It’s late January—the time of year when the shine of New Year’s resolutions begins to dull for many of us. The ambitious goals we set just weeks ago can feel out of reach, leaving us wondering how to regain that sense of purpose. But here’s the truth: lasting change doesn’t have to come from massive overhauls. Instead, it’s the small, intentional habits that are easier to sustain and make a real difference in how we feel day-to-day.

One of the simplest yet most impactful habits to incorporate? Morning stretches. Starting your day with a gentle routine doesn’t just feel good—it sets a tone of mindfulness and care that ripples through the hours ahead. Stretching promotes circulation, reduces tension from hours spent at a desk, and offers a moment of calm before the day’s demands take over. In short? Stretching is a powerful practice for both body and mind.

Featured image by Michelle Nash.

The Best Morning Stretches to Boost Your Energy and Ease Tension

If you’re looking for a routine that’s easy to adopt and doesn’t require more than a little space in your bedroom or on your living room floor, we’ve curated the best morning stretches to try today. These moves are beginner-friendly and take just a few minutes but leave you feeling refreshed and aligned. Whether you’re reigniting your New Year’s intention or simply looking to add more ease to your mornings, this routine is your new go-to. Let’s dive in.

1. Ease Back Tension with Knees-to-Chest

Targets: Lower back and pelvic stabilization

This therapeutic stretch can be done right in bed, making it the perfect gentle way to start your morning. By pulling your knees into your chest, you’ll encourage blood flow to vital organs and reduce bloating while stabilizing the lower back. Many consider it one of the most soothing stretches for relieving tension and starting the day with ease.

• Lie on your back and pull your knees into your chest.
• Hold for 15 seconds, breathing deeply.
• Repeat 2-3 times.

Benefits: Encourages blood flow, relieves bloating, and stabilizes the lower back.

2. Start Strong with Glute Bridges

Targets: Hips and hip flexors

Counteract the effects of sitting with this energizing move that activates and strengthens your lower body. By targeting your hips and hip flexors, this stretch helps combat stiffness caused by prolonged sitting while also engaging your core. A quick 30 seconds of glute bridges can wake up your muscles and leave you feeling more mobile and ready to take on the day.

• Lie on your back with knees bent and feet flat, hip-width apart.
• Push through your heels, squeezing glutes and abs to lift your hips.
• Hold briefly, then lower and repeat for 30 seconds.

Benefits: Improves hip mobility, strengthens your core, and boosts energy.

3. Wake Up Your Spine with Cat-Cow

Targets: Spine, hips, neck, and core

Start your day with this dynamic, feel-good stretch that gently awakens your body. The flowing motion of Cat-Cow stretches the spine, hips, and neck while promoting flexibility and improving posture. With just 30 seconds of movement, you’ll ease away tension and prepare your body for the day ahead.

• Start on all fours, shoulders over wrists and hips over knees.
• Inhale, arching your back and lifting your head.
• Exhale, rounding your back and tucking your chin.
• Repeat for 30 seconds.

Benefits: Enhances posture, alleviates back and neck tension, and promotes flexibility.

4. Realign with a Gentle Neck Stretch

Targets: Neck and upper shoulders

Ease stiffness and reset your alignment with this quick yet powerful stretch. This movement targets tension in your neck and shoulders, making it an ideal way to counteract discomfort from sleeping in awkward positions. Incorporating this stretch into your morning routine can help improve posture and promote a sense of calm to start your day.

• Tilt your right ear toward your right shoulder.
• Use your right hand to gently pull your head for a deeper stretch.
• Hold for 15 seconds, then switch sides.

Benefits: Reduces neck tension, improves mobility, and promotes relaxation.

5. Release and Reset with a Standing Forward Bend

Targets: Hamstrings, hips, and lower back

Soothe tension and energize your body with this rejuvenating stretch. Standing Forward Bend promotes relaxation, relieves back tension, and boosts confidence for the day ahead.

• Stand with feet slightly apart and inhale deeply.
• Exhale, hinging at your hips and folding forward.
• Let your head and arms hang, gently swaying or nodding your head.
• Hold for five breaths, then roll up slowly.
• Finish in Mountain Pose: stand tall, roll your shoulders back, and extend your neck.

Benefits: Relieves back tension, promotes relaxation, and boosts confidence.

Why Stretching in the Morning Works

Morning stretches improve circulation, reduce muscle stiffness, and set a positive tone for the day. Taking even five minutes to move your body can ease tension built up overnight and help you start the day feeling grounded and energized. These intentional moments of movement aren’t just about flexibility—they’re a simple act of self-care that can ripple through your day, supporting both your physical and mental well-being. Why not give it a try tomorrow? You might just find it’s the best way to begin your morning.

The post Maximize Your Morning With This Powerful 5-Minute Habit appeared first on Camille Styles.

As an avid yogi, simply rolling out my mat feels like an invitation to exhale. I still remember my very first class: I stood awkwardly at the back of the room, unsure if I was breathing correctly or moving my body the “right” way. But something shifted that day. It wasn’t just about touching my toes or holding a plank. No, it was about how the practice made me feel: lighter, clearer, more connected. Over time, yoga became my sanctuary, a space where the noise of the world quieted and my inner voice grew louder.

Fifteen years later, my yoga practice has transformed into more than just a routine; it’s a lifeline. The peace I’ve found within those moments of movement and stillness has eased the grip of anxiety. While I initially approached yoga as a way to stay in shape, the true magic lies in how it shapes the mind. Science has proven time and again that yoga’s benefits extend far beyond flexibility and strength. It’s a practice that heals, nurtures, and even rewires the brain. Let’s dive into the fascinating science of how yoga for your brain. Here’s why it might just be the best thing you can do for your mental health.

Featured image from our interview with Mary Ralph Bradley by Michelle Nash.

Yoga for Your Brain: Unlocking the Mind-Body Connection

At its core, yoga is far more than a workout. It’s a holistic practice that blends movement, breath, and mindfulness. This mind-body connection is what makes yoga so transformative—not just for your muscles, but for your mental well-being.

The brain plays an integral role in how we experience yoga. Every pose, every deep breath, every moment of stillness sends signals to the nervous system, calming the stress response and activating pathways that promote relaxation and healing. At the same time, yoga encourages us to be present, helping to quiet the mental chatter that so often clouds our thoughts. It’s this intentional presence that turns yoga into a powerful tool for enhancing brain function. Yoga trains the mind to focus, process emotions, and respond to challenges with greater clarity.

Science backs this up: studies show that yoga can increase gray matter density in areas of the brain associated with memory, decision-making, and emotional regulation. It’s no wonder that those who practice regularly often describe feeling more centered, focused, and resilient. Yoga isn’t just about moving your body—it’s a practice that nourishes both the physical and mental, offering a profound way to unlock your brain’s potential. On and off the mat.

Yoga as a Natural Stress Reliever

One of yoga’s most immediate benefits is its ability to calm the mind and body. (Tell me you’ve also felt that I-can-do-anything post-class feeling. So good, right?) At the heart of this is yoga’s impact on the nervous system. By combining intentional movement with deep, rhythmic breathing, yoga activates the parasympathetic nervous system—the part of the body responsible for rest and relaxation. This shift helps lower cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress, and encourages a state of calm.

Beyond the physical, yoga teaches mindfulness, which is key to managing anxious thoughts. Focusing on your breath or holding a pose gently redirects your attention away from worry and back to the present moment. Studies have shown that having a regular yoga practice can reduce anxiety symptoms and even improve brain function. It’s not just about feeling less stressed in the moment, it’s about building resilience for the challenges ahead.

7 Tips to Start Your Yoga Practice

Ready to reap the brain-boosting benefits of yoga? Let these tips help inspire you to begin your journey.

Start Small and Be Consistent

You don’t need an hour-long class to see results. Begin with 10–15 minutes a day, focusing on simple poses like child’s pose or cat-cow stretches. Even a short daily practice can improve mental clarity and reduce stress over time. The key is consistency—make it part of your routine, like brushing your teeth.

Prioritize Breathwork

Yoga isn’t just about movement—the breath is equally important. Spend a few minutes each day practicing deep belly breathing or alternate nostril breathing. These techniques calm the nervous system and enhance focus, creating a direct pathway to better brain health.

Explore Beginner-Friendly Resources

If you’re new to yoga, apps like Down Dog or websites like Find What Feels Good offer guided classes tailored to beginners. Many of these platforms allow you to customize your practice based on time, intensity, and goals, making it easier to get started.

Create a Dedicated Space

Having a consistent space for your practice—whether it’s a corner of your living room or a spot by the window—helps reinforce the habit. Add calming elements like a mat, a candle, or soft lighting to make the space inviting and conducive to relaxation.

Join a Community

Online or in person, practicing with others can deepen your commitment and provide encouragement. Local studios often offer beginner classes, and many communities have donation-based yoga sessions. The energy of practicing alongside others can be both motivating and uplifting.

Set an Intention for Each Practice

Before starting, take a moment to reflect on what you hope to gain—whether it’s calmness, focus, or simply showing up for yourself. This mindfulness helps anchor your practice and makes the experience more meaningful.

Listen to Your Body

Yoga is a personal journey, not a competition. Honor your body’s limits and celebrate progress, no matter how small. Over time, you’ll notice how the practice begins to transform not just your body, but your mind as well.

Lauren Zielinski, MSN, CNM

Lauren Zielinski is a certified nurse-midwife with over 11 years of experience in women’s health and birth. She studied medicine at The University of Colorado-Denver with a focus on community health and birth center work.

The post The Powerful Connection Between Yoga and Mental Clarity: How My Practice Became a Lifeline appeared first on Camille Styles.

Growing up, I was always someone who loved to stay active—ski racing through snowy New England winters, playing tennis well into college, and spending as much time as I could outdoors. But as I approach my 30s, I’ve realized that learning how to start working out in a way that’s both supportive and sustainable is about more than just staying active. It’s about cultivating a deeper connection with my body and mind. What’s more, I’m training for the Chicago Marathon in October, and while running has taken center stage in my routine, strength training, yoga, walking, and hiking have all become essential practices that help me feel strong, balanced, and aligned.

Building a workout routine that’s both supportive and sustainable is about more than just staying active. It’s about cultivating a deeper connection with my body and mind.

If you’ve ever wondered how to start working out, you’re not alone. For many, the hardest part is simply getting started. But here’s the truth: finding a workout routine that works for you isn’t about being perfect or following someone else’s plan. It’s about discovering what makes you feel good and sticking with it long enough to experience the benefits (physical, mental, and emotional). Below, I’m sharing five tips that helped me turn exercise into a ritual I look forward to—so you can, too.

Featured image from our interview with Megan Roup by Michelle Nash.

1. Start Small and Set Realistic Goals

One of the biggest mistakes people make when starting a workout routine is setting goals that are too ambitious. If you haven’t worked out in months (or years), deciding to hit the gym six days a week or run a 10K right away is likely to lead to burnout—or worse, injury. Instead, start small. Commit to moving your body three times a week, even if it’s just a 20-minute walk around your neighborhood. (Honestly, walking is the most underrated workout there is—and oftentimes, the most effective.) This approach works because it builds confidence and consistency. As you hit these smaller goals, you’ll start to feel more capable and motivated to push yourself further.

Make it happen: Take a few minutes at the beginning of each week to map out when and how you’ll exercise. Add it to your calendar like any other important appointment. By keeping your initial goals manageable, you’ll set yourself up for success and make working out a sustainable habit.

2. Find Movement You Actually Enjoy

Let’s be honest: if you dread every second of your workout, you’re not going to stick with it. (The best workout is the one you actually do, right?) The secret to creating a lasting workout routine is finding activities you genuinely enjoy. Whether it’s dancing, hiking, swimming, or a Pilates class, moving your body should feel like a celebration, not a chore.

Make it happen: Experiment with different types of exercise to discover what lights you up. Many studios offer free trials or discounted intro classes, so you can explore options without committing to one right away. Once you find something you love, it won’t feel like a workout—it’ll feel like something you look forward to doing.

3. Make It a Ritual, Not a Task

The mindset you bring to your workouts can make all the difference. Instead of treating exercise as something you have to do, frame it as a ritual that nourishes your body and mind. This could mean starting your day with a yoga flow to set the tone or heading out for a post-work walk to decompress.

Make it happen: Creating rituals around your workouts helps anchor them into your routine. Light a candle before a home workout, play your favorite playlist, or treat yourself to a delicious smoothie afterward. When exercise becomes a cherished part of your day, it’s easier to stick with it long-term.

4. Track Your Progress (and Celebrate It!)

There’s nothing more motivating than seeing how far you’ve come. Tracking your progress—whether through a fitness app, journal, or even a simple checklist—can help you stay accountable and celebrate your wins along the way.

Make it happen: This doesn’t mean obsessing over numbers or comparing yourself to others. Instead, focus on the things that matter most to you: running a little farther, lifting a bit heavier, or simply feeling more energized throughout the day. Celebrate every milestone, no matter how small. Recognizing your progress is a powerful reminder of why you started in the first place.

5. Listen to Your Body and Be Flexible

Starting a workout routine is exciting, but it’s important to remember that your body needs time to adapt. Rest and recovery are just as crucial as the workouts themselves. If you’re feeling tired or sore, give yourself permission to take a rest day or opt for a gentler form of movement like stretching or walking.

Make it happen: Being flexible also means adjusting your routine as your needs change. Some weeks, you might feel motivated to work out five times—other weeks, twice might be plenty. And that’s okay. Listening to your body and honoring what it needs will help you stay consistent and avoid burnout in the long run.

Workout Programs We Love

Every fitness journey thrives with the right support—whether it’s the encouragement of friends, a local community, or an inspiring online space. Finding programs that align with your goals and values can make all the difference in building a sustainable routine. Ahead are some of our favorite workout programs that empower you to move intentionally, connect with your body, and make fitness an integral part of your lifestyle. From strength and mindfulness to functional movement and breath, there’s something here for everyone.

Barre3. Barre3 offers a whole-body workout that combines strength, cardio, and mindfulness to leave you feeling balanced and empowered. With in-studio classes, online workouts, and a supportive community, barre3 meets you wherever you are in your fitness journey.

FORM. FORM redefines Pilates for the modern fitness enthusiast, offering dynamic, guided workouts designed to strengthen and align your body. With personalized programs and a focus on intentional movement, it’s the perfect way to build a sustainable routine that meets you where you are.

