Vigor + Vitality = Nutri Testo for the Win!

The following post is a collaboration with Nutri Lifescience™ to promote active lifestyles, fueled by natural nutrition. All views and opinions are my own. 

For anyone who’s ever casually perused my social media accounts, it’s no shocker that I have a slight obsession with Nutri Testo™ supplements.

Fine. Maybe not-so-slight. I admit…the love affair is real. But for good reason, capiche? That’s because just 1 Nutri Testo capsule, taken about 5–10 minutes before exercising, keeps me nourished, energized and focused throughout my workout—even when it’s been one of those days where motivation’s in short supply.

So, what’s the formula behind this fitness fuel? Turns out, Nutri Testo supplements contain a natural extract from the Tongkat Ali root—otherwise known as Malaysian Ginseng—recognized in Southeast Asia for both its anti-aging potential and balanced hormone support.

When the body’s hormonal health is out-of-whack, you could experience symptoms like fatigue, decreased libido, muscle atrophy, depression or even weight gain. Yeesh. That’s why keeping your hormones regulated is uber important. And Nutri Testo is up for the job!

Now, time for some stats. Here’s a nutritional breakdown* of the wellness benefits promoted by this supplement extraordinaire:

• Anabolic Increase & Catabolic Decrease
• Athletic Performance Enhancement
• Lean Muscle Development
• Anxiety & Stress Alleviation
• Testosterone & Cortisol Health
• Energy Support & Fatigue Reduction
• Sleep Quality Improvement

Plus, with its plant-based nutritional goodness, Nutri Testo gives me the vigor and vitality to crank my workout motivation into high-gear. Which means I can almost do a headstand.

Ehh…practice makes progress. At least my body’s fueled though! And now yours can be too because I’ve teamed up with Nutri Lifescience (a.k.a. the Nutri Testo masterminds) to give fitness aficionados everywhere a chance to experience this supplement for themselves.

Just repost the corresponding giveaway photo on my Instagram feed, tag @nutrimaqui2015 and @its_the_healthy_hippie, include the hashtag #NutriTestoGiveaway and make sure to follow both accounts. Yup. That’s the drill. Not exactly rocket science, huh?

A winner will be selected at midnight on Friday, September 9. One entry per person. Must follow all contest rules for consideration. And check out this limited time discount for a 3-month supply of Nutri Testo (buy 2, get 1 free + additional 20% off).

So…everyone’s a winner now. Holla!

 

 

 

*These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any disease.

 

Get Your Summer On with a Superfood Smoothie Bowl {Guest Post}

Summer is synonymous with vibrant colors, fresh bounties and bold flavor combos. So, keep your body fueled, taste buds tantalized and wellness revitalized—compliments of this deliciously nutritious Smoothie Bowl recipe featured below.

Fortified with immune-boosting antioxidants from Nutri Maqui Superfruit Juice—plus, essential nutrients from leafy greens, seasonal fruits and plant-based proteins—this satisfying snack will keep you healthy, energized and going strong all summer long. And it contains no artificial additives, so indulge to your heart’s (err…stomach’s) content!

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Ingredients:

For the Smoothie Base:

1 cup Unsweetened Cashew Milk

1 tbsp. Nutri Maqui Superfruit Juice

1/2 cup Organic Baby Kale

1/4 cup Fresh Blueberries

For the Smoothie Toppers: 

1 tbsp. Organic Almond Butter

1/4 cup Raw Organic Cashews

1/4 cup Organic Raw Almonds

1/4 cup Fresh Blueberries

1/2 tbsp. Coconut Flakes

1/2 Sliced Avocado

Preparation:

1. Combine the Cashew Milk, Nutri Maqui Superfruit Juice, Baby Kale and Blueberries in a blender, then puree until the texture is smooth and creamy.
2. Transfer this smoothie mixture into a bowl, then arrange the Cashews, Almonds, more Blueberries and Avocado slices in an “Instagram-worthy” pattern on top.
3. Finish off with a drizzle of Almond Butter and sprinkle of Coconut Flakes, then enjoy—as if you even need an invitation!

All content and graphics in this post are courtesy of Nutri Lifescience, LLC.

Simple Steps to Feel Amazing Every Day this Summer

Summertime is the official spokes-season (see what I did there?) of relaxation, vitality and pure amazingness. In fact, my personal mantra during these gloriously sun-drenched months is to Feel Amazing Every Day through self-care rituals, alfresco explorations, fitness commitments and superfood sustenance.

