Things That Made Me Happy This Week 2/12/21

Hello! People still read blogs right? I'm trying to get into more of a productive routine so I'm going to start writing blog posts again on a semi-regular basis. What better way to start than sharing what is making me happy this week! As always you can check out my more regular happenings, thoughts, and photos via Instagram. 

This series "Things That Made Me Happy This Week" is inspired by a segment on one of my favorite podcasts Pop Culture Happy Hour on NPR. So in these continued strange times, here is what is making me happy this week: 

1. Tesalate Workout Towels

Tesalate, an Australian company who makes beach and workout towels reached out to me about trying out their workout towels just prior to the holidays right after I purchased my spin bike. I was desparately in need of some good towels to prevent myself from dripping sweat all over my living room (#homeworkoutproblems) so I was happy to try them out, especially after I saw the fun colors and patterns (seriously, look at all the choices). Besides the amazing patterns I received including Wild Ones & Cassandra , I love that they are antibacterial, odor-free, and dry super fast. Despite sweating profusely, they never feel heavy or damp. I use it to towel off my face and on my handlebars during spin classes. 

2. Peggy Makeup Headband

{from Ulta}

After watching too many beauty Tik-Tokers I finally bought a Makeup headband to wear when washing my face and applying serums/lotions. I don't know why I struggled so long with pulling my hair back and having pieces still falling into my wash as I tried to wash my face or wear a face mask. I bought this Peggy Makeup Headband at Ulta because it was leopard print (my favorite!) and cheap ($6.99), but honestly I love it. It's nice and soft on my head and does the job. 

3. Freaks and Geeks on Hulu

I am a huge fan of the short-lived TV show Freaks and Geeks. It's funny, it has heart and it features SO many now well-known actors/actresses. Yes I own the series on DVD but streaming it on Hulu is much easier! I've seen it all the way through multiple times so it's my current "put this show on and half pay attention while I do something else" TV show. 

4. Bravey by Alexi Pappas

If you follow me on Instagram, you already know I am a super fan of Alexi Pappas and consider myself a bravey (a part of a community she has created). She is an Olympian, runner, filmmaker, and poet who recently released her first book and memoir entitled Bravey. I am only halfway through it and already love it. It makes me feel all the feels and really is a story about life, not just sports. It touches on Alexi's journey with her mental health and her the moments that got her to where she is now. She has been making the rounds on some podcast so I also recommend listening to interviews with her including the Rich Roll podcast. She is such a wise soul. Find out more about Bravey and where to find it near you here. 

What is making YOU happy this week? 

Small Businesses and Organizations to Support this Holiday Season (in Maryland and Beyond)

I don't know how many times it can be said in various clichés, but 2020 has been a doozy. I'm trying hard to support small businesses and local businesses because I know this year has been extra tough for them. No shame in buying big box because sometimes that is just easier and/or cheaper, and I know it has been an extra tough year. However, I'd like to use my corner of the internet to promote some small businesses and organizations in Maryland (and beyond) that might not get as much notice during the holiday season. Just a reminder that there's other ways to support small businesses besides being a patron-spreading the word, sharing their sales and events, joining their email list, and sharing on social media are all helpful. 

Also be sure to check out my update Holiday Gift Guide for Runners (Under $30) post if you are specifically looking for gift ideas for you or a special runner in your life. 

To keep this list flowing, I'm going to share the link to the store, a brief description, and any important highlights. Most are Maryland, Baltimore based (all the local love from me always), but all are shops that I have personally purchased their products and/or plan to support this holiday seasons. Obviously there's lots of overlap between categories so please click around the entire list. I plan to add to it over the next few days (I have so many businesses I want to highlight!) Feel free to comment with another small business that I should check out! 

Maryland Makers

Also be sure to check out the Charm City Craft Mafia Holiday Heap 12/4-12/6 that is going virtual this year-it's a great opportunity to discover new local makers and purchase unique gifts for loved ones. 

WhitePaws Run Mitts: A favorite local business I'm always sharing that makes the WARMEST mittens for running and beyond as well as this year's new hot items-face masks and gaiters!

Rachel Mulherin: Stunning jewelry self-described as "bohemian glam vibe" that specializes in geode statement earrings. I own the butterfly necklace and evil eye pendant necklace which I adore wearing for special occasions and everyday. 