Soul Sync Body. Soul Sync Body combines mindful movement with transformative breathwork to create a holistic fitness experience. These workouts are designed to strengthen your body while fostering a deep connection to your mind and spirit, making it a powerful practice for overall well-being.

Pvolve. Pvolve offers a functional fitness approach that prioritizes mindful, low-impact movements to build strength and mobility. With a focus on form and intentionality, these workouts help you move better in everyday life while feeling strong, balanced, and empowered.

The Takeaway

Learning how to start working out can feel overwhelming, but the key is to approach it with curiosity, self-compassion, and a willingness to explore what feels good for your body. Remember, fitness isn’t about perfection—it’s about finding joy in movement and building habits that align with your unique needs and lifestyle. Whether it’s committing to small, consistent steps, exploring different workout programs, or reframing exercise as a way to care for yourself, every effort counts. So, take that first step, embrace the process, and trust that over time, your routine will become a meaningful and sustainable part of your life. Your body—and mind—will thank you.

The post How to Start Working Out: A Simple Guide to Building a Sustainable Routine appeared first on Camille Styles.

In the midst of our always-on world—filled with endless notifications, packed schedules, and constant demands—it’s no wonder stress has become a near-universal experience. While self-care routines and stress-relief products can certainly help, there’s an even simpler and more profound tool that’s always within reach: your breath. Somatic breathwork, a practice that combines mindful breathing with heightened body awareness, offers a way to not only manage stress but also reconnect with yourself on a deeper level. By focusing on the sensations in your body and the rhythm of your breath, somatic breathwork helps shift your nervous system from a state of fight-or-flight to one of rest, relaxation, and healing.

Featured image from our interview with Remi Ishizuka by Michelle Nash.

At its core, somatic breathwork is about more than just calming your nerves—it’s a powerful practice for fostering emotional balance, physical well-being, and mental clarity. Rooted in ancient traditions yet backed by modern science, it invites us to tune into the body’s innate wisdom and create space for release and renewal.

Whether you’re new to breathwork or looking to deepen your practice, this guide will introduce you to the benefits of somatic breathwork and provide simple exercises to help you begin. Ready to breathe deeply and transform your well-being? Let’s get started.

What is somatic breathwork?

Somatic breathwork goes beyond simply controlling your breath—it invites you to fully tune into your body. By pairing mindful breathing with an awareness of physical sensations, somatic breathwork creates space to release tension, reduce stress, and reconnect with yourself on a deeper level.

Imagine it as a way to listen to what your body has been trying to tell you all along, using your breath as a bridge to understanding and healing.

What sets somatic breathwork apart from traditional techniques is its focus on the mind-body connection. While other methods may emphasize breath rhythms or patterns, this practice encourages you to notice the sensations that arise in your body as you breathe. This awareness helps process emotions, soothe stress, and restore balance to your nervous system. Over time, it gently shifts you from the fight-or-flight state triggered by stress into the calming “rest and digest” mode, where true relaxation and healing can take place.

Somatic Breathwork Benefits

The benefits of somatic breathwork extend far beyond stress relief. By bringing awareness to your breath and its connection to your body, this practice can help:

• regulate your emotions
• improve focus
• enhance your physical health by reducing inflammation and improving circulation.

Many practitioners also find that somatic breathwork deepens their ability to process unresolved emotions, offering a path to greater emotional resilience and clarity. In essence, somatic breathwork is a tool for holistic well-being, aligning the mind, body, and spirit.

3 Somatic Breathwork Exercises to Begin Practicing Today

Ready to explore the transformative power of somatic breathwork? These exercises are designed to be accessible and impactful, whether you’re new to the practice or looking to deepen your experience.

1. Body Scan Breathing

• Setup: Find a quiet space where you can sit or lie down comfortably.
• Instructions: Begin with slow, deep breaths, focusing on the rise and fall of your belly. With each exhale, direct your attention to a specific part of your body, starting at your feet and working your way up. Notice any tension or sensations in that area, and imagine releasing them with your breath.
• Benefits: This exercise helps you reconnect with your body, releasing stored tension and promoting relaxation.

2. Wave Breath

• Setup: Sit in a comfortable position with your feet flat on the ground.
• Instructions: Inhale deeply, imagining the breath traveling up from your feet, through your legs, and into your chest. As you exhale, picture the breath flowing back down the same path, grounding you. Repeat for 5–10 minutes.
• Benefits: Wave breath promotes a sense of groundedness and flow, making it especially helpful during moments of overwhelm.

3. Dynamic Release Breathing

• Setup: Lie down on a mat or soft surface with your knees bent and feet flat on the floor.
• Instructions: Take deep breaths into your belly and chest, allowing your body to move naturally with the rhythm of your breath. If emotions or sensations arise, let them flow without judgment. You can even incorporate gentle movements like rocking or stretching to deepen the release.
• Benefits: This exercise helps process and release stored emotions, leaving you feeling lighter and more centered.

How to Make Somatic Breathwork a Daily Habit

Consistency is key when it comes to reaping the benefits of somatic breathwork. Pair your practice with a daily ritual, such as your morning coffee or evening wind-down, to help it become second nature. Start small—just five minutes a day—and gradually increase the time as you grow more comfortable with the practice.

The Takeaway

Somatic breathwork offers a simple yet profound way to manage stress, reconnect with your body, and promote overall well-being. In a world that often pulls us away from ourselves, this practice invites us to slow down, tune in, and find peace within. Remember: your breath is always with you—use it to guide you back to calm whenever you need it most.

The post Somatic Breathwork: The Stress-Relief Practice You Didn’t Know You Needed appeared first on Camille Styles.

My hunt for the best natural deodorant for women has been a years-long journey. Truly. I imagine I’m best remembered at my former job for making everyone in my office “pod” test a natural deodorant for five days straight. People were disgruntled—and quite frankly, many of them smelled—but we did find a couple of winners (namely Schmidt’s and White Rock Soap Gallery’s Activated Charcoal Deodorant).

That was back in 2019. Since then, more and more brands have entered the race to create the one truly great natural deodorant. Because while there’s still no science to suggest that aluminum leads to Alzheimer’s or cancer, the idea of a healthy pit microbiome (one with no blocked pores or chemicals) remains alluring.

So I polled my coworkers again (they had their own journeys to share) and forced myself to try a bevy of buzzy natch deodorants for the past few weeks. (I’ve been moving from one Texas home in the late-spring heat to another, so I’m really putting them to the test.) May the freshness be with you.

Featured image from our interview with Megan O’Neill by Belathée Photography.

The Best Natural Deodorants for Women

For weeks, I tested out some of the trendiest natural deodorants of 2025 and put them to work in heated Corepower Yoga classes, moving boxes in the Texas heat, and more laid-back, sitting-at-my-desk-for-hours days. Ahead, I share my experience, starting with my favorite deodorant and working down from there.

Best Overall: Nécessaire The Deodorant Gel

This deodorant gel is a refreshing game-changer. Its eucalyptus scent is crisp and invigorating—perfect for starting the day with a boost of clarity. The gel dries quickly (no sticky underarms here!) and comes in sleek, minimalist packaging that’s right at home on any vanity. Even after a hectic day and a quick Pilates session, I still felt fresh, with no need for a midday reapplication.

What’s to Love: The gel formula is innovative and lightweight, gliding on smoothly and absorbing fast. It’s formulated with hyaluronic acid and glycerin to hydrate while probiotics support a balanced skin microbiome. Bonus: It’s aluminum-free, so it’s gentle on sensitive skin.

What’s Not to Love: While the scent is clean and luxurious, it may fade quicker than expected, especially on warmer days. Also, if you’re transitioning to natural deodorants, it might take your body a bit to adjust.

Overall, this deodorant is an elevated addition to any natural skincare routine, blending performance with thoughtful ingredients and an understated scent profile.

Nécessaire

The Deodorant Gel – Eucalyptus

$20 at Credo Beauty

Best Scent: Salt & Stone Deodorant

This was an easy pick for number two. It dries quickly, has a nice, earthy modern scent to it, and comes in beautiful packaging. It also held its ground during an intense workout class. Why it took the number two spot? This pick left my pits feeling a bit itchy and wet after application.

What’s to Love: The natural skincare brand Salt & Stone is known for its intoxicating scents, and the deodorant I tried did not disappoint in that category. I love that it’s packed with probiotics and hyaluronic acid for a balanced armpit microbiome.

What’s Not to Love: My pits didn’t take to it as much as I would have hoped. Still, it’s one of the best natural deodorants I’ve ever tried.

Salt & Stone

Neroli & Basil Deodorant

$20 at Salt & Stone

Best Spray: By Rosie Jane Wake the F*ck Up Deodorant

I’m a big fan of By Rosie Jane’s clean fragrances, so I was excited to see the perfumer’s ingredient transparency extended to a natural deodorant. I opted for the invigorating “Wake the F*uck Up” with lemon verbena and eucalyptus (as opposed to the lavender-infused alternative, “Calm the F*ck Down”) which arrived in a gorgeous glass bottle for just $15. (Refills are available on the By Rosie Jane website.)

I don’t like my deodorant to feel wet going on, so all sprays are an immediate uphill battle, but By Rosie Jane’s deodorant dried quickly and left a lovely essential oil smell. You need to continue to spritz your pits throughout the day, which is fine if you’re working at a desk or aren’t doing anything too active. Also, this natural deodorant gets bonus points for actually calming some pit itchiness, likely due to the glycerin and organic aloe vera.  

Ultimately, it’s a nice, natural alternative for days you aren’t exerting yourself much.

What’s to Love: The aromatic essential oil blend actually calmed some pit itchiness I had pre-deodorant.

What’s Not to Love: You have to reapply throughout the day to keep the good scent going. This is also not the deodorant you want to rely on for strenuous activities.

By Rosie Jane

Wake the F*ck Up Deodorant

$15 at Revolve

Best Budget: Crystal Magnesium Enriched Deodorant

This one was just fine. I’ve docked it a few points for how rough it felt swiping on. (There are a lot of concerns people have when making the switch to natural deodorant, but my biggest fear is itchy pits.) Over time, my skin didn’t become quite as irritated as I expected, but I never felt as safe from creating a cloud of stink as I did with my favorites.

What’s to Love: The price. Crystal has a competitive edge in this category. And the lavender scent was beautiful.

What’s Not to Love: It goes on a bit scratchy.

Crystal

Magnesium Enriched Deodorant Lavender + Rosemary

$7.99 at Target

Best Application: Ursa Major Hoppin’ Fresh Deodorant

I’d heard great things about Ursa Major and its kaolin clay, but after putting it to the test on a particularly stressful workday, I was disappointed (in more ways than one) to find myself pretty smelly by early afternoon. It was also one of the biggest white-streak perpetrators of the bunch.

What’s to Love: It smells and feels fantastic going on.

What’s Not to Love: It left my pits feeling pretty moist and irritated, the latter of which may have been caused by the baking soda in the formula.

Ursa Major

Hoppin’ Fresh Deodorant

$18 at Dermstore

Camille Styles Editors’ Favorite Natural Deodorants

Athena Club Grapefruit Spritz All Day Deo

What’s to Love: Come for the cute packaging, stay for the light but bright summery scent. And of course, don’t forget the all-day efficacy. I’ve subjected my partner to many natural deodorant trials and tribulations, but this was the first one where (without my prompting), he said: “Wow, Isabelle you actually smell great.” Beyond the scent, I love that the formula is plant-based, cruelty-free, and doesn’t leave any white streaks. It checks all my boxes.

What’s Not to Love: While this is great for everyday use, I need something a little stronger when I’m going for a long walk or bike ride. I haven’t found any natural options that hold up to that challenge yet, but for work days and the like, this is the best. — Isabelle, Managing Editor

Athena Club

All Day Deo

$12 at Athena Club

Primally Pure Lavender Deodorant

What’s to Love: Everything about this! The scent is lovely (but subtle)—and it actually works. It’s my holy grail. They use tallow from grass-fed cows and the lavender essential oil helps calm irritation from potential ingrown hairs. It’s soothing and effective. 

What‘s Not to Love: Sometimes in the summer months, I need to reapply before a late-afternoon park adventure with my toddler or a sweaty evening walk. But in the winter, applying once per day is enough! *Granted our climate is dry in Colorado.* — Edie, Wellness Editor

Charcoal Pure

Lavender Deodorant

$16 at Primally Pure

Milk + Honey Baking Soda-Free Deodorant

What’s to Love: Baking Soda-free deodorant that actually works? Sign me up. I’ve been using Milk and Honey for the past year and it’s my favorite option for long-lasting protection. The scents aren’t too overpowering and they just work, even during humid summer days at the lake.

What’s Not to Love: I do have to be careful when wearing black as they do leave a white cast behind. Suruchi, Food Editor

Milk + Honey

Baking Soda-Free Deodorant

$16 at Milk + Honey

Kosas Chemistry AHA Serum Deodorant

What’s to Love: Literally everything: texture, smell (I use the blue one), quick dry with no residue, and it actually works.

What’s Not to Love: Nothing. — Langa, Beauty Editor

Kosas Chemistry AHA Serum Deodorant

$16 at Credo

The post I Tried the Most Popular Natural Deodorants—This One Is the Undisputed Best appeared first on Camille Styles.

Just like clockwork, the moment a massage therapist poses the question, “What kind of massage are you looking for today?”, I’m filled with doubt. Firm? Sure! But also relaxing? Totally. But maybe there are some knots or stiffness that need to be addressed? Oh yes, that too. They say that nobody knows your body better than you, and while that’s mostly true, I do think there are times when it’s helpful to defer to an expert, especially when it comes down to choosing between something like a Swedish versus deep tissue massage. 

To help us get a better understanding of the benefits and differences between the two types of massages, I tapped Erika Castro, a massage therapist and educator at Hiatus, an award-winning Texas day spa. 

Featured image from our interview with Sanetra Nere Longno by Michelle Nash.

Swedish vs. Therapeutic Massage: What to Know

During our conversation, the longtime practitioner noted the importance of massage not just for the body, but for the mind and central nervous system as well. 

“Massage has a calming and relaxing effect on your body that signals safety and down-regulates our bodies out of the flight or flight sympathetic state most of us are in daily,” she says. “It also stimulates the release of serotonin and dopamine.” Castro shares that she’ll often fall into a more relaxed state herself while performing a massage.

