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March Madness

It's that time of year again with the arrival of NCAA March Madness which runs from March 15th through April 4th. We've put together a roundup of a number of bars and lounges to catch these NCAA games in the host cities. 

1st 4 Games | DAYTON, OH The Century |

1st & 2nd Rounds | SPOKANE, WA The Onion | DES MOINES, IA Iowa Taproom | OKLAHOMA CITY, OK Urban Johnnie Bar & Grille | ST LOUIS, MO 21st Amendment: The Brewery Bar |

1st & 2nd Rounds | RALEIGH, NC Tobacco Road | BROOKLYN, NY The Grand National | PROVIDENCE, RI Ladder 133 | DENVER, CO Tavern Lowry |

EAST REGIONALS | PHILADELPHIA, PA  Founding Father’s Bar | SOUTH REGIONALS | LOUISVILLE, KY Sports and Social Club | MIDWEST REGIONALS | CHICAGO, IL  Old Town Pour House | WEST REGIONALS | ANAHEIM, CA ESPN Zone | FINAL FOUR | HOUSTON, TX Mezzanine Lounge |
 

Tokyo Nights & Sushi Roxx Q&A

| PHOTOGRAPHY Carlos David | PHOTO ASSISTANT | Patrick O'Brien | WARDROBE STYLIST Kimmie Smith/Accessory2 | MUA Nydia Figueroa | MUA Kat Osorio | MUA Jarel Aerin | HAIR STYLIST Angel Morales/Bella Agency | MAJOR MODELS Mark + Spencer | MSA MODELS Maura + Nicole |

Our cover shoot took place at Sushi Roxx, which has been a hotspot by celebrities, invite only parties and more! In addition to our models from MSA and Major Model, our party included the performers from this must have Tokyo nightlife inspired restaurant that has entertainment throughout the night! Continue on to our photoshoot as well as the Q&A with this property.

Our Night in Tokyo shoot took place at Sushi Roxx which is located between Murray Hill and
Grand Central Station. Guests enjoy dinner and a show in this celeb approved spot. We took a moment to get the scoop and have a model party at this buzzed about eating destination.

ATHLEISURE MAG: What is the concept behind Sushi Roxx and what sets it apart from other
restaurant/nightlife properties in the city?

SUSHI ROXX: SUSHI ROXX is a Tokyo nightlife inspired restaurant where the servers, hostesses & bussers are also all professional singers and dancers performing every 20 mins throughout our guests dining experience.

AM: When did Sushi Roxx open and was the live entertainment always apart of the ambiance of this restaurant?

SR: We opened August 2015 and yes entertainment was always incorporated.

AM: What are the signature dishes and cocktails that are enjoyed here?

SR: Signature dishes include our Wild Ginger Edamame, the BIG MAC, Miami Vice and Surf &
Turk rolls and our Shitake Polenta. Our most popular cocktails are the Kung Fu Hustle & Marty
McFly.

AM: Are there plans to open additional locations in the city or beyond?

SR: We are currently looking to expand to Las Vegas, Orlando, London & Philadelphia.

AM: Are there plans for you to have lunch service in addition to dinner?

SR: There are no plans to open for lunch but a Saturday party brunch is on the horizon.

AM: Is there anything new that fans of Sushi Roxx can look forward to for summer 2017 (ie
new menu options)?

SR: We incorporate new performances every 90 days. And we are launching a new Sake Bomb program soon.

The Spring Issue is Out

Our 3rd issue is out and of course, we're all about Spring and everything that comes with it from fashion, style, beauty and tasty treats from our Athleisure Kitchen. Make sure that you check out our issue in full right here!

HARD ROCK HOTEL RIVIERA MAYA MEXICO

As someone who is constantly on the go, you know that it is essential to check in with yourself in the way that suits you best. Earlier this year, our co-founders were invited to the Hard Rock Hotel, Riviera Maya in Mexico. The primary purpose was to enjoy and share the Rock Spa which includes a phenomenal treatment that combines a deep tissue massage, music, and vibrations on the massage table. While there, they were also treated to staying on the adult side of the property know as Heaven as well as enjoying a phenomenal suite. At the time, our Style Director covered this trip for a Time Inc publication as well as another story that she ran in DJ Mag (as she is the Fashion Editor of the top EDM global publication).

It's being shared here today as we all love a #TBT and why not at a place that mixes the need to have a good time through music and partying, great food as well as proper relaxation. While on this trip, a number of pictures were shared through our Style Director's Instagram.

The Hard Rock Hotel is an all-inclusive resort that caters to families, singles, couples etc. It is highly suggested that those who have adults in their group should book to stay on the Heaven side as there are no children on this side, you have your own pools, restaurants, etc and if you would like to venture to the other portion of the property, you can do so! Upon arrival, the guide escorted them to golf cards for the Heaven check in (which was a nice way to see the property and to get a bit of a tour with our guide) - and at the check in area, they were able to see who would be performing while there, special events, book additional amenities that were not included in the all-inclusive package etc.

