The Rise of Wellness Retreats in 2026: Why They’re Trending, How to Choose One, and the Benefits of Mindful Travel
Wellness travel has evolved beyond a spa day or a weekend yoga class; in 2026, wellness retreats are emerging as one of the most sought-after travel experiences worldwide. From immersive digital detox programs in the mountains to beachside breathwork and movement retreats, travelers are prioritizing experiences that nourish, not just entertain. Whether you’re seeking stress relief, deeper connection, or a reset from daily life, wellness retreats offer intentional, guided experiences that tap into both physical and emotional well-being.
In this post, we’ll explore why wellness retreats are trending in 2026, how to choose the right one for your needs, and the benefits of this travel style for body, mind, and spirit.
The Rise of Wellness Retreats in 2026
Why Wellness Retreats Are Trending in 2026
Post-Pandemic Priorities Have Shifted
The last few years have reshaped how people think about travel. Instead of ticking destinations off a list, many now seek meaningful experiences. After global uncertainty and burnout, travelers want more than selfies. They want transformation, healing, and connection. Wellness retreats deliver just that: structured environments focused on rest, restoration, and growth.
Rising Awareness of Mental Health
Mental health is no longer a taboo topic, it’s mainstream. Many retreats center around mindfulness, meditation, stress management, and emotional recalibration. Even corporate wellness programs now include retreat experiences, signaling a shift in how society values inner health.
Integration of Science and Tradition
Wellness retreats in 2026 combine ancient healing traditions (like Ayurveda and breathwork) with modern science (nutrition, functional medicine, circadian rhythm insights). This convergence appeals to travelers who want grounded experiences—not just Instagram moments.
Remote Work Enables Longer, Flexible Travel
With hybrid and remote work firmly rooted in some of routines, the lucky remote workers can take longer wellness breaks without sacrificing career momentum. A two-week retreat isn’t seen as “vacation”—it’s investment time.
Benefits of Wellness Retreat Travel
Wellness retreats offer a wide range of benefits that extend far beyond the duration of your trip. Here are a few of the most significant:
Deep Stress Reduction
Retreats provide structured environments designed to reduce stress at the source. Through meditation, breathwork, restorative movement, and nature immersion, participants often experience a profound sense of calm that can last weeks after departure.
Improved Physical Health
Many retreats focus on holistic health practices including:
Nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory meals
Yoga and functional movement
Sleep support and circadian rhythm optimization
Detox programs
These elements work together to boost energy, support immunity, and improve overall vitality.
Mental and Emotional Clarity
Stepping away from daily noise — social media, work pressures, noisy environments — helps the nervous system recalibrate. Retreats often include journaling, therapeutic workshops, and group dialogue, allowing emotional unpacking and self-understanding.
Community and Shared Experience
Retreats bring together people with shared intentions. This fosters connection and community — a powerful benefit for emotional support and long-term accountability around healthy habits.
Lasting Healthy Habits
A retreat isn’t a quick reset; it’s a launch pad for long-term behavior change. Most retreats provide take-home tools, from breathing practices to mindfulness routines, that help sustain results long after the trip has ended.
How to Choose the Right Wellness Retreat
With the surge in popularity, wellness retreat options can feel overwhelming. Here’s how to choose one that aligns with your goals:
Clarify Your Intent
Ask yourself:
Are you seeking stress relief?
Do you want to improve sleep, weight, or digestion?
Are you interested in mindfulness, movement, or spiritual growth?
Your purpose will guide your choice.
Research the Program Structure
Not all retreats are created equal. Some are rigid with early mornings and strict schedules, while others offer flexibility. Look at:
Daily activities
Class sizes
Accommodation type
Meal plans
Make sure the structure supports your comfort and goals.
Check Qualifications and Experience
Find retreats led by trained professionals — certified yoga instructors, licensed therapists, registered dietitians, or functional medicine experts. Ask about credentials and experience working with your specific needs.
Location and Environment Matter
A jungle retreat feels different from a desert or coastal one. Think about:
Climate preferences
Terrain (for hikes or movement)
Accessibility of airport and travel logistics
The environment should feel restorative, not stressful.
Read Reviews and Testimonials
Past participants can be your best resource. Look for:
Honest reviews
Outcomes shared by alumni
Social proof on community forums and groups
Avoid retreats with limited or suspiciously uniform feedback.
Budget for Experience + Extras
Wellness retreats vary widely in price. Consider what’s included:
Accommodation
Meals
Workshops
Spa sessions
Airport transfers
Sometimes a higher upfront cost translates into more value and fewer out-of-pocket expenses while you’re there.
If you’re ready to book your dream wellness retreat in 2026, here are a few that I’ve been researching for myself!
Best Wellness Retreats for Women in 2026
This Way Movement
This Way Movement specializes in Pilates retreats in Costa Rica, with their first European retreat happening this summer in Ibiza.