Erika Castro

Masseuse and educator at Hiatus Day Spa, an award-winning Texas spa with locations in Austin, Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio.

What to Know About Swedish Massage

When we think of a massage, Swedish is generally the first one that comes to mind. The feel-good treatment, a technique that originated in Sweden in the 1830s, is one of the most common types available and is known for promoting relaxation, relieving stress, and increasing blood circulation to the muscles. However, its wide range of benefits can often be overlooked. 

“A big misconception about massages is that the deeper and more painful it is, the better it is for you,” Castro says. “This is not true.” 

Another misconception: Swedish massages won’t address knots or high-tension areas. Yes, it’s great for massage beginners, but Castro adds that “even athletes can benefit from a Swedish massage to help with muscle recovery and soreness. Sometimes, when you are really sore, a Swedish massage is a great alternative to help tight, sore, or tender areas when deep tissue is too much for your body.” 

The five basic strokes of Swedish massage—effleurage, friction, petrissage, vibration, and tapotement—are the building blocks for several other types of massage therapies.

What to Know About Therapeutic Massage

Therapeutic or deep tissue massages show up on a spa menu under a variety of different names (at Hiatus, it’s called “The Knockout”) but the goal is the same: to target a specific source of pain, occasionally using methods like myofascial release, trigger point therapy, and cupping. They go beyond the temporary relief of more feel-good massage techniques like Swedish, addressing tension deep within the muscles and facia. 

“Therapeutic massage isn’t just for athletes or people who work out a lot either,” Castro says. “It’s great for those with chronic issues or injury, discomfort from overuse of muscles or joints, and even for someone who desires more focused work.” 

But as Castro mentioned, a deeper massage doesn’t always equate to the best massage. Sometimes, muscles will even react in a way that essentially fights a massage. This is called muscle guarding. “A therapist should be watching and feeling for nonverbal cues that indicate maybe the body isn’t quite ready for this just yet and may need to lighten the pressure,” Castro notes. 

Ultimately, if you’re looking for deep tissue or therapeutic massage, be sure to seek out a reputable therapist or spa, not just for their knowledge on how to ease sources of pain, but for how not to treat tight, tender muscles. 

“What is important is how your massage therapist works with and listens to your body and tissue layers,” Castro says.

Another Soothing Massage Option: Lymphatic

Castro is also a fan of lymphatic massage, a type of feel-good treatment that encourages the drainage of lymph nodes and movement of lymph fluid throughout the body using light pressure. 

“Your lymphatic system helps get rid of things like waste and toxins that shouldn’t be hanging around in your body,” Castro says. “So if your lymph is sluggish, that can lead to things like bloating, inflammation, digestive issues, the feeling of your limbs being heavy, and skin issues to name a few.”

In addition to its benefits, lymphatic massage is very relaxing and gentle and can be great for post-surgery procedures. However, there are several different kinds of lymphatic massages. For example, Castro notes that Brazilian lymphatic drainage massage is becoming an increasingly popular option, but it involves a bit more pressure than your typical lymphatic massage. 

“This type has a goal of contouring the body, improving cellulite, and has more vigorous, rhythmic movements,” Castro says. “All lymphatic massage is not the same, so it’s always important to research, ask questions prior to your appointment, and see what style your massage therapist is trained in.” 

Why It’s Important to Switch Up Massage Types

Regular massages can feel like a luxury, but they allow the opportunity to experience different techniques over time. Especially with a therapist you trust, who can help answer the eternal massage question: Swedish or deep tissue?

“It’s okay to get a deep tissue one month and then try a hot stone the next,” Castro says. “Besides Swedish and deep tissue, there are other great modalities like hot stone massage, lymphatic massage, LomiLomi, shiatsu, and Thai massage just to name a few. Listening to your body is always the way to go and having a good massage therapist who can help guide you, listen to your needs, and recommend the best massage for you based on how you’re feeling that day.”

The post Massage 101: An Expert Guide on Choosing the Right One for You appeared first on Camille Styles.

A few years ago, a friend gave me something that amplified my life. “Try this,” she said as she handed me a small box, her mouth turned upward. Inside was a bottle of Foria Awaken Arousal Oil, a product meant to enhance female sexual pleasure, alone or with company. Had I been having sex or even feeling sexual at the time, I would have ripped it open that night. Finding the best lubricants and intimacy oils intrigued me.

It took me a while to try it. When I finally did with my now partner, I felt like I was in the last scene of Fight Club, where Ed Norton holds Helena Bonham Carter’s hand as the buildings fall. Everything I’d known about feeling sexual came crashing down and, in its place, entered a Technicolor world of pleasure to explore. 

The Best Lubricants for Every Desire

“What Foria has done is prioritize female pleasure by deeply understanding what activates it, what keeps it going, and where pleasure comes from,” says Kiana Reeves, chief content officer for Foria Wellness and a somatic sexology and intimacy educator. “We haven’t been taught about how important our arousal is.”

Reeves is answering all my questions about the best lubricants and intimacy oils over Zoom. My queries are rapid-fire. Never have I been more curious about a collection of products. In the past year, intimacy oils and lubricants have catapulted my sex life, I tell her. My orgasms are stronger. My connection to my partner is deeper. Why is that? I ask. 

“It’s helping your body just do what it’s meant to do,” responds Reeves, specifically talking about intimacy oils. “That’s why it’s so powerful. People start to notice the power of their bodies.”

To understand the deeper functioning behind these products, as well as the difference between an intimacy oil and a lubricant, I asked Reeves about it all. (Also, if you’re curious about trying a new product but don’t know how to broach the subject with your partner, read on.)

Your Guide to Intimacy Oils

Nobody had been focusing on female arousal. Our erectile tissue structures are the same as someone with a penis, and they’re dispersed in different areas, but they light up at different times. So someone with a female anatomy has an arousal trajectory that is different from someone with a penis. We focus on female pleasure with these different products and components. One is our Awaken Arousal Oil, which helps to physically get blood flow to the genitals to enhance arousal and pleasure. These active botanicals work to help to get you as aroused as possible. 

In tandem with arousal, which is the physical component of pleasure, you have the desire component. For many people, what gets in the way of their desire is either discomfort, pain, or a feeling that they’re not ready. What our Awaken oil does is it works from the body up. You start to activate your body first. From there, you start to retrain the nervous system and your relationship with sexual pleasure, either with yourself or with a partner. You go, oh, not only does this feel good, it feels amazing!

How do lubricants work?

The vaginal tissues and vulva mucosal membrane need to be wet to enjoy touch, and so there isn’t too much friction. Otherwise, those tender membranes can tear easily. So a lubricant, even if you are naturally a well-lubricated person, is important because it helps protect the integrity of your tissues. Many clients I’ve worked with have experienced numbness, pain, and scar tissue from poorly lubricated sex, either intravaginally or otherwise. 

“What’s so exciting is there’s always more pleasure to explore.” – Kiana Reeves

Studies show that pleasure will increase just by using lube alone for all people involved. So lube is amazing to have on hand. What we did with ours—our Intimacy Sex Oil—is make it the cleanest available because lubes have historically contained chemicals that are bad for the vulva and vagina. Also, our lube is for vaginal and rectal use.

Are there any rules for using an intimacy oil or lubricant?

No rules. The cool thing, and I say this particularly about Awaken because it’s universal for solo play to partner play to party play, is that it’s about understanding that your pleasure is in your own hands. You can notice where you’re at. Maybe you’re not yet highly aroused, so you might massage yourself or have a partner massage you. It’s taking the time to massage the labia, the clitoris, or the thighs. It’s about just being with that part of your body and allowing it to open in its own time. 

Also, the beautiful thing is none of the [Foria] products are gender specific. They’re anatomy-specific because we’re working with a particular anatomy that hasn’t been studied or understood as much as others. 

Editor’s note: Some oils and lubricants are not compatible with certain condoms, so be sure to do your research for what’s important to you and your partner(s).

What to keep in mind when looking for an intimacy or arousal oil and a lubricant

The main thing is that it’s clean and natural. These are still marketing terms where there’s no standard for being able to say “clean.” Look for ingredients you recognize. If they’re plants, are they organic? I would also look for how much education the company is offering. Peruse the website to see if they’re invested in their mission or if they’re making a product because it’s easy and cheap. A brand invested in its mission will be invested in and able to stand by its formulations. On our products, we have a QR code where you can see the batch tests we’ve done, which check for all types of toxins, pesticides, and heavy metals. 

What if someone is curious to try an oil or lube with a partner but they have reservations about suggesting it? What are your tips for starting the conversation?

The larger conversation here is talking about sex with your partner—about what you love and what may be harder to discuss, such as what you want more of, what doesn’t feel so good, or what you’re struggling with. Talking about sex, in general, can be vulnerable, and when you’re bringing in a new product, that’s an added layer. It’s important to know that your partner wants you to feel pleasure—whether or not you are nervous to share with them. And you also want your partner to experience pleasure.

Think of it like the Oreo metaphor, where it’s sandwiched between two wonderful positive things and then the meat of it, which is the question or the desire, is in the middle. You can say positive things like, ‘I love the sex we’re having.’ ‘It feels so amazing.’ ‘You are an amazing lover.’ And then you can say what you’re experiencing or wanting more of. ‘I’m finding that I want to explore more of what my own body’s capable of.’ Or, ‘I haven’t shared this with you, but it’s hard for me to reach climax and here’s what I think might be able to help me.’

Keeping the idea of inviting them in is beneficial for everyone. It’s truly about wanting to explore more with one another.

Shop the Best Lubricants

Foria

Awaken Arousal Oil with CBD

Where it all started for me. This all-natural arousal oil is designed for the female anatomy to enhance pleasure and orgasm—solo or with company.

$48 at Dermstore

Tabu

Aureum Lubricant

This personal lubricant contains a base of aloe vera complemented by plant extracts and hyaluronic acid.

$45 at goop

Dame

Plant-Based Arousal Serum

A blend of mint, cinnamon, and rosemary give this intimate serum a decidedly cool-and-warm sensation.

$29.99 at Target

Vella Bioscience

Women’s Pleasure Serum Set with Gift Pouch

This CBD-infused serum claims to relax vaginal and clitoral smooth muscle tissue to result in more intense and frequent orgasms.

$115 at Neiman Marcus

Lady Suite

Intimate Serum with Tremella Mushroom Extract

This botanical lube was created to supplement a woman’s external moisture and support a healthy vaginal microbiome.

$24 at Lena Rose Beauty

Personal Fave

Whet Serum

A base of aloe and chamomile makes for a pleasure serum meant to be used with a partner and/or toys.

$24 at Personal Fave

Maude

Shine Organic Personal Lubricant

Ph-balanced and made without any fragrances, this clean personal lubricant is safe to use with condoms.

$18 at Nordstrom

Cake

Natural Aloe Lube

Organic and hypoallergenic ingredients blend to make for a lube that’s non-sticky and good for sensitive skin.

$12 at Cake

The post My Sex Life Is Better Than Ever—This Is My Secret appeared first on Camille Styles.

Hormone health is vital to our well-being. As the body’s chemical messengers, hormones are integral to a wide variety of processes and symptoms. Throughout every stage of life, hormones play a role. They regulate everything from growth to sex drive, reproduction, metabolism, skin health, and more. Produced in the endocrine glands, these influential chemicals travel through the bloodstream to tell tissues and organs what to do. They help control what (and when) certain processes happen in the body. Although very powerful, hormones are equally sensitive. This means that they are easily influenced by lifestyle factors: diet, exercise, stress, sleep, and more. That’s why incorporating foods that lower estrogen into your daily meals can be so key.

Read on to learn more about hormones from imbalances to endocrine disruptors, how diet impacts estrogen, and the 10 foods that lower estrogen.

Featured image from our interview with Roxana Saidi by Suruchi Avasthi.

Edie Horstman

Edie is the founder of nutrition coaching business, Wellness with Edie. With her background and expertise, she specializes in women’s health, including fertility, hormone balance, and postpartum wellness.

Hormone Imbalances Are More Common Than You Think

These days, hormone irregularities are remarkably common. Studies show that upwards of 80% of women suffer from hormone imbalances. PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome), for example, affects approximately five million women in the United States. That makes this condition one of the most common hormonal endocrine disorders among women of reproductive age.

In essence, when you have a hormonal imbalance—which, by the way, commonly happens in men as well—you have too much or too little of a particular hormone. When your endocrine glands don’t secrete enough (or too much) of a particular hormone, things go awry. From high cortisol to low testosterone, fluctuations in hormone levels are usually a result of lifestyle factors. And while hormone levels are supposed to fluctuate throughout your lifetime (hello, pregnancy!), chronically high or chronically low levels wreak havoc.

The 6 Primary Hormones

There are a few major hormones in the body:

• Cortisol is our main stress hormone. 
• T3 and T4 are our two primary thyroid hormones.
• Melatonin controls our sleep and wake cycles (i.e., our circadian rhythm).
• Progesterone and testosterone are involved in reproduction; they’re often called the “female” and “male” hormones, as progesterone is mostly produced by the ovaries, and testosterone is mostly produced in the testicles. 
• Insulin is required for the cells in your body to properly use glucose in your bloodstream.
• Estrogen plays an incredibly important role in the functioning of both female and male bodies.

What is estrogen?

Commonly referred to as the “female sex hormone,” estrogen is one of the most essential chemicals in all bodies—men included. While estrogen plays many roles and has multiple uses, it is a predominant leader in the female reproductive system. 

Along with regulating the menstrual cycle, estrogen affects the urinary tract, heart and blood vessels, bones, breasts, skin, hair, the brain, and more. A woman’s ovaries make a majority of estrogen, but the adrenal glands and fat cells make estrogen, too.

Your body makes three different types of estrogen:

• Estradiol. The most common type in women of childbearing age.
• Estriol. The main estrogen involved in pregnancy.
• Estrone. The only estrogen your body makes after menopause.

Why do we need estrogen?

Beyond its importance for developing and maintaining the reproductive system, estrogen is necessary for childbearing and a healthy, regular menstrual cycle. We also need estrogen to maintain bone density, positive mood, and healthy cholesterol levels. Furthermore, estrogen contributes to cognitive function and overall vitality.