 And in that spirit of epic expectations, lemme divulge my Top 4 no-fail wellness pointers, along with statistical snapshots on why you should care. Then, we can ALL proceed to make this summer one for the history books!

1.  Start Each Day with a Yoga Flow.

• Stimulates physical energy
• Alleviates emotional stress
• Cultivates breath awareness
• Forges a mind–body connection
• Promotes full-body movement

upward dog, anyone? ignore the…err…unflattering angle!

2.  Say “Hell Yeah” to Whole Foods.

• Gives the body nutrient–dense fuel
• Satiates hunger for extended periods
• Curbs refined sugar cravings over time
• Encourages a mindful eating practice
• Replaces “artificial” with all–natural

protein pancakes topped with almond butter drizzle

3.  Spend Quality Time Outdoors.

• Improves respiration & circulation
• Reduces stress for mental clarity
• Offers the benefits of Vitamin D
• Motivates cardiovascular activity
• Fosters appreciation for nature

RayBan shades and 95–degree Florida humidity…optional

4.  Slurp on Amazing Grass Smoothies.

• Contains 20g of plant-based protein
• Yields 2 servings of fruit & veggies
• Includes 7 alkalizing leafy greens
• Supports lean muscle development
• Regulates optimal digestive health
• Provides these wellness benefits:
  • USDA-certified organic ingredients
  • non-GMO & gluten-free verified
  • no added sugars or preservatives
  • vegan, kosher & pareve compliant

organic pea, hemp, chia and quinoa…OH MY!

Psssst…wanna experience all that AMAZINGNESS for yourself this summer? Then, don’t forget to enter my Amazing Grass Protein Superfood Giveaway! Check out the details below and indicate which flavor you’d prefer: Original, Vanilla or Chocolate–Peanut Butter.

***Open U.S.–based entries only.  Winner selected at midnight July 9.***

 

Sweat It Out With a Protein-Packed Snack Attack

There’s a 50/50 chance I might’ve *casually* mentioned once—maaaaybe twice—that I’m getting married in the near future. 160 days if you wanna get technical, but who’s counting?

Although I don’t buy into that stereotypical “wedding workout” mentality (fitness is a lifestyle, not some Must. Drop. Two. Dress. Sizes. For. The. Big. Day. thing), exercise does have a prominent place in my routine. That would still be true regardless of this whole bride-to-be caveat…but extra motivation a la Alfred Angelo never hurts either!

That time I dragged the (almost) hubs to Pure Barre…Couples who sweat together stay together, dontcha know!

Don’t get me wrong though, it’s not just about turning heads on your walk down the aisle or rocking that honeymoon bikini you’ve ogled for months. Exercise relieves stress (pre-wedding jitters, anyone?), boosts productivity (those guest lists aren’t gonna write themselves!), and influences even more healthy habits too.

Like eating. A.K.A. the other part of this wellness equation. In order to sustain physical activity, our bodies need fuel. Mainly protein-dense fuel which promotes muscular development, strength and endurance, so we can keep moving for longer periods of time. Fact: no snacking repertoire—for pre-workout energy or post-workout recovery—is complete without this nutritional powerhouse.

Think raw almonds, steamed edamame, roasted chickpeas, hard-boiled eggs, sunflower seeds, plain Greek yogurt and nut butters, for example. Or, need some further “nom”spiration? (Just invented a new word. No biggie.) Check out my Sweat Sesh Snack Attack go-tos for your protein loading pleasure!

Whether you’re #SweatingForTheWedding or craving a healthier alternative to Cool Ranch Doritos, these mindful munchies just reinvented snacktime. Yup…don’t underestimate the power of protein. This bride-to-be has spoken.

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*For even more ideas, recipes and tidbits to pack your diet with protein,  Nuts.com  has you covered!

Coffee + Coconut Oil = What’s Been Missing from Your Morning

And I’m a coffee addict.

But, like an unapologetic coffee addict. As in…I. Will. Not. Stop.

No lemon water-peddling holistic health coach is gonna shame me into quitting this black gold elixir of life. It’s my only incentive for not hitting “snooze” each morning. Thanks, coffee. Just for being you.

Eternal devotion aside though, I am cutting down on sugar and dairy, which kinda rules out my weakness for International Delight. Not gonna lie…this was a painful switcheroo. Tears were quite possibly shed. Until a certain superfood hitched a ride in my grocery cart and was all, “I’m about to rock your world, Coffee Addict!”

Yup. Enter: coconut oil.