Goddess Retreats
Goddess Retreats are female only retreats, with a focus on active wellness. Their Bali retreats have something for everyone: from the Fitness Goddess Retreat that includes daily sculpt and strengthen sessions including HIIT, Hyrox, and Tabata; to the Healing Retreats that offer daily meditation rituals and rejuvenating spa treatments
Vajra Sol
Vajra Sol sets out to facilitate a rejuvenating and transformative experience for each guest through their international yoga retreats. With experiences in Costa Rica, Patagonia, Austria, Croatia, Colorado, and Mexico, there is a destination for every travel style and time of year.
Reformer Retreats
Pilates Reformer Retreats is all classical style reformer Pilates designed to hone in on the mental and physical benefits. Locations vary from dreamy Northern Spain to the romantic Cotswalds. Daily itineraries include everything from reformer, wunda chair and barrel Pilates sessions. If this sounds like your vibe, be sure to book early – most of their 2026 retreats are already sold out!
Zulal Wellness Resort
This luxury resort is located where the desert meets the sea on the northernmost tip of Qatar, and combines traditional Arabic and Islamic medicine and holistic wellbeing in luxurious surroundings. Their unique experiences combine spa treatments, meditation, and physiotherapy, and you can choose from customized packages that focus on everything from burnout recovery to body transformation.
Santee Redwood
Santee Redwood organizes wellness focused retreats for Black and Brown women, encouraging them to prioritize rest without guilt. Their next retreat is a glamping style experience in Everett, PA in March, and the pricing is far more affordable than most wellness retreats, I’ve seen. So if you’ve wanted to try one, but can’t swing the higher cost of many of these experiences, this could be your chance!
Rutzu Mallorca
Rutzu is a dreamy finca set on the island of Mallorca with a series of Pilates and Yoga retreats with different host instructors. Their retreats offer the chance to recharge, challenge yourself, and create memories and connections.
Wellness retreats in 2026 are more than a trend — they’re a response to how we want to live and travel. As boundaries between work, life, and travel blur, people are investing in experiences that enrich, heal, and transform. A retreat isn’t just a break from your routine—it’s a practice that supports your long-term well-being.
If you’re thinking about your next getaway, consider a retreat that aligns with your health goals and personal rhythm. It might be the most meaningful trip you ever take.
Summer Ready! 10 Tips You Need to Look and Feel Your Best This Season
Summer is just around the corner, and it's time to get ready for the season of sunshine, warm weather, and outdoor fun! Whether you're planning a beach vacation, a pool party, or just looking forward to enjoying the sunny days at home, here are some lifestyle tips to help you make the most out of your summer and get ready for the upcoming season.
Summer Ready! 10 Tips You Need to Look and Feel Your Best This Season
Stay Hydrated
As the temperature rises, it's crucial to stay hydrated to keep your body functioning optimally. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially during outdoor activities. You can also include hydrating foods in your diet, such as watermelon, cucumbers, and oranges, which are high in water content and can help keep you hydrated.
Protect Your Skin
Sunscreen should be a non-negotiable part of your summer routine. Exposure to harmful UV rays can damage your skin and increase the risk of sunburn, premature aging, and even skin cancer. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and apply it generously to all exposed skin, including your face, neck, arms, and legs.
Don't forget to reapply every two hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating. And don’t forget your eyes! They need protection from the sun as well. The strong UV rays during the summer can harm your eyes and increase the risk of eye conditions like cataracts and macular degeneration. Make sure to wear sunglasses with UV protection that block out 100% of UVA and UVB rays. Look for sunglasses that wrap around your eyes for maximum coverage and choose ones with polarized lenses to reduce glare, especially when you're around water. Don't forget to also wear a wide-brimmed hat for extra protection.
Get Your Summer Wardrobe Ready
It's time to put away your winter clothes and update your wardrobe for summer. Invest in lightweight and breathable fabrics like cotton and linen that are perfect for hot weather. Opt for light-colored clothing, as they reflect heat and keep you cooler. Don't forget to add some stylish sunglasses, wide-brimmed hats, and comfortable sandals to complete your summer look.
Stay Active Outdoors
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy outdoor activities and get moving. From swimming and hiking to biking and beach volleyball, there are plenty of fun ways to stay active during the sunny season. Regular physical activity not only helps you stay fit and healthy but also boosts your mood and energy levels. So, make the most of the longer days and warmer weather by incorporating outdoor activities into your routine.
Plan Your Summer Vacation
If you're planning a summer getaway, now is the time to start planning and booking your travel arrangements. Whether it's a beach vacation, a camping trip, or a city break, plan ahead to get the best deals on flights, accommodations, and activities. Research your destination and make a packing list to ensure you have everything you need for a stress-free and enjoyable trip.
Stay Cool and Comfortable
As the mercury rises, it's important to stay cool and comfortable in the summer heat. Dress in loose, light-colored clothing that allows air to circulate and keeps you cool. Use fans or air conditioning to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature, and take cool showers or use a damp towel on your neck and wrists to lower your body temperature.
