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

Beyond the Barre

Emily Tyra plays Mia Bialy on STARZ Network’s, ‘Flesh & Bone’ which debuted in Fall 2015 as a limited series. Within seconds of the first episode viewers are introduced to her character who is a part of the fictional American Ballet Company. The series looks at the grit and glamour that takes place in the ballet world within the dance company, rehearsals and the lives of talent and management.

On the day of our shoot at Loft Twenty in Flatiron in NYC, our entire creative team enjoyed getting to know Emily, who is like hanging out with your favorite girlfriend.

FEB COVER STORY

| PHOTOGRAPHY Carlos David | STYLIST Kimmie Smith/Accessory2 | MUA Kat Osorio | HAIR Selda Cortes | COVER STAR Emily Tyra |

Photographed at Loft Twenty in Flatiron, NYC

ATHLEISURE MAG: When did you begin ballet and acting?

EMILY TYRA: I started dancing when I was about 4 years old. I was a really shy kid, so my mom put me in dance classes to bring me out of my shell. I would never let her watch me dance! I started acting classes and singing lessons in middle school. Once I got to highschool, I was a complete artsy kid. I anchored the school news, lettered in choir (of course), did the plays and musicals and was in our extracurricular improv troupe. The serious ballet came later when I had a growth spurt and it was clear I was built for it. My teachers started encouraging me to train more intensely
around age 14. That is when I started getting scholarships to study at places like American Ballet Theatre, here in NYC.

AM: Did you begin your career thinking that you would do both?

ET: I really wanted to find a way to do both. Ballet had a shorter timeline and an immediacy. You have to do it while you are able physically and emotionally. I had decided against college and after a few big ballet company cattle calls, I moved to the east coast to dance with Boston Ballet. I got it out of my system and now I don’t wonder “what if?” Also, it keeps reappearing in my life as an actor, like with Flesh & Bone. It’s something that makes me a little special. There are a lot of actors out there. I have a vivid memory of a former mentor of mine telling me “You’ll always be a dancer.” When I am trying to be something else, I hate that. But he was right. That part of me will always be important in some way.

AM: When you heard about Flesh & Bone what drew you to the show and the character?

ET: I was excited to see a ballet show finally cast real dancers and not glamourize the whole thing. My personal experience in the ballet world left me with a lot of complexities and I was excited about the idea of contributing to this kind of authentic drama. I wanted it to be done right, just like our creative team, the network and the rest of the cast.

I was also up for the challenge of getting back into “ballet” shape. I hadn’t danced in a company or taken regular ballet classes for about 6 years. It scared me, so I knew I needed to do it. It was hard! But so worth it.

AM: During the episodes we see you and the cast during rehearsals. How many hours did you prepare for these scenes?

ET: The cast operated on a schedule almost like a real ballet company. We would train together in the mornings when we weren’t shooting ballet scenes. Next, we’d take class and warm up together and then have various rehearsals throughout the day. The dancers in the final performance worked with our choreographer, Ethan Steifel, almost every day as he created the original piece for the show. Long hours on set and off. Some of the shoot days in the studio set were 15 or 16 hour days, especially in the beginning when our production team was figuring out how to tackle the beast of shooting ballet.

AM: What do you love about playing Mia?

ET: She’s no nonsense. Blunt. Honest. Sexy. Manipulative. But deeply insecure. I love her darkness. Some would call her a mean girl. I hope most
people would say she’s not like me. It is hard to understand why people behave that way until you figure out their vulnerability. Mia’s arc was a slow burn. She started out as this one thing and became something else as the story unfolded. Also, she had some pretty good one-liners. I love a good comeback. Especially when it’s written for me. I can never seem to come up with them quickly enough in real life.

AM: What similarities and differences exist between you and the character?