KSM Candle Co: Before the pandemic this year I attended an in-person candle making class which was a really fun experience. I have since purchased multiple soy candles in unique, natural scents. The shop sells their soy candles as well as other goods including DIY candle kits. 

Caddington Clay: Handmade polymer clay earrings from Megan in Silver Spring, MD. She started making polymer clay earrings in June this year and has grown in her business and skill so much. I love how fun her earrings are-making a great gift for someone else or yourself this holiday season. Last day to order for Christmas arrival is 12/16.  

Maryland Mercantile: A local maker offering Maryland-themed gifts and goods including cards, mugs, and kitchen towels. The MD Little Christmas Ornament is a personal favorite gift to send to friends out of state. 

Etsy Shops

AmyScripts: A custom calligraphy design shop that has lots of cute goods featuring calligraphy including kitchen wear, cards, masks and stickers. I have my eye on a few ornaments to gift this holiday season including her 2020 collection inspired by 2000s pop punk/rock music that speaks to my high school self. 

The Broken Plate: This shop by a Baltimore local offers handmade upcycled and repurposed jewelry made from broken china. You can send Juliet your china and she can turn it into custom jewelry. Check out her shop on Etsy and her website for more selection. 

Oak City Crochet: A shop based in Raleigh, NC offers accessories and home decor that are fun, unique, and all handmade by Megan including hand-dyed scrunchies and crocheted stocking ornaments. 

JamiCreatesThings: Jami sells whimsical doodles as t-shirts, stickers, prints, and more. I love her "Be Kind, It's Free" tees and totes as well as her beautiful stickers. 

SouvenirAndFar: Really cute shop with "retro-inspired apparel for down to earth babes". I love their affordable,comfortable cotton tie dye masks including the Philadelphia Eagles tie dye mask (retails for only $6)!

Baltimore Boutiques

Pandora's Box Boutique: My go-to boutique (located in the heart of Federal Hill in Baltimore) for one-of-a-kind statement earrings, home goods, and accessories. I recently bought a sequined mask there that is absolutely fabulous.  

The Codex Club: A boutique with clothiing, home goods, gifts and more from 50+ local artists. It's the perfect place to grab a Baltimore-centric gift or support local makers. 

Brightside Boutique: A go-to local women's boutique for when I need a small gift. You can shop in person at their various Baltimore-area locations or online for trendy clothing from nationwide brands sassy home wear, jewelry and more. 

Arrow Clothing: Trendy and affordable women's clothing and accessories from an online boutique. 

Poppy & Stella: Shop online or in-store at this boutique that is known for it's fantastic collection of footwear but also carries unique apparel, accessories, beauty products and more. 

Mint+Major: Local women's boutique (shop online or at their store at Shops at Kenilworth in Towson, MD) offering a unique mix of apparel, home decor, accessories, and more. 

Gifts for Her

Erica Sara Designs: Handcrafted, one-of-a-kind jewelry for the strong woman in your life including beautiful runner/race-specific jewelry, unique sound-wave engraved pieces, and custom jewelry engraved with your loved one's handprints, footprints or PAW prints (just melt my heart right now!). Order online by 12/14 for domestic delivery by 12/25! 

Food & Drink

Reminder to support your local restaurants and breweries this holiday season. Gift cards always make a great gift. If you have some fellow beer lovers in your family, a 6-pack and some brewery merchandise (t-shirt, hat, etc.) from a local brewery makes a great gift. 

Mouth Party Caramel: Delicious, small-batch caramels (free of nuts, gluten, soy, high fructose, and trans-fat) with yummy varieties including additions like sea salt and Old Bay.

Gundalow Gourmet: Check out their location in Whitehall Mill in Baltimore or shop online for yummy treats (HIGHLY recommend the chocolate chip cookies), gourmet goods, cooks' tools, and more.  

Cane Collective, LLC: Their Cane Mixers are a way to bring craft cocktails right to your own home-just add your liquor of choice! The mixers include varieties such as Guava Tiki Punch, CA(n)E Southside, and the seasonal Cinnamon Cider Punch. These would make the perfect virtual party gift!   

Services to Gift (To Others or Yourself!)