Eat Fresh and Healthy
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables that are abundant during the season. Incorporate plenty of salads, smoothies, and grilled vegetables into your diet for a nutritious and refreshing summer meal. Opt for lighter and cooler foods, such as yogurt, salads, and chilled soups, to help you stay refreshed and hydrated.
Take Care of Your Hair
Summer can be harsh on your hair, with exposure to sun, saltwater, and chlorine from swimming. Take care of your locks by using a hair sunscreen spray to protect your hair from UV rays, and rinse your hair with clean water after swimming to remove saltwater or chlorine residue. Deep condition your hair regularly to replenish moisture, and consider using a wide-brimmed hat or a stylish scarf to protect your hair from direct sunlight.
Plan Outdoor Social Activities
Summer is the perfect time to connect with friends and family and plan outdoor social activities. From BBQs and picnics to outdoor movie nights and beach bonfires, there are endless opportunities for fun and memorable gatherings. Plan ahead and make a list of outdoor activities you want to do with your loved ones, and create lasting memories while enjoying the warm weather.
Practice Relaxation Techniques
Summer can be a busy season with lots of activities and events, but it's important to also prioritize self-care and relaxation. Take time to practice relaxation techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing to reduce stress and stay balanced. You can also create a calming outdoor space in your backyard or balcony with some comfy seating, soft lighting, and relaxing music to unwind and enjoy the summer evenings.
Getting ready for summer involves more than just packing your bags for a vacation or buying a new swimsuit. It's about taking care of your health, staying safe in the sun and water, staying active, and enjoying quality time with loved ones. By following these lifestyle tips, you can make the most out of the summer season and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. So, put on your sunscreen, grab your sunglasses, and get ready to embrace the warmth and joy of summer! Happy summer preparations!
Summer Ready! 10 Tips You Need to Look and Feel Your Best This Season
Stay Hydrated
Protect Your Skin
Get Your Summer Wardrobe Ready
Stay Active Outdoors
Plan Your Summer Vacation
Stay Cool and Comfortable
Eat Fresh and Healthy
Take Care of Your Hair
Plan Outdoor Social Activities
Practice Relaxation Techniques
How to Plan The Perfect Post Quarantine Vacation
What a year 2020 has shaped up to be! One of my first posts this year was a Travel Bucket List - all the best destinations to visit each season this year. Of course the plan was never to visit all of these countries and cities in 2020! However, it was more to provide guidance and inspiration based on the best times to travel and which destinations would be best to visit at which time.
Unfortunately, Covid-19 had other plans! The virus quickly became a pandemic, shutting down everyday activities and making travel impossible. Any vacations you may have planned are now probably up in the air, and many brides are being forced to cancel their weddings due to Covid. Of course, we will be able to travel again safely one day. But will we be able to take vacations this summer with the effects of coronavirus? The main thing to focus on is health and safety, so the decision to travel has to take that into account. You’ll need to consider the prevalence of cases in your city and the city you are thinking about traveling to, as well as what activities and dining are available.
I’m cautiously planning some travel for June and July 2020 and am unbelievably excited. Keep reading for some of my predictions on how covid will change travel for the rest of the year and how to I’m planning safely!
How Coronavirus Will Affect Summer and Fall Travel
Summer travel will be less frequent this year than average. From fears about safety, to limited resources due to the economic impact of covid, less people will be taking trips for sure. However, people that were lucky enough to stay in good health and maintain their finances may want to consider planning a trip. International travel will likely be risky until late Summer, and a lot of countries have said the borders will remain closed to Americans indefinitely.
Luckily for me, I’ve been planning to do more domestic travel! The only international trip I had planned was for our destination wedding, which has sadly been postponed. Now is a great time to start thinking about domestic destinations that are safe and fun to visit. Since I’m a West Coast girl now, I plan to spend time exploring more of California and neighboring states. Sedona is top of my list, and I’m also excited about wine country in Oregon, mountains in Utah, going back to Hawaii, and seeing Cabo and Puerto Vallerta on the Western Coast of Mexico.
When we get out of quarantine and can start traveling again, the most popular trips will definitely be those that are close to home. The great American road trip will become popular again, with people planning trips that are an easy, scenic drive away. If you are nervous about flying, a road trip is the perfect way to travel while still practicing social distancing. People may also be more open to vacation homes like AirBnB instead of traditional hotels, largely because hotels require a lot more daily interaction with staff. Safety is always a big thing to consider when traveling, especially as a woman. It will become even more important as we consider health as much as personal safety.
Things may settle down even more by Fall, making international travel more likely. European hot spots and beach destinations will be closing down for the season by then, so think of some fun, new locales to explore. It’s always lovely to catch the Fall foliage, and wine destinations from Napa to Tuscany are gorgeous in September. Do some research into what is seasonally appropriate, safe, and free from restrictions before you book!
