Tag: Lifestyle Guide

5 Ways to Wake Up That Aren’t Your Morning Coffee

Published on by Crystal Lee1 Comment

No matter what ringtone you choose or how many times you give it to snooze, the moment your wake-up alarm goes off will always be the worst of the day, except for the delicious morning coffee that took you so long to perfect. But does it also happen to you that, no matter how many cups you drink, you cannot be 100%? Even with all the good that is coffee to scare away sleep, there are times that it is not enough (besides it is not good to drink too much in a short time).

The good news is that for those mornings, and even for those who do want to pamper yourself with your favorite coffee, you can try other effective and healthy ways to wake up your body and give it the energy it needs to complete your to-do list. Here are 5 alternative or additional ideas to your daily dose of caffeine.

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Move from head to toe

Exercising is not what we all expect after waking up, many people prefer to go to the gym in the afternoon or at night because it is probably more convenient for their lifestyle. Although that is OK, it is important when it comes to your health for you to move when you get up because, with specific stretches and postures, you stimulate blood circulation throughout your body, ergo, you start to function better.

For this, an excellent option is a mini routine of 10-15 minutes of morning yoga that makes you move each muscle. Another great benefit of this is that it is an activity that requires mindfulness concentration, which will help you manage anxiety, stress, and other situations you are going through.

Enjoy a good swim

The feeling of bathing after waking up is deli and deadly at the same time, but it always serves as an instant alarm clock. In addition, it forces you to enlist your skin, hair, body, and look, which will also give you energy for the idea that you are preparing to go out, even if you have nothing planned.

Enjoy every step, from washing your hair to applying your skincare; Those moments of care will make your body and mind wake up soft and calm, instead of rushed and abrupt. 

Eat a nutritious breakfast

No, your morning coffee does not count as a full breakfast. You know: “Breakfast is the most important meal of the day”, for nothing in the world you can skip it or make it halfway. Not only will that cause you physical and mental health problems, but it will keep you tired all day long.

If you are one of the people who do not have time to prepare a super elaborate breakfast every morning and spend half an hour or more enjoying it slowly while doing TikTok aesthetic, it is no excuse, even without showing half the world how you prepare your bowl of oatmeal and green juice, you can cook delicious dishes in minutes, or even make weekly meal prep of your breakfasts.

Play your favorite upbeat music

Music is one of the most powerful stimuli ever, use it to your advantage! Take advantage of your subscription to Spotify, Apple Music, Tidal, or any other streaming service so that, as soon as your alarm sounds, start a playlist with the songs that lift your spirits the most. On iPhone, there is a feature called “automation” where you can set this up super easy and fast.

There’s no doubt that music impacts our bodies, minds, and well-being. While slow songs tend to calm you down and help you relax, fast-tempo music can increase your heart rate, and re-energize you. So, if you’re morning is off to a slow start, playing upbeat music could help get you moving. Keep it fun by adding new ones, removing old ones, or changing the ones you want.

Share your routine

Life is better shared, right? So, if you and someone close to you get up at the same time and should be 100% on par, but both have a hard time waking up fast, how about asking them to accompany each other while they enlist? Talk on the phone, FaceTime, and write to each other; The thing is that you are motivated to wake up and try each of the above ideas (in addition to drinking your morning coffee) to see if any adds to your lifestyle.

The commitment to have an appointment scheduled with someone they love will be the best incentive they can have to generate the habit of waking up without suffering too much and, on the contrary, enjoy their mornings and start with better spirits and health every day. Goals!

We find the best destinations for girls trip

Published on by Crystal LeeLeave a comment

Planning a trip with friends is the best bonding experience and an incredible way to recharge and refocus, especially during the year you do not have many opportunities to spend time together without interruptions. What better way to finally get quality time than with a girls’ weekend? No special occasion is necessary— grab your best gals and get away for a few days for some fun, relaxation, and much-needed catching up.

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Our picks of destinations to travel with friends include distant destinations and many options of national spots that do not require a passport or such a high budget. Choose one that goes best with you and your besties. Here are just a few of our favorites for the ultimate girls’ trip:

1. Bali, Indonesia

The tropical paradise of Bali not only offers white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, but you can enjoy sunrise yoga on the beach, explore ancient temples and taste the delicious local gastronomy. And let’s not forget the luxury spas, where they can receive treatments while listening to the waves crashing in the distance.

It is a perfect place if what you want is a combination of rest and spirituality with walks and water activities.

@wheresboozie_

I’d rather cry in Bali than Texas 😂.. Take that trip sis! #blackgirltravel #bali #healingtok #thingstodoinbali #blackgirlluxury #baliindonesia #floatingbreakfast

♬ original sound – Ian Lara

2. Madrid, Spain

From delicious tapas to refreshing sangria, you have to taste all the flavors the city has to offer. And at night, you can delve into Madrid’s nightlife, from La Castellana to Serrano.