Dietician Jess, LLC: Jess is a dietician based in Pittsburgh, PA who offers nutrition counseling and wellness programs. I met her through running (what else?!) She is launching her next nutrition group program for runners in January (schedule a free discovery call here.) Gift yourself a head start on crushing your goals for 2021. 

Bushelers of Baltimore: Bushelers of Baltimore is a local tailor that offers alterations and reapirs of garments as well as garment personalization/customization. They now offer e-gift cards which could be a great gift for someone to alter or repair a piece that is special to them for a perfect fit or to custom a jean jacket to make it all their own. 

Maryland Non-Profits to Support

I love supporting my local community so I encourage you to find similar organizations to suppor that may be in your area. There are plenty of amazing national organizations out there who deserve support including:  ACLU, Crisis Text Line, Environmental Defense Action Fund, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Water.org, Center for Reproductive Rights, and Hope for the Warriors.

Sharp Dressed Man: This Baltimore organization has been around since 2011 and partners with local organizations to provide men enrolled in training programs with recycled suits for job interviews. Clothing is an important resource for someone who has been struggling and is working to obtain employment, not only necessary for the task but also extremely important in building confidence in someone. Sharp Dressed Man has provided suits to over 7000 men in the last 5 years alone.

United Way of Central Maryland: During the holiday season, this non-profit which helps local families achieve self-sufficiency accepts donations to ensure local families involved in their housing programs are able to celebrate the holiday season including gifts of clothes, books, and other items.

Maryland Food Bank: Due to the effects of the pandemic, more Marylanders are in need of food this year. The Maryland Food Bank provides more than 40 million meals to Marylanders each year and 93% of their resources go directly to their programs. I know this is a larger organization, however I feel that especially this year it is important to ensure that no Marylander goes hungry. 

House of Ruth Maryland: House of Ruth provides services and resources including food, shelter, legal help, and counseling to survivors of domestic abuse and their families. You can donate in many ways including donation of necessary items on their wish list.

Maryland SPCA: Animal organization out of Baltimore offering pet adoption services, education/outreach, humane care, and veterinary services with 99% of their budget coming from donations and program fees. This is not the organization from which I rescued my furbaby cat this year however I know many people who have adopted wonderful pets from the SPCA so they definitely deserve extra support during a year when so many have added new furry members to their family. 

Debriefing the Front Lines, Inc: A non-profit in Baltimore offering a variety of emotional support services for registered nurses and healthcare professionals across the US including the Heal the Healers Project and the Heal the Healers Daily Communication Initiative (appointments available here). The Daily Communication Initiative is where my friend and registered nurse Tara sends an originally authored daily text message of love and support to healthcare workers before their shift, opening up a conversation for the participant. Donate and follow along on social media. Tara inspired me to highlight non-profits in this post so sending her some gratitude. 

What is a small business you are supporting this holiday season? 

Holiday Gift Guide for Runners (Under $30)

Disclosure: This gift guide is not sponsored. Any ambassadorships or complimentary products are mentioned. As always all thoughts and opinions are my own. 

Hello, it's me....It's been a while since I blogged, but I decided to return and start with a new holiday gift guide under $30 all for the runners on your holiday lists this year. I look forward to adding to my little corner of the internet again in the new year.

Tis the season for gift guides! I know there's a million gift guides floating around the interwebs right now, but I actually enjoy getting inspired by gift guides for presents for others and ideas for what others should gift me for the holidays. I have compiled again this year my favorite gift ideas for runners (which basically is a list of my favorite items). Whether it's a friend or family member just getting into running or a seasoned marathoner setting big goals for next year, there is an idea for everyone.

1. This Tastes Like Wine Glass, Sarah Marie Design Studio ($16)

This wine glass has actually been on my wish list for a while. The 'This Tastes Like' Wine Glass a quality, etched glass for the runner and the wine lover in your life. It's a gift that you know the recipient can use all year round to keep some balance in their life. I love the subtle yet sassy running theme of the glass. You could stuff this full of candy or some running fuel to make it a fun, simple gift. 