ET: I think we posses a similar fire. I am pretty passionate about stuff. I have an extreme personality. If I’m into something, I am SUPER into it. And if I dislike something it is dead to me. I also like to think I infused her with a little pluckiness. I’m a true goofball. Someone on twitter recently called me a ‘glamorous clown’. I will no longer go by any other title. 

AM: What was your favorite part of the show?

ET: I loved all of the milestones, such as our first table read when we were all trying to figure out our characters; the first class together as a company; watching the sun come up over the East River on a Saturday morning after wrapping the final scene for the entire show; watching the pilot episode at the network in LA with my agent and manager; and reuniting with the cast for our premiere in NYC.

AM: What can you tell us about next season?

ET: Unfortunately we are not doing a 2nd season!:( Flesh and Bone was released as a limited series to stand on its own!

AM: Athleisure includes styles that reflects looks worn throughout your lifestyle, what are your go to looks?

ET: I love a printed legging. Lululemon or Bandier. I like funky colors and prints with a neutral oversized top and boots. Gauzy white t-shirt, a blazer and a beanie or my MN Twins cap. :) All things cashmere - all of the time. Nikes with everything, I love comfy footwear. Ballet did a number on my feet, so if at all possible I will wear flats or athletic wear. Harem pants or high-waisted/pleated/tapered pants of any kind. Smartwool socks. Always.

AM: How do you stay in shape?

ET: I have a Crunch membership. I am a cardio junkie, but i dont love group fitness. If at all possible, I prefer to be outside. I run almost everyday. Outside, I’ll run a mix of terrain, and on the treadmill I like to do sprint and hill intervals. In the summertme, I ride my bike everywhere. I also use studio space at the gym to do my own ballet and yoga exercises. I listen to my body and ballet gave me a good self discipline. I will never decline the invitation to take a fun dance class with friends, though.

AM: In your free time what are 3 things that you enjoy doing?

ET: I love to cook. I wish my kitchen were bigger. I live in a tiny studio. Maybe someday I’ll have the luxury of counterspace in a NYC kitchen.
I frequently take myself to the movies. I sneak a beer in my purse, get a popcorn, and turn my phone off. It is an awesome escape from the mayhem of the city.

Traveling has become a favorite and often impulsive activity. If i have time off and an opportunity to go anywhere, I’ll do it. Currently on the wanderlust list: Thailand, Spain, Croatia and Ireland.

AM: How do you maintain your balance between work, friends and more?

ET: I try to take enough time for myself. As long as I can have an evening to myself once a week to have a good workout, cook a meal, get a manicure, read, etc, I’m in balance. This is a tricky business as we are often living out of a suitcase, the inbox is full, you have 3 scripts to read, and you owe your mom a phonecall. Adulting and living in NYC is hard, in showbiz or not!

AM: What kind of role do you see yourself playing next?

ET: I can’t say what is up next for me yet! Flesh and Bone was such an intense project, I’m thinking about swinging in the opposite direction with something really hilarious. I’m enjoying being in the TV world, as a lot of incredible people are writing and working in Television right now. The scripts I am reading just keep getting better. Long term, I’d like to do more film. I like changing things up and TV tends to be a long term commitment.

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The Fit Set

FEB ISSUE

| PHOTOGRAPHY Carlos David | STYLIST Kimmie Smith/Accessory2 | MUA Nydia Figueroa | HAIR Angel Morales | MODELS Kelsey Elliot/MSA Model + Vanessa Jorge/Major Model |

Photographed @ El Barrio Art Space, NY

COUPLIST Valentine's Trends and Activities

#STAYCATION

Valentine’s Day (followed by President’s Day - hello long weekend) can be spent in a number of ways. Whether you opt to be with your significant other, family, friends or co-workers. We have great options that you should consider during the days of love!

Staycationing in NYC is about treating yourself! Whether you stay at the Baccarat Hotel or simply have cocktails at this namesake French crystal hotelier, it’s a decadent experience. From sophisticated drinks at Bar to enjoying the world’s first La Mer Spa.