Planning a Post Quarantine Vacation
I’m sure we are all dying to get out of quarantine and get back to having fun! It can be a little scary thinking about traveling again, which is why planning a trip during the coronavirus pandemic will require a lot more precautions. If you plan on flying, give yourself extra time at the airport. There will probably not be long lines, but there will be extra safety precautions. A lot of airport restaurants may be closed and food and beverage service on your flight will likely be limited. Plan to eat before your trip and pack plenty of snacks just in case. If you are thinking about taking a long-haul flight, call the airline in advance to inquire about how they are handling meals. If you don’t like their plans, you may want to switch to a different provider or plan a trip with a shorter, easier flight.
And no matter your destination, do your research to make sure you can enjoy your time when you land. If there are certain sites you have your heart set on seeing, make sure they will be open! Purchase tickets and make restaurant reservations in advance as well. A lot of places will be reducing capacity and taking measures to ensure social distancing, so you don’t want to miss out.
While a face mask may not be required to fly or enter certain establishments, I recommend packing a few and wearing them. A face mask can protect you and those around you from getting sick and it’s still important to remain cautious right now. They can be a little annoying, especially when it’s hot outside, but health and safety are paramount. Keep a few cute patterns and colors in rotation if you are worried about how they look!
How to Find Post Coronavirus Travel Deals
The travel industry is reeling from the months of coronavirus related travel restrictions. That means travel deals will be plentiful! Sign up for travel newsletters and alerts from your favorite airlines and hotel chains. They will be offering everything from deep discounts to bonus points that you can use later. Dollar Flight Club has a special Travel Stimulus Package deal, offering $10,000 in exclusive discounts with 40+ of the best travel & outdoor brands in the world. Sign up on their site before May 31st!
There will also be a lot more flexibility with changes and cancellations, so don’t be afraid to make some reservations now. Just double check the fine print before booking! Booking direct gives you more of an advantage than using a third party booking platform, so consider changing your approach to making reservations. And don’t forget your travel insurance!
Hope these tips help! Just remember to have fun and be safe!
1 Year Keto! Surviving the Keto Diet Long-Term and Why I Finally Gave it Up!
It’s been just about a year since I started the keto diet! I dove into keto in February 2019, pretty much giving up carbs cold turkey. My results were amazing! I lost weight quickly and ate more of the foods I loved, with none of the weird side effects that were commonly reported. I never once experienced keto flu, keto breath, the dreaded keto crotch, or any of the negative side effects of the keto diet. The first few months were pretty much a breeze and I reported on my progress periodically on this blog and on my Instagram.
As much as I love the diet and despite how effective the keto diet is at managing weight, I’ve decided to take a break. It is wildly effective, and pretty easy to maintain, but it had some major health drawbacks that are making me put it on pause. Keep reading for why I broke up with the keto diet, how keto impacted my health long term, and what steps I’m taking for healthy weight management!
Health Risks and the Keto Diet
I’m not going to spend a lot of time discussing what keto is. At this point it’s so popular and there are so many resources that can give you an in-depth overview if you are looking for one. But in a nutshell, keto is a high fat, low carb diet that is proven to help with weight loss and weight management. It worked incredibly well for me, but after being on the keto diet for almost a year I did have some negative health effects. After my last physical I learned that my cholesterol was crazy high, blood sugar was completely out of whack, and I had high inflammation. I had also been experiencing night sweats off and on for months and couldn’t figure out why!
After going over my lab results with my doctor, she strongly suggested I reset my diet to get my system back in order. The high cholesterol was common with the keto diet, especially when you find yourself practicing more of a dirty keto diet than a clean keto diet. She also mentioned that my blood sugar was relatively high for someone on keto, because the keto diet basically eliminates sugar. I was also severely fiber deficient. Even though I use fiber supplements daily on the keto diet, I wasn’t getting anywhere near the recommended amount, and hadn’t in almost a year. I underestimated the importance of fiber in a diet, but it’s good for way more than just keeping things regular! Fiber is pretty important for overall digestion and bowel health, plus it helps manage your blood sugar and cholesterol, 2 things I was having issues major with.
Dirty Keto vs Clean Keto
There are a few different ways to keto diet, but 2 of the most common are dirty keto and clean keto. Dirty keto means you are adhering to the high-fat low carb principles of the diet, but eating more unhealthy options and fast food. I definitely fell into dirty keto for a while, forgetting the difference between good fat and bad fat. That meant a diet full of processed foods, red meat, fast food, and foods that are high in saturated fat. Steaks, cheese and butter were basically my best friends! Clean keto focuses on getting your fat from healthy sources, like fatty fish, olive oil, nuts, and avocados. So, while I did lose weight from regularly eating lettuce wrapped double cheeseburgers with bacon and sausage egg and cheese breakfasts, the results were proving to be disastrous for my health.
Giving Up the Keto Diet
I’ve spent the last few weeks giving my body a break from the keto diet to get back on track. I do plan to restart a cleaner version of the keto diet in a few more months, once I feel like my system is stabilized and functioning in optimal health. I just need to give my body time to reset from my old dirty keto style of eating!