Endocrine Disruptors

Like any kind of imbalance in the body, erratic estrogen levels can cause adverse reactions. Most notably, irregular menstruation, mood changes in women, and infertility/erectile dysfunction in men. For an imbalance to occur, estrogen is either too high or the hormones that balance estrogen are too low. For example, this could mean that progesterone in women is too low and in men, testosterone is too low. Hormonal birth control certainly impacts estrogen, potentially causing hormonal imbalances long after you’ve stopped taking it.

Furthermore, endocrine disruptors (natural and synthetic compounds that interfere with the function of hormones) negatively affect hormonal balance. These are found in everything from plastic water bottles to personal care products, receipts, pesticides, and more. Even in small doses, they can leave a lasting impact. When possible, purchase natural cleaning products, say no to printed receipts, switch to a reusable water bottle, and use beauty products without harmful chemicals.

Estrogen Dominance: Signs and Symptoms

When the levels of estrogen are chronically high (especially in comparison to other sex hormones that circulate in the blood), women are commonly diagnosed with estrogen dominance. Unfortunately, without proper balance with other sex hormones, estrogen dominance can lead to an array of unpleasant symptoms:

• Hair loss
• Low sex drive
• Poor sleep quality
• Cold hands and feet
• Digestive issues
• Tender or swollen breasts
• Fatigue
• Depression
• Non-cancerous breast lumps

High levels of estrogen can also cause PCOS, uterine fibroids, irregular menstrual cycles, and thyroid dysfunction. Men may also suffer from estrogen-related issues. Additionally, elevated estrogen is a risk factor for breast, ovarian, and endometrial cancer in women, as well as prostate and breast cancer in men. 

The good news is, many lifestyle changes can lower estrogen levels naturally. Beyond removing endocrine disruptors from your home, incorporating meditation and finding joyful ways to move your body are key. Furthermore, eating a low-estrogen diet is a practical, sustainable way to help balance hormones.

How Diet Impacts Estrogen

Research shows that specific diets are linked to high estrogen levels. For example, the Standard American Diet (SAD), which is characterized by conventional red meat and dairy, processed foods, sugary treats, and refined grains can cause hormone imbalance.

More than ever, it’s important to take inventory of what you’re putting in your body. Conventional animal products (particularly, dairy, chicken, and fish) contain high amounts of estrogen. In essence, hormones have been used for decades to accelerate animal growth. Synthetic estrogen and testosterone are the most common, unfortunately. Not only are these synthetic hormones harmful to the animals and us—consumers—but they contribute to environmental issues, too. 

Eat for Hormone Balance

If you’re regularly consuming conventionally raised animals, consider making the switch. And rest assured, you can eat animals without added hormones on a budget. To start, look for labels like ‘rBST free,’ ‘organic,’ and ‘pasture-raised.’ Otherwise, simply scaling back on your animal consumption—in lieu of more plant foods—can help balance excess estrogen in the body.

On a regular basis, build your snacks and meals around fresh fruit, vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes, and nutritious, minimally processed grains. Healthy fats from plant foods are also important. Think almonds, avocados, Brazil nuts, chia seeds, coconut, sunflower seeds, tahini, and walnuts. Lastly, load up on plenty of leafy greens to help with the body’s natural detoxification pathways. A well-functioning liver is imperative for breaking down excess estrogen. Veggies like broccoli, kale, cabbage, collard greens, and bok choy all contain compounds that support estrogen receptors.

10 Foods That Lower Estrogen

The million-dollar question: Can you lower your estrogen levels through diet? The long-short is yes—it is possible. Consuming these 10 foods that lower estrogen can aid in removing excess estrogen from the body as well as contribute to the building blocks of producing other necessary hormones.

• Arugula
• Avocado
• Broccoli
• Carrots
• Coconut Oil
• Eggs
• Mushrooms
• Pomegranates
• Red grapes
• Whole grains

Arugula

Among other leafy greens, arugula has both anti-cancer and estrogen-blocking properties. It’s also high in vitamin C, an immune booster. Although it’s a bitter green, a simple massage with coconut oil and lemon juice helps remove some of its bite. 

Mushroom Toast With Arugula and Lemon

Avocado

Research shows that avocados can help reduce the absorption of estrogen and boost testosterone levels. They also improve heart health and aid in satiety. We need enough healthy fats to make hormones, and avocados are a great source of hormone building blocks.

Avocado Caprese Salad

Broccoli

Cruciferous veggies, like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and cauliflower are incredible at helping our livers metabolize estrogen. Adding in a variety of these ingredients aids in hormonal balance.

Big Green Immunity-Boosting Vegetable Soup

Honey Roasted Carrots with Spicy Citrus, Sage & Pepitas

Raw carrots, in particular, are incredible at detoxing excess estrogen from the body. Made of mostly indigestible fiber, carrots can help excrete excess estrogen. Just one to two raw carrots (not baby carrots), per day, will do the trick.

Honey Roasted Carrots with Spicy Citrus, Sage & Pepitas

These Lemon Tarts with Orange Blossom Whipped Cream Are Magically Dairy-Free

Coconuts contain a variety of beneficial compounds, like minerals and medium-chain fatty acids. Coconut oil has been shown to protect the liver from excess estrogen (and toxins, in general). With a buildup of toxins that can lead to estrogen dominance in the body, coconut oil is a versatile ingredient to add to your morning matcha, incorporate into baking, and use as the healthy fat in soups. Look for organic, cold-pressed, and unrefined coconut oil.

Lemon Tarts + Orange Blossom Whipped Cream

Eggs

To give your liver a helping hand (to boost detox pathways), eating foods that contain sulfur ultimately aids in removing excess estrogen. Along with onions and garlic, egg yolks are a wonderful source of sulfur. Pasture-raised eggs also contain healthy fats, which are critical for hormone production.

Arugula Breakfast Salad with Toasted Pistachio and Soft Eggs

Mushrooms

Oyster mushrooms, in particular, contain compounds that may block aromatase. Aromatase’s primary function is to produce estrogens. Therefore, mushrooms could aid in reducing estrogen in the body. In addition to culinary mushrooms, functional mushrooms may help balance hormones in the body.

Caramelized Onion and Spinach Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

Kale, Persimmon, & Pomegranate Salad

Antioxidant-rich pomegranate seeds contain a natural compound that can inhibit the enzyme that converts estrone into estradiol. In other words, pomegranates can help modulate excess estrogen in the body.

Kale, Persimmon, and Pomegranate Salad

Red Grapes

In the skin of red grapes is resveratrol, a chemical that works to block estrogen production. Along with acting as an antioxidant, resveratrol helps flush excess estrogen from the body. Foods rich in resveratrol can also help reduce levels of testosterone.

Baked Brie Cheeseboard

Whole Grains

When it comes to choosing grains, make sure to buy 100% whole grain, preferably in their whole state. For example, quinoa seeds or whole oats instead of instant oatmeal or wheat bread. Whole grains retain a rich nutrient profile, including fiber and hormone-balancing B vitamins. Whole grains stabilize blood sugar, important for estrogen balance.

Mediterranean Grain Bowl

The post Elevated Estrogen Could Be the Reason You’re Feeling Tired—These 10 Foods Can Help appeared first on Camille Styles.

In our fast-paced world, where the allure of quick fixes and immediate results often dominates, we tend to overlook the healing powers that exist within us. Increasingly, many are seeking answers in ancient healing practices and innovative approaches to wellness. Among these emerging resources, Lymphatic Enhancement Therapy (LET) is gaining traction for its ability to support our innate healing responses. But does LET live up to its growing reputation?

By utilizing a combination of sound waves, electrostatic currents, and light therapy, LET stimulates the lymphatic system, promoting detoxification and overall wellness. It’s a compelling solution to many of the modern health complications we commonly face—bloating, fatigue, and general sluggishness. These are all signs that our bodies may be out of balance, and that we may need support in returning to a place of optimal well-being. LET offers a powerful option, encouraging the movement of stagnant fluids and metabolic waste while fortifying our immune system.

Featured image from our interview with Janessa Leoné by Teal Thomsen.

Lymphatic Enhancement Therapy: The Treatment You Need to Know About

For a deeper dive, I spoke with Brooke Taylor, founder of The Road in Austin, Texas, who specializes in holistic skincare and Chinese medicine. With her extensive background as an esthetician and global skincare educator, Brooke offers her insights into the transformative potential of LET and its role in our overall health. In our conversation, she sheds light on what’s behind this therapy and explores its benefits, helping us better understand how LET may align with our wellness journeys.

Brooke Taylor LAc, MAcOM

Brooke created The Road in Austin, Texas to share her experience in holistic skincare, acupuncture and Chinese medicine to nurture our own innate healing responses. Previously an esthetician and global skincare educator and brand manager, she pursued her masters in Chinese medicine to help heal others on a deeper level.

What is Lymphatic Enhancement Therapy (LET)?

Taylor describes Lymphatic Enhancement Therapy (LET) as “an innovative approach to lymphatic release.” This cutting-edge therapy utilizes an electronic device that combines various frequencies, including sound waves, electrostatic currents, and light therapy. “By stimulating the lymphatic capillaries, LET enhances fluid movement,” she explains, which is essential for removing metabolic waste and breaking down protein-rich fluids within our tissues.

What are the most common health issues or conditions that can benefit from LET?

LET offers significant benefits for a variety of health issues and conditions. According to Taylor, “LET helps mobilize stagnant hormones and fluid, while also breaking up fibrocystic changes in the tissue.” This is particularly important as it promotes the body’s natural detoxification and healing processes, strengthening not just the lymphatic system, but also the digestive system, liver, and gallbladder.

“LET is considered more powerful than manual lymphatic massage, and is meant to complement the manual technique.” – Brooke Taylor

Taylor emphasizes that “patients often find LET to be an invaluable resource,” especially when they deal with persistent conditions. Many use the therapy to support their recovery from allergies, scar tissue, and post-surgical complications, demonstrating its vital role in enhancing overall health and well-being.

What are some of the biggest misconceptions people have about the lymphatic system and its role in overall health?

Misconceptions about the lymphatic system often stem from a lack of understanding of its critical role in overall health. Taylor points out that “the importance of the lymphatic system lies in its close connection to the immune system,” serving as a vital pathway for immune protection against disease and infection. For too long, this system was overlooked, despite its integral role in initiating immune responses through nodes and vessels that prevent toxin buildup.

Many people may not recognize that symptoms like brain fog, water retention, and fatigue can be indicators of lymphatic stagnation. As Taylor notes, these issues can manifest in various ways, including dry or itchy skin, bloating, and weakened immunity. It’s a reminder of how interconnected our body’s systems truly are.

Additionally, there’s a common misunderstanding of how the lymphatic system operates. Unlike the blood, which circulates in a closed loop through the heart, “the lymphatic system relies on the movement of fascia and muscle to generate flow,” Taylor explains. This makes physical activity essential for lymphatic health. Even simple actions like walking and stretching can significantly enhance lymphatic function. Engaging in deep breathing exercises that activate the diaphragm can also have profound benefits.

Lymphatic Health for the Brain

The importance of lymphatic health, particularly for the brain, is becoming increasingly recognized, especially as we age. Taylor emphasizes that “more focus will be placed on glymphatic health,” referring to the brain’s lymphatic system. “At The Desert Canary, we’ve introduced a specific modality designed to optimize glymphatic function, particularly beneficial after injuries like concussions or strokes.”

In her facial care practice, Taylor observes a consistent mistake: many people apply too much pressure when trying to move lymphatic fluid effectively. “The more superficial the nodes and vessels, the lighter the touch,” she explains. It’s essential to open the pathways in the correct sequence, gently working your way up to encourage fluid flow. For those struggling with puffy eyes or heavy eyelids, she advises focusing on moving lymph back through the scalp and sides of the neck. “This is a big one,” she notes, especially as many people engage in gua sha but often neglect to continue the motion up to the hairline.

Other practices stimulate the lymph, such as massage, dry brushing, guasha, etc. How does LET differ from these other types of lymphatic drainage techniques? 

“This is a big distinction of LET,” says Taylor. Unlike techniques that rely solely on manual manipulation—whether through hands, brushes, or gua sha—LET utilizes technology to enhance lymphatic flow. While manual methods often follow specific patterns and directions to encourage fluid movement, practitioners can have varying styles when working with the lymphatic pulse to address stagnation.

In contrast, LET employs frequencies delivered through bulbs to stimulate lymphatic movement, especially in sluggish areas. “The practitioner can often sense if flow is improving with the frequencies by the way they behave on the skin,” Taylor explains. After the affected areas receive LET treatment, the practitioner returns to manual techniques to fine-tune the flow, building upon the initial stimulation provided by the device. “This is a much more powerful way to perform lymphatic massage,” she concludes, illustrating how LET enhances traditional practices for more effective results.

How to Maintain a Healthy Lymphatic System Between Sessions

Movement

Manual DIY therapies like dry brushing and self-massage can effectively support lymphatic health, especially when paired with exercise. “Movement during the day is key when we spend hours sitting,” Taylor notes, emphasizing the importance of standing, stretching, and walking. For those with compromised circulation, she recommends wearing compression stockings, particularly during long flights. “There are lots of new companies on the market making fashionable compression socks to appeal to a younger crowd,” she adds.

Nutrition

Nutrition plays a supportive role as well. Taylor advises avoiding common culprits of poor health, such as seed oils, sugar, and refined foods, to promote lymphatic wellness. She mentions specific tinctures, like Zuma Nutrition Lymphatic Cleanse with cleavers, figwort root, and cayenne, which can enhance hydration. “Staying consistently hydrated with pure water is very important for flow,” she stresses, as the lymphatic system relies on proper hydration to function. To aid absorption, she refers to the book Quench, which suggests consuming fiber-dense foods, like apples, before drinking water. “A sluggish lymphatic system can show up as dry skin, no matter how much water you are consuming,” she explains, underscoring the importance of holistic approaches to lymphatic care.

Self-Care

Sharing her personal routine, Taylor reveals, “I love dry brushing before showering, and I don’t let the water get too hot.” She finishes her showers with cold water and uses a filter from Jolie Skin Co. to remove chlorine and heavy metals. “I also do the Big 6 and wear a compression sock on one leg that has more issues with lymphatic flow,” she says. Taylor also incorporates red light therapy, which is believed to enhance circulation. “One side effect of lymphatic massage therapy is peeing a lot afterward,” she notes with a laugh, as the fluids exit the system as intended. She also practices fascia techniques developed by her colleague Kaita Mrazek, founder of The Listening Movement, to further improve lymphatic efficiency.

Jolie Skin Co.