I’ve heard people in the wellness community rave about that so-called “miracle worker with 100-plus uses,” but its price tag always discouraged me from believing the hype. Then, I started noticing Instagram posts touting the benefits of this stuff in coffee. Well, I’ll try anything with the magic word involved.

So…$8.50 later, yours truly became a coconut oil convert.

And didn’t waste a second testing out that coffee claim. Most tutorials I found unanimously agree—the secret is blending. Don’t just dump a glob in your mug, stir it around, then congratulate yourself on mission accomplished. Or, so the Blogosphere said. And I took note.

Out came the Nutri Bullet. In went the coffee-coconut oil combo. And my taste buds did their happy dance. You were right, Blogosphere…that blended latte-esque texture is pure bliss. Now this right here is the black gold elixir of life. Never. Going. Back.

But if you still need more convincing that coconut oil = the savior of coffee addicts everywhere, check out its nutritional breakdown:

• plant-based Medium Chain Triglyceride (MCT) fatty acids for natural weight loss
• ketones for improved brain function, boosted metabolism & reduced appetite 
• lauric acid for protection against viruses & bacteria
• no sugar, trans fat, sodium, cholesterol or carbohydrates
• USDA certified organic & non-GMO verified ingredients

‘Nuff said. So, without further ado…taste test, anyone?

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Café au Lait 

(move over, milk!)

Café au COCONUT OIL:

Ingredients:

1 tbsp. Almond Milk (organic & unsweetened)

1/2 tbsp. Coconut Oil (organic)

2–3 scoops Coffee (or 1 K-Cup)

1 tsp. Pure Vanilla Extract (organic)

1/4 tsp. Cinnamon (ground)

1–2 packets Stevia (organic)*

*This ingredient is totally optional—I just prefer my coffee on the non-bitter side, and Stevia gets the job done!

Preparation:

1. Brew your desired amount of coffee, then pour into a blender.
2. Add the coconut oil, almond milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon and stevia (as needed).
3. Blend these ingredients on “high” for 5–10 seconds, or until combined.
4. Transfer to your favorite mug (like mine from Dean & Deluca—clearly, I’m a sucker for New York nostalgia).
5. Savor all that creamy, frothy, can’t-stop-won’t-stop amazingness.

pretentious Parisian placemat…optional.

“Spring” into Fresh, Fruity & Healthy Flavors with Nutri Maqui

As the winter chill becomes a distant memory, and we transition into spring’s vibrant colors and sunny warmth, it’s time for a seasonal shift in our diets as well. Instead of hearty bone broths and root vegetables, spring calls for light, crisp and refreshing flavors that keep us cool as the weather heats up.

So, for a fruity treat that satisfies your sweet tooth, quenches your thirst and fuels your body with nutrients, try these healthy popsicle bites. Featuring the bold tanginess and antioxidant benefits of Nutri Maqui Superfruit Juice, this recipe is a perfect afternoon snack for the kids or crowd-pleasing dessert at your next backyard cookout!

Note: This recipe yields 8 servings, so adjust the ingredients accordingly to feed large groups.

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NUTRI MAQUI POPSICLE BITES

Ingredients:

1 tbsp. Nutri Maqui Superfruit Juice

¹/₂ Fresh Strawberries

¹/₃ Plain Greek Yogurt

1 sprig Fresh Sage Leaves

1 tsp. Raw Honey

All-Natural Stevia (to taste)

Preparation:

1. Hull the strawberries and slice into bite-size chunks.
2. Place all the ingredients in a blender and puree into liquefied.
3. Line a mini muffin pan with plastic wrap or parchment paper.
4. Spoon the mixture into eight of the muffin pan slots.
5. Place the muffin pan in the freezer for about 30 minutes.
6. Remove from the freezer and insert toothpicks in the center of each popsicle mold.
7. Return to the freezer for another 30 minutes or until the popsicles have set completely.
8. Lift up the plastic wrap in order to cleanly detach the popsicles from the muffin pan.
9. Drizzle more honey on top for extra sweetness if desired.
10. Enjoy…go ahead, it’s guilt-free!

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This recipe was originally featured on the Nutri Lifescience website. Reblogged with permission.

Sporty, Stylish & Sustainable: The PrAna Trifecta

Lately, I’ve been inspired to start dabbling in yoga after a 5-year hiatus. During college, I considered myself an avid yogi. Not a particularly skilled yogi…but consistent and dedicated nonetheless.