Shop all of the cute clothing, accessories and more at Sarah Marie Design Studio here AND save 10% off your order with code BREATHEDEEPLY :)  

2. Believe Training Journal, Electric Blue Edition ($21.95)

I have been using the Believe Training Journals as a way to record my workouts and training for the past 3-4 years. I usually put the journal on my holiday wish list for my family, but was super excited  to receive a complimentary Believe Training Journal in the new Boston Blue color! The journal comes in other colors too, but I love this special color edition so much. Pro runners Lauren Fleshman and Roisin McGettigan-Dumas created this journal which is inspired by their own training and racing.


It has lots of space to record daily workout statistics and thoughts as well as worksheets, quizzes, and lists which offer opportunities for education, self-reflection, and goal setting. Basically it is the perfect gift for the start of a new year with new goals and training cycles. 

 

3. Koala Clip, original ($28.99)  

At the end of the summer I took a chance on purchasing a Koala Clip as yet another attempt on my journey to find the least annoying way to carry my phone and apartment key on the run with me. The original Koala Clip is a sweat-resistant zippered pouch with a a magnetic clip that clips onto the back of your sports bra (or your waistband). It's machine washable and also insulates your phone from the cold. It is perfect for securing your phone, credit card, and keys when you are on the go whether you are running, biking, or at the gym. I have found it works on the design of most sports bras, and with the original Koala Clip secured onto the middle of my back with the straps from my sports bra, I almost forget I have my phone and valuables with me on the run! It's a great gift for a fit lady on-the-go. 

Koala Clip won't be running any special sales this holiday season and instead will be donating 10% of all sales to Feeding America from now through the end of the year. This makes me love the company even more. 

Lucky for you I still have a discount code to share to save 10% off your order with code "AC2020". 

 

4. S'mitten Holiday Lily Trotters compression socks, ($27.99, limited edition) 

I know I had the holiday Lily Trotters compression socks on last year's gift guide, but I'm just a big fan (and ambassador) of Lily Trotters compression socks plus I LOVE anything festive this time of year. My shipment of these holiday socks is arriving this week, and I can't wait to wear them! Compression socks are a great gift for the runners and fit friends in your life as well as anyone who travels frequently or spends most of the day on their feet such as fellow health care professionals. Lily Trotters compression socks provide support as well as keep your legs and toes warm all season. Take a peek at this year's limited edition holiday socks- they're perfect for spreading some holiday cheer this season.

The holiday compression socks are regularly $41.99 , but you can save 20% anytime at Lily Trotters with my code "SESERKO20" 😄

5. Motivate Wraps, Momentum Jewelry ($18.99)

I always mention Momentum Jewelry as gift ideas because their items fit so many occasions. I love their unique and inspiring pieces, which is why I've been an ambassador for them for years. They are beautiful and unique wraps for the fit friend or the inspiring person in your life. I love the look of the  Motivate wraps which provide really motivating pieces that would be great to start the new year with including my personal favorite "rise up". You can choose from one of the options or always choose your own custom mantra or phrase. Motivate wraps make a great gift for so many of the people on your holiday list. 

6. Double Velour Fleece RunMitts, WhitePaw RunMitts ($27.99)

With lots of requests for recommendations on winter running gear, I always mention WhitePaw RunMitts because they are my favorite running gloves. As someone who has perpetually cold hands and feet, these new & improved double velour fleece RunMitts actually keep my hands super warm. I love that it's a convertible mitten with the ability to flip the top down if you need to cool off your hands a little bit or use your fingers. They also can be scrunched down to your wrist with no need to remove and potentially lose one of your mittens!

WhitePaw RunMitts is a small business in Baltimore which makes it more special to me. The mittens come in the double velour fleece or a water/wind resistant fabric. These are an item that can be used by runners, walkers, any outdoor sports enthusiast, or anyone spending time outside in colder weather this winter. WhitePaw RunMitts also is offering face masks and gaiters this year-perfect for being safe this year while on the run!

7. Gift card to your local run specialty store (your choice of amount)

I've shared some of my favorite gift ideas for runners, but maybe you still aren't sure what to get that special runner in your life. Maybe you are like my family who isn't sure what running gear I already own. When in doubt, a gift certificate to your local run specialty store is a great gift option so the recipient can choose what to spend it on or even put the gift certificate towards a new pair of running shoes. If you are Baltimore-based, you can purchase a gift certificate for Charm City Run in-store or online (how easy is that!). Small business can always use our support, especially this year.     