Filtered Showerhead

$165 at Revolve

Quench by Dana Cohen & Gina Bria

$12.69 at Target

Lymphatic Cleanse Tonic

$39.95 at Zuma Nutrition

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Contraindications for LET

“LET isn’t suited for everyone,” Taylor emphasizes. She notes that certain conditions can pose risks, explaining, “It’s not recommended for pregnancy, active cancer, or undiagnosed lumps, tumors, or nodules.” Additionally, she warns against its use for those with implanted medical devices, such as pacemakers, or individuals experiencing congestive heart failure.

“Open wounds, lesions, and skin infections are also contraindications,” she cautions. Taylor encourages open communication with your provider, saying, “Always speak with your practitioner if you’ve had recent injections, breast implants, or any other implants.”

Preparing for Your LET Session

• Clean dry skin is best. Limit or avoid lotions, oils, and thick deodorant.
• Stay well hydrated before and after your session.

Post-Session

• Hydrate, rest, or engage in gentle movement. Don’t overdo it!
• LET works well with manual lymphatic massage therapy, red light therapy, cupping therapy, and acupuncture, which has been shown to enhance outcomes of lymphatic massage to move fluid and de-puff. 

The post Say Goodbye to Bloating: This Lymphatic Treatment Is a Game-Changer appeared first on Camille Styles.

When I’m feeling nostalgic, I think back to the days when staying up late was a rite of passage. Growing up, I resented my 7 p.m. bedtime and hoped against hope that my parents would let me stay up just a couple more hours. Even as a college student, all-nighters were the norm and forgoing sleep felt like the only way to have a social life. Well, needless to say that I, along with many of you, no longer want to function on too few hours of sleep. We’re big fans of sleep around here and will try almost anything to ensure we’re getting at least 8 hours a night. That’s why we’ve rounded up the best sleep products. Here’s hoping they help you get some restorative shut-eye, too.

Featured image from our interview with Sanne Vloet by Michelle Nash.

The Best Sleep Products for a Peaceful Slumber

From calm-inducing capsules to relaxing pillow mists and the most luxurious pajamas you’ve ever slipped on, these are the tried-and-true products that’ll help us all ease into a peaceful slumber. As always, consult your physician if you have specific needs or questions! 

Best Pajamas

Gone are the days of leaning on old college t-shirts as our wear-to-bed wardrobe. Dedicated pajamas are essential for a good night’s sleep, combining comfort, style, and practicality. Look for materials like soft cotton, breathable linen, or luxurious silk that feel gentle against the skin and allow for optimal temperature regulation. Investing in high-quality pajamas can elevate your nighttime ritual. With the right pair, you’ll not only look chic but also feel cozy and ready for a restorative night’s sleep.

Shop Pajamas

Dagsmejan

Nattcool Sleep Tech Slip Top Cross Strap

Experience ultimate comfort and style with this universally flattering, cross-back top.

$95.90 at Dagsmejan

Dagsmejan

Nattcool Sleep Tech Wide Pants

Expertly designed with moisture-wicking fabric that regulates temperature and ensures breathability, allowing you to sleep soundly without overheating.

$109.90 at Dagsmejan

Quince

100% Washable Silk Pajama Tee

This shirt features a relaxed silhouette and lightweight, breathable silk that offers a smooth feel against your skin, making it the ideal piece for a cozy night in.

$69.90 at Quince

Quince

100% Washable Silk Pajama Shorts

These shorts are crafted from soft, breathable silk for a chic and relaxed fit that effortlessly elevates your bedtime routine.

$49.90 at Quince

J. Crew

Long-Sleeve Pajama Pant Set

Cozy up in style with this set designed in a soft, breathable fabric that offers ultimate comfort and a classic silhouette.

$118 at J. Crew

Lunya

Washable Silk Romper

This luxurious yet practical piece is crafted from breathable, machine-washable silk that ensures comfort and elegance for restful nights.

$218 at Lunya

Sleep Supplements

While I prefer to look to food first for my essential nutrients, sleep supplements can also play a vital role in enhancing your nightly rest. Look for natural ingredients such as melatonin, which helps regulate sleep-wake cycles, or magnesium, known for its calming effects on the nervous system. Adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha and valerian root are also popular choices for reducing stress and promoting relaxation. Formulas that combine multiple sleep-supporting ingredients can provide a synergistic effect, helping you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.

These days, many supplements are available in convenient—and often delicious—forms. You can find everything from gummies to sleep lattes that are easy to incorporate into your nightly routine.

Shop Sleep Supplements

clevr

Sleeptime SuperLatte

Unwind with this creamy oat milk latte, a soothing blend of adaptogens formulated to calm your mind and body before bed.

$21.49 at Target

Super Patch

REM Super Patch

Designed to naturally support your body’s sleep cycle, simply apply the patch before bed to slip into a restorative slumber.

$60 at Super Patch

MoonBrew

Night Time Superfoods

Unwind and support your body’s natural rhythms with this caffeine-free blend of adaptogens and herbs designed to improve sleep.

$48 at Moonbrew

Fleur Marché

Sleep, Plz. Patches

Feel calm and relaxed with these quick-acting patches—just apply to your inner forearm and wake up refreshed.

$42 at Fleur Marché

Juna

Nightcap Sleep Gummies

Drift into deep, restful sleep with these tasty gummies—featuring non-groggy melatonin, magnesium, and a botanical blend.

$42 at Juna

Moon Juice

Magnesi-Om

Moon Juice’s Magnesi-Om combines magnesium and L-theanine to help you relax, all while tasting like a bedtime treat.

$44 at Moon Juice

Sleep Products for the Bedroom

Creating a rest-friendly bedroom starts with the best sleep products designed to enhance comfort and promote relaxation. Incorporate soft, breathable bedding, such as organic cotton or luxurious silk, to create a cozy atmosphere. (I love weighted blankets and find mine helps reduce the anxiety that once kept me up at night.) Soft lighting, like a dimmable bedside lamp, helps set the mood, while essential oil diffusers or sleep sprays can infuse your space with soothing scents. It’s all about cultivating a calming environment, so you can slip into a restful, restorative sleep.

Shop Bedroom Sleep Products

alo

Aura Diffuser

Elevate any space with this sleek, cordless design that brings calming vibes to any room. Add your favorite essential oils to unwind or create an inviting ambiance.

$98 at alo

Loftie

Loftie Lamp

This beautiful alarm clock and smart lamp features adjustable warm light, customizable wake-up sounds, and a sleep aid function that helps you unwind with soothing soundscapes.

$200 (reg. $249.99) at Loftie

FluffCo

Silk Pillowcase

Crafted from 100% pure mulberry silk to minimize hair breakage and maintain your skin’s moisture, this silk pillowcase ensures you wake up every morning refreshed.

$79 (reg. $99) at FluffCo

OSEA

Vagus Nerve Pillow Mist

The vagus nerve helps activate the body’s relaxation response and regulate stress. This light, subtle scent is perfect for spraying on linens before bed.

$38 at OSEA

Bearaby

Cotton Weighted Blanket

This cozy, chunky-knit blanket is designed to provide gentle pressure that soothes anxiety and promotes restful sleep.

$179 (reg. $199) at Bearaby

Wilde House Paper

Night Routine Journal

With guided prompts and pages that encourage reflection and gratitude, this journal helps you craft an intentional nighttime ritual.

$28 at Wilde House Paper

The post Restless Nights? These 18 Products Will Give You the Best Sleep of Your Life appeared first on Camille Styles.

Meditation. Mindfulness. Movement. Meet the alliterative trifecta of stress-reducing practices. It’s no secret that these ubiquitous solutions to stress are widely written about and adopted. After all, they’re known to increase stress resilience and improve our ability to cope with triggers. But as we know, what we eat can also have the power to transform how we feel. Truly, it’s no secret that nutritious meals can boost our mood. And when it comes to the best stress-relieving foods, delicious, supportive ingredients are the key to feeling our best.

I’m wary of sweeping generalizations, but it’s safe to say that we’re likely all pretty familiar with the concept of stress. It can be assumed that we’ve likely all experienced it, too. Reports of a national mental health crisis are on the rise—and they have been for years. A March 2022 ValuePenguin survey found that 84% of Americans feel stressed at least once per week (an increase from 78% reported in March 2021). In other words: not good.

The Expert on Stress-Relieving Foods

The good news though, is that we can intentionally design our meals, snacks, drinks, and occasional indulgences to combat the creeping stress. When it comes to stress-relieving foods, the usual suspects prevail. Fruits, nuts, and adaptogenic herbs reign supreme, but adding a few surprise superfoods to the mix (hint, hint: organ meats) will contribute to a happier, healthier outlook and life.

I’ve teased the takeaways long enough. Ahead Kim Rose, RDN, shares her expertise in the world of stress-relieving foods. Keep reading for her top seven foods to eat for stress, plus key insights into the role diet plays in improving mental and emotional wellness. Let’s dive in.

Kim Rose, RDN

Kim Rose, RDN, CDCES, CNSC is a registered dietitian nutritionist based in Florida. Her mission is to guide others to become more educated and aware of how to navigate personal health issues. Kim provides culturally inclusive nutrition counseling by addressing common and complex food and wellness topics that highlight the individual’s needs.

Foods to Avoid or Limit to Reduce Stress

Rose cites alcohol and “sugary, caffeine-laden beverages” like energy drinks as being two of the biggest stress-inducing culprits. “Energy drinks may give you an artificial boost,” notes the dietitian, “but they can leave you with undesirable mental health outcomes that inflict stress.” Of course, our social and even professional lives are often structured around going out for drinks, ordering wine with dinner, and enjoying the occasional nightcap. But according to Rose, adopting a sober-curious lifestyle can help keep stress levels stable. (Because, after all, a little *good* stress comes with its own health benefits.)

If you don’t want to cut out alcohol completely, Rose looks to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for an understanding of safe, recommended amounts of alcohol. Daily recommendations suggest no more than one serving of alcohol for women and no more than two servings for men, daily. “Alcohol may initially free your inhibitions and drown your stress, but it’s likely to leave you more stressed than you were before consumption,” she says. (See here for our favorite zero-ABV drinks that offer a tasty break from the booze.)

The Role Adaptogens Play in Stress-Relief

A buzzy word in wellness, adaptogens have been used in Chinese and Ayurvedic healing traditions for centuries to combat stress. “Think of adaptogenic plants as natural stress regulators,” says Rose. Her top two favorites? Holy basil and ashwagandha. “Holy basil,” she notes, “is one adaptogenic plant that provides a foundation of calm to help us unwind after a long day.”

Ashwagandha, however, is perhaps the adaptogen that garners the most interest and attention. Rose says its popularity can be attributed to its stress-relieving magic. “The roots and berries of the ashwagandha plant have been used in traditional medicine for various purposes to enable you to relax and sleep well for a nightly recharge.”

What to Keep in Mind When Shopping for Adaptogens

Unfortunately, as with any health trend, suspicious products often flood the market. To be sure you’re purchasing high-quality, supportive adaptogens, Rose says to look for vendors with a National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) certification. “NSF certification ensures that products, such as dietary supplements, have been tested for safety and that what’s listed on the label is what is in the product.”

For calmer days ahead, Rose emphasizes ensuring that you’re purchasing products with “clinically-effective levels of the adaptogen in question. This is another way to ensure that you get the benefit of that ingredient—in addition to clearing your use of it with your doctor, which is most important.”

7 Stress-Relieving Foods a Nutritionist Wants You to Try

Chamomile Tea

Already well-attuned to sipping chamomile tea as a before-bed beverage? Not only are you helping your sleepy self snooze away, but you’re proactively decreasing stress levels, too. Rose recommends brewing a cup at night to wind down or any time you’re craving something soothing throughout the day. Functional nightcaps for the win.

Recipe: Chamomile and Jasmine Herbal Ice Cubes

Poultry

It’s no wonder turkey lulls us to sleep in the middle of our Thanksgiving meal, and according to Rose, it’s all thanks to tryptophan. “Tryptophan is an essential amino acid that our bodies can’t make; consequently, we must get it from the foods we eat.” She adds that tryptophan is the sole precursor to serotonin. Sound familiar? Yep—serotonin’s the feel-good, burnout-beating hormone known to reduce depression and regulate anxiety.

Recipe: Whole Roasted Chicken

Avocado

Our forever-favorite fruit (a berry, if we’re getting specific) knows no bounds. Lauded equally for being full of skin-supporting biotin as they are for being delicious on a slice of toasted sourdough, avocados are also rich in magnesium. “Magnesium is important for stress management and guarding the body against susceptibility to stress,” adds Rose.

Recipe: Grapefruit, Avocado, and Golden Beet Salad with Crunchy Chickpeas and Feta

Cashews

If they aren’t already your go-to snack, it’s time to stock up. “Cashew nuts are the way to go when looking for a tryptophan-rich food that can help you avoid burnout,” suggests Rose. If you don’t consume or crave poultry, cashews are a great plant-based option—and they make this cozy soup delectably creamy.

Recipe: Big Green Immunity-Boosting Vegetable Soup

Organ Meats

Now here’s the wild card. Rose advises adding liver, gizzards, and kidneys to your cart during your next trip to the store. “Vitamin B-2, also known as riboflavin, is found in organ meats,” she says. “Riboflavin helps to convert carbohydrates into energy that the body can use. It may also help you overcome the physical aspects of burnout.” Those benefits are enough to make anyone a believer. And if you’re still wary, trust that the taste is surprisingly, incredibly palatable. Some may say delicious.

Recipe: Chicken Liver Paté from Wholesome Yum

Dark Chocolate

Chocolate lovers, unite! This tried-and-true, health-promoting staple is a favorite among the wellness-obsessed—and for good reason. “One, among several benefits,” notes Rose, “is that dark chocolate can be a great mood booster, combatting the overwhelming feelings of burnout.” Another reason to always say yes to a midday or after-dinner treat. These truffles pair the superfood with avocado to double down on the calm-inducing effects.

Recipe: Dark Chocolate Avocado Truffles from Eating Bird Food

Adaptogen-Fueled Beverages

If you’re new to the (wide) world of adaptogens, one of the easiest ways to reap the stress-busting benefits is to incorporate them into your drinks. This creamy and comforting hot cocoa incorporates a mix of adaptogens and is perfect for sipping after your nighttime meal.