We love Madrid because it is a super walkable spot (you can also use a bike or scooter to travel it) that has a little for everyone: museums, shopping, food, and party, so there will be something for you and each of your friends. Also, not having a language barrier makes everything more relaxed.

@sophiewillis179

Weekends in Madrid 📍🇪🇸✨ #madrid #fyp #trendingtiktok #spain #girlstrip #citybreak #vibes #travel #weekend #spanish #riumadrid #traveltok

♬ sonido original – edits.TUA

3. Las Vegas, Nevada

Viva, Las Vegas, baby! What else is there to say? World-class dining and entertainment, gaming and gambling, shopping, and music—your options are endless in Vegas! There are so many places to stay, but one of our favorites has to be the Waldorf Astoria Las Vegas if you’re looking for a luxurious escape with your girls. A nice reprieve from the large hotel-casino-type resorts, the Waldorf Astoria boasts an incredible spa, pool, Skybar, tea lounge, and more, all with the luxurious touches you’d expect from the brand. Oh, and their luxury house car is available for drop-off service within a 2-mile range on the Strip!

There are many super cool and delicious restaurants, some of our favorites are: Catch and Din Tai Fung, perfect for dinner and drinks.

And remember that what happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas.

@itsdasiarenee

Girls Trip to Las Vegas, Nevada 2023 #vegas #girlstrip #vegasgirlstrip2023 #fyp #itsdasiarenee

♬ Put It On Da Floor – Latto

4. Paris, France

Paris offers romance around every corner, from walks along the Seine to visits to the Eiffel Tower. Even if you’re not a culture lover, the Louvre Museum is a must-see with thousands of works of art, including some of our favorite girls Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo.

@haileysani

paris girls trip itinerary 🥖🇫🇷 #paris #vlog #fyp

♬ Selfcare-demo – Bella Moulden

5. Tulum, Mexico

If you are looking for a more chill atmosphere with a touch of magic, Tulum is the place. With its white sand beaches and turquoise waters, this tropical paradise will give you the serenity you need. They can practice yoga at sunrise, explore mysterious Mayan ruins, and immerse themselves in secret cenotes. They can also enjoy drinks by the sea, live music, and beach parties.

@victoriaasiaaa

Gurls trip to tulum went like this! #blackintulum #girlstrip #cincodemayo #mexico🇲🇽

♬ Her Way (Sped Up) – PARTYNEXTDOOR

6. Puerto Escondido

If you are looking for a beach vacation with a touch of fun, Puerto Escondido is the place to be. With its perfect waves for surfing and super chill atmosphere, you can take surf lessons in the morning and relax on the beach in the afternoon. It is moderately developed and free of mega-resorts. Surf’s up!

To explore the different beaches, here the idea is that you can rent a car or if you prefer to stay in the same place, rent a house facing the sea and with a pool.

@marifernago

Oaxaca RECAP! 🏄🏽‍♀️ #puertoescondido #oaxaca #girlstrip #bffs #travel #mx #mexico

♬ sonido original – مانويل
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7. New Orleans, Louisiana

Laissez les bons temps rouler! That’s Cajun French for “let the good times roll”—and New Orleans sure knows how to have a good time. The city is home to incredible food, music, history, culture, and, of course, partying. Whether you prefer to stay in the heart of the French Quarter or somewhere in the hip warehouse district, there’s something for everyone in New Orleans. For a historic hotel with charm and class, check out the Bourbon Orleans Hotel. It has a courtyard pool (NOLA can get hot hot hot!) and live entertainment at the bar, too.

@_autumnbrianna

Took a girls trip to the boot ⚜️ #louisiana #NO #neworleans #bourbon #canalstreet

♬ You’re the One (New Orleans Bounce Mix) – Magnolia Shorty

8. The Hamptons, New York

Summer House fans, this one is for you! Located on the eastern tip of Long Island, the Hamptons is a hotspot in the summer and equally as gorgeous (and much more peaceful) in the off-season. Known for boutiques, restaurants, golf, and storybook charm, the area is home to The Roundtree Amagansett, a luxe, picturesque property with rooms, suites, and cottages that are perfect for a girls’ weekend away. With shuttles to the beaches in the summer, nightly s’mores around the fire pit, and a gorgeous green yard with cozy spots to unwind, it’s an ideal getaway spot for your girl squad.

