re a 32AA or a 40EEE. The company has hands on expert bra fit specialists –bravangelists– to get women in the right bras in local stores across the country. For those of you who don’t have a Title Nine in your area you can also check out their online Bra Genie. I like their 360 Guarantee. If for any reason or no reason, you are not happy with your T9 purchase, send it round-trip within a year for an exchange or full refund. No questions. No hassles. No kidding. How cool is that? BTW: If you are old school and want to ring them they also have bravangelist by phone at 800-342-4448. Welp! If I am going to talk about large breasts, I might as well show you mine and the bras I took for a spin. (Note this bra was awesome but the wrong size, which is why the bravangelists are soo helpful!) So here are my top three sports for large breasts. Top 3 Sports Bras for Large Breasts 7 Wonders Bra – This bra has managed to put all the 7 wonders of the sports bra world into one bra: racerback, molded cups for shape and modesty, front adjust straps, bonded seams on straps, neckline and armhole, back close for easy off and on, and seamless cups to avoid chafe. This Moving Comfort bra comes in almost 7 different colors and and will make your bras feel truly wonderful. 3 Reasons Bra – This is my favorite bra by Moving Comfort. While I have more than three reasons as to why you should buy it, I am going to give you three reasons at least. 1st: The adjustable straps and back closure make this the most customizable bra, which translates to a better fit for you. 2nd: The super support this bra offers will keep D and DD cups from bouncing, even in high-impact activity. 3rd: This bra will keep you cool and dry, with wicking fabrics throughout. I run and workout mostly in this bra. I bought two more in different colors at Title Nine that same night. #INLOVE FYI: This used to be called Fiona by Moving Comfort. Aero Sports Bra: This was a new bra for me and I fell in love with it this bra because it’s SO LIGHT! Be forewarned, the Aero sports bra will prop those coconuts up. The sizing is a bit odd so be sure to get a Title Nine bravangelists to ensure the right fit. The best features of the aero bra are the all-mesh back, ventilated sections of the bra and sizes going up to 40F makes this a must have bra for anyone with large breasts. Win a Free Bra! Special Invite & Giveaway I want to personally invite each and every one of you to get a personalized bra fit with a Title Nine Bravangelist at Title Nine Dallas’s Fit Fest on Wednesday, October 7 and Thursday, October 8. You can RSVP at bit.ly/T9Dallas_fitfest or contact the store at (214) 443-0201, and take part in this life changing experience, complete with fun “Bounce-athalon” activities and other surprises that you can only experience if you go! Also for those of you who can’t make it, the kind folks at Title Nine are offering my readers a free sports bra. All you have to do is follow the steps below. a Rafflecopter giveaway FTC: This blog post is not sponsored. Title Nine was kind to invite me out to their media/bloggers night for a review of the store. They are offering my readers/followers a free bra. All opinions are my own.

Benefits of Oil Pulling for Beginners

July 23, 2015

Oil pulling has been used for many years to strengthen teeth and gums, prevent decay, oral malodor, dryness of throat and cracked lips. A few months ago, I was offered GuruNanda Pulling Oil. After moving, this past week, I found the bottle (opps!) and decided to start back with the oil pulling routine. Within the first two weeks of oil pulling, I could tell a major difference! From the mucus forming in the back of my throat to the clean feeling after brushing my teeth, it’s safe to say this stuff does work. Instructions for Oil Pulling: Oil Pulling is very simple. Soon after waking, but before eating or brushing your teeth, swish a teaspoon of oil around your mouth for 15-20 minutes and spit it out to “pull” bacteria and other toxins from your body. Warning: Do Not Swallow! If you purchase the Gurunanda oil then you will receive a small plastic measuring cup. I recommended to the company to have a cup that list the actual size in teaspoons or recommended amount. Recommended Oils for Oil Pulling: Typically, sesame or coconut oil (Raw Virgin) are recommended for oil pulling. Some people also use sunflower or ghee (butter oil) but it varies. I have used sesame and coconut oil previously; however, it can be hard to find a good reputable brand. GuruNanda Pulling Oil is a blend of oils mixed together so you get all the benefits of each one without the oily taste. Taste: There isn’t really any flavor but you can taste a bit of mint flavor due to the peppermint oil, which is nice to me. I like it a bit better than the just the plain odd taste of sesame oil. Benefits of Oil Pulling for Teeth: I can honestly say my teeth seem to be cleaner when I brush them due to oil pulling. As stated before, there are tons of benefits like removing toxins and helping promote healthy oral hygiene. The Difference in GuruNanda Pulling Oil: This particular oil is a perfectly balanced combination of pure sesame , sunflower, coconut and peppermint oils. I can feel a difference in this particular blend verses using a regular singular oil. Here are a few benefits of the oil. 100% organic Alcohol-free No preservatives No artificial flavors No artificial colors Rich in Omega-3 fatty acids Naturally contains iron, calcium, magnesium, plus Vitamins A, B and E Cost: For a one month supply (using once a day), the cost will range from $15 to $20 dollars. While it’s roughly the same price point as a very good coconut or sesame oil for oil pulling, often for this price you can purchase the virgin raw coconut oil in a larger size. I recommend this particular product for most oil pulling beginners or those wanting to do an intensive month of oil pulling. You can find out more information on Oil Pulling by reading the Oil Pulling Therapy book or to purchase GuruNanda Oil Pulling Oil through their website. Disclosure: I received a bottle of GuruNanda. Because I liked the product, I decided to share this particular product. No compensation was offered. All opinions are 100% my own.