Recipe: Adaptogenic Hot Chocolate

The post If You’re Feeling Stressed, a Nutritionist Says to Try Eating These 7 Foods appeared first on Camille Styles.

While we love a good wellness ritual, we also like to make sure we are spending our time and money on something that is actually effective. Touted by influencers and celebrities alike as their secret to glowing skin, dry brushing is said to exfoliate dead skin, stimulate your lymphatic system, reduce cellulite, decongest the skin, and more. But you’ve probably heard all about the benefits by now. Today we’re diving deep into how to dry brush—so you can reap all the smooth, glowy, detoxed results.

How to Dry Brush, According to a Holistic Beauty Expert

We chatted with facialist, acupunturist and TCM expert, Brooke Taylor, for the lowdown on all things dry brushing. Taylor incorporates dry brushing into some of her blissful and incredibly restorative in-studio offerings and she shares amazing insight into how it can be the perfect ritual to incorporate into our everyday self-care at home. We love her tips for making the experience a complete and deeply therapeutic practice.

Scroll on for the low-down on all things dry brushing, how to do to it, and some tried-and-true products to incorporate into your practice.

The History Behind Dry Brushing

Dry brushing continues to gain in popularity for its results, but the concept is far from new. Some say it originated in Ayurvedic medicine, a 5000-year-old Hindu traditional medicine, where it’s known as Garashana. Usually performed using silk or linen gloves prior to a morning bath, the technique was thought to suit Kapha body types—those more likely to have a sluggish lymphatic system. Other ancient cultures that performed a version of dry brushing include the Japanese, Ancient Greeks, Romans, Scandanavians, and Native Americans, while some have noted Ancient Egyptians as the pioneers of dry brushing.

Taylor’s personal fondness for the benefits of dry brushing grew from a time when she explained to a savvy spa director in Vail, Colorado of not being able to warm her hands and feet while living in the mountains. This mentor declared, “Why aren’t you dry brushing daily?” Turns out there’s good reason to make this a regular ritual, as it can boost vascular circulation. The spa director’s advice jived with her later education in the field of Chinese medicine, where they historically used silk squash, better known as loofah, to soften the skin.

What is dry brushing?

Modern techniques have evolved to rely on natural bristles for the best results. Brushes usually vary, with long handles, straps, or short handles, and fibers from boar hair to vegan, with or without massage knobs. The brushes are used over the body in gentle but firm strokes to exfoliate, soften, and smooth dry skin, as well as stimulate circulation and assist in moving fluids to provide a more firm appearance.

The benefits of dry brushing

• Gentle exfoliation. The physical action of bristles on dry skin will remove surface skin debris to reveal smoother skin with regular practice.
• Improved vascular circulation. The movement helps sluggish circulation in the blood vessels as circulation is stimulated with the pressure of the bristles.
• Prep for deeper hydration. The exfoliating effect of the dry brush allows your moisturizer to be more effective.
• Lymph movement and gentle detox. While detoxing might be the buzz, this effect can be slightly limited and temporary. Brushing can, however, move fluids, which can change the appearance of the skin as brushing along the lymphatic pathways is thought to improve circulation, stimulating nodes and vessels while moving in strokes towards the heart.
• Clear clogged pores. Dry brushing can help keep hair follicles from becoming clogged or ingrown and can help with Keratosis Pilaris, especially when followed by a shower or bath and super nourishing balm or oil.
• Plumped skin. Plenty of women take up dry brushing to improve the appearance of cellulite. While this benefit might be anecdotal, some swear by the benefits for minimizing the appearance of the dimples, especially when combined with other beneficial treatments and lifestyle choices. Choose a brush with the massage nodules to increase the effectiveness in these areas, and plan to do this regularly to maintain.
• Stimulated meridians. In TCM you don’t skip the hands and feet. Meridians (the energetic pathways running up and down the body) meet here and stimulating these areas can help systems to improve sleep and digestion, and help warm the extremities.

Dry Brushing Steps

1. Dry brush is usually done before showering, with dry skin.
2. Apply slightly firm pressure. It might feel gently abrasive but shouldn’t be uncomfortable.
3. Gently brush the hands and feet to cover the meridians in the extremities.
4. Gently, but firmly, starting at the toes, move upward in lengthening strokes, spending time to circle around the joints.
5. Brush in clockwise circles on the stomach and décolletage.
6. Lift arms up in the air and move from elbows towards underarms, and upward from waist to underarms.
7. Brush fingers, palms of hands, and up. As long as you’re moving inward towards the heart, you’re set.
8. Follow with a soak, a cold rinse, and nourishing body oil.
9. Take your time, breathe, and enjoy.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Dry Brush Session

You can increase your return on the mind/body benefits of dry brushing by making a ritual of the practice. Your body will let you know if you are brushing too much or too firmly. It should not irritate the skin. Be mindful to choose a brush according to your skin sensitivities or texture.

The modern take on dry brushing would be to combine it with other self-care treatments. Practices like breathwork and mindfulness while brushing, taking a cold shower/plunge post-brushing, and following with nourishing oil blends with actives such as CBD or vitamins that target tissue repair, strengthen the skin, or encourage fluid movement.

How often should you dry brush?

Twice a week is a good amount to see results. It can take a few times to adjust to the feel of the bristles, but you’ll usually grow to love the process and results.

Dry Brushing Risks

Do not go over sensitive areas where you have a cut or abrasion, or just after shaving. If you are struggling with eczema, psoriasis, or other serious skin conditions, steer clear of dry brushing as it can be irritating to those conditions. Being too vigorous can compromise the skin—gentle but firm is best. Do not use a body brush on the delicate skin of the face. And lastly, don’t share your brush!

What to Look for in a Dry Brush

• Natural fibers. Plant or animal hair is best. Do not choose one that’s too stiff or harsh.
• Short-handled brushes or handheld brushes with a strap across are great for grip and ease of use. You can also try a longer-handled brush for hard-to-reach areas.

Brush Care

• Keep your dry brush dry.
• Shake, tap, or rub with a cloth to remove dry skin.
• If washing with soap and water, make sure to drip dry face down to prevent mildew or deterioration.

The Best Products to Use for Dry Brushing

From our favorite dry brushes to the most luxurious body oils, if you’re wondering how to dry brush, these products to start.

Storage tips from Taylor: If you rest it with the bristle down, the weight might crush the fibers over time. I would probably try to hang this one somehow, safely, so it won’t slide off and break.

Supercharge Copper Body Brush

$69 at HigherDose

Baudelaire Dry Brush

$30 at Haven Well Within

Threshold

Osea Plant-Based Body Brush

$28 at Credo

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Body Oils

The best body oils for dry brushing offer a lovely lightweight texture and complexity for a sensory journey. Use AM and PM daily by massaging the oil into dry skin. Pre-shower, use your dry brush to exfoliate or pair with a lotion post-shower for boosted hydration. The ritual feels so luxurious and leaves skin incredibly soft.

Everyday Oil, Mainstay Blend

$52 at Credo

Klur Elements of Comfort Body Oil

$70 at Credo

Dew Body Oil

$58 at Oak Essentials

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It’s always good to receive!

To experience a treatment with Taylor, book the Eastern Face Lift with body dry brushing and opt for dry brushing. I can speak from experience: amazing and so incredibly rejuvenating. This session includes dry brushing and gua sha for the meridians of the extremities with warm body oils before moving on to sculpting the face with gua sha and cupping. The dry brushing in this treatment adds amazing benefits of moving circulation and skin-softening head to toe, all while working with your Qi according to Chinese Medicine. For me, she focused on points in the body to boost energy, as well as liver and digestion support, and I left feeling so energized and soothed post-treatment. She’s happy to customize treatments to suit you, just shoot her a message.

Body treatments at many spas offer dry brushing as either part of specific treatments, or as an upgrade to massage. If you’re local to Austin or one of their other locations, try the treatments at Milk + Honey to experience dry brushing with a little pampering. This is a great way to experience the techniques firsthand

The post I’ve Been Dry Brushing Twice a Week—And I Can’t Get Over the Results appeared first on Camille Styles.

This summer in Texas has been particularly brutal when it comes to the heat. While I usually spend my summers exercising outdoors, with temperatures in the triple digits, anything that involves excessive movement is pretty much off the table. In the past few months, I’ve been on a mission to find the best way to stay in shape, not overheat, and still stay connected with nature. The result? A newfound love for low-impact exercises.

While you can always take an indoor yoga, bar, or cycling class to beat the heat, if you’re looking for exercises you can do at home without nearing heat exhaustion—we’ve got you covered. Jordan Hana, certified yoga teacher and yoga sculpt instructor, gave us the run-down on the benefits of keeping your movement low-impact, the best exercises to implement into your weekly routine, and how to do it all safely in the heat.

Featured image from our interview with Sanne Vloet by Michelle Nash.

Jordan Hana

Jordan Hana is the founder & creator of The Arrow Methid—a fitness program that provides fun & invigorating fitness classes that challenge minds and bodies collectively through movement. The joy-filled variety of workouts span across Yoga (power & yin), Sculpt and Barre. Hana’s certifications include 200 Hour E-RYT (Corepower), Yoga Sculpt (Corepower), Barre (Barre Eclipse), Yoga Nidra (Soul & Steady).

What Makes Exercise Low-Impact

Low impact is simply just that—light (little to no) impact on your joints and at least one foot (if not both) connected to the ground. Low-impact exercises increase your heart rate slowly, are more fluid in motion, and are more gentle on the body. A few low-impact exercises include walking, yoga, pilates, barre, and swimming.

How Low-Impact Exercise Benefits the Body

Low-impact exercise is amazing for anyone and everyone. It’s generally safer and decreases your risk of injury as opposed to high-impact movement. Low-impact exercises tend to place some focus on flexibility, which is great for stability, alignment, and balance and can be used as a form of active recovery on days when you don’t want to rest but don’t want to overdo it. 

I am a HUGE fan of low-impact workouts 5 times a week, but I know that many of us are yearning for a quick, high-intensity workout. I personally love three days of low impact, two days of high impact, and two days of rest. If, on a rest day, you want more, a low-impact walk is a perfect form of active recovery! 

I’m not a doctor, but I genuinely think that low-impact exercises help with overall mental health—moving slowly, connecting with breath, and enjoying the workout—even a simple walk can do this!

Sample Workout Plan

If you’re looking to incorporate low-impact exercises into your weekly workout regime, Hana’s typical weekly workout schedule might help you get on track.

Monday: Barre

Tuesday: HIIT (a treadmill workout class)

Wednesday: Yoga

Thursday: HIIT (Cycling Class)

Friday: Pilates

Hana typically adds a walk into her weekly workout schedule as well—usually 2-3 days a week. It helps her get outside and take her two adorable pups for a walk. Outside time is key, not only for physical health but for boosting our mental wellness, too. Even just a 10-minute walk can do wonders. And if you’re avoiding the heat, try incorporating an early morning or evening walk into your routine.

Hana’s biggest note: get in tune with your body and start to listen to what it’s telling you. Soreness, injury, and major discomfort are telling you something is going on, and maybe you need to take a step back from the high-intensity workouts. If you’re new to fitness and unsure where to start, more low-impact workouts are definitely the way to go. And if you’re going the group fitness route, always let the instructor know you’re new! They love supporting beginners and helping you get the most from your workout.

Get in tune with your body and start to listen to what it’s telling you.

The Best Equipment for Low-Impact Exercises

Truly, the best thing about low-impact workouts is you really don’t need much! Your body weight is hands-down the best tool for low-impact exercises.

If you’re looking to expand your fitness equipment repertoire, a yoga mat is perfect to support your body so you’re not directly on the grass or concrete. I always like to incorporate hand weights—for a barre or pilates class, I suggest 3-5 pound weights—an exercise pilates ball (small, about six inches), and an exercise band. The addition of weights, pilates ball, and exercise bands allow you to expand and build more muscles, but moving slowly within these exercises ensures proper form and less risk of injury. Always the option to have a towel for sweat, music for good vibes, and water to hydrate—a definite MUST! 

The Wavy Mat

$129 at Bala

Basic Hand Weight Set Pink/White/Magenta – All In Motion

$49.99 at Target

Bala Pilates Ball

$29 at Free People Movement

Blogilates Loop Bands – 4pk

$14.99 at Target

Tips for Working Out in the Heat

Adding heat (whether outdoors or indoors) increases the stress you place on your body, meaning the temperature of your body is increasing. It also dehydrates the body as you lose more fluids during these workouts, basically meaning you can fatigue faster. Your body also can’t cool itself as fast, so just make sure to take adequate breaths and prioritize recovery and hydration to help support your body within these workouts.

My #1 tip: Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate—this is key to working out in the heat. Adding an electrolyte supplement to your water is also a great way to replenish the minerals you lose when sweating! 

Other tips to think about:

• Wear the right clothing. Lightweight, sweat-resistant, and breathable materials that are light in color
• Know where you’re at. If you’re new to working out outdoors (or in the heat), start slowly and increase gradually. Know your limits, and don’t push it if you don’t have to.
• Use sunscreen outdoors. Another must!

9 Low-Impact Exercises a Trainer Loves

Overall workouts:

• Go for a 30-45 minute walk. This is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and get a sweat in without doing anything too strenuous.

• Yoga—Flow through some Sun A’s. One of the foundations of vinyasa yoga is sun salutations. Sun Salutation A is a series of nine movements that sync to your breath to help build balance and strength in a subtle way.

Squat + Oblique Twist

Also known as a ‘pop squat twist,’ this exercise targets your glutes, quads, and obliques. While it can be done without any equipment, you can add an exercise band around your upper calf to increase tension and turn on your glutes during your squat.

Donkey Kicks

Donkey kicks are a highly glute-focused exercise that also activates the hamstrings and core. This exercise can be done on its own or by squeezing an exercise ball between your knee and hamstring.

Plank

While we all dread planks, they target your core and shoulders and are a fast way to build upper body strength. If the plank isn’t enough burn for you, add slow mountain climbers into your posture.

Bicep Curl to Overhead Shoulder Press

Your biceps and shoulders will feel it with this exercise. This is a great opportunity to use your hand weights (start with a lower weight and then increase) or find a water bottle or heavier object that’s laying around the house.

Lunge + Overhead Tricep Extension

Lunges with tricep extensions do it all—targeting glutes, quads, and triceps. Complete all reps on your right side before moving onto your left, and incorporate hand weights into this exercise.