@sabrina_r31

Girls trip to the Hamptons!! #hamptons #ny #longisland #longislandnewyork #fyp #fypシ #viral #girlstrip #wolfferestate #vineyard #wine #rumba #longislandeats #foodie #foodietiktok #blogger #vlog #cowfishrestaurant

♬ Sittin’ On Top Of The World – Burna Boy

9. Washington, D.C.

Where better to gather with your girls than the nation’s capital? Rich in history and all things Americana, Washington, D.C. is easily accessible by car, train, or plane and has endless options for activities. For some intellectual stimulation, check out a tour of the Capitol or take a double-decker bus tour through the city before you go bar-hopping downtown. In the springtime, you can also bask in the gorgeousness of the famous cherry blossom trees. While visiting, stay at Conrad Washington DC. With luxe, modern amenities, and an unbeatable location, it’s a prime spot to indulge in some R&R, cocktails, and fine dining—all without even having to leave the property.

@lifewithstasia

A long weekend in DC ☀️had a blast! #fyp #washingtondc #girlstrip 🥂

♬ Deli – Ice Spice

10. Park City, Utah

Just east of Salt Lake City is the outdoor lover’s paradise, Park City. The resort town is home to Olympic Park (which once hosted the Olympic Winter Games), incredible ski slopes, and a gorgeous Main Street. It’s the perfect destination for fans of winter sports or those who just like to enjoy the winter weather in style. Park City is also home to the famous Sundance Film Festival which draws celebrities from across the world. For accommodations, check in to Pendry Park City, a boutique, contemporary ski-in/ski-out mountain hotel nestled in the center of Canyons Village.

@nyjarich

I had my reservations about traveling to the cold but we had so much fun. This needs to be annual thing, next time the Swiss Alps #skittrip #girlstrip #blackgirltiktok #travel

♬ original sound – NYJA

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR FAVORITE TRIP WITH YOUR GIRLS? COMMENT BELOW!

10 Boundary RULES TO LIVE BY

Published on by Crystal LeeLeave a comment

Tips from Boundary Boss—The Essential Guide to Talk True, Be Seen, and (Finally) Live Free by Psychotherapist Terri Cole.

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You have the right to say no (or yes) to others without feeling guilty.

There are many reasons why we say yes when we want to say no. We might be worried about rejection or what others will think of us. If we are conflict avoidant, it might feel easier to “go along to get along,” but in the long run, denying your truth is a one-way ticket to bitter town.

You have the right to make mistakes, to course correct, or change your mind. 

Many of us feel once we make a decision, whether it’s in a relationship, our careers, or something as simple as saying yes to walking our neighbor’s dog on our lunch break, we’ve got to stick with it forever. You have the right to change your mind. Every choice doesn’t have to be a life sentence.

You have the right to negotiate for your preferences, desires, and needs. 

You are the only one who knows what your unique preferences, desires, and needs are, and you are the only one who can negotiate for them. When we don’t share what we want and need, the people in our lives don’t know who we are. Many of us were taught to be “easy-going” and not to be “difficult.” The truth is, sharing a preference isn’t difficult. It allows people to truly know us.

You have the right to express and honor all of your feelings if you so choose. 

Being fully expressed is part of being a Boundary Boss, but it also means you get to choose what you share, when you share, and with whom. You are not obligated to share or confess all of your feelings to everyone. You have the right to be discerning.

You have the right to voice your opinion, even if others disagree. 

If you’re a peacekeeper or a people-pleaser, it can be difficult for you to share your opinion if others disagree. Again, discernment comes in here. Just because you have the right to, that doesn’t mean you have to share all of your opinions with someone aggressive or abusive. You have the right to talk true when it’s right for you.

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You have the right to be treated with respect, consideration, and care. 

The way others treat you all starts with your relationship with yourself. You set the bar! When you hold yourself in high regard and prioritize yourself, others will follow your lead. If you’re overworking, over-functioning, and overgiving, chances are you will attract people who will expect you to keep doing that. Begin treating yourself with the respect, consideration, and care you deserve, and set that bar HIGH, baby.

You have the right to determine who has the privilege of being in your life. 

Imagine your life as a VIP section, and you are the only person on the guest list. You get to decide who gets the privilege of your company, your time, and your energy. If you don’t learn how to be the bouncer in your VIP section, you might find yourself endlessly twisting yourself into a pretzel and inconveniencing yourself for anyone who wanders past the velvet rope and plops themself down. Not everyone deserves a 24-hour backstage pass to your amazing life. YOU get to make a choice.

You have the right to communicate your boundaries, limits, and deal-breakers. 

Again, only you know what’s right for you concerning these things. What is and what isn’t ok with you? What are your non-negotiables? Getting clear about your limits and needs is the first step to asserting yourself and healthily communicating your boundaries. And it is doable.

You have the right to prioritize your self-care without feeling selfish. 

There are many myths and limiting beliefs around self-care. Many of us have been taught we should prioritize everyone else and put ourselves last. But when our self-care isn’t solid, we can end up feeling depleted, exhausted, angry, and resentful. The reality is, taking impeccable care of ourselves is the foundation for success in our relationships, our careers, and our entire lives. When we prioritize our self-care, we are at our best and give from a place of love and abundance rather than one of lack.