What are you getting the runner on your holiday lists? Do you have or have you gifted any of these items?

Things That Made Me Happy This Week #2

Hello? It's me! Remember when I blogged! Since people seem to be online more now that we are all self-isolating due to coronavirus I figured I'd write some more blog posts. I work in a hospital so I'm an essential employee, but find myself feeling like doing nothing but watching Netflix and surfing the web and Instagram. You can check out my happenings and eating habits via Instagram. 

To recap (since I've only posted in this series once before), instead of Five Friday Favorites I'm changing this series to "Things That Made Me Happy This Week" inspired by a segment on one of my favorite podcasts Pop Culture Happy Hour on NPR. So in these strange times, here is what is making me happy this week: 

1. High waist cotton bike shorts via Target

{Source Target.com}

When I'm not in my scrubs lately I am living in 2 pairs of joggers, a tie dye long sleeve tee, and old race shirts. I just purchased these cotton high-waisted seamless bike shorts from Target online on a whim and LOVE them. They are a steal at $11.99 and are so comfortable. I am a size 6 and the S/M fits great. They aren't too short and would look great with a graphic tee and sneakers whenever I go out into the world next.  

2. Saje Peppermint Halo Roll-On

{Source}

I received a mini Peppermint Halo roller in my goodie bag from the Seawheeze Half Marathon in 2016. I am obsessed with it for headache relief. Lately because of wearing masks all day and other PPE at work, I haven't been drinking enough water so I've been getting dehydration (and probably stress-related) headaches. It is made with essential oils including peppermint, rosemary, and lavender. This is minty and cooling. I roll it over my temples and forehead and find some instant relief and a little bit of zen.  

3. Parks and Recreation Cast to Reunite for Scripted Special in Aid of COVID-19

YASSSSSSS. I'm a big Parks and Rec fan (it's on Netflix, watch it if you haven't!) so this announcement is making me very happy. 

4. Future Nostalgia album by Dua Lipa

{Source}

Ever since this album dropped, I have been listening to it on repeat. I listen to it when I'm running, cleaning, dancing in my apartment, when I'm in the shower or getting ready, and anytime else I want some fun dance music. It is fully a dance-pop, disco-pop album that is super cohesive. I love all the songs on it, and it is a catchy album I listen to from beginning to end. My favorite songs from the album this week are "Hallucinate" and "Levitating". We all need some fun dance music in our life right now. You can check it out here on Spotify.

What is making YOU happy this week? Any good Netflix or music recommendations for me? 

Smile Brilliant CariPRO Ultrasonic Toothbrush Review and Discount Code!

Disclosure: Smile Brilliant sent me a complimentary CariPRO Ultrasonic Toothbrush to use. As always all thoughts & opinions are my own.

I previously reviewed and tested out Smile Brilliant's At-Home Whitening so when they asked if I was interested in trying out their CariPRO Ultrasonic Toothbrush I jumped at the chance. 

I may have also been influenced by the fact that I have my biannual dentist appointment at the end of the month.  Last time they told me to focus on brushing the backs of my teeth more to reduce plaque so I definitely had some homework to do. Anyone else get nervous about dentist appointments or is it just me? 

I am someone who has always seen the dentist regularly (thanks Mom!) and went through a lot of orthodontic work as a kid (palette expander, braces...) so I know the importance of taking care of my oral hygiene and will use anything that can help. I have been using an older electric toothbrush semi-regularly for a while after receiving one as a Christmas gift years ago, but it was definitely time for an upgrade. 

The CariPRO looks really sleek and has a small circular docking station that you plug in. The battery is said to last 30 days. It's super easy to use with only two buttons on the handle-the power button and the mode button. There are 5 different cleaning modes: clean, whitening, massage, gum care, and sensitive. I mostly use the clean or whitening modes and love that the brush takes all the guesswork out of brushing my teeth Each CariPRO mode lasts for 2 minutes and pause every 30 seconds to let you know when to move the brush to the next quadrant of your teeth. I find that the brush is really lightweight and has more of a vibrating motion rather than spinning so it feels gentle but is effective at cleaning your teeth.  

My mouth feels super clean after use and takes all of the work out of brushing my teeth besides moving the toothbrush around.  I am excited to see the verdict from the dentist when I have my appointment in a couple of weeks! 