But once I graduated and began “adulting”—to quote my people, the oh-so-illustrious Millennials—yoga’s restorative influence was replaced by financial stressors, professional demands and household responsibilities. Sure, I still exercised like a mad woman, but gone was that calming mind-body connection I’d once achieved from yoga.   

So, here’s the goal for this spring: make yoga an integral part of my fitness regimen. Which means going back to basics. Embracing “newbie” status, relearning foundational postures, and accepting that my form is…ahem…a work-in-progress.

Despite being a clueless noob on the actual mat though, at least I can look the “rockstar yogi” part in everyday life. Thanks to PrAna anyway!

image courtesy of prana.com

Named after a Sanskrit phrase, meaning energy force, this active lifestyle brand combines fashion and functionality to move unrestricted through various yoga sequences—while snagging a Best Dressed award in the process! Well, maybe not. But point taken, right?

PrAna recently launched its Spring 2016 collection, and not gonna lie, I’m obsessed. From figure flattering tanks to vividly patterned capris, this athleisure line is studio-to-street chic.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Each garment features stretch compression for maximum flexibility, moisture wicking for decreased perspiration, and bluesign verified textiles for eco-friendly design. PrAna takes environmental consciousness super seriously—in fact, all products are made with these sustainable materials:

• Organic Cotton
• Recycled Wool & Polyester
• Repurposed Down Feathers
• Natural Hemp

Plus, even if yoga isn’t exactly your forte, you’ll look legit regardless! Proof’s in the pictures (I guess that’s debatable, but let’s just go with my not-so-humble opinion)…

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Since I’m a PrAna fan—and clearly think you should be too—enjoy this discount code for 15% off your next order: PSS16HBAH.

So, happy yoga-ing (or whatever the correct Sanskrit expression is). Namaste maybe…?

 

4 Minimalist Moves for Do Anywhere Workouts

Did you know that 3 in 4 Americans claim their schedules are too packed for exercise? Not exactly an earth-shattering revelation though, since most of us have used that fallback when unavoidable time commitments—or urgent Netflix binges—happen.

But, among the self-described “Super Busy,” about 60% indicated they’d exercise more often if they could do so at home. Well, sure….makes sense. I mean, half the battle is finding motivation to (a) invest in a gym membership then (b) get your money’s worth from said membership.

I’m no stranger to the price tag of staying in shape. Lemme tell you—Pure Barre classes cost a pretty penny! Fitness is an expense I’ll willingly take on…but just once a week, thanks. My twenty-something budget can’t handle much more! So, what’s a girl to do those other 6 days?

Enter: the TKO Ab Stretch 4-Way Resistance Band. This affordable—we’re talking $12.99—twist on gym-quality equipment makes strength training accessible for anyone who can’t spare gym-quality payments.

With adjustable tension to customize your resistance level and a portable design for on-the-go convenience, low maintenance finally meets effective. TKO Ab Stretch targets the core, arm and back for a full-body circuit that develops muscle tone, promotes strength and increases flexibility.

Courtesy of this gotta-have gadget, your home—or anywhere, for that matter—workout regimen can be as simple and straightforward as the examples below (thanks to my sister Victoria for being a topnotch fitness model)!

Deltoid Raises

1. Place 2 of the resistance band loops around your feet, and grip the other 2 loops with your hands.
2. Stand with your legs about shoulder-width apart, or wide enough to create tension on the cord.
3. Engage your abdominal muscles and keep them taut throughout the remaining steps.
4. Lower your arms to each side then, with a slow and controlled motion, raise them outstretched into a T-position.
5. Hold this stance for 5 seconds, while keeping your shoulders relaxed, then lower your arms back down.
6. Complete 20 more repetitions of steps 1-5.

Bicep Curls

1. Place 2 of the resistance band loops around your feet, and grip the other 2 loops with your hands.
2. Stand with your legs about shoulder-width apart, or wide enough to create tension on the cord.
3. Engage your abdominal muscles and keep them taut throughout the remaining steps.
4. Stretch your arms into a low V-position, with your elbows facing down, then curl them upward toward your shoulders.
5. Hold this stance for about 5 seconds, keeping your shoulders relaxed, then lower your arms back down.
6. Complete 20 more repetitions of steps 1-5.

Forearm Extensions

1. Place 2 of the resistance band loops around your feet, and grip the other 2 loops with your hands.
2. Stand with your legs about shoulder-width apart, or wide enough to create tension on the cord.
3. Engage your abdominal muscles and keep them taut throughout the remaining steps.
4. Lower your arms to each side then, with a slow and controlled motion, extend them parallel in front of your body.
5. Hold this stance for about 5 seconds, keeping your shoulders relaxed, then lower your arms back down.
6. Complete 20 more repetitions of steps 1-5.