At this resort, all-inclusive means that you have your wet bar in your room with an assortment of non-alcoholic, beers, and well spirits in your room. In this case, both stayed in a suite known as the Deluxe Platinum Sky Terrace that has access to a balcony (which most rooms seemed to have) as well as an entire second floor terrace (perfect for couples, girlfriend getaway trips) above with a jacuzzi. In addition to being able to being able to have room to spread out, it was optimal for spectacular views outside, people watching and complete disconnection.  This also includes meals at the restaurants (as many times as you want whether you have breakfast, lunch, dinner and have snacks by the pool - or decide after dancing that you have t to hit the buffet). It's always a good idea to check about making reservations as many times you do have to let them know in advance for places that may have greater traffic flows and of course, you can go to the bars and pretty much select whatever you wish to drink without additional charges (unless it is a premium beverage). 

Throughout your stay, there are activities during the day and at night that are apart of your package while also having others that you may have to pay an additional amount for in terms of renting gear for certain water activities. Of course, one of the biggest reasons to go to this property is just to veg. One of the things that sticks out is the fact that a number of the places by the pool had chairs that were also in the water which makes for a very peaceful time - easy access to the water, the ability to be that much closer to the swim up bar and more! At this resort, having music constantly pumped into the rocks, paths and more is truly an immersive experience and it always allows you to feel like you're in a state of zen. If you're not looking to be so close to people, there are a number of cabana areas that are tucked away where you can still have the experience without feeling like you're in a large group while only being an eye glance away from one of the attendants who can ensure that you will still have your beverage or lunch!

This trip's focus was about experiencing the very anticipated Rhythm and Motion Synchronicity at the Rock Spa which is a 50 or 80 minute treatment. When entering the zen f this portion of the facility, you are taken into an ornate lounge where you can enjoy the hydrotherapy pools before any of your selected treatments. These 3 pools are meant to bring your body from its current temperature, to a very cold one, to a hot one and then one that is moderate. The attendant walks you through the experience and upon completing these areas you can rest until you are brought into your room or enjoy infused waters and light bites. It's such a contrast the pulse and constant motion of the property outside of the walls. Here you're able to turn inward in anticipation of the treatment.

Once called upon you are led into the room which has your massage table and a dome that is over your head. The treatment is a Swedish massage which really gets into your muscles. There is a soundtrack that is selected (depending on the theme of the property) that will pay during the session. What makes this so amazing is that as the masseuse works on your body, you are stimulated with the scent of the oils, the rhythmic nature of the massage that is set to the beats of the music as well as the table which enhances the beat through your body and the dome ensures that the music stays overhead. The volume, beats etc are perfectly placed that your mind goes on auto-pilot and you are transformed into a different state!

At the end, when you leave your room, you sit at a table to enjoy a specially made beverage which ties in the experience that just took place. Guests of the treatments can go back into the area to enjoy the pools, lounge area etc. Upon leaving - you can literally float back on your walk through the property to your room, the pool etc. The ability to have the mind, body and soul come together in such a perfect way is a feeling that will leave those (whether you're a veteran of massages or a newbie) ready to book this again!

When staying at Hard Rock Hotel, there is a major draw for those that are a fan of music and of course, when you're in the common areas, your room etc there are elements of memorabilia, musical aesthetic and so much more. It's highly encouraged to take some time while waiting for dinner, coming back from one activity to the next to see what is curated from jewelry by Hendrix, Blondie's outfits and so much more!

There are a number of destinations in Hard Rock Hotel's portfolio and although they all focus on music, unwinding, spa treatments and more - each location has something that is unique that ties back into the area! Take some time to check out what city speaks to you and enjoy a vacation on your own terms.

SPRING BEAUTY

Winter is not over by any means, but that doesn’t mean that we can’t prep our skin for our red carpet moments and spring which is around the corner. We took a moment with VERTERE® Skin Care Founder, Bethany Hilt on how you can boost the radiance of your skin within 48 - 72 hours! That means you could be ready for date night with your significant other, a night out with the girls and more with her collection and honed in tips.

STOP CONSUMING SUGAR AND EXCESS SALT

Bethany reminds us to, “avoid even the seemingly innocent sweeteners such as stevia and molasses. When using salt in cooking, use Pink Himalayan Salt”.

INCREASE YOUR WATER AND COCONUT WATER INTAKE

There are a number of options to stay hydrated outside of the classic water. Coconut water is also a great beverage to include. “Dehydration causes fine lines to appear prominent and creates a dullness. Hydrating from the inside will help counteract this,” she stated.

START USING A GENTLE DEEP CLEANSER

The creator of VERTERE® notes that their, “Refining Treatment Cleanser is a great choice because it visibly minimizes pores, plumps fine lines/wrinkles, brightens and clarifies - results are noticeable after the first use. The gentle deep cleaning action helps keep pores clean (which also helps pores look smaller and makeup look better) and the lactic acid eliminates flakiness and dryness so your skin looks gorgeous and supple.”