Bird Dog

This exercise is done by extending your arm forward on all fours and then extending the opposite leg, crunching both limbs in toward your stomach to target your core, obliques, and glutes.

Pilates 100s

When I think of pilates, this is the first thing that comes to mind. Targeting your core, extend your legs at a diagonal while laying on your back on a mat. Reach your arms long by your side with palms facing down. Pump your arms vigorously but don’t lift any higher than the hips. While pumping arms, inhale for five counts and exhale for five counts to complete one exercise. When this is done 10 times with five inhales and five exhales, it equals 100.

Cobra/Locust

One of the core movements in vinyasa yoga is cobra/locust pose. This exercise activates your back muscles and glutes, squeezing both muscles to lift your body slightly off the ground.

The post A Trainer Swears By Low-Impact Exercise—Steal Her Weekly Workout Split appeared first on Camille Styles.

One day 12 years ago, I found myself on my hands and knees, scrubbing the walls of our house. It was during the nesting phase of my pregnancy that I realized how much the fumes were affecting me. Back then, non-toxic cleaning products weren’t as readily available as they are now, but from that point, I made it a mission to find non-chemical cleaners that were safe for my baby and for the environment. Sometimes that also meant getting out the good ol’ vinegar and bicarb soda.

The Best Non-Toxic Cleaning Products

Thankfully, brands have finally caught up with consumer demand, and the “clean” cleaning product market is booming. Awareness and education about the health implications of toxic chemicals have also made us choose cleaner beauty products and non-toxic cookware. But with so many brands to choose from, what are the best non-toxic cleaning products to buy?

Ahead, we share some of our favorite non-toxic cleaning products that actually work (including one brand five of our editors use!) along with the chemicals you should steer clear of.

What to Toss

If you’re ready to swap to clean cleaning products then it’s time to ditch the toxic chemicals once and for all. Some key ingredients to avoid include:

Methylisothiazolinone, ammonia, butyl cellosolve/glycol ether, parabens, phosphates, synthetic fragrance, sodium lauryl sulfate, phthalates, 1-4 Dioxane, fragrance, dye, synthetic foaming agents, unnatural preservatives, water softening agents, pH adjusters, formaldehyde, bleach, artificial colors, and buffering agents.

Just like your food or beauty ingredient lists, always do your research. Look up the names of ingredients you’re unsure of, keep a list of the ones you want to avoid in your phone notes app, and typically (but not always) the fewer ingredients listed the better.

Healthier Non-Toxic Swaps

When possible, choose fragrance-free or all-natural organic products. Look for essential oils on the ingredients list for fragrance instead. (But opt out altogether if you’re sensitive to fragrances.) Use simple detergents and soaps with short ingredient lists, and avoid antibacterial products with triclosan for home use.

White vinegar is always a great choice for general cleaning and can also replace your fabric softener or dryer sheets—or opt for wool dryer balls.

Tea tree oil is another great antibacterial, antifungal alternative to chemical disinfectants. If you’re looking for an effective all-purpose germ-killing cleaner, simply add a few drops of tea tree oil and a tablespoon of vinegar to water (option to add your favorite essential oil for fragrance), then mix it all together in a spray bottle and start cleaning.

For stubborn surfaces like the bathroom, kitchen sink, or stovetops, I always reach for Bon Ami unscented powder. It’s made from natural ingredients like ground feldspar and baking soda without the added bleach, chlorine, dyes, or perfumes. It also doesn’t scratch surfaces. A hot tip for cleaning the toilet bowl: mix some vinegar with Borax powder.

Read on for more healthy swaps!

Starter Sets

Supernatural Cleaning Starter Set

When this set came out, it changed the game and helped launch more brands with a similar concept. Basically, you buy the starter set with four glass bottles—glass + mirror cleaner, counter + Granite cleaner, wood + floor cleaner, bath + tile cleaner. Simply add the Supernatural concentrate vials for each into the spray bottles with water. All you need to do is buy a new concentrate vial when you run out. So genius and they all smell amazing, too. 

The Supernatural Starter Set

$75 at Supernatural

Blueland The Clean Essentials Kit

The Blueland range is based on a similar concept to Supernatural. You buy the set but instead of a concentrate in a separate bottle, Blueland founder, Sarah Paiji Yoo, saved any additional environmental waste by turning the ingredients into cleaning tablets that dissolve in the water. I really love this waste-free, sustainable approach.

The Clean Essentials

$46 at Blueland

Homecourt Kitchen Trio

These sleek, simple, and minimalist bottles keep my under-the-sink storage from looking like a disaster (anyone relate?). It comes with a surface cleaner, hand wash, and dish soap in five elevated fragrance options. Because my hands often feel stripped of moisture and natural oils after cleaning, I love that the brand thought to formulate its argan oil-infused hand wash for a gentle cleanse. Click through for your cleanest clean.

Kitchen Trio

$70 at Homecourt

Branch Basics Premium Starter Kit

When I reached out to the Camille Styles editorial team to share the best non-toxic cleaning products they’ve tried, I was shocked when five of them replied at the same time with the same brand. That brand is Branch Basics. It helps our team pare down on single-use plastics and is Made Safe Certified, which means it’s made without the 6,500+ toxic chemicals known to be harmful to both humans and the environment.

Premium Starter Kit

$75 at Branch Basics

Koala Eco Home Gift Collection

This company checks off all the boxes when it comes to creating beautifully fragrant, non-toxic products that still keep your home fresh and squeaky clean. This starter set includes the brand’s dish soap, multi-purpose cleaner, and hand wash. Each contains fragrances that’ll give every corner of your home major spa-like vibes.

Home Gift Collection

$35 at Koala Eco

Kitchen Cleaners

Biom All-Purpose Cleaning Wipes Starter Kit

Not only are these cleaning wipes a minimalist homeowner’s dream, but they also boast a plant-based and biodegradable seal. The wipes are gentle (safe on surfaces and skin!) and have a subtle, lovely scent in either grapefruit or lavender. They’re perfect for when you need to clean messy hands and countertops. And how cute is that refillable dispenser?

All-Purpose Cleaning Wipes Starter Kit

$38 at Biom

Cymbiotika Dish Soap Kit

That’s right, one of our favorite supplement brands also does non-toxic cleaning products. If you’re looking to make a non-toxic shift in the kitchen, then this Dish Soap Kit set is a good place to start. It will keep your dishes clean without the nasty chemicals and it looks nice, too.

Dish Soap Kit

$36 at Cymbiotika

Public Goods Surface Cleaner

Public Goods is all about making clean, sustainable cleaning products accessible to everyone. All of their products are affordable and effective. I also really love the branding.

Surface Cleaner

$7.95 at Public Goods

Grove Co. Dishwasher Detergent Packs

Finding an effective but clean dishwasher detergent wasn’t always easy until now. This one does double duty and it’s good value.

Dishwasher Detergent Packs

$6.99 at Grove Collaborative

Puracy Natural Dishwasher Detergent Packs

If you haven’t heard of Puracy, it’s time to get on board. I am a big fan of their surface cleaner (more on that later) so I can only imagine these have to be worth every penny as well.

Natural Dishwasher Detergent Pods

$17.84 (reg. $20.99) at Puracy

Blueland Dishwasher Starter Set

I love that these dishwasher tabs come in this convenient and chic little case. Just buy the refills and save on water and waste.

Dishwasher Starter Set

$25 at Blueland

L’Avant Collective High Performing Hand Soap

Every time I wash my hands with L’Avant Collective’s soap, it’s a luxe reminder to romanticize the little things in life. The bottle is impossibly chic for those of us who love pretty packaging as much as we love nourishing our skin with supportive ingredients. Win-win.

Blushed Bergamot High Performing Hand Soap

$36 at L'Avant Collective

L’Avant Collective Fresh Linen Multipurpose Cleaner

If stylish packaging is also important to you, then L’Avant also makes this beautiful multipurpose cleaner that won’t look out of place on the counter if you forget to put it back under the sink after using it.

Fresh Linen Multipurpose Surface Cleaner

$14 at L'Avant Collective

Puracy Natural Dish Soap

As I mentioned earlier, Puracy is a non-toxic cleaning brand that you need to have on your radar. It’s simple, fuss-free packaging with ingredients that smell good and do good.

Natural Dish Soap (Pack of 3)

$22.99 at Puracy

Puracy Natural Disinfecting Surface Cleaner

The Puracy surface cleaner is the hero of this line (in my opinion). It uses the power of hydrogen peroxide to kill 99.9% of germs but it also cuts through grease and grime. I really love this product.

Natural Disinfecting Surface Cleaner

$13.99 at Puracy

Everspring Lavender Bergamot Multi-Surface Cleaning Wipes

We are biiiig fans of Target’s non-toxic cleaning brand, Everspring. Camille loves the entire line but uses these cleaning wipes on the regular—very handy when you have young children! Not only do they cut through grease and grime but the compostable cloth is also ammonia-free with 100% natural fragrance and never tested on animals either.

Everspring Lavender Bergamot Multi-Surface Cleaning Wipes

$2.99 at Target

Laundry Products

Grove Collaborative Wool Dryer Balls

Ditch the dryer sheets for these eco-friendly hypoallergenic reusable wool dryer balls that help to reduce wrinkles and drying time.

Wool Dryer Balls

$19.99 at Grove Collaborative

Grove Collaborative Auto-Dosing Liquid Laundry Detergent Dispenser

I invested in this dispenser because I wanted to start buying my laundry liquid in bulk to save on waste. What I didn’t realize until it arrived was that this design has an auto-dosing feature. So when you turn the nozzle, it only pours out the correct dose you need for that load. It’s just so genius. Highly recommend.

Auto-Dosing Liquid Laundry Detergent Dispenser

$17.99 at Grove Collaborative

Grove Collaborative Ultra-Concentrated Liquid Laundry Detergent

There are so many fragrance options but I can never go past lavender. This one smells good and it also cleans our clothes well (because not all clean laundry detergents are created equal). If you want to remove tough stains though, I recommend trying out the Branch Basics Oxygen Boost.

Ultra-Concentrated Liquid Laundry Detergent

$9.99 at Grove Collaborative

Puracy Natural Stain Remover

Our Motherhood Editor, Brandy is a big fan of this stain remover and I have to agree. Unlike other non-toxic options, this one gets the job done.

Natural Laundry Stain Remover

$12.99 at Puracy

Blueland Laundry Starter Set

If you prefer tablets to liquid, then this laundry starter set is a great option. The beauty of these is that they’re naked, meaning they do not come individually wrapped in plastic film (PVA/PVOH or polyvinyl alcohol). Simply drop them into your washer for an earth-friendly clean—without sending dissolved plastic down the drain.

Laundry Starter Set

$25 at Blueland

Branch Basics Oxygen Boost

This is the number one product our editorial team swears by for removing stains. Contributing Editor Kelly is obsessed: “It’s got red wine out of a white blanket and completely blew my mind.” Needless to say, this is a must-have non-toxic cleaning product for every laundry.

Oxygen Boost

$22 at Branch Basics

Everspring Lavender Bergamot Fabric Softener

If you do want to use a liquid fabric softener then reach for this one. Its paraben-, dye- and fragrance-free formula is safe for all clothes and its biodegradable formula promotes sustainability.

Everspring Lavender Bergamot Fabric Softener

$4.69 at Target

L’Avant Collective Fresh Linen Laundry Detergent

When I first made the switch to sustainable, plant-based detergents, I was admittedly disappointed. While I was happy with all the good-for-the-planet options, I still couldn’t find a detergent that could get the job done. With L’Avant Collective, all of my laundry comes out without any stains or spots. My clothes are bright and smell amazing. Seriously—it’ll make you love wearing your clothes again.

Fresh Linen Laundry Detergent

$34 at L'Avant Collective

Dirty Labs Bio Enzyme Laundry Detergent

This scent is unreal. It’s a subtle mix of magnolia, bergamot, and cedar—in other words, just about the furthest thing from the artificial fragrances of bigger brands. The detergent features Dirty Labs’ Phytolase® enzyme cleaning technology, which eliminates odors while still being safe for sensitive skin.

Bio Enzyme Laundry Detergent

$26 at Dirty Labs

Bathroom Cleaners

Blueland Bathroom Starter Set

When it comes to the bathroom, we want hardworking products. Bleach is usually the one ingredient we always reach for to kill germs and mold, but it’s not great for your health or the environment. This bathroom spray doesn’t act like bleach but is effective at cleaning down any surface area. 

Bathroom Starter Set

$16 at Blueland

Blueland Glass & Mirror Starter Set

I’ve always loved Windex for the results but hated how it smells. This one from Blueland does the job without the fumes.

Glass + Mirror Starter Set

$16 at Blueland

Public Goods Bathroom Cleaner

Once again, this isn’t bleach—but that’s the point. The blend of purified water, coconut-derived actives, citric acid, natural rosemary oil, and natural lemon oil combine to cut through dirt and clean surfaces with ease. 

Bathroom Cleaner

$5.95 at Public Goods

The post Our Favorite Non-Toxic Cleaning Products for the Ultimate Home Refresh appeared first on Camille Styles.

I’m always up to try something new. There’s so much beauty in novelty, and sometimes, the unknown can really surprise us. Plus, I’m often attracted to people who fall into one of two categories. First, they’re so dialed and passionate about something that they can offer up every fact on the subject. Or second, they have such a robust repertoire of things they’ve seen or experienced, that they always contribute unique and interesting insights. Both types fascinate me, and I tend to fall in the latter group. (Though after watching a season of Hard Knocks with the Miami Dolphins, I have found my new deep-dive into the world of the NFL.) But, I digress.

Featured image from our interview with Kate Waitzkin.

The Best Group Fitness Classes to Try in 2024

Back to trying new things. I’ve been feeling in a bit of an exercise rut, leaning on my go-to trail walking to keep me moving. I love it, but wanted to challenge and move my body in new ways. So, I took one week to try a handful of new-to-me workouts. The goal was to add some variety and fun into the mix and reconnect with my body in a new way. Plus, I love discovering the best group fitness classes to revisit with friends.

This wasn’t about seeing results—after all, it was just one week. However, I was pleasantly surprised by how my confidence and mindset shifted in such a short period. It’s true that trying something new, no matter the outcome can help you feel all the more empowered to keep experimenting. Here’s what I tried during my week of new workouts.