Deltoid Pulses

1. Place 2 of the resistance band loops around your feet, and grip the other 2 loops with your hands.
2. Stand with your legs about shoulder-width apart, or wide enough to create tension on the cord.
3. Engage your abdominal muscles and keep them taut throughout the remaining steps.
4. Lower your arms in front of your body then, with a sweeping motion, raise them outstretched into an inverted V-position.
5. Move your upper arms in small pulses, while keeping your shoulders relaxed, for about 5 seconds then lower your arms back down.
6. Complete 20 more repetitions of steps 1-5.

So, now I wanna hear from YOU. Ever tried a resistance band circuit? Know any more “minimalist moves,” involving this equipment? Comment with your favorite strength training tips!

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Special thanks to TKO for letting me test out this awesome product. Follow this dynamic fitness gear brand on Instagram @TKO_WhateverItTakes and use the hashtag #WhatEverItTakes.

 

Crunching the Numbers for Your Healthiest 2016

We’re 3 weeks into the New Year, people. How are those resolutions going?

Is your will-power a force to be reckoned with, or does your lack of motivation beg the question, “why even keep up this charade?”

Or, maybe you’re like me and would rather take a neutral stance on this whole “resolution” business. I believe in setting (and achieving!) positive intentions for self-improvement…but those stereotypical “must-fit-into-skinny-jeans-by-such-and-such-arbitrary-date” goals? Hard pass.

In order for any lifestyle change to have staying power, it’s gotta be 3 things—realistic,  fulfilling and sustainable. 

Exhibit A: “I will lose 15 pounds before bikini season.” Slim chance for long-term success. No action plan whatsoever…just wishful thinking, fueled by body shame. And, ultimately doomed to fail.

Exhibit B: “I will engage in regular physical exertion and choose whole foods over processed ingredients because my health takes priority.” Now, this meets all the requirements for success. A clearly stated initiative with tangible benefits and definitive follow-through potential. Ding…ding…ding. We have a winner!

So, in the interest of tackling realistic, fulfilling and sustainable (yep, those magic words are back!) wellness goals throughout 2016, I’ve teamed up with Chobani Simply 100® Crunch and their “crunch the numbers” fitness campaign.

You don’t need an expensive gym membership or unlimited free time to add more movement into your daily grind. If you’ve got a body and about 30 spare minutes, these 100 calorie-burning activities will be right up your alley. Take that, New Year’s resolutions! (mic drop—optional.)

Special thanks to Chobani for providing the infographic featured in this post. I’m proud to support their Crunch the Numbers campaign to “live life lighter” throughout 2016.

How to “Dress” Up Your Daily Fruit & Veggie Quota {Guest Post}

According to research backed by the American Heart Association, people who habitually consume a diet rich in fruits and vegetables experience a decreased risk of cardiovascular disease later in life. In fact, this study revealed that, of the 2500 test subjects monitored, women who ate about 9 daily servings and men who ate about 7 were 26% less prone to develop clogged arteries in older age.

In addition to supporting cardiovascular wellness, fresh produce contains essential nutrients like protein, antioxidants, fiber, and a plethora of other vitamins and minerals. So, incorporating more plant-based foods into your diet can yield balanced wellness and physical longevity.

The simplest, most straightforward way to boost your fruit and veggie intake is to replace that typical lunchtime sandwich with a crisp, colorful salad. Then, top it with this healthy homemade dressing which features the antioxidant-loaded nutritional supplement, Nutri Maqui. Your heart, immune system and other vital organs will thank you for giving them the nourishment they crave!

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Nutri Maqui Superfruit Salad Dressing

Ingredients

 ½ cup Grapeseed Oil

1 tbsp. Nutri Maqui Superfruit Juice

1 tsp. Whole-Grain Dijon Mustard

½ tsp. Lemon Juice

Preparation

1. Pour all ingredients into a small decanter, then whisk until they are thoroughly combined.

2. Chop a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables and raw nuts (e.g. carrots, cucumbers, tomatoes, apples, raspberries, avocadoes, almonds, cashews), then arrange them over a bed of leafy greens (e.g. spinach, kale, arugula).

3. Drizzle the dressing on top, then toss the salad to evenly distribute all ingredients before serving.

So. Many. Colors. Amiright?!

   

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Huge thanks to Nutri Lifescience, LLC, for supplying the research, content and graphics for this post.