November 10th, 2014
Stay Fabulously Fit in Fun Ways During the Dreaded Winter Months
With the cooler weather approaching, we must bid adieu to using the outdoors as our vast and endless fitness centre (although I know there are some die-hard outdoor enthusiasts who dig getting fit in bone-chilling temperatures. Well done to you!) For most of us, running through our regular routine and rotation of the various equipment at our indoor local fitness centre, throughout the winter months, can often get monotonous, mundane and downright boring. Have no fear! I'm here to share about numerous establishments that allow for fun alternative methods for burning calories and keeping fit throughout the festive season and on into the dreaded looming deep-freeze that is Canadian winter.
Cirque-ability
'Cirque-ability is a Toronto aerial, acrobatic and fitness studio. In 2008, Heather Kentner opened up Cirque-ability in a small west end loft. Heather created a studio where students of all ages and abilities could have fun participating in circus inspired classes. Students come to Cirque-ability to learn the art of circus, improve their fitness and have fun! However, the real success that comes from discovering your “cirque-ability” is feeling inspired to do the things that you never thought possible.'
http://www.cirque-ability.com/Cirque-ability_Toronto/About_Us.html
Barreworks
'Using the ballet barre, resistance bands and weighted balls, you will be engaged in an energizing combination of exercises that is unlike anything you’ve experienced before. Muscle sculpting, cardio training, core conditioning and deep stretching with an emphasis on posture and alignment. All this, set to a kick ass playlist.'
http://www.barreworks.ca/
KRUDAR MUAY THAI- Martial Arts
'OIP Dance Centre makes dance fun for anyone. Purchase your membership in person or over the phone – the steps are easy and it takes just minutes to complete. Become an O.I.P. Member and take every single class in our schedule for only $95 dollars per month. NO enrollment fee.'
Sky Zone- Indoor Trampoline Park
'We are dedicated to providing you with the pure joy that comes with flying. We are sky lovers, thrill seekers and people who believe that jumping is freedom. We believe fitness can be fun and play can be smart. We are healthy and bursting with energy. We fly high and keep it safe. We are Sky Zone.'
'The Yoga Lounge is now in its seventh year. It is open seven days a week to provide more than forty classes and workshops. We offer a very comprehensive yoga program that ebbs and flows to assist the mind and body in adapting to the ever-changing environment we live in. Weekly classes range from gentle restorative to stretch yoga (a studio favourite), progressing to a hatha practice that often threads Iyengar elements, which raise consciousness of the importance of anatomy and alignment. Ashtanga/vinyasa is a flow of yoga postures and is also a studio favourite. This type of practice can give even those already in good physical condition a serious workout.'
November 4th, 2014http://www.barreworks.ca/
Flirty Girl Fitness
'Our Studio offers up to 100 classes per week each striking the perfect balance in delivering highly effective, yet fun and entertaining workouts. We want to ensure you love working out so much you’ll make it a regular part of your daily routine – not because you have to, but because you LOVE to!
Bikini Boot Camp. Zumba. Core & Cardio. Abs & Booty. Women & Weights. Hottie Body Boxing. Coyote Ugly. Pole Dance. Kettle Bells. Lean Machine and many more.'
'Designed to carve the most sculpted physique, clear the mind of stress, shed the pounds, and gain some serious martial art skill, as well as so much more, Krudar has many classes to offer for all levels. Muay Thai, Spinning, Boot Camp, Strength Training, and Private Lessons. We welcome Kids, Youth, Adults, and Fighters. Our mission? To help people live better lives through the art of Muay Thai.'
OIP Dance Centre- Hip Hop Classes
Sky Zone- Indoor Trampoline Park
'We are dedicated to providing you with the pure joy that comes with flying. We are sky lovers, thrill seekers and people who believe that jumping is freedom. We believe fitness can be fun and play can be smart. We are healthy and bursting with energy. We fly high and keep it safe. We are Sky Zone.'
The Yoga Lounge
http://theyogalounge.net/
Have fun with fitness! Discover your winter pick-me-up and stay fitastic!
Be health happy!
Jessica Ashley
Have fun with fitness! Discover your winter pick-me-up and stay fitastic!
Be health happy!
Jessica Ashley
Beauty Sleep-It's Not a Myth
To all out there who try to carve an extra hour out of every fleeting day and burn the metaphorical candle at both ends, stop! That candle will soon burn out and you'll be left withered up and puffy-eyed trying to remember what your middle name is.