Since I moved away from my semi dirty keto diet, the mysterious night sweats have disappeared and I will know more about my cholesterol and sugar when I do my blood work next month. While I still generally practice a low-carb diet, my focus is more on making sure I hit my fiber goal. My doctor recommended getting 30-35 grams of fiber a day and challenged me to get that fiber from a plant-based diet, not just taking additional supplements. Getting that much fiber is harder than it sounds, especially if you are not relying on processed foods like fiber bars. The high fiber diet means my daily carb intake is usually around 50 grams, and when I was on keto it was always under 25 grams. So while that is considered a low carb diet, it keeps me out of ketosis.
And yes, I have already gained weight back! I’m trying not to stress about it since health is more important, but I have definitely noticed a difference in my body. It’s only a few pounds and I’m letting it rock while being mindful. I definitely don’t want to dramatically gain or lose any weight this close to wedding dress shopping!
I will also say that my doctor made it clear that she is not anti-keto, just that I need to find a way to clean it up and make sure my nutrients are balanced. So if you are concerned about the potential health risks of the keto diet, talk to your medical professional and work with them on a diet plan that can help you maintain the keto diet without compromising your health. I’m an LA girl now, so it was easy to find a doctor that focused on medicine and also nutrition. She was able to give me great tips on meal planning and food prep that would enable me to continue a low-carb lifestyle in a healthier fashion. If you are thinking about doing a modified low-carb diet, focus on finding the balance between healthy fats, carbs and fiber. Try to stay away from processed foods and foods high in cholesterol as well!
Hope this helps if you are thinking about starting or stopping the keto diet! Overall, it’s important to make sure you are staying healthy and balanced in any diet you choose to follow. Let me know any questions in the comments, or tips about keto if you are on the diet as well!
6 Months Keto Update: Maintainance, Set-Backs, Progress and More!
My 6 Month Keto-Versary is just around the corner! I’ve been meaning to update you guys on how the diet is working for me and managing it long-term for awhile, and 6 months is the perfect milestone! I can say for sure that I’m passed the point of thinking of keto as a fad diet and more now consider it a lifestyle. I’m no longer trying to lose weight, and am happy with my results. But overall I feel like the diet works amazingly for me, let’s me eat most of the types of foods I want, and allows me the flexibility to have long-term success. Here are a few things that have changed for me after staying on keto for 6 months!
I Adjusted My Macros
I use My Fitness Pal to track macros and when I first started my goal was 20-25 grams of carbs a day. That led to the quick weight loss I experienced in the first few weeks. Since my goal has shifted to keeping my weight stable, I increased my carb intake to around 30-35 grams on average. My carbs still mostly come from vegetables and berries, but I will occasionally have a glass of wine, or a few bites of a dessert that would normally be completely off limits. Which brings me to my next point . . .
I Cheat on Keto A Lot More
When I first started I was pretty hard core and dedicated to seeing results. Now that I no longer care about losing weight, I’m more liberal about having occasional cheats. Full on cheat days are still pretty rare, but I would guess I go over my carb goal on average once a week. I say guess because I don’t necessaily count macros on things I just have a few bites of, but I am guilty of picking at a few of my boyfriend’s fries or eating something saucy which is usually a no no because sauces tend to be high in sugar. I have also fallen off the wagon HARD a few times, indulging in carb-binges that I loved in the moment but regretted the next day. After maintaining a low-carb and basically no sugar diet for so long, overindulging can shock your body and leave you feeling sick, crampy, and withdrawn as you digest. I’m not saying the occasional bowl of pasta or plate of French toast isn’t worth it, but keep in mind how you will feel after!
I Stopped Weighing Myself
I haven’t set foot on a scale since April! Instead of worrying about my weight, I think more about inches I’m losing or gaining. My workouts have shifted to be almost exclusively strength focused, with special emphasis on core conditioning because I have ALWAYS wanted better abs. My workout mix typically includes a HIIT class, Ballet Barre, hot yoga and boxing or Krav Maga. I also started doing 10 minutes of ab work 4 to 5 times a week. I’ve been doing that regularly for about a month, following YouTube videos from Chloe Ting and MadFit and I love my results! I lost an inch on my waist after about 3 weeks of dedicated ab workouts, but gained back half an inch after a carb binge in San Diego last weekend! So yes, I learned that my progress can very quickly unravel and I may need to be more disciplined as I try to get more sculpted!
Intermittent Fasting Suddenly Got Really Hard
When I started keto I also regularly practiced Intermittent Fasting, usually eating between the hours of 12-8. I rarely got hungry before noon, and was sometimes easily able to go as late as 1:30 without even noticing. The only time I would eat past 8 is when socal obligations required me to, and usually when that happened I could easily start eating later in the day since I wouldn’t be hungry. But something happened after my move to LA! Maybe it was the sudden change in my normal schedule or adjusting to my new lifestyle, but for some reason keeping my fasting schedule has become such a challenge. I always think it’s more important to listen to your body than it is to follow arbitrary timing, so when my body tells me it’s time to eat I listen. However I have noticed that I start feeling ravenous around 10-10:30am, which is way earlier than I used to eat when I first started keto. I’m not sure what if any difference it’s making so I’m just keeping an eye on it and listening to my body.