DAILY, APPLY DRAMATIC TRANSFORMATION CREAM SPF 18 

Dramatic Transformation is a, “patented powerful blend of multiple peptides, a safe lightener/brightener, lactic acid and loads of non-pore-clogging oils gives an immediate dewiness to the skin, and skin’s texture and radiance will be noticeably improved.”

APPLY NON-COMEDOGENIC OILS ON TOP OF YOUR NIGHTLY TREATMENT

“Toss the old idea that the thinnest product is the one to apply first in this instance. Press a small amount of argan, baobab or jojoba oil onto your skin after you’ve applied your night treatment - especially if it’s a retinol or prescription retinoid. Skin will reap the maximum benefit from direct contact with the active while the oil will seal in moisture to create a beautiful glow.”

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY VERTERE

After the Party, is the Yoga Loft

| BILL BLASS Tote BillBlass.com | S’WELL Rose Gold Water Bottle SwellBottle.com | POM Abstract Journey Circular Tribal Yoga Mat KessIn-
House.com | NIKE Power Speed Tights Nike.com | NEW BALANCE MInimus 20V4 Trainer NewBalance.com | TEMPERLEY LONDON Ernst
Leather Jacket OrchardMile.com | OSCAR DE LA RENTA Impasto Floral Print Scarf OscarDeLaRenta.com | VARLEY Brentwood Black Tee Varley.com | ASHA by ADM Temple Ring AshaByADM.com |

Let's Talk Nugg

Whether it’s time for an at home spa day or you’re in need for serious TLC for your face, nügg is all about giving your face an array of options to keep it looking radiant! We took a moment to chat with Dr Conny Wittke, founder and creator of nügg to know more about why she created it and what makes it such a great item to have with you whether you’re at home or traveling.

ATHLEISURE MAG: What sets nügg Beauty apart from other beauty brands that focus on the face?

DR CONNY WITTKE: nügg is all about providing prestige quality skin care at affordable price point and we work very hard to always live up to that promise. We use unique blends of natural oils and extracts and small, portion-size pod packaging for six (soon seven) different face masks so that you can easily tailor to your changing skin concerns, product waste through unused product is avoided and you can also easily multi-mask. Also, we manufacture with an innovative Natural Oil Dispersion Technology that uses physics instead of chemistry to blend oil and water which avoids the use of chemical emulsifiers that can impair your natural skin barrier function. That is great for healthy skin
and also gives a very unique skin feel. Last but not least, all our masks are formulated with >90% natural or naturally derived ingredients and without petrochemicals, parabens, synthetic fragrances and synthetic colors.

AM: What are your 3 must haves within the collection that we can use to combat winter dryness?

DR CW: Our hydrating face mask is fantastic to combat winter dryness, as well as our soothing face mask if your skin is also sensitive. Our deep cleansing mask is also great as it provides a very gentle, oil-based cleanse that cleanses and hydrates at the same time but doesn’t strip skin of moisture. Our skin RX pack for dry/dehydrated skin gives dry winter skin a boost in just 4 days with a very easy-to-follow 4-day face mask regime.

AM: What are your favorite key ingredients that are within the line and are there fragrances that could make their way into the line?

DR CW: Our face masks are formulated with high quality blends of natural oils and extracts and each blend is tailored to very specific skin care concerns and objectives so they are all great for different reasons. Also, the base for our masks is aloe juice as opposed to water which makes them even more soothing and nourishing. We do not use any synthetic fragrances in our products so any odor comes from the natural oils used in the mask. E.g. our revitalizing face mask has a very fresh, minty smell due to the peppermint oil that is used in the formulation to give skin radiance and a dewy glow.

My personal favorite is our soothing face mask that is loaded with soothing chamomile extract, shea butter and bisabolol and hydrates and calms
the skin at the same time.

AM: At what point did you decide to create this line as it’s not only a great idea but is so great to use when you’re traveling?

DR CW: Before starting my own venture, I was the CEO of Tweezerman for many years. During that time, I traveled A LOT all over the world.
During that time, I noticed a big void in the market for truly high quality face masks that are super easy to integrate into your skin care regime
and also extremely travel-friendly. That’s how the pod-style packaging was born and also the name nügg which is short for “nüggets of goodness for your skin.” It literally all happened during a flight from Shanghai to New York after a whirlwind trip that left both me and my skin quite exhausted.

AM: Have their been celebrities that you know of that enjoy using it?

DR CW: We know that Whitney Port enjoys our face masks and are very proud of that!

AM: What products will be released in 2016?

DR CW: Yes, 2016 is full of innovation for us. Inventing fantastic new products is our favorite thing and in early 2016 we will expand into additional mask categories. With a de-stress face mask we are also launching an additional face mask “flavor” that is very timely to help the skin fight off the impact of stress and environmental damage.

AM: How do you juggle your time between business and friends/family?

DR CW: Honestly, that is probably the biggest challenge of an entrepreneur as there is always too much to do and you “live and breathe” the business always and everywhere. However, our office is just 5 minutes from our home and that gives me the flexibility to go back and forth easily and also the ability to spend time with my wonderful two children. I started the business together with my husband and one of us is always home when the children come off the school bus and we try to have dinner together as often as we can.