According to the National Sleep Foundation, humans are the only mammals that willingly delay sleep. Why do we do this to ourselves? Look how happy the monkeys and the giraffes are and look how well-rested the koalas and the sloths look; not a bag under those eyes to be found. We must take note and adjust the workaholic tendencies that plague our sleepless lifestyles. A beautiful life of balance is key.
Here are the facts about sleep and reasons that our outer appearance becomes impacted when we don't get enough (I'm no scientist, but the physiological and physical impacts a good night's sleep have on a person are enough proof for me to get those much needed z's):
- During sleep, we are not entirely at rest; our body is continuously working to restore, process and strengthen itself after the depletion that may have occurred throughout the course of the day
- Sleep helps to consolidate memories from the completed day. We take in a massive amount of information throughout any given day. This information is processed and substantially stored mostly while we sleep. For this reason, it is obvious that pulling an all-nighter to cram for an exam or test, is less effective than studying hard the day before and following this with a full night's rest.
- Your skin cells regenerate during sleep thereby giving a renewal to the entire appearance of your complexion, according to author of Forget the Facelift , Doris Day.
- "Lack of sleep causes blood vessels to dilate, causing dark circles under the eyes." Sonia Bansal, Dermatologist.
- Lack of sleep also causes you to be more stressed and this tension shows in your face.(my own personal experience has been helpful to my knowing this fact).
- Lack of sleep is also linked to more serious physiological effects such as heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes and depression.
Although there are many negatives that coincide with lack of sleep, in regards to complexion, skin recovers quickly so it's not too late to change up your sleep routine and get your body back on track!
Here are a few tips for a better night's sleep and less negative impacts to complexion and appearance while you sleep:
- Get on schedule! You must vow to yourself to go to bed at a certain time each night so that your body gets into a rhythm. Aim for at least 7 continuous hours of sleep a night.
- Lay off the booze before bed. Alcohol is a stimulant and although you may easily pass out after a couple glasses of red, you'll be wide awake in the early morning hours and cursing yourself for consuming any of it, with an inability to doze back off to sleep.
- Skip the afternoon or early evening coffee. Caffeine is a stimulant that will have you bug-eyed for hours.
- Become a back sleeper. Sleeping on your stomach or side increases puffiness to the under-eye area and the pulling on the eyes when pressed against the pillow case leads to fine lines developing. Laying on your back also drains any fluids from under the eyes so that when you awake you look better rested.
- A bedtime routine is paramount when preparing your mind and body to rest. This gives the signal to your brain that the day is done. Cleanse, moisturize, massage the face and crawl under the covers for the rest you undoubtedly deserve.
Sweet dreams!
Jessica Ashley
October 30th, 2014
For many years I have been slathering on home remedies and store-bought creams to keep my skin moisturized while attempting to halt inevitable cell degeneration and the looming onset of aging skin in its tracks.
Yes, there are many effective daily creams and treatments that have definite benefits, but with all these recent alternative medical tactics that require lasers, needles, buffers and additional technologies that are now used, it is easy to get swept up and carried away. Carried away down the medical cosmetic path of no return. The path that leads to an unending need to attempt to discover that fountain of youth by way of any and all means necessary.
I admit by times I've thought about seeking out information on Botox and alternative methods besides your run-of-the-mill skin cream A friend even shared with me that the time to begin it is before signs of aging are realized. She has been Botoxing since the age of 25. I swear she doesn't look a day over 20 so it sure has done the trick! There is just something about routinely asking a technician to jab needles in my forehead and cheeks that has me a bit standoffish about this particular age defying avenue.
In my hunt to find a happy place between the minimally effective creams and the surgical treatments, I appealed to a cosmetic tech at a nearby cosmetic medical clinic for suggestions. She shone a bright light on me, inspecting every pore and crevice, on my face running her gloved hand along the epidermis as she did so. The verdict? Chemical peel! I stumbled back three steps as visions of Samantha Jones with a freshly peeled face veiling herself from the sight of all party attendees, on an episode of Sex and the City, flashed through my mind. Fully frying my face for the purpose of maintaining its luster and a youthful complexion was not the route I was prepared to take. I made these concerns known.