I’m Taking More Supplements
When I first started, the only supplements I added to my routine was magnesium. I typically take a multi-vitamin, Omega 3, Collagen and Biotin anyway, so magnesium was just to make sure my electrolytes stayed balanced. However because of my increased carb intake and more frequent cheating, I figure adding in more keto focused supplements could help me stay on track. They can be expensive, so I will let you know if they are worth it in my next update, because right now it’s too early to say. But when I first started the keto diet I didn’t take any of the most commonly used supplements, like MCT Oil and ketone bases. My results were great, but your body does plateau, so I’m switching things up a bit to make sure it keeps working for me!
I Still Don’t Like Keto Desserts
I’ve found a few keto recipes that work for me, like zucchini lasagna, almond flour pancakes and cauliflower rice stir fry. However the dessert recipes are always disappointing! The textures and taste are just never good enough to really be satisfying. When I’m craving sweets, I’m more likely to just eat a bowl of berries and cream or a piece of Lily’s Chocolate. That usually comes in around 7 to 10 grams of carbs and is way more worth it than a cardboardy keto cupcake with 4 grams of carbs!
Let me know any burning questions about keto in the comments or on Instagram! And shop my look and some of my keto faves below!
30 Day Keto Update - Results and 7 FAQ's!
If you’ve been paying attention to my Instagram stories, you’ve probably seen me mention starting the keto diet and amping up my workouts. I wanted to give you guys some background on why I started, my results after being on the keto diet for 30 days, some frequently asked questions about maintaining the keto lifestyle, and some of my favorite keto recipes that are helping me stay in shape! Get ready for a long post because we are diving in!
What is the Keto Diet
In short it’s a diet that focuses on fat first, and virtually eliminates carbs from your diet in an effort to get your body to burn fat as it’s primary fuel source. I’m not going to go into all the details of the diet because there are A LOT so I’d encourage you to do research
Why I Started the Keto Diet
Even though I’ve always been in relatively good shape and maintain a regular workout schedule, I noticed that my weight had been slowly creeping up over the years. It was a tiny bit at a time, but I noticed it sticking, especially after I started traveling more and getting into a new relationship which meant lots of time indulging! I had been yo-yo dieting, losing weight fast when I wanted to shape up for a trip or through the summer, then packing it back on pretty much as soon as I started eating normal. I did juice cleanses back to back, which have a place in your regimen but are not a sustainable way to maintain weight. At my most extreme I was calorie counting with My Fitness Pal and logging less than 1,000 calories a day! It was tough, ineffective, and I was miserable.
I noticed a lot of friends, acquaintances and coworkers mentioning being on keto and loving the diet and results, so I started observing how they ate and what they thought about keto as a lifestyle. I wish I could say I carefully prepared to start the diet, but I actually dove in and quit carbs cold turkey while on a trip to LA! I instantly noticed how carbs are EVERYWHERE and how intense it would be to really track them. But I also enjoyed being able to eat foods I loved that I had deprived myself of when on my strict, low-fat diets. I ate real bacon, full-fat dairy, a whole avocado a day, and snacked on nuts. While at a Mexican restaurant one night in LA, I didn’t even miss skipping tacos and ate a huge bowl of carnitas and sautéed veggies! Overall even though I wasn’t eating any carbs or sugar, I stopped missing them after a few days and instantly felt happier!
Have you seen results from the keto diet?
My results have been amazing! On my other diets I would barely lose a pound a week, and often it was water weight. In one month on keto I lost 6 pounds and 3.5% body fat! Yes, I lost that much weight eating bacon, cheese, and burgers! I expect to plateau pretty soon, especially because I’m already pretty close to my goal weight, but I’m so happy with the results.
Did you have any weird side effects from the keto diet?
If you Google keto side effects, you will find a LONG list of side effects, everything from bad breath, keto crotch, fatigue, dehydration and constipation. I did not experience any of these! I changed my supplements which helped keep things balanced, so I take omega 3’s, fiber, and magnesium. I also manage my sodium intake by drinking bone broth or salt water and the only time I got a keto related headache was after cheating aggressively and slamming a piece of birthday cake. Which brings me to the next question!
Can you have cheat days on the keto diet
In short no! If you are in ketosis and cheat, you will immediately be knocked out of that metabolic state. Yes, you can recover and get back in, but for best results you really need to stay consistent. My goal was to go 45 days without cheating, but I only made it 30! I do plan to have a few cheat days around my birthday and a trip in June, but for the most part I plan on making keto a consistent lifestyle choice and permanent way of eating.
So what can you eat on keto?