Continue the day or weekend enjoying a day at the links at Golf & Body NYC where you can make sure that your swing is Spring ready in Midtown! In addition, the 19th hole comes to you at this private Country Club where elite movers and shakers come together.

The fun doesn’t stop in the city that never sleeps! Look up your favorite Raw Bar options such as the iconic Oyster Bar where you can get your fill of Rose wines, oysters, mussels and so much more.

Style it up with socks by VIM & VIGR which look great in boots but also have compression technology which enhances your look while also boosting blood circulation in your legs.

#ROMANCE

With this year’s Day of Love being a long weekend, you may opt to spend quality time with your significant other.

Gift one another with matching underwear by Me Undies and their recent collaboration with their Keith Haring Special Edition. You can also shake it up with this one piece body suit by Fleur de Mal.

Keep the sensual excitement going with OhMiBod’s Freestyle and Freestyle :G which is a wireless vibrator that can connect to your music device of choice to vibrate to the beat of your favorite track. You can also opt for the old school way by using it manually! We’re giving away one to one of our Athleisure Mag readers by following on Twitter @AthleisureMag and @OhMiBod. Make sure to tweet your favorite song. Click here for more details on how to enter.

Go exotic with your tastebuds with Mochidoki, a Japanese icecream delicacy in a number of flavors, including matcha green tea, lychee and more!

#DESTINATION

The Couplist knows that it’s about enjoying an experience, whether it’s with their significant other, their sibling or best friend. A long weekend means making the most of it so you may need to pack a bag to seriously make it count!

Opt for a day in wine country by checking out a tour in Napa Valley to enjoy the varietals on hand. Increase your knowledge while getting a healthy buzz.

Maybe you’re all about the ultimate spa. Book a Spa Suite at the Mandarin Oriental which allows your to truly indulge within your treatment of choice while keeping it private for your couple massage.

Escape the world for a moment at Breathe Easy Spa at the Oasis Day Spa. Simply take a moment in the Salt Room to refresh your air as well as to take a meditative moment.

If you’re planning a trip, consider Home Away that takes your travels to the next level as it’s not just about the phenomenal hotel suite, it’s about being able to book a condo or home that has amenities that work for your lifestyle! Decide on whether you’re looking to do a getaway for two or
to bring a few couples along but it’s a great way to make an epic experience with global options.

Fashion Trends 2016

With the new year comes the chance to re-energize yourself, and your wardrobe. As we settle in for 2016 there are a few ways your wardrobe can make a bold statement, and none has been more popular in the last decade than with “boho chic” designs. Embracing vintage styles with modern creativity, these bohemian-inspired fashions worn by actresses, models, and fashionistas can give you a bold and younger feel for a whole new style. The secret to creating this youthful style is all about mixing and matching earthy pieces of the flower child age with hip accessories for a natural look that works great in every setting. So if you are ready to empty your closet and hit the mall to find your inner bohemian, then here are a few tricks to really make your outfits pop.

Embrace Your Creative Vision

Boho chic is all about finding your creative self and designing a look that equally embraces vintage style and your modern personality. This youthful style is a perfect blend of nostalgia and chic, and you can be well on your way to finding a boho chic look that will get you noticed with these simple tips:

Wearing clothes that reflect natural tones and fabrics is a must.

Fabrics including silk, suede, leather, denim, velvet, linen, and more are key to creating the perfect bohemian look. Not only should outfits have a natural feel to them, but a natural look, too. Choose earthy browns and dark greens to give you an organic look. 

Adding embellishments can make an outfit pop.

While the fabrics may be toned down, you still want an outfit to stand out. That is where embroidery, embellishments, and accessories can make the difference. Thin, silver or wooden bangles are a great accessory, and beadwork on blouses can also make a simple yet impactful addition.

Mix and match with bold patterns.