AM: How do you achieve balance and stay connected/present?

DR CW: I’m really lucky that I truly and thoroughly love what I do so that gives me a good base… I also try to walk whenever and wherever I can instead of driving, I eat (reasonably) healthy and when I get unbalanced I swim which is extremely good for me both physically and mentally. For vacation, we love to hike in the mountains or do paddle boarding and swimming in lakes upstate which is fantastic for achieving balance and being very connected to nature and the present.

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY Nugg

Jue Lan Club

Athleisure Magazine catches up with restaurateur Stratis Morfogen, who has recently launched Jue Lan Club, (pronounced “You Lan”, a new two floor, 275-seat restaurant, names after the 1930’s Chinese art society, situated in the legendary former NYC night-club, the Limelight. His all-star team boasts partners nightlife impresario Richie Romero and Executive Chef Oscar Toro.

ATHLEISURE MAG: We find much innovation comes through reconstruction by bold change agents, how does Jue Lan Club move the needle with cross-cultural and modern-traditional twists?

STRATIS MORFOGEN: Giving new life to such an iconic property was very important to myself as well as the whole team, but we wanted to make sure the spaces’ history wasn’t lost. We left many of the original elements of the former church built in the 1840’s untouched, like the exposed brick, stained glass, window fixtures and the original layout, while creating an edgy and modern Chinese menu. The design narrative of Jue Lan Club follows suit of three principles, Madame Adventurist, The Jue Lan Club and the 1930’s Glam/1980’s Grit.

AM: Over the years, you have rightfully advocated food, service, atmosphere and location are key elements for success in dining and hospitality. What makes Jue Lan Club spot on?

SM: For me, food and service are just two of the driving forces to our end goal - Jue Lan Club. Jue Lan Club is the perfect combination of an all-in-one entertainment as well as dining destination. A number of variables play into a successful dining and hospitality experience. Not only is the food the main driving force but the atmosphere and service are key as well. To bring the experience full circle is simply to meet the patron’s expectation. The attention to fine detail may seem simple, but my partners and I feel that paying attention to small details sets the mood which in turn aids in a successful dining experience.

AM: How did you come to meet Executive Chef Oscar Toro (former executive sous-chef of Buddakan)? How much work goes into making a unique, top-notch menu?

SM: I met Oscar years back when I was a fan of Buddakan under his watch. I revisited the restaurant after I had been there several times and I was ultimately blown away but all of Toro’s talents. I knew right there that Oscar Toro was the real deal. As we joined forces, Oscar and myself wanted to take a lighter and cleaner approach to typical Chinese cuisine, and we’re thrilled with the results! Oscar has made his own variation of raw dishes like the Salmon, Chinese Celery, Mustard, Toasted Sesame dish which he uses Chinese ingredients, swapping expected flavors for the unexpected.

AM: Pioneering a nouveau Chinese-style Raw Bar is an excellent vision, what new flavors will we taste outside established Japanese or Spanish raw bar offerings?

SM: We wanted to make sure we distinguished ourselves from the pack, and debuting one of the first Chinese raw bars in Manhattan was the perfect way to do that. Our raw dishes include what one would expect from a traditional crudo, but it’s elevated with unique Chinese flavors ranging from traditional, sweet, sour, salty and bitter, we now incorporate spicy.

AM: What are some must-have signature dishes and cocktails?

SM: Some of the must-have signature dishes stand for themselves on their taste, but also the artistic plating Oscar Toro conveys. For example, from the raw bar there is the Salmon, Chinese Celery, Mustard, Toasted Sesame, which ultimately melts in your mouth. Moving forward in the meal, the Braised Oxtail Sloppy Bao Buns, Chilean Seabass, Black Bean, Ginger Garlic Sauce, Pork Dumplings are handmade and perfectly portioned. We love to emphasize that the dumplings are handmade by the one and only Chef Toro, which he used flavored dumpling wrappers with its corresponding unique fillings to complete perfection.

We also have a specialty cocktail list, which are our in-house “Fresh Squeezed Juices” to compliment the Chinese inspired dishes as well as the history of the Limelight. The Tea & Symphony, Forbidden Cocktail and the Club Kid are just among the several cocktails we offer.

AM: How about for those looking for lighter fare or especially watching calories?

SM: The whole menu was created with a lighter, cleaner approach, which we felt would be a crucial selling point for all types of gatherings, especially for ones watching calories. The raw bar menu offers small plates ranging from, Salmon, Chinese Celery, Mustard, Toasted Sesame, to Yellowtail, with Ghost Pepper Oil, to Tuna, Avocado Puree, Red Pepper Jam and Cilantro. With the overall national trend of clean eating. Oscar and myself felt it was necessary to appeal to all types, leaving guests feeling satisfied, not stuffed.

AM: It’s refreshing that you brought an in-house art curator (Emerald Gruin, L.E.S. Rox Gallery) to feature rotating and permanent exhibitions alongside cuisine. What will we see?