Andrea, my cosmetic medical tech, giggled and admitted that 80% of women she discusses chemical peels with, have the exact same allusion or point of reference. She also was adamant that with the appropriate tech, the charcoal look is not even a remote possibility. She assured me there would be only beneficial results with little to no side-effects. I put my face's fate in her hands and signed on for a series of peels and hydro-lifting treatments, a bit nerve-filled while signing the waiver forms, of course.
Andrea, my cosmetic medical tech, giggled and admitted that 80% of women she discusses chemical peels with, have the exact same allusion or point of reference. She also was adamant that with the appropriate tech, the charcoal look is not even a remote possibility. She assured me there would be only beneficial results with little to no side-effects. I put my face's fate in her hands and signed on for a series of peels and hydro-lifting treatments, a bit nerve-filled while signing the waiver forms, of course.
The results? Ladies, I'm a believer! Truly, there is nothing to be afraid of. Monthly, I head to a serene setting where I'm made to feel that I'm at a day spa even though for only an hour, A soothing massage is included in the process and the substances that are lathered on my face elicit nothing more than a tickling and tingling sensation. My skin has never looked healthier and trust me, from the moment I step out of the medical cosmetic office, my day carries on as usual (no veil required). I know the term 'chemical' may be a bit off-putting, but the chemical that is used is so gentle that it's as if the substance used is an elixir with an olive oil base.
For those who are looking for a happy point in between creams and injections, the peel and hydro-lift is a spectacular option with fabulous results. The cost is reasonable, especially when bought in a package deal. Each monthly session costs around $75. However, if you buy a package of four, the cost per session decreases by about $15.
It is definitely important to always consult a health care professional to know the risks of any procedure and to know the skill level and training of the individual who will be treating you. Do what works best for you and your skin type.
Be skin happy!
Jessica Ashley
October 26th, 2014
The hair growth mystery. Does your hair seem to be recoiling back into your head? Well first, it's not. It's simply in need of some TLC and these tips will assist you in getting the lengthy mane of locks that you truly desire without having to go extension shopping:
Don't Over-style
Over-styling can damage your hair causing the ends to continuously break off. Using high heat straightening irons and/or curling irons constantly can be stressful for the hair especially if appropriate protecting serums are not used. Even overuse of various hairsprays, gels and mousses can have a hair-breaking and damaging effect on your locks. Give your hair a break, girlfriend! Let it go natural and embrace the untamed mane once in awhile. If this isn't an option for you be sure to use quality heat protecting products such as Karastese Elixir, Aveda Confixor Liquid Gel, Bumble and Bumbe Tonic Lotion, Kiehl's Heat Protective Serum and of course my personal favourite, everything from the Moroccan Oil line
Give the Brushing a Rest
Ensuring to brush your hair with 100 strokes every night before bed is not going to give you perfectly glossy, photo shoot-ready hair, ladies. It's simply going to stress the scalp because it pulls hair out of the scalp if the brushing is too vigorous. When you do brush it, be sure to use a wide tooth comb , comb through only dry hair and comb sparingly.
Cleanse With the Right Products
Using the appropriate shampoos and conditioners for your hair type is crucial. Don't just go with the bottles of shampoo that only have a regular moisture level you may have found in the half-price bin at your local drugstore, if you know that your hair needs extra moisture. Saving money initially will only make you regret having that extra bit of change in your pocket when your hair becomes so brittle and dried out that only pricey hair-care treatment will get it back to where it should be. Consistent cleansing with the appropriate products for your hair type is a must. If you are unsure as to what category your hair falls under, talk to your hair care expert at your choice of salon.
Let Your Hair Down a Little
Don't stress hair with restrictive and tight styles. Tight ponytails or unnecessarily tight buns pull on the follicle and inhibit growth. Also, never use rubber bands to pull hair back. Instead of tight ponytails or buns try a loose braid style.
Don't Stress! Get Some Rest.
Not getting the appropriate rest can cause your hair growth to become stunted. Sleep helps to regenerate all bodily cells including hair cells. A lack of sleep will disallow regeneration from occurring and therefore will harm the growth of your hair as well as inhibit skin regeneration, not to mention will make you fatigued and grumpy as hell.
Eat Those Fruits and Veggies.