The price of the individual package (1 toothbrush, 2 brush heads, and 1 charging dock) is $119 with additional toothbrush heads costing 2/$13, 4/$23, and 8/$43. You can find out more information on the Smile Brilliant website 

(https://www.smilebrilliant.com#breathedeeplyandsmile ) or check out more details on the CariPRO Ultrasonic toothbrush here . Each CariPRO comes with a 2 year limited warranty and 60 day trial period. Smile Brilliant also ships worldwide!

Treat yourself this holiday season (or find that last minute gift!) and save 20% off cariPRO Ultrasonic electric toothbrushes with my coupon code: 20breathedeeplyandsmile

ALSO, since it is the season of giving, click HERE for the chance to win your OWN CariPRO Ultrasonic toothbrush from SmileBrilliant! 

Do you use an electric toothbrush? What is your favorite practical holiday gift?

All About CBD (And How it May Help Runners)

Disclosure: Resilience offered me a complimentary product in exchange for a review. As always all thoughts and opinions are my own. Please contact a healthcare professional before using CBD oil. All sources for information are provided in my post! 

Lately I have been reading and hearing a lot about CBD oil or cannabidiol oil. It has been popping up as a recovery method for athletes as well as an all-natural way to manage pain and anxiety. I had the opportunity to try a CBD cream from Resilience CBD which was exciting after being intrigued by CBD’s potential uses in healthcare as a whole but also particularly for running recovery. I am willing to try anything to help make my calves feel less tight and sore!

Resilience CBD was founded by military veterans and athletes plus their products are also derived from organic hemp grown in the U.S. and are third-party lab tested which made me trust their quality. Their products also contain no pesticides, herbicides, or harsh chemicals.

Continue reading if you are interested in learning more about what the heck CBD oil is and what are the benefits of CBD (including for athletes!)

Scroll to the bottom of the post for a discount code from Resilience. 

What is CBD?

Cannabidiol is one of over 100 cannabinoids found in cannabis (yup, marijuana). CBD products boosts the endocannabinoid system that is a signaling pathway controlling functions in systems through the body. It has similar effects as marijuana including anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving without the high you’d get from medical marijuana. CBD is NOT psychoactive like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in marijuana (Source).

Is CBD legal?

Most commercially available CBD products use industrial hemp, or a cannabis plant that doesn’t contain more than 0.3% THC. Marijuana and hemp are federally classified as Schedule 1 drugs. Currently Idaho, North Dakota, Nebraska, and Kansas are the only states with no-CBD laws.  Literally yesterday the Farm Bill was passed which legalizes hemp. This means you will be seeing a lot more CBD and hemp products. Prior to the passing of the Farm Bill, United States hemp-derived CBD sales totaled estimated $190 million in 2017 (Source). For athletes, the World Anti-Doping Agency removed CBD from the list of prohibited substances in 2017 which has grown the use of CBD in sports.

CBD oil I have seen is on the expensive side right now so hopefully this bill makes things more accessible and brings the price down. For example Resilience CBD body lotion costs $85 and their full spectrum CBD oil costs $50-90 for one bottle which is comparable to other brands I have seen. 

How do you use CBD products?

CBD products including tinctures, capsules, and topical formulas such as creams. Currently there are no studies on recommended dosages so you need to be careful and definitely start with a smaller dose and slowly increasing until you feel benefits. Even in this Runner’s World article, various individuals quote different amounts for CBD newbies starting with as little as 5-15 mg (approximately a few drops of a CBD tincture) or a baseline of 25 milligram for gels.

What should you look for when purchasing CBD products?

Products also range in potency and amounts of CBD so be sure to know what you are using or taking. One study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association in 2017 found that 70% of all CBD products were inaccurately labelled which 43% of products tested containing more CBD than indicated and 26% containing less. 

I did my research prior to agreeing to try Resilience CBD and was happy to find out that Resilience CBD third-party lab tests every batch of product through an independent party to ensure purity and quality of their products. They also share their lab results AND the date they were submitted right there on their website.

Will CBD show up on a drug test?

From what I’ve read since there is trace amounts ofTHC in industrial hemp it is very unlikely that CBD would show up on a drug test because most drug test panels are looking for THC and its metabolites. However if you are drug tested it may be better to be safe than sorry and ensure you are getting for 0% THC you can purchase Resilience Isolate, a CBD isolate tincture.