You have the right to talk true, be seen, and live free. 

What I teach inside Boundary Boss is a process for lasting transformation. When you learn this life-changing skill set, speaking up with ease and grace, asserting your truth, and expressing your feelings and preferences become your new normal.

Vision Boards: Creating the Life of Your Dreams

Published on by Crystal Lee1 Comment

Do you find yourself struggling to find the motivation to achieve your goals? Do you want to create the life of your dreams? Constructing a personalized vision board might be the answer to your problems. 

WTF is a vision board?

A vision board is a collection of photos and text that can help you approach the future with hope. Instead of focusing on what habits you should be stopping, focus on the possibilities of the next year. “From a scientific perspective, vision boards do what we call ‘priming,’ which essentially is when exposure to a certain stimulus affects how you act towards whatever comes next,” said Elizabeth Mateer, a licensed mental health counselor associate. A vision board can also help you be specific about the goals you want to manifest. “A vision board is an opportunity to focus on the reality you want to create, a prediction of your possible future, and a connection to hope and a life that feels aligned,” Elspeth Robertson, a registered clinical counselor and professional art therapist said.

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There are two ways to create a vision board: digitally and physically. If you are someone who likes to do hands-on activities, you may want to create a physical vision board. However, if you are someone who prefers digital activities, you may want to create a digital vision board. The choice is yours.

If you’re not sure where to start, try looking for images that inspire you or reflect your goals. You can also use quotes or affirmations that resonate with you. Once you have a few items collected, start arranging them on a bulletin board or piece of poster board. Then add any additional details that will help bring your vision to life.

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HOW TO CREATE A DIGITAL VISION BOARD

Step 1: Gather digital photos from any website of your choice. I find that Pinterest is one of the best platforms to utilize for vision boards.

Step 2: Decide where you would like to create the vision board. If you are unsure where to begin, Canva has great templates.

Step 3: Place and move your images around until you are satisfied with the final look.

Step 4: Make sure to save your final copy, and just like that, you are one step closer to achieving your goals.

Feel free to make your final creation your lock screen—this way you will be looking at your goals daily.

HOW TO CREATE A PHYSICAL VISION BOARD

Step 1: Order a vision board book or cut out images from your favorite magazine that pertain to your goals and dreams. Cut out images from magazines or print out pictures from the internet that represents you (skin color, hair, nationality, etc). If you need a suggestion, Amazon has a wide selection of vision board books.

Step 2: Get a poster board, cork board, or some paper and play with the placing of the images until you are content with the look.

Step 3: Glue or tape your images to the board or paper.

Step 4: Decide whether you want to hang your vision board up, or if you want to put it somewhere else that is visible to you.

Now that you have your personalized vision board, go reach your goals.

BENEFITS OF CREATING A VISION BOARD

Now that we know how to create a vision board, let’s look at what neuroscientist Dr. Tara Swart has to say.

“The science behind why it’s helpful is that we’re bombarded with so much information all the time,” she explains. “There’s a natural process in the brain to selectively filter what’s important to our survival and selectively put attention on what’s important for us to thrive.”

Dr. Swart also mentions value tagging, which is an additional system in the brain that pieces together the information in order of importance. “There is a logical element and an emotional element to that,” she adds.

“If you create imagery that represents how you want your life to be, then you’re more likely to notice and grasp opportunities to make that a reality,” she emphasizes, “it’s priming your brain to remember what’s important.”

You’ve heard it from a professional, so what are you waiting for? Go make a vision board!

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What makes a successful vision board?

It’s all about setting your intention. What do you want to manifest in your life? When you have a clear vision, it’s easier to select images that represent that goal. Creating a board that is both visually pleasing and spiritually in alignment will help you to stay focused on your goals.

A vision board is a tool that can help you clarify your goals and bring them into focus. It can also help you identify what steps you need to take to achieve your goals. By looking at your vision board regularly, you can keep your goals at the forefront of your mind and stay motivated to achieve them.

MY PERSONAL EXPERIENCE

Oftentimes I would find myself setting goals for myself and forgetting about them. I had a picture-perfect life that I wanted to achieve, but I was not motivated to go and get it.

It was the summer of twenty twenty-two when I was offered the great advice of creating a vision board. This was something I’ve always wanted to do, but never got around to doing it. I started with a physical one and eventually decided to create a virtual one, so I could look at it each time I opened my phone.

I find that my vision boards motivate me to create the life that I’ve formed on paper. I continue to strive to achieve these goals, and it makes me feel good knowing I am one step closer to becoming the person I want to be.

Will you be creating a vision board? Leave a comment below.