MORNING

Ever since I lightened my workload for the summer, I've had a lot of time to dedicate to myself. 

It's important to have time to yourself, especially mornings. This morning, I woke up (after Russ snoozed his 7:30am alarm five times) and craved the outdoors. My bed is across from two windows, so it's calming to wake up and hear the sounds of nature so early. 

I put on my robe, drank a big glass of water, and made myself my favorite green juice: apple, spinach, cucumber, and mint leaves. The combination of each makes a sweet, healthy taste that wakes you up better than a grande iced caramel macchiato. After my juice, I walked barefoot to the beach, which is conveniently right in my backyard. I let the sand exfoliate my feet and concentrated on my breathing, in through my nose and out through my mouth. After the beach, I traveled to the other side of my property where my workout studio is, put on Pandora (Ciara radio), and did a twenty-minute upper body circuit:

12 shoulder front & side raises on the bosu

12 shoulder presses

12 bicep curls

repeat 2x

12 each single arm overhead tricep extension

12 double arm overhead tricep extension

15 each arm tricep kickbacks

repeat 2x

15 chest flys on yoga ball

12 each single arm chest press

12 each arm rows

repeat 2x

Whatever the rest of this gorgeous Friday brings, I'm ready. 

Have a beautiful, healthy day!

ATTIRE

I used to work out in an old t-shirt and guys basketball shorts.

Then, I switched to TJMaxx's exercise clothing.

THEN, I discovered Lululemon Athletica.

When I'm working out, I find that I go so much harder when I feel good about myself. I don't feel pretty in old t-shirts. I need workout attire that flatters me, makes me feel fit and motivates me to keep going. I like looking polished and girly as I sweat my butt off. That's why I wear lululemon.

The quality of their products is amazing. It's stretchy, yet bodycon. It's not too tight to the point where you're uncomfortable. The material allows you to breathe. They hem your pants for you before you purchase them so they fit custom to your body. Their shorts, yoga crops and full length pants have this elasticity about them that allow you to jump higher, sprint faster, and work harder. They have sports bras for all types of exercise; from yoga to high intensity interval training, and they all flatter your body to make you feel sexy and confident. 

I was ecstatic when I found out about the r and d program- trainers and group fitness instructors get a discount! Best of all, they offer complimentary yoga in the store on Sundays!

It's worth it to feel good about yourself when working out. Put on a little mascara, put your hair in a cute top knot, throw on a lululemon outfit and go hard! 

Do you have a favorite workout clothing brand? I'd love to hear!