SM: We embraced the art history of the Limelight by incorporating original pieces from artists that frequented the nightclub, such as Keith Haring, while paying homage to other like Andy Warhol with one-of-a-kind photographers taken by David Gamble of Warhol’s most prized possessions. We also have gorgeous black and white photos of the club’s VIPs on display.

For new and returning patrons, we felt that it was in everyone’s best interest to give them the best of both worlds, with incorporating a rotating art gallery. Every so often guests will be excited to see new handpicked pieces hanging on the walls.

AM: Your staff is known to make patrons feel welcome and anticipate a special experience, what is the recipe for a winning team?

SM: I feel that the recipe for a “winning team” is dependent on the management and staff. In order for me to execute this, I felt it was in the best interest of the patrons to hire responsible, friendly and welcoming staff members, versus only seeking out those with solely restaurant experience. The combination of interpersonal skills, responsibility, passion and diligence is key to success, which is directly correlated to our returning patrons, based on their overall experience.

AM: We are thrilled to hear you have plans to expand globally with friend and partner-hotelier Vikram Chatwal (Dream Hotel, Night Hotel, Time Hotel and more). Do you have any tips for those striving for consistency and timing when growing a business?

SM: My partners and I landed the Dream Hotel deal by us channeling our past knowledge and accomplishments and ultimately fusing them
together. To date, we are the only restaurant group to sign a global partnership deal with a top tier hotel, before opening the flagship restaurant.
With all that said, we are extremely proud of what we have accomplished leading up to today and forsee a great future in hospitality. Such opportunities could never have come to light without my partners and I preaching consistency throughout our careers in the realm of hospitality.

AM: New Yorkers love those giving respect to city icons. Jue Lan Club is filled with memorabilia from the 1980’s club scene. How is this seen
within the venue?

SM: The Limelight itself is such an iconic location and by reincarnating one of the 20th centuries’ most notorious nightlife venues, we are proud
to say that it was a labor of love for myself as well as my partners. We embraced the history of the space by incorporating details from the 1980’s
club scene with our art, music and fun atmosphere. We like to keep the heydey of the ‘80s and ‘90s club kid era alive and present.

PHOTOGRAPHY | Timor Raz

Jue Lan Club is located at 49 W 20th St NY, NY 10011

Before You Tap Back

Soul Cycle. What exactly is Soul Cycle and how will I make it out alive? We all know about the fun clothing, social media shoutouts to your favorite instructors, celebrity cult following, and oh-so-much more. For newbies, it could be a daunting task to live up to the mystic of Soul Cycle - or even know how to properly get clipped into a bike. Whether you’re a spinning novice or a pro who is switching up studios, we have the answers for you! After an intense
class, we sat down with one of our favorite Soul Cycle instructors Samantha J who gave us in the inside scoop for both people who have never been to a Soul Cycle class and beginners. A friendly word of advice, book one of her classes noon on Monday (yes, make sure to book at noon), and after implementing these tips, get ready to tap it back!

NISIM FRANK: What’s your advice before your first Soul Cycle class?

SAMANTHA J: Introduce Yourself - First, make sure to arrive 15-20 minutes early and right off the bat, introduce yourself to the front desk as a first time rider. Although they know in the system, making them aware, they will help you get set up on your bike. When you enter the studio, make sure to introduce yourself to the instructor if they haven’t introduced themselves
to you and let them know you’re new.

Get yourself a gel cushion seat! They might not always tell you that they have them - but they do. With all the work in and out of the saddle, its important for a first time (or few times) to really get the gel seat.

Drink a lot of water - Stay fully hydrated at all times. I would drink a full water bottle before you even get to the class to stay hydrated throughout the class.

Don’t try to keep up at first. Don’t let the pressure of trying to keep up with people who are regulars get to you. Sit down and come out when you can. Try and hit the beat up out of the saddle and don’t do the choreography until you feel ready to do it with properly hitting the beat. Your body might not be ready to do it yet, so I would build up your endurance until you’re able to do those things.

NF: Once you get the Soul Cycle bug, what would be a tip that you would give somebody that starts to go a handful of times?

SJ: Soul 101 - Say you go to classes three to five times or so and aren’t getting how to do a tap back or how their feet are moving so quickly. Soul 101 breaks down each movement and each peddle stroke meticulously and seamlessly so at the end of the program (it’s three classes for a special rate) you’re confident and ready to go when you’re back in that room!

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Be Consistent - In order to get good at anything, you have to practice at it, which means coming to Soul Cycle classes regularly. Taking a week off after a class because its exhausting doesn’t help. Some instructors are harder than others so I would try a bunch of different ones, everybody in Soul Cycle is hand-picked and is great.

Cross Train - You absolutely need to cross train. Now if you’re a Soul Cycle bad ass and are going three to five times a week, you want to do something else to compliment your workout. Pilates is my personal favorite, it’s fantastic for your body. At Soul Cycle, we’re working on a lot of core muscles and at Pilates, you’re working on tiny ones that help balance out your body to stay, strong, fit, and safe.

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | SoulCycle

Nisim Frank is based in NYC and is the Co-Founder of Labeling Men.