As well as plenty of fish, poultry and eggs! (substitute proteins for the vegans and vegetarians out there). Nourish your body with the appropriate vitamins and nutrients and you will see the difference your diet has on your hair. Vitamins C, D, A, and E along with protein promote necessary keratin production which is critical for your hair. Appropriate keratin production is the building block of healthy hair.
Get Trimmed Regularly
No, getting your hair cut regularly will not make it grow faster from the root. This is a hair myth, but regularly going for a trim of damaged ends will halt breakage therefore allowing ends to continue growing healthily. Hair-care professionals suggest going for a trim every 6-8 weeks for best results.
In addition, steer away from chemical treatments and excessive colouring or bleaching of hair. Results may look great initially but will have a damaging effect on your luscious locks.
Be Hair Happy!
Jessica Ashley
For those who are looking for a happy point in between creams and injections, the peel and hydro-lift is a spectacular option with fabulous results. The cost is reasonable, especially when bought in a package deal. Each monthly session costs around $75. However, if you buy a package of four, the cost per session decreases by about $15.
It is definitely important to always consult a health care professional to know the risks of any procedure and to know the skill level and training of the individual who will be treating you. Do what works best for you and your skin type.
Be skin happy!
Jessica Ashley
October 26th, 2014
The hair growth mystery. Does your hair seem to be recoiling back into your head? Well first, it's not. It's simply in need of some TLC and these tips will assist you in getting the lengthy mane of locks that you truly desire without having to go extension shopping:
Don't Over-style
Over-styling can damage your hair causing the ends to continuously break off. Using high heat straightening irons and/or curling irons constantly can be stressful for the hair especially if appropriate protecting serums are not used. Even overuse of various hairsprays, gels and mousses can have a hair-breaking and damaging effect on your locks. Give your hair a break, girlfriend! Let it go natural and embrace the untamed mane once in awhile. If this isn't an option for you be sure to use quality heat protecting products such as Karastese Elixir, Aveda Confixor Liquid Gel, Bumble and Bumbe Tonic Lotion, Kiehl's Heat Protective Serum and of course my personal favourite, everything from the Moroccan Oil line
Give the Brushing a Rest
Ensuring to brush your hair with 100 strokes every night before bed is not going to give you perfectly glossy, photo shoot-ready hair, ladies. It's simply going to stress the scalp because it pulls hair out of the scalp if the brushing is too vigorous. When you do brush it, be sure to use a wide tooth comb , comb through only dry hair and comb sparingly.
Cleanse With the Right Products
Using the appropriate shampoos and conditioners for your hair type is crucial. Don't just go with the bottles of shampoo that only have a regular moisture level you may have found in the half-price bin at your local drugstore, if you know that your hair needs extra moisture. Saving money initially will only make you regret having that extra bit of change in your pocket when your hair becomes so brittle and dried out that only pricey hair-care treatment will get it back to where it should be. Consistent cleansing with the appropriate products for your hair type is a must. If you are unsure as to what category your hair falls under, talk to your hair care expert at your choice of salon.
Let Your Hair Down a Little
Don't stress hair with restrictive and tight styles. Tight ponytails or unnecessarily tight buns pull on the follicle and inhibit growth. Also, never use rubber bands to pull hair back. Instead of tight ponytails or buns try a loose braid style.
Don't Stress! Get Some Rest.
Not getting the appropriate rest can cause your hair growth to become stunted. Sleep helps to regenerate all bodily cells including hair cells. A lack of sleep will disallow regeneration from occurring and therefore will harm the growth of your hair as well as inhibit skin regeneration, not to mention will make you fatigued and grumpy as hell.
Eat Those Fruits and Veggies.
As well as plenty of fish, poultry and eggs! (substitute proteins for the vegans and vegetarians out there). Nourish your body with the appropriate vitamins and nutrients and you will see the difference your diet has on your hair. Vitamins C, D, A, and E along with protein promote necessary keratin production which is critical for your hair. Appropriate keratin production is the building block of healthy hair.
Get Trimmed Regularly
No, getting your hair cut regularly will not make it grow faster from the root. This is a hair myth, but regularly going for a trim of damaged ends will halt breakage therefore allowing ends to continue growing healthily. Hair-care professionals suggest going for a trim every 6-8 weeks for best results.
In addition, steer away from chemical treatments and excessive colouring or bleaching of hair. Results may look great initially but will have a damaging effect on your luscious locks.
Be Hair Happy!
Jessica Ashley
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