Staples on my grocery list every week are ground turkey, different types of cheeses, deli meat and nuts for snacks, salmon, leafy greens, zucchini or zoodles, eggs and avocado. I intermittent fast 5 days a week so don’t really do breakfast. Generally speaking I’m not a fan of processed foods or carb/sugar substitutes, so I focus on foods that are nutrient rich, satisfying and naturally high in fat and low in carbs. Some of my favorite recipes are Bolognese sauce with zucchini noodles, bacon and cheddar frittatas, roasted salmon with avocado salad, and a big, cheesy, messy lasagna with zucchini cut into planks instead of pasta. Typically, lunch is a big salad with leafy greens, a whole avocado, some protein, and olive oil, blue cheese or ranch dressing since I love them and they are high in fat but low in sugar. And when I have time I experiment with recipes as long as they don’t call for ingredients that are weird or overly artificial. Last Sunday was classic fried chicken but using almond flour instead of white flour, and keto “ice cream.”
Does the keto diet interfere with your social life?
Keto really hasn’t interfered with my social life at all, but you do need to exercise discipline when dining in a group. It’s tough when sharing apps or small plates, or when you are dying to pick at your friend’s fries! Usually when dining out I’ll look for fish and veggies, steak or a burger with no bun, or something like that. There are usually plenty of options to choose from. Drinking a lot is discouraged on keto, but I’m not giving up everything! My new go to drinks are vodka sodas, tequila and fresh lime juice, or whiskey on the rocks. I also have taken to keeping little packets of stevia on me, so I can add a sprinkle to a drink and make it taste more like a cocktail without adding sugar.
As much as I love this diet, it’s definitely not for everyone and everyone experiences it differently. Make sure you do your research on what the keto life is really like and if it’s for you. And if you have more questions or want to learn more about my keto meals in real time, follow me on Instagram!
6 Ways to Practice Self-Care During the Holidays
Is anyone else starting to feel the holiday stress? I’ve had a CRAZY couple of weeks between travel, my day job, wrapping up holiday campaigns, securing new business for Q1, and my social life, which these days includes catching up with friends and prepping to host this Christmas. I have a post planned for managing it all without losing it, so look out for that next month, because I’m seriously trying to figure it out! November and December are pretty much the time where we are all going out more, spending more, eating more (and usually less healthy stuff) and sleeping less.
My friends always say I am pretty good about taking care of myself, and being selfish when need be, so I’m trying to remind myself of how I do that. Self-care is pretty buzzy these days, but it’s crucial to stay balanced and centered. When it feels like the world is pulling you a hundred different directions, you need to find time to take care of yourself. I’m not sure about “having it all” but here are a few ways I practice self-care during the holiday season.
Stay on top of your daily routine
We all have little things we do to start and end our day, but when schedules get crazy it’s hard to let that fall to the wayside. But don’t! When you get out of your flow that only makes things more intense, and it’s harder to get back into it once you’ve been off for awhile.
Know when to say no
Yes there are holiday parties every night, or friends or loved ones who want to catch up for dinner, or trips you could go, etc. It’s hard to RSVP no, but sometimes you just have to take care of yourself. Sleep in instead of going to brunch, catch a workout you love instead of a boozy night out, or just lay around in your coziest PJs as long as you need to. I have had days where getting out of bed was physically not an option, so I cancelled my day and took the time needed to rest. The next day I was infinitely better, and ready to get back on track. When you need to hit pause, just do it! Your loved ones will understand.
Don’t give into FOMO
Millennials are plagued by FOMO! However I’ve realized that when you need to skip social plans to take care of yourself or prioritize your to-do list, the fear of missing out can easily fade away. Just remember that you chose to be exactly where you are for reasons that were important to you. Plus, if you were out doing whatever it was that’s in the back of your mind you’d be having FOMO about missing your couch!
Take time for your health
Sometimes self-care means laying at home, taking a hot bath or indulging in some of your favorite comfort foods and a glass (or half-a bottle) of wine. Other times it means putting in work to get reenergized and ready to take on the challenges. One of the main ways I stay sane is my regular workouts. I get in at least 3, but usually 4 or 5 a week! No matter how busy I am or how gross the weather is, because I know that workout time is an investment in myself, my health, and my body. Of course there are days where dragging myself to the gym is the last thing I want to do, but when I get there I never regret it. But if I skip a workout I always have regret the next day. So whether it’s fitness, meditation, or just some gentle stretching while YouTube is on in the background, find something that will be your thing and make time for it on a regular basis.
Respect your budget
November and December are also times where there is increased pressure to spend, on shopping, gifts, and socializing. By October I pretty much know how much I’m going to spend between holiday shopping, stuff for myself, entertaining costs, and socializing. Then I FIRMLY stick to those numbers, and am never shy about saying I need to prioritize my budget when saying no to things. Keeping up with the Joneses needs to be a thing of the past and anyone in your life who cares about you would not pressure you to spend frivolously. There should be absolutely no stigma about living within your means!