Remixed patterns are all the rage in the boho chic world. Utilizing floral patterns with your neutral fabrics. Finishing your outfit with a splash of denim or suede can really create a carefree outfit that is great for a day of shopping or just going out for some fun.

Combine fitted and flowy fabrics for maximum comfort.

Last but not least, bohemian fashion is all about comfort. While many embrace boho styles for summer only, these looks are pushing their way into other seasons, too. Pairing some fitted jeans with a flowing maxi dress can help you be ready for a variety of climates. Likewise, making sure to layer your attire with ankle boots and denim vests can keep you warm but still stylish.

Experiment to Find your Unique Boho Chic Style

As bohemian fashions are trademarked by looks that embrace the individual personality of the wearer, it can be challenging to determine which pieces will work best. These are just some of the things to keep in mind when browsing the playful patterns found at online retailers like
Zappos, District Clothing, or ShopScarpe.

Ultimately, the best way to get a standout look is to experiment. Don’t be afraid to pull something out of your closet that may seem out of fashion. With the right accessories and vintage spirit, pieces from the past can find new life. After all, the greatest part about boho fashion is reflecting individual personality and vintage style, and that will only come with a little bit of creativity and fun.

Carolyn Clarke is a freelance writer from Omaha, Nebraska. She has written for clients like Demand Media and the Omaha World-Herald. When she isn’t working on DIY projects with her two daughters, Lauryn and Lila, she’s volunteering at her local pet shelter.

The Art of the Faux Bob

FEB ISSUE

| PHOTOGRAPHY George Chemas | STYLING Kimmie Smith/Accessory2 | HAIR Shoichi Ishida | MUA Kat Osorio | MODEL Nat DeGenova |

Photographed @ Hyatt Times Square (Mariln Monroe Spa, Bar 54 and Hyatt Times Square Suite)

We lead busy lives and even going out to have a good time can be a bit of a process. In this issue’s Beauty Transition shoot, our model just had came from the office and is treating herself to a spa treatment before going out with her friends. Shot at the Hyatt Times Square within the Marilyn Monroe Spa, Luxury Suite as well as Bar 54, we focus on creating and transitioning the Faux Bob from the office to a night out with makeup by Kat Osorio and hair by Shoichi Ishida. 

OFFICE LOOK (ABOVE): Hair by Shoichi

STEP 1: Divide your hair into two sections. Pull the top of hair (from ear to ear) on top of your head, and secure with a clip.

STEP 2: Braid the bottom half of your hair and secure it flat with some bobby pins.
 
STEP 3: Make the natural wave in the top part with a curling iron. Around the face, curl it away from the face. Behind the section, curl it forward to the face. Repeat the process on both sides.
 
Before using a curling iron, I put Oribe Soft Laquer, which is a heat styling spray all over.
 
STEP 4: Brush it out and pull it back into a low, loose ponytail. Pull out some strands around the face. Loop the end up and under and secure it in place with u-shape pins.
 
STEP 5: Blend a side swept band into the longer strands around your face. For strong hold, use L’Oreal Elnet hair spray.

OFFICE LOOK (LEFT): Makeup by Kat Osorio

                     
 SKIN PREP: I always like to take my time and really prep the skin it’s the most important step in any makeup look.  This step is vital because it will determine how long & how beautiful the makeup looks throughout the day.  It’s also important to switch your products & tweak them according to the changing seasons and your current skin needs.

STEP 1: Starting with jane iredale Face Cleanser use the Clarisonic MIA 2.  The Clarisonic can be used in the shower because it waterproof! It’s also small enough to pack in a gym bag for post workout. Both are gentle enough for sensitive skin and effective!

STEP 2: Use Beauty Prep Face Toner (jane iredale) with Shiseido Facial cotton sine as it’s gentle enough and won’t scratch the skin like most cotton balls or pads.

STEP 3: Use Beauty Prep Face Moisturizer by jane iredale.

