Adjusting Expectations

Doesn't August feel like the Sunday of summer? I have yet to hit the beach which kind of makes me sad and only acts as a reminder that I've been working entirely too hard all summer (le sigh).

On the bright side my airline tickets have been booked and in four short weeks I'll be halfway around the world with my seester. Last time we traveled was 10 years to Australia AKA we're long overdue for this trip. 

I haven't said much about the trip before (didn't want to jinx myself) but we'll be in Lebanon for two weeks and then Paris for a weekend. This might be a good time to start following me on Snapchat if you haven't already - I'm predicting lots of Middle East adventures (search: thestyleboro). Until then let's put the vacation talk on hold - way too early to get excited.

Instead let's talk about staying fit when abroad. I'm going to be completely honest and tell you that my intentions when I pack my sneakers are in good faith but once I touch down - the jet lag and vacation vibes set in and "exercise" becomes a foreign word. Am I the only one? 

Lipbalm: EOS  Tank: c/o Lucy  Yoga Pants: c/o Lucy  Sweater: Flint & Tinder  Sneakers: Saucony

Instead of packing sneakers and feeling like a loser for not working out, I've decided to simply do what I can now (while in the States) and plan ahead for fall. The next season (my favorite for running) tends to be a mix of chilly mornings and warm afternoons so I picked up this incredibly soft 10-Year Hoodie to layer over my Lucy workout gear. It's meant to last a full ten years so this won't be its first appearance on the blog. I also hate sweating in my makeup so I've stocked up on Dickinson's Cleansing Cloths - it's really gentle on my skin and the Witch Hazel soothes and depuffs.

P.s. If you haven't caught on by now I am absolutely obsessed with Lucy's line and can't wait for their fall collection!

Photos by Victor Cerejo.
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Fit for Summer

I decided to try something insane this summer to go along with my fitness plan: positive thinking.

Crazy, right?

Hear me out. After a good long run (and those short sweaty ones) I'm left in a better state of mind. Let's call it good juju. Until life unexpectedly butts her head into my always very busy day throwing all sorts of mishaps and shenanigans at me. And each time without fail, my day goes from great to good to bad - ruining all the previous good juju I had.

Then my ma enlightened me with her mom wisdom.

A little backstory, my ma was diagnosed with a chronic illness a few years back and ever since her diagnosis she's been taking it easy and eliminating the stress from where it starts: her thoughts. Don't worry guys, a chronic illness is not a life sentence - just need to manage your lifestyle differently. She told me maybe I need to change the way I think and stop being negative.

For example, instead of complaining about rent (at an all-time high) instead be thankful for shelter & food (NYC is currently facing its highest levels of homelessness). Embracing this positive thought eventually starts to project itself onto those around me and spreads like wild fire.

Top: Lucy  Shorts: Lucy  Pullover: Lucy  Headphones: c/o Ankit  Sports Bra: Victoria's Secret PINK  Sneakers: Saucony  Lipbalm: EOS Lip Balm  Nail Polish: Essie in For the Twill of It

So far, it's been going great - I feel lighter in a way and worry less. It's also been one of the best supplements I've added to my fitness plan. NOW, I'm going to ask you guys to try this sweat-free supplement out for yourself for a week/month/season/year and let me know how it goes for you!

P.s. This is the same outfit (minus the jacket & sports bra) I wore during the Brooklyn Half. I can say first hand Lucy Activewear can go against the elements when testing your endurance. I even gained a PR (personal record) in this look :).

Photos by Lydia Hudgens.

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Fitness: Leg Day

I've been on a YouTube grind lately. It might have everything to do with the classes and people I've been meeting at the YouTube building, or the fact that YouTube has a plethora of information readily available at our disposable.

Here are a few vids worthy of a bookmark (or thumbs up) to help get your sweat on:

A great routine for those with access to a gym.

A 10-minute workout that focuses on toning and tightening the inner thighs. But don't you worry, your entire body will be worked.

For beginners, but don't think for a second this will be easy. Do 3 times a week with 30-60 seconds rest in between sets. Repeat 2-3 times as it gets easier.

The bare basics in an express workout - start here to get a firm grasp on great exercises.

Any videos I should add to my Leg's Day playlist on Youtube? Leave the link or exercises you do down below.