Bringing Tantra into Your Relationship

By Tatiana Dellepiane

Imagine having a special feeling of oneness during lovemaking. Imagine feeling fully connected with your partner on the physical, emotional and spiritual plane. Nothing matters but the two of you being in waves of ecstasy and bliss. You are filled with satisfaction and a feeling of connectedness. All worries and doubts disappear, and you are completely relaxed. Your body tingles with delight and your heart is beating joyfully. You disappear into the eyes of your partner and everything you do, everything you feel, and everything you see suddenly has a
special glow.

Sounds great right? Wouldn’t we want to experience something so blissful (and free of charge) all of the time? Well unfortunately, in the modern world, we have a myriad of responsibilities, concerns, and challenges to deal with that keep us from feeling safe enough to relax into love. Most people are tired, overworked and overwhelmed and have trouble slowing down. Our bodies respond to these things with stress, and we frequently become ill and don’t make time for love. Tantra can help you counter the effects of modern living so that you can have long-lasting wellness, joy and a balanced life.

How about bringing the ancient wisdom of Tantra into the bedroom, and into your life as a whole? Tantra is an ancient art and science of the body and soul that has been around for thousands of years. Tantra believes in the awakening of all of your senses and the activation of your energy so that you can manifest your desires and become a magnet of love. It’s a practice that connects you to your self. Most of us spend much of our daily life in our heads. We rarely feel grounded in the body unless we are in the middle of a workout or just finishing one. We rarely feel grounded in the body unless we are in the middle of a workout or just finishing one.

Tantra helps us to plant our energetic roots in the earth all day long, and it brings us to the truth of who we are. Tantric practice encourages us to bring the energy from our spines up to the crown of our heads for maximum intuition and spiritual awareness, and at the same time circulate that energy back down to the earth so we remain grounded and embodied. The union between the feminine and masculine energy in our bodies is what allows us to do this energetic alchemy in a balanced way.

Tantra can help us fully feel whatever is arising within us. It can allow us to have more flow and surrender in our lives and help us expand our consciousness. It can help us use pleasure as a tool to heal parts of ourselves that we feel are wounded. It encourages us to slow down, become present, and take everything moment to moment.

Tantric techniques are not just another thing we “should,” do more of. They are not just another modality to add to our spiritual/emotional to do list. Tantra is more than just the techniques and methods themselves. The essence of Tantra is allowing ourselves to be 100% present until our minds slow down and we become one with what is. It is about taking a break from time bound reality and visiting the Garden of Eden once again. Some think that Tantra is only about sex, and that is why there has been such a focus on Tantra’s sexual practices. Sex is of course a divine vehicle of awakening and the more allowing we can be towards our sexual energy, the more allowing we will be with our life energy in general. But Tantra isn’t only sexual. We can actually bring these ecstatic experiences into all aspects of our life; it doesn’t even matter
if we have a committed partner or not.

What if you could become committed to infusing a sense of the sacred into every action? Even the most mundane task can become amazing when it is done with awareness.

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This is the essence of Tantra. Whereas other spiritual traditions often encourage us to escape from the world in favor of a realm that is better or
higher…Tantra encourages us to get involved in the world and fall in love with it.

One thing that people are rarely clear on is that Tantra and Tantric sex are two different things. 

There is Tanatra, and there is sex. Sex tends to bring awareness to what is arising in your relationship to your self, your partner(s) and your life. Sex
often reveals to you the truth of who you are beyond your personality. It shows you layers upon layers of your multidimensional being. It shows you where you are stuck in your life. It shows you who you are in relationship to others and to the world.

In sex you are naked, exposed and vulnerable. You are forced to see your own soul magnified. 

Now imagine combining everything mentioned about Tantra and everything mentioned about sex. What you have is something potentially sacred, blissful, healing, revealing, ecstatic and vulnerable. This is what Tantric sex is really all about.

Here are a few practical tantric techniques you can use to bring sensuality and connection to your body: Some are rituals to be performed alone, and some are Tantric sex rituals to be performed with a partner.

BREATH OF FIRE

This breath helps increase energy and arousal. You can do it with your partner before engaging in sex or you can do it alone. It is especially potent in the morning when you need a boost of energy. Sit comfortably with your legs crossed or in lotus or half lotus pose. Make sure your spine is
straight and that you encourage yourself to release tension from your shoulders and face.

Inhale and exhale through your nose rapidly focusing more on the exhale. Pump your belly in and out. It should feel active not passive…like you’re doing sit ups. Close your eyes and focus on your brow center. After you do 1-3 minutes, sit still and check in your body.

CARESSING
When we caress each other with feather-light touch, we actually feel more sensation and pleasure. The more often we do it, the more you feel. Touching in this way raises the anticipation of sex, which increases dopamine levels in the body. Touch each other with feather-light touch using your fingertips to tease the body.

EYE GAZING

Eyes are the windows to the soul. Eye gazing takes us to another level of intimacy. Sit comfortably with your legs crossed or in lotus or half lotus pose facing each other. Breathe in sync together (use the breathe of ecstasy) and
look into each other’s left eye. Soften your gaze. Eye gazing creates instant connection. Looking into each other’s eyes can create increased intimacy
and can also be playful and sexy if done without too much pressure and seriousness.