What are the claimed benefits of CBD?

CBD works through the endocannabinoid system which “controls many physiological processes, including food intake and energy balance, learning and memory, and pain processing, to name a few,” says DiPatrizio in this Runner’s World article. As a former chemist and now a evidence-based health care professional, I am always looking to research to support claims. Currently I have not found any studies on CBD and runners specifically. 

Upon doing a quick literature search I was surprised to see range of ailments that CBD was being studied with including depression, major psychiatric disorders, epilepsy, Parkinson disease, PTSD, sleep disorders, and even asthma. This literature review from September 2018 concluded that studies up to the present show CBD has anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing!), anti psychotic, and neuroprotective properties.

How can CBD help runners?

CBD has also has anti-inflammatory benefits which would be the ones sore and achy runners would benefit from. A 2015 study in mice determined CBD application provided therapeutic potential for relief from arthritis pain and inflammation. To get scientific on you again, when you run or workout you create micro-tears in your muscles and tissue. When those micro-tears happen, your body sends in your immune system to the damaged area with inflammatory cells, a.k.a things that make you feel sore and achy (Source).

My Experience with CBD

I tested out the Resilience CBD body lotion. I chose it over the CBD sports cream because I thought the lemongrass scent would be more pleasant than smelling like a peppermint or dealing with the icy hot feeling since I planned on slathering it all over my lower legs.  The body lotion contains 300 mg of CBD and also contains shea butter, aloe vera, and coconut oil for some moisturizing with my recovery. The directions note to use consistently to areas of body as needed including before and after activity. I used for one week just at bedtime and then used for 2 more weeks applying morning and night. The lemongrass scent is really pleasant and isn’t overpowering.

My calves are also severely tight and despite not running and then slowly running just a little bit after the 50K I ran at the end of November, I couldn’t seem to shake the extra tightness in my calves and lower legs. I was also dealing with some ankle discomfort on my left leg so I was applying the cream there too. Overall I did feel less tight and achy, and now my ankle discomfort has gone away. To be totally honest, it could be a placebo effect or due to other factors including more time, trying to stretch my calves more, but it could be the CBD. It was relaxing and also provided a nice reminder to take some time for myself at the end of the day with my nightly ritual of applying the lotion to my legs.  In the future I would love to try CBD oil to see if I experience benefits from it, particularly with some of my overall tension and anxiety.

Overall if you are dealing with pain or sore muscles, I suggest adding CBD to your recovery arsenal. Again be sure to do your research and be aware of your dosage as well as talk to a health care professional! 

Resilience has more information on CBD in general and their products on their website. 

You can try Resilience CBD products for yourself and save 20% off your purchase with my discount code SMILE20 

Have you ever tried CBD products? Have you heard of CBD oil? 

Holiday Gift Guide for Fit Friends {$30 or less!}

Disclosure: This gift guide is not sponsored. Any ambassadorships or complimentary products are mentioned. As always all thoughts and opinions are my own. 

I know, another gift guide. So original. However maybe like me, all the things you bought during the Black Friday/Cyber Monday weekend were for yourself, and now you actually need to buy gifts for others. I actually have bought or want to buy most of the items in this gift guide! I've compiled some of my favorite gift ideas for your friends or family members with a health and fitness theme. That could be a runner/gym rat/yogi or maybe someone who has a fitness goal for 2019. Inspire someone! 

I've kept things under $30 because I usually am not spending much more on gifts, besides for my boyfriend. Based on some of these gift guides I've seen, people spend more on gifts or have some nice loved ones, right?! Cheers to the holiday season and keeping things fun, stress-free, and festive!

1. Oh Look Wine!-Travel Wine Tumbler, Sarah Marie Design Studio ($27.50)

I have been eyeing up buying this tumbler for myself!! This cute travel wine tumbler is the perfect gift for the runner or wine-lover in your life! It's stainless steel and double-walled so it provides perfect insulation. It also comes in three bright colors. It is definitely something that is perfect for all year round. 

These are also available in store at Charm City Run in Locust Point if you want to shop small AND shop local in Baltimore. 