Protect Your Sleep
I can’t stress this enough! Protect your sleep as vigorously as you may need to, It is paramount to your overall health and well-being. I always make an effort to be in bed unwinding about 30 minutes before I need to actually be falling asleep. That means the alarm is set, phone silenced, and I’m reading a good book and finishing my nightcap (usually a bourbon neat – I’m not a tea person). If you can’t stand the thought of fully silencing your phone, at least dim your screen and turn on the blue-light fliter, which is easier on the eyes before you go to bed.
Let me know how you guys practice self-care through the craziness this time of year!
How to Crush Your Period with the DivaCup!
Disclosure: This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #PeriodConfidence #TryTheDivaCup #CollectiveBias
Check out my tutorial for getting started with The DivaCup!
1. Review the User Guide before you get started!
2. Get over any squeamishness about your body. This product requires you to get all up in your lady parts! Insertion can be a bit tricky and may take a few tries before you get it in right so be prepared.
3. Fold the cup per the instructions, push it up and give it a spin. This proved to be more complicated than it sounds, so be prepared to give it a few tries before you get it in right. Getting it in was kind of a struggle and even after pushing it up and giving it a spin per the directions, I could still very much feel it, which made me think it was not in place correctly.
4. Don't use any lubricants to try to ease the process. I used to use a diaphragm years ago, before starting hormonal birth control, so I figured a touch of lube might help ease the insertion, as it does with the diaphragm. However that was a disaster because I COULD NOT keep a grip on the cup! Don't repeat my mistake!
5. If you get it in successfully, you can wear it up to 12 hours before removing it. Since my attempt was a bust I decided to wash it off, let it dry, and give the lady bits a break until the next day.
Battle of the Cleanses! Blueprint vs Jus by Julie
Well it was only 3 days, but I felt like I was on this juice cleanse forever! I decided to try one to jump start my weight loss before an upcoming vacation and shed some of the weight I put on from one too many end of summer BBQs. Instead of doing a traditional review, I decided to answer some FAQ's about juice cleansing and compare 2 different versions. I did Blueprint a little over a year ago and loved it, but decided to give Jus by Julie a go. Check out my thoughts on each and which one is the winner in my book!
What was the process like?
Pretty streamlined! It took awhile to decide which cleanse option was best for me, and for both companies I picked the option that had a promo code or free shipping, because that can get pricey because of the weight. The Jus by Julie promo was supposed to include a pack of 12 Booster Shots that I was excited to try, but those did not arrive with my order and I'm still waiting for the replacement from customer service. So those won't be included in the cleanse, but they are not a requirement for the 3-day program. I also recommend you do a prep day or 2 before starting the cleanse, and a "ease out" day or 2 when it ends. Clean up your diet, give up the meat, dairy, sugar, alcohol, and anything processed to get your body ready, and transition out of it when the cleanse is over.
How did they taste?
I loved all the Blueprint Juices! I did the OG Cleanse and each juice was fresh, tasty and the order you drank them in flowed together nicely. On the Jus by Julie cleanse, I was pretty disappointed by a lot of the flavors. A lot of them included chia seeds which I never tried and now I know I hate. Plus they are more smoothies than juice, so are thicker but more pulpy than creamy, which wasn't pleasant.
How hungry did you get?
Not very! Of course I missed solid food and socializing over a meal, but I was never actually hungry. Blueprint definitely kept me satiated, and I expected the Jus by Julie juices to be heartier, because they are a thicker, smoothie style and have more fiber. However I was noticeably hungrier, but that was probably because there were a couple of juices I didn't finish just because of the taste/texture.
How were your results?
At the end of my 3 day Blueprint cleanse I lost 4 pounds. At the end of Jus by Julie, 4.8 pounds. Some reviews of both programs mentioned feeling extra refreshed/energized, having clearer skin and other effects of cleansing, but I didn't really notice much change other than the weight. I do maintain a pretty healthy lifestyle overall, so that is probably why I didn't notice a huge overall impact.
So which one is the winner?
Even though I lost more weight on Jus by Julie, and it was the more affordable option, I still give the winning vote to Blueprint! Jus by Julie lost major points from me because of the taste and texture. Some people may love the thicker smoothie formulas, but that was a negative for me. I really only liked the Sweet Spin and Spicy Lemonade and found Spicy Pomegranate and Choco-Nana tolerable. The others I tried ranged from meh (Chia Berry, Matcha Chia & Raw Green Protein) to vile (X-treme Greens & PB & Jus). I was also a little disappointed with the customer service because my booster shots were missing, and I was told it would take a week for them to be delivered. However I've emailed them twice to confirm that they have shipped or get updated timing and I have not gotten a reply. UPDATE: I did receive the booster shots today, a week after the cleanse. Customer service took a while to respond but they did send the replacements.
On Blueprint there was not single juice I did not enjoy. They have some new flavors that were not in my cleanse last year, but I have tried all of the individually except the new Blueberry Cashew Boom and love them all.
So there you have it! If you are thinking about trying a cleanse and have more questions let me know in the comments!