HIP CIRCLES

This movement will help awaken your sensual energy in your body. Sit comfortably with your legs crossed or in lotus or half lotus or standing
pose. Using your breath, inhale and isolate your hips slowly by popping your booty back, chest forward (start with the right side). Exhale back and squeeze your pelvic floor. Repeat the same movement on the other side slowing from
left to right.

Tatiana Dellepiane is a sex and relationship coach born and raised in New York City. She is the creator of Sensual Awakening Movement. She is also a certified yoga teacher and Lead Trainer of Urban Kama Sutra School.

Self - Love Must Come First: How to Love Yourself

By Joyce Marter, LCPC

Imagine how you treat yourself on a daily basis as if you were another person, in a relationship
with you. Are you good to yourself? Is your mind kind to your body and soul? In my practice and my own psycho-spiritual journey, I see that at times we all:

• Beat ourselves up with cruel self-talk
• Set ourselves up for failure with unrealistic expectations
• Deprive ourselves of things we deserve through self-sabotaging behaviors
• Abuse our bodies through neglect or harmful choices

These behaviors wreak havoc on our mental and physical health, our relationships, and our
careers. We must choose a different path. 

After 20 years of counseling individuals and couples, as well as doing my own inner work, I’ve come to believe that perhaps our greatest life lesson is learning how to fully accept and love ourselves. 

For only when we are truly aligned with our own beautiful and unique spirit, can we completely
and authentically give and receive real love. This is because when we love ourselves we know that we can give without becoming resentful, exhausted and depleted, and we can receive because we know we deserve it. Self-love is the prerequisite for complete immersion in the abundant flow of light and love in the world around us.

But how does one love oneself?

In The 5 Love Languages by Gary Chapman, he identifies the five ways in which we can give and receive love. Below, these languages are applied to self-love with practical suggestions:

1. Words of Affirmation: Think Self-Love

• Practice daily affirmations. Our thoughts precede our emotions and behaviors.
• Recite mantras often to encourage self-compassion. Bring your attention to being good to yourself.
• Journal your strengths and everything about you for which you are grateful. Document
everything you accomplish, feel good about, do right, like about yourself, etc.
• Keep your self-talk positive. Turn down the volume of your inner critic and choose to be your best coach or cheerleader.

2. Acts of Service: Do Self-Love

• Prepare healthy meals for yourself. Put thought and effort into grocery shopping and meal preparation.
• Create an organized, clean and aesthetically pleasing home environment for yourself. Love where you live, even if on a budget.
• Schedule regular physical, dental and mental health check-ups. Address any health concerns in a timely manner if and as they arise. Without your health, you have nothing.
• Groom yourself with love and care. Put yourself together so that you feel like the beautiful person that you are.

3. Receiving Gifts: Absorb Self-Love

• Buy only what you love. Don’t allow things in your home and closet that don’t bring you positive vibrations. (While you’re at it, purge that which does not bring you joy.)
• Gift yourself with an experience on your bucket list. Always wanted to sky dive or go whitewater rafting? Budget it out and plan it. Enlist the help and support of friends as needed.
• Invest in your education and advancement. Want to pursue a higher degree? Take a cooking class? Learn how to be a yoga instructor? Do the research, apply for grants and scholarships, volunteer to learn new skills. Gift yourself with knowledge.
• Treat yourself to the wisdom and perspective gained from travel. Limited funds? Consider volunteer or service work or pooling together resources with friends and traveling on the cheap.

4. Quality Time: Be Present with Self-Love

• Set aside time for daily mindfulness practices such as meditation, deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation. These devotions will help you connect with your highest self.
• Make time for leisure and hobbies. Time for play and enjoyment is an important aspect of celebrating the gift of life.
• Prioritize sleep and exercise. You must reboot and revitalize your physical being.
• Do not over-schedule, over-book or over-commit. Your life is worth more than
being a gerbil on a wheel...

5. Physical Touch: Feel Self-Love

• Stretch your muscles and give yourself a massage with a foam roller. Relax into your body.
• Release toxins by taking a hot bath with epsom salts. Release the stress and soak in the love.
• Moisturize your skin with lotions or oils. As you touch your skin, thank each body part for all it does for you.
• Give yourself a spa treatment: manicure, pedicure, facial, deep conditioning
treatment, etc. Know you are worth extraordinary care.

Self-love is a journey. It takes dedication, devotion, and practice. Resolve to love yourself each and every day and watch your best self blossom and your greatest life unfold! Self-love is an exponential force.

“You can search throughout the entire universe for someone who is more deserving of your love and affection than you are yourself, and that person is not to be found anywhere. You yourself, as much as anybody in the entire universe deserve your love and affection.” ~ Buddha

Joyce Marter, LCPC is a licensed psychotherapist
and CEO of Urban Balance. She is a Licensed
Clinical Professional Counselor.