Note: To help you connect with the best workout for your schedule, fitness goals, and preferences, I also reviewed a few not-so-new-to-me classes I love. And I enlisted the help of our Managing Editor, Isabelle, who was happy to share her two go-to fitness classes at the moment. Without further ado, keep reading for my honest reviews.

Y7 Yoga

Founder Sarah Larson Levey finally brought Y7 Yoga to Austin, and everyone has been thrilled, including me. I’ve long known about Y7 from my New York friends, and when Sarah moved to Austin, I had a feeling an opening was on the horizon.

This isn’t your traditional yoga class. All studios are heated to 80-90 degrees using infrared technology in a dark, candlelit room. And the music? Some of the best playlists I’ve ever heard. There’s something about doing yoga to Rhianna that makes the class even more enjoyable. What I loved about the class was the dark room. I could go at my own pace and take a child’s pose if I needed without worrying what anyone else thought. The next day, I was sore in the best way possible. And though other heated studios get too hot, the temps challenged me and helped me get deeper into the postures. They also offer classes online if you’re not in a city with a studio.

• Virtual and In-Studio
• Prices Vary Per Studio // New Client Specials Available

Evlo Fitness

I first learned about Evlo Fitness a few years ago from my sister. Her physical therapist recommended the online workouts as the founder, Shannon Ritchey, is a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT), and her approach is rooted in gentle strength training for long-term results.

Evlo is the antithesis to group bootcamp-style workouts (i.e., movements that tend to cause injury). Instead, Evlo takes a scientific and educational approach to training, helping you understand how certain movements impact your muscles. Where other bootcamp classes left me sore, Evlo left me strong, energized, and excited to take on other forms of movement.

Shannon also has a podcast, Fit Body, Happy Joints which provides an educational lens into the fitness industry. Episodes debunk many fitness myths, shedding light on the full picture marketing tends to leave out. I love that she always takes such a sound and scientific approach to health. For even more of Shannon’s insights, listen to her interview on The Skinny Confidential. Evlo is an online platform, but Shannon recently moved to Austin so I’m holding out hope for in-person training soon. 

• Virtual Only
• $55.99 Monthly or $559 Annually // Free Trial Available

FORWARD Space

If you love dance, this one is for you. And even if you don’t love dance, you may be surprised by how much you connect with this class. I’m biased as I know the founder, Kristin Sudeikis, but this class injects a level of fun into my life that I didn’t know was missing.

Kristin leverages her professional dance background and intentionally designs her classes to fit every level. I was looking forward to taking the class in person at the NYC studio, but at the last minute had to cancel. Thankfully, Forward Space has a 7-day virtual free trial, letting you take the classes at home. If I’m ever having a bad day, I’m just going to dance it off. With live and on-demand classes, there’s something for everyone. I left feeling like I got a good workout and truly had fun. 

• Virtual and In-Studio
• One Class for $38, Class Packages Available // 7-Day Virtual Free Trial

Peloton Outdoor Class

Because I hit the trail almost every day, I thought I’d shake it up and try a guided class. Insert Peloton’s Outdoor Series. As a former Peloton bike owner, I already knew they’d have a plethora of options. And I was right—almost to the point where I was overwhelmed with the number of workouts. Think walking meditations, recovery runs, power walking, HIIT, and more.

I chose “Beginner Workout” and did a 30-minute Interval Run with Oliva Amato. It’s been a good 6-7 months since I went for a run, and this was a perfect way to jump back in. I took it at my own pace, as encouraged by the instructor, but also pushed myself more than I would’ve had I set out to do this on my own. I love the ease of being able to do this from the road, even if I’m stuck inside a hotel gym vs. outdoors.

• Virtual Only
• Memberships Starting at $12.99 monthly // Free Classes Available

The Sculpt Society

When my trip to NYC got canceled and ultimately wiped all the new classes I was going to try, I needed something quick and virtual that I could do at home as I was on a time crunch. I’ve been following Megan Roup on social media for a bit and was familiar with the The Sculpt Society. Megan is a former dancer for the New York Knicks and incorporates dance and sculpt into her workouts. I had dance already covered from Forward Space, so I took a Sculpt class. Thankfully, the gym at my place had equipment but Megan also sells props online. Without lifting heavy weights, this class was absolutely a burner. Megan brings a lot of fun energy to the table and I was sweating in no time. Bonus points for having a 7-day free trial so you can give it a shot risk-free.

• Virtual Only
• $19.99 Monthly or $179.99 Annually // 7-Day Free Trial Available

SoulCycle

No stranger to SoulCycle, I was thrilled when they finally opened their first Austin studio eight years ago. This is perfect for the high intensity cardio that I don’t always get from my trail walks and certainly not in Pilates or yoga. If I’m feeling a little off cardio-wise, I’ll book a bike in the back of the dimly-lit room and let the loud music wake my body up. And when I’m feeling really adventurous and like I can stay on beat, you can usually find me in the front row. If any of you have tried a SoulCycle class, you know that arm section is not for the faint of heart—who knew that two-pound weights could burn so good? If you’re in Austin (or have a SoulCycle bike at home), take Chris Chandler’s classes. He brings such incredible energy to every workout.

• Virtual and In-Studio
• In-Studio: $20 for Your First Class // Virtual: $39.99 Monthly for Unlimited Classes

Barry’s Bootcamp

When I lived in LA 15 years ago, I lived right next door to Barry’s first location in West Hollywood. After one friend told me they threw up during their first class, I resolved never to try it. (I never did check my source to see if they were hungover or if it was really that hard… ) However, the class format has shifted in the last 15 years, and can truly say, it IS a tough workout. But as with any class—go at your own pace.

I love a Barry’s as most places I travel for work have enough studios for me to choose from. Most traditional classes are a treadmill/weight-training hybrid. You can choose if you’d like to start with tread (running), floor (weights), or double floor (no tread, double the weight portion). I listen to my body to determine what I need, but my all-time favorite class is Barry’s Weights. Smaller room, zero treadmill or running, all weight training. I used to be super intimidated by lifting and even more intimidated to do a treadmill class, but I’m playing for the class—so I have no fear in taking what I need and leaving what I don’t.

• Virtual and In-Studio
• In-Studio: $43 for 3 Classes (New Clients Only) // Virtual: 30-Day Free Trial, then $39.99 Monthly for Unlimited Classes

DOGPOUND

This comes with a disclaimer: I was gifted a private group session to try it out. And yet, I LOVED it. I’m sure you’ve heard this is where most of Victoria’s Secret angels work out, not to mention a host of celebrities who come for private training. While I didn’t walk out an angel, I had the most fun. DOGPOUND is predominantly private personal training, unless you book a group session, and I did everything from box jumps to flipping a tire, to ball slams and more. For our session, it was more functional movement, which I really appreciate as the typical gym and group fitness class can often get a little stale. I only wish I lived in LA or NYC for this as I know half my paycheck would go to private training. There’s something about a program designed specifically for me that makes me feel more invested and attached to both the program and the process. 

• In-Studio (Virtual Training Options Available By Contacting DOGPOUND Directly)
• Pricing Options Vary, Starting at $50/Class for Group Classes

FORM

If you’re at all interested in health and wellness on social media, you’ve likely come across FORM. (It’s not just the good marketing—everyone’s talking about the workout.) Co-founded by best friends Sami Clarke and Sami Bernstein Spalter, FORM is all about effective, intuitive movement that you can do efficiently at home. Think: Pilates and strength-based routines that can be done with or without props. The movements are often small, but spicy. Sami C. is the motivating best friend you’ve always wanted to work out with and who will cheer you on even through the toughest postures. Weekly workout schedules are curated for you, giving you exactly what you need to balance a healthy burn with intentional rest. I love that all I have to do is find that day’s workout and press play. (Oh—and their recipe library is gold!) — Isabelle

• Virtual Only
• $28 Monthly or $119.99 Annually // 7-Day Free Trial Available

Barre3

Let me introduce you to the workout that helped me *actually* fall in love with fitness. I’ve been doing barre3 both online and at my local Chicago studio for the past six years. (Barre3 has over 175 studio locations across the country and in Canada.) The classes are challenging but designed so that the movements feel good and juicy in your body. I’m a 6 a.m. regular, and I always say that it’s my favorite way to wake up. And while the name might lead you to think that this is classic barre, the workout is so much more. It combines strength conditioning, cardio, and mindfulness to give you a dynamic, full-body workout. Each class draws inspiration from Pilates and yoga, helping strengthen your body to prevent injury and build endurance. My favorite part? All classes end with guided breathwork, helping regulate your nervous system and wind down from an energy-boosting workout. — Isabelle

• Virtual and In-Studio
• In-Studio Prices Vary By Studio // $29.99 Monthly or $239.88 Annually, 14-Day Free Trial Available

The Takeaway 

This month of trying the best group fitness classes proved to be fun and challenging. Yes, I was sore but also found myself craving more movement. I thought I’d leave this experiment declaring a favorite workout, but instead found a few group fitness classes I can rely on for whatever I need. Whether that’s an extra push, a shift in mindset, or a gentle, grounding day.

Y7 will be great during my cycle. Forward Space is perfect before a presentation (jamming out helps me get out of my head), and Peloton is great when I need someone to push me. Evlo is solid for helping me build strength safely and effectively—seriously, everyone should try it. Finally, The Sculpt Society is the perfect burner when I’m in a pinch. And with more options in the mix, I’m excited to switch things up week to week.

I had so much fun and encourage you to try new things as much as possible—fitness-related or not. 

The post I Tried a New Group Workout Class Every Week in January—Here’s What I Learned appeared first on Camille Styles.

Inflammation is one of those wellness buzzwords (along with collagen, cupping, and hormone balancing) that we kind of know we should pay attention to, but it all can feel really overwhelming. The truth is, all of us have inflammation on some level. But contrary to popular belief, it’s not all bad. Inflammation is a natural process that helps your body heal and defend itself. But chronic inflammation is another story. That’s why learning how to reduce inflammation is key to optimal health.

When prolonged, inflammation can do a lot of damage to our bodies. Chronic inflammation can manifest in the form of digestive stress (gas, bloating, constipation, achy joints), unhappy skin (acne, eczema, psoriasis), low energy, or extra weight you can’t shake. To an even more serious degree, chronic inflammation can seriously hurt our cells, leading to what Novant Health calls “the development of potentially disabling or life-threatening illnesses.” Cancer and Type 2 diabetes counted among them.

Featured image from our interview with Jules Acree.

How to Reduce Inflammation: 6 Tips You Can Do Daily

Inflammation is worsened by environmental toxins, stress overload, and a processed inflammatory diet—things that are unfortunately found in most of our daily lives. As with most processes that actually heal our body over time (instead of just masking symptoms), there’s no quick “off switch” for inflammation.

The good news? If you’re wondering how to reduce inflammation, there are simple practices you can incorporate into your day to get you feeling your best. Feel overwhelmed and don’t know where to start? Try picking two habits from the list below that you can realistically add to your routine. After a couple of weeks, see if you can add another and build from there.

Reduce Stress

I know, I know. Easier said than done! But there are a few key things you can bring into your routine that make a huge difference in how you feel. Try incorporating a relaxing bath, yoga session, or meditation into your weekly, if not daily, rituals. Even a few mindful breaths before you start your day can help you instantly center yourself. I’ve been trying to pause and take a few slow, full breaths whenever I start to feel stressed during the day. It’s completely changed how I feel for the better.

Drink Up

Staying fully hydrated flushes out toxins that we’re exposed to on a daily basis. Think pesticides, heavy metals, air pollution, mold, and more. Hydrating effectively is one of the key strategies to make sure the body is able to effectively detox. Always have a glass of water on your desk and by your bed, and bring a water bottle with you whenever you leave the house. Are you still feeling uninspired? Browse our favorite picks for the best electrolyte powders to supercharge your hydration habits.

P.S. Did you know there are right and wrong times of day to drink your water?

Soma 10 Cup Water Pitcher

This sustainable and stylish water pitcher is made from BPA-free plastic with a filter that can last up to 40 gallons.

$40 at Pottery Barn

Stanley Quencher H2.0 Flowstate Tumbler

Nothing beats the classic. Not only does it look aesthetic when kept within reach, but it’s sure to help you meet your daily hydration goals.

$35 at Williams-Sonoma

Clean Up Your Diet

One of the easiest ways to lower inflammation is through our daily food choices. Foods like processed sugar, refined carbs, GMO dairy and soy, and oils like canola, soybean, and corn can all be difficult on the gut, thus raising inflammation markers. Try incorporating more cultured/probiotic rich foods, greens, berries, healthy oils and fats, nuts, dark chocolate, green tea, and spices like turmeric, cinnamon, garlic, and ginger.

Get Moving

Exercise decreases inflammatory markers and your risk of chronic disease. Moving our bodies sends fresh blood and oxygen throughout our body, pumping the lymphatic system for waste removal and gently restoring the digestive system if it feels off. Try to move for at least 30 minutes a day or get in a sweat sesh at the sauna. Walking is a great source of exercise. Or, you can try one of these ideas for joyful movement.

Alo Warrior Mat

The Warrior Mat is where the magic happens— it’s roomy, perfectly cushioned for joint support, anti-odor, dry-wicking and slip-free, wet or dry.

$100 at Bluemercury

Bala Bangles Wrist & Ankle Weight Set

Wildly versatile, Bala Bangles can be worn on ankles or wrists for athletic, recreational, and domestic activities alike.

$65 at Target

Try Dry Brushing

Dry brushing is an amazing way to move toxins through your body. It stimulates your lymphatic system, easing your body’s efforts to reduce inflammation. This is one of my favorite daily habits (along with facial massage). When I’m consistent, I notice smoother, more even skin. Plus, overall, better energy!

Body Brush

Sweep away dead skin and awaken your senses. Prep skin for optimal hydration with plant-based sisal fibers that exfoliate away roughness.

$28 at OSEA

Skin Gym Dry Body Brush

Experience the intensely stimulating and toning powder of this natural-bristle brush designed for use all over your body.

$36 at Nordstrom

Prioritize Sleep

Sleep is your body’s time for recovery. While you sleep, your body flushes toxins and enters a deep healing state. Many of us struggle with getting a full eight hours with our busy schedules. You can start by aiming to get 30 minutes of extra sleep a night and slowly increase until you’re getting 7-8 hours. Once you experience how great you feel after a truly restful night’s sleep, you won’t ever want to go back!

The post 6 Daily Habits to Reduce Inflammation appeared first on Camille Styles.