2. Kudos Coaster Plus, Kudos ($20)

I received a complimentary Kudos Coaster Plus to review and liked it so much I'm including it as great gift! It's a customizable display coaster with six colored inserts that allows you to showcase race medals or any other favorite memory of the year such as artwork and photos. You pop open the coaster, add your treasure, add in enough inserts to make it flush with the top including the colored insert you want displayed on top, and then simply pop the top back on. Right now I'm displaying my favorite medal of the year which I get to see every time I have a drink. I like it because you could give it to a friend to display a race medal or just pop in a photo or inspirational quote to make it a personalized gift! 

3. Inspirational top, pictured is Boss Tank Top from Adidas ($25)  

For any friend, gift them a top with an inspirational saying or quote. For your favorite boss babe, I love this Boss Tank top from Adidas along with some other empowering female shirts on their website. I was asked to check out their website, which I had not been on since buying some Boston Marathon gear earlier this year. I think a top with a motivational quote is a great way to inspire a loved one for the new year as well as gift them some apparel to work towards their goals in. I'm a big fan of mantras and inspirational quotes all over including on my jewelry and written in my planner so why not on a shirt staring back at ya in the mirror? 

4. In-Stitches Holiday Lily Trotters compression socks, ($29.99, limited edition) 

I'm a big fan and ambassador for Lily Trotters compression socks, but they really are a great gift for the runners and fit friends in your life as well as anyone who spends most of the day on their feet such as healthcare professionals. They are even great for anyone travelling this holiday to keep the blood flowing during long flights or car rides. Lily Trotters compression socks provide support as well as keep your legs and toes warm all season. These limited edition holiday socks are green, white, and red making them oh so festive for the season. 

There are lots of other cute options starting at $39.99 on the website too and a mystery 3 pack for $60 all holiday season, but you can save 15% anytime with my code "BREATHEDEEPLY" 😄

5. Copper Motivate Wrap, Momentum Jewelry ($20.99)

I told you I loved mantras and inspirational quotes! I seem to always mention Momentum Jewelry as gift idea because it fits so many occasions, not just because I've been an ambassador for them for years. They are beautiful, unique, and customizable gifts perfect for that person that inspires you in your life. I love the look of the copper motivate wrap which looks stunning! You can choose from one of the options for an inspiring phrase or customize with your own special phrase. I've gifted one of the motivate wraps to a friend running her first marathon as well as my sister with a Disney-themed phrase on it so these truly are a gift that can be for so many different people! 

6. Women's Pom Pom Beanie, BOCO gear ($27.99)

BOCO gear makes my favorite hats, including their technical truckers for runner which I am obsessed with. I recently purchased a BOCO gear Pom Pom beanie from Charm City Run (they customize hats for brands & businesses) and besides getting so many compliments on it, it is SO warm and comfortable! This fair isle beanie is perfect for winter weather or this chunky knit beanie is a more chic-looking option. Either way the beanie is a quality hat for any outdoor activity making it a great holiday gift. 

7. Christmas Ornaments for Runners, Run Ink ($14.99)

Once I saw these in my email, I was smitten with these marathon Christmas ornaments from Run Ink. I have a Run Ink customized race map with my PR from the 2016 Chicago Marathon and just ordered myself a smaller Berlin Marathon print to hang up next to it. They are unique and beautiful reminders of races.These ornaments are the perfect gifts for the marathon runner in your life who has completed or is dreaming of the six World Marathon Majors or the Marine Corps Marathon. For $4 more there are versions of the ornaments that can be customized to include a race finisher's time which makes for a really special gift that can be hung on the recipient's tree each year. 

Be sure to note that the last day to order for Christmas delivery is 12/9!

 

8. Sugar Plum Thin Sparkle band, Sparkly Soul (starting at $15)

Sparkly Soul headbands are my favorite way to add a little sparkle to my workout outfit. And also distract from my tired eyes and sweaty face, ya know. They are elastic all the way around and do stay on my head. There are a ton of widths, designs, and colors to match the personality of your gift recipient. My favorite are the sparkly thin headbands including the pictured Sugar Plum Thin Sparkle band which is gold and fabulous. There's even fun collections of headbands including bridal, Star Wars, and unicorn headbands! 

What is your gift idea for a fit friend? Do you have or have you gifted any of these items?