Todd Snyder x Timex NYFWM AW16

With the second season of New York Fashion Week Mens taking place earlier this month, menswear was on display to tease us for what we can expect during Fall/Winter 2016. From Feb 1st - Feb 4th, designers showcased an array of outerwear, denim, accessories and more. Each night, a major designer closes the day’s events at Clarkson Studios, the hub of menswear shows for this much anticipated CFDA backed platform. On the final night of NYFWM, Todd Snyder (far right backstage at NYFWM FW16) and his eponymous collection closed the Fall/Winter 2016 season with looks that are bound to be on the must have look of men. They showcase the bridge between structured suiting and the luxe nature of what athleisure and premium fabrication, craftsmanship, military tailoring and a distinct New York aesthetic. In 2011, he launched his line in Fall exclusively in premium retailers including Bergdorf Goodman, Ron Herman and Neiman Marcus. In the following year, his line was picked up by Barneys New York and select Nordstrom stores. The Americana designer continued to obtain notoriety with a nomination from the CFDA Swarovski Award for Menswear and was named one of GQ’s Best New Menswear Designers. In 2013 he was selected as one of the esteemed CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund Finalists.

Before attending his show, we had the opportunity to sit down with the man himself to talk about his upcoming collection (including get a sneak peek on the line from the designer whose last name literally means, “one who makes outer garments”), retail store and his collaboration with heritage brands such as, Timex. In addition, Giorgio Galli (to the left), Timex Design Director was also on hand to talk about the importance of the watch brand’s focus on maintaining their rich heritage as well as continuing to innovate.

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ATHLEISURE MAG: What fashion houses did you work with prior to creating your namesake brand?

TODD SNYDER: I studied textile and clothing design at Iowa State University and learned the art of cutting and sewing at the Des Moines haberdashery, Badowers. During the next two decades, I honed my skills here in NY. I designed outerwear for Polo Ralph Lauren, was the Director of Menswear for the Gap and SVP of menswear at J. Crew. While there I revamped men’s styling, introduced formalwear and launched a number
of collaborations with heritage brands that to this day I still see people wearing. Being able to curate these items during my time at J. Crew was a great experience.

AM: What are the inspirations that you drive you within your collection?

TS: I really like the classics and love being able to go into the archives to bring back something that I used to wear or would have liked to have worn. I like attention to detail, great fabrics and having a bit of rustic charm.

AM: What is the “Gentleman Explorer”?

TS: My collections start with a scene and place. When I started this one, I thought of Mount Everest. Throughout the collection there is a mixture of suits that are styled under jackets to showcase its active nature with tailoring and vintage. The “Gentleman Explorer” merges classic style with my Iowa roots. The collection has raincoats, shearling coats, sweaters, etc. that reimagine activewear staples for the Todd Snyder man. These pieces work with you and are effortless, and to that end, partnering with Timex with this collection was a natural synergy of this idea. Watches are an essential accessory and I love going back to the classics.

Giorgio Galli: Working with Todd is mutually beneficial as we love to do what we do best and he really gets what our brand is about. We truly feel that he is one of the best classic American designers which fits with who we are.

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AM: How will the Timex Red Wing watch (featured in the show) come about in the collaboration?

TS: I love going through the the archives of my watches and seeing great designs that I owned or wish that I had owned. Timex has been a great brand to partner with in the past and when I was at their design studios in Tokyo, I saw a watch that grabbed my eye. It was Red Wing leather that was made in the US but the face was a Timex watch. I knew that I wanted to bring it to the US.

GG : Working with Todd is mutually beneficial as we love to do best and he really gets what our brand is about. We truly feel that he is one of the best classic American designers which fits with who we are.

AM: In addition to the Timex Red Wing watch, will there be additional watches within your line?

TS: Yes we will roll them out throughout the year. I am really excited about the revived Bullseye which is a classic military watch from the 70s. It’s really cool and comes in two strap options, olive and navy. I have always been a fan of their watches because they were meant for the military. A number of the designs were created by Timex to supply troops during World Wars with truly wearable timepieces. This makes sense to my brand as I focus on heritage and utility.

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AM: With this mix, what statement is being made in terms of where menswear is going in American fashion?

TS: There is a focus on elevating activewear and modernizing it. This is something that we have done with our collaboration with Champion and their sweatshirts. There is a new way where guys are still dressed up but they’re dressing less formally. Even I find myself wearing sneakers more than anything. 

AM: With your brand being acquired by American Eagle, what does this mean for expansion and your stores - including the soon to open,
New York flagship?

TS: The acquisition allows me to go forward on collaborations that I may not have without the support. For the flagship, I see it as a place where a guy can come in and get everything they need in one place from something for the gym to going out at night. In addition, it’s about providing an assortment of curated items from a number of brands and including them in the product mix in a way that is differentiated.

Love & War

FEB ISSUE

| PHOTOGRAPHY Carlos David | STYLIST Kimmie Smith/Accessory2 | MUA/HAIR Angel Morales | MODELS Kate C/MSA Models + Anastasia V/MSA Models

Photographed at El Barrio Art Space, NYC