STEP 4: Lips - can’t forget to prep your lips I love using Rosebud salve.

MAKEUP LOOK: 

STEP 1: Face - Dreamtint BB Cream, In Touch Cream Blush (chemistry), both jane iredale. I like to apply both with a Beauty Blender, another option can be using a synthetic duo fiber brush for lighter coverage, & IT cosmetics Bye Bye Undereye concealer.

STEP 2: Eyes - Smokey Quartz; Mystikol Eye shadow pencils (jane iredale) are great for a quick simple yet chic look. I tend to just use fingers for this step since the shadow stick has a great smudging brush at the end! Finish off with Tarte Lights camera Action Mascara.

STEP 3: Brows - Tarte Colored Clay Tinted Brow gel, to simply sweep across brows for a soft “natural” filled in look for day.

STEP 4: Lips - Blissful Playon lip crayon by jane iredale is a perfect way to accentuate lips. 

STEP 5: The look is finished by setting the under eye and middle of the face, forehead chin around the nose with Laura Mercier Secret Brightening Powder & mist the face with jane iredale skin Pommisst to set. I also keep this with me through the day to freshen up my makeup.

RED CARPET NIGHT OUT LOOK (RIGHT): Hair by Shoichi

                              STEP 1: Divide the hair into three sections. Side part two front side (from     
                            ear through the top to ear) and back.

                          STEP 2: In back, make the barrel curls with a curling iron.

STEP 3: On the top of light side section, curl  it towards the face. For the bottom of it, curl it in 1 inch sections. 

STEP 4: Repeat the process on the heavy side. Divide this side into the top half and the bottom half.

STEP 5: Pull the top half of back section from ear to ear on top of the head and secure with a clip. Pull the bottom of back into a low side ponytail with elastic. Loop the end and secure it behind ear with bobby pins.
  
STEP 6: Blend the heavy front side section with the top of back part and pull them into a low loose ponytail with elastic. Twist it a little bit and secure it on the bottom with bobby pins except the end. Loop the end on the roll and secure with u-shape pins.

STEP 7: Pull the light side section into the back and blend the end on the rolls with hair spray. Use Oribe Superfine strong and secure with u-shape pins. 

RED CARPET NIGHT OUT LOOK (RIGHT): Makeup by Kat Osorio

                        STEP 1: Face - Stila Aqua Glow Serum Foundation is used again with a beauty
                          blender to smooth onto skin or a #103 brush from IT Cosmetics and stippling
        where more coverage is needed along with Stila Aqua Glow Serum Concealer
                      for any imperfections.  This is achieved by either using your finger to smooth out the edges of concealing or a flat synthetic brush.

Bronzer - Soleil Tan De Chanel, swept in a “3” shape; temples, cheeks, jawbone to create a natural “just got back from holiday” look, I like to use an angled blush brush for this.

Blush - I applied the Tarte Amazonian Clay 12hr in Blissful.

STEP 2: Eyeliner - Place Urban Decay Waterline Eye Pencil in Legend, in the waterline for a sultry effect without the irritation. TIP: *waterproof is not meant for the waterline Stila Smudge Stick Waterproof Eye Liner in Lionfish smudged all over the eyelid using my middle and index finger. Then, I work with a blending brush to diffuse and soften the liner into a shadow. TIP: *great way to do a quick Smokey longwearing look with just eyeliner, this serves as my “primer”.

Eyeshadow - To create a Smokey look, it’s all about layering. I used jane iredale Pure Pressed Eyeshadow Triple in Brownsugar and added in more Lionfish to the corner & lashline for added drama.

Mascara: I lightly coat the lash with Diorshow in Black Out and add Ardel Demi Wispies false lashes using Eylure Lashfix long lasting Clear finish Adhesive. If you want to skip this step you can still create a dramatic lash effect using eyelash primer like Lancome Cils Booster XL Mascara Enhancer.

Brows - They’re filled in lightly using Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow wiz and finished off with clear Brow Gel by the same brand. 

STEP 3: I used Hourglass Ambient Lighting Powder in Luminous Light to softly highlight the brow bone, cheekbones, and cupids bow. 

STEP 4: Lips - Lancôme LE Lipstique Lip Colouring Stick in Ideal  is applied with a brush all over lips and finished with jane iredale Pure Gloss in candied Rose.

STEP 5: I lightly dust Laura Mercier R Translucent finishing Powder over the forehead, under eye, around the nose & chin.

STEP 6: I set everything with Urban Decay  All Nighter Makeup setting Spray.

Bar 54’s Signature Drink: The Jewel Box

.75 oz Kappa Pisco

.75 oz Raspberry Syrup

.5 oz Clear Creek Pear Brandy

.5 oz Lemon Juice

Shake and Strain, into a flute glass. Top with Proscecco, and Garnish with a grapefruit twist.

ATHLEISURE MAG: Why is Hyatt Times Square a great place to stay or visit whether you’re a guest or live in the city? 

HYATT TIMES SQUARE: The Hyatt Times Square is ideally located in the heart of Times Square. The location allows you to immerse yourself in the culture and energy of the city, yet you can return and relax in your urban retreat.

AM: What sets Hyatt Times Square’s Timeless Marilyn Monroe’s Spas apart from others in the city?

HTS: Timeless Marilyn Monroe Spa is the first full Hotel Spa in Times Square that reflects the vitality, energy and fun of New York City. It is vibrant, playful, elegant and it has unapologetic approach to a spa experience that complements Marilyn Monroe’s historic Hollywood image. 

AM: Why is Timeless Marilyn Monroe Spa a fit for the Hyatt property?

HTS: Hyatt Times Square enables guests to live the quintessential New York City lifestyle, and from the minute you walk in you feel like a privileged New Yorker. The spa’s fun, yet relaxing atmosphere, has the same feel. The spa delivers guests an exquisite experience that provides a vacation from your vacation.

AM: Are the treatments at this spa in honor of the icon herself?

HTS: Yes, Marilyn Monroe was one of the most beautiful women in history. From her girl-next-door approachable beauty, to her glamorous inspirations in photos and movies, her legend endures around the world. It is that legend that inspired Marilyn Monroe™ Spas.

AM: What is an ultimate package that people can enjoy at this spa as Valentine’s Day is around the corner?

HTS: The ultimate package is “My Day with Marilyn” and it includes our Signature Massage, Signature Facial, Signature Manicure and Pedicure.  It is the ultimate way to get ready for your special Valentine!
 
AM: Can guests and NYC residents enjoy the Marilyn Monroe Spa come to get pampered?

HTS: Absolutely. Both hotel guests and NYC residents enjoy the spa. In fact, over half of our guests are from the area.   

AM: Are there treatments that may be added to the menu as Spring is around the corner?

HTS: We are actually working on this as we speak and we will be announcing our new spa menu within the next four weeks.  
 
AM: Can people purchase Marilyn Monroe Spa products that make them feel as if they are enjoying the beauty preferences of the woman herself?
 
HTS: Yes, they can. Whether it’s makeup or skincare, color for your lips or nails, hair care or accessories, Marilyn Monroe Spa products will make you feel wonderful! 
 
Marilyn embraced her beauty. She reveled in it. The gorgeous skin, the sultry lips, the flawless makeup, the tilt of her head with that enviable hair. She took great pride in her appearance, and it showed.
 
We took the same approach with the products we use at our Spas. We sought out the best expertise and knowledge to create products that ensure anyone who uses them feels captivating, timeless and wonderful. Wrap yourself in the kind of beauty that is as ageless and legendary as Marilyn herself.

AM: If you are looking for a package for a staycation with pampering, what can be enjoyed at the Marilyn Monroe Spa as well as the Hyatt Times Square?

HTS: Guests can enjoy massages and if a couple is interested we have a couples massage package as well. Whether a guest wants a traditional massage, a hot stone massage, a gem massage or reflexology all are available. We also offer a variety of facials, manicures, pedicures and hair treatments and make-up applications. You do not need to leave the hotel to get pampered; you can enjoy the spa, workout in the gym and spend time in your room relaxing and enjoying all that the hotel has to offer.

AM: What is the best way to truly enjoy a spa service after a great treatment?

HTS: Take home a Rose Gift Set, an age defense skincare kit that will naturally enhance your skin’s youthful radiance. Rose was also Marilyn’s favorite scent.

The organic and refreshing spa products included in this gift set are the Rose Cream Cleanser, Rose Facial Polish, Rose Mist, and Rose Hydrating Daily Cream and it’s sold for only $125.

AM: Tell us about your suites and what amenities people enjoy who request these rooms?

HTS: Our Suites allow you to relax in style; with a chic residential Manhattan vibe you can lounge and relax while looking out the floor to ceiling windows overlooking the city skyline. The suites offer guests a separate lounge space where you can watch television or work quietly at your desk while surrounded by an eclectic collection of New York City themed artwork. The luxurious bathrooms allow you to enjoy a wonderful rain shower or you can bathe in the soaking tub. Guests truly enjoy the chic apartment style retreats and with the terrace you can always enjoy the views and the electric NYC air. 

AM: As a guest at the Hyatt Times Square, what are the best places within the property to enjoy some time to yourself and/or with friends?

HTS: Bar 54 offers guests and their friends a great place to meet, relax and enjoy a light bite and a wonderful cocktail. It is one of the highest rooftop bars in NYC and the views are spectacular. In the spring, summer and fall the terrace allows you to sit outside enjoying the views of the Chrysler Building, Freedom Tower, lower Manhattan and the New Year’s Eve ball. The sunsets are amazing! We recently installed two bubbles that offer guests the ability to sit outside in the winter. You feel like you are in a life size snow globe. It is a unique experience that you can share privately with a special someone or you can reserve the bubble for your group of friends. We also offer guests a state of the art gym with cardio and strength training equipment. It’s a great place to work-out and enjoy some time to yourself.

Athleisure List - LA, Elliptifit

With over twenty years in the fitness industry as a personal trainer, group fitness leader and active lifestyle enthusiast Annette Comerchero found inspiration to create something new. In 2012, she opened ElliptiFit in West LA centrally located between Century City, Brentwood and Santa Monica They also have a ‘Silicon Beach’ Marina Del Rey popup at The Shores, a luxury apartment community. There are additional plans to open locations in Santa Monica, Venice and beyond. Her vision for this studio fitness gym is to offer amazing fitness benefits with its high intensity, low impact calorie scorching workouts as well as sunshine for your soul which radiates from the warm community environment and authentically positive and engaging staff.

Elliptifit is the first group fitness with Sole Ellipticals. When taking classes, they offer two different workouts both based on the concept of HIIT. ElliptiFit is a forty five minute class on the elliptical machine that combines HIIT resistance, running, sprinting, with body toning rhythmic resistance exercises, utilizing the arms, core and lower body.

CrossElliptiFit is also forty five, minutes but it alternates between HIIT on the elliptical and Tabata style body weight exercises on the floor.

Before class, prep as you would for cycling. Make sure you’re hydrated and not hungry. But do avoid heavy foods at least 45 minutes before the class to avoid feeling bloated and or nausea. In addition to taking classes, members can purchase Elliptifit activewear and accessories. Keep an
eye out as they also host trunksales and pop ups for brands such as Lorna Jane and Lululemon. Modern bathrooms and amenities are offered. They also have a committment to using eco-friendly products when cleaning workout equipment.

ELLIPTIFIT QUICK FACTS
LOCATION: 11870 Santa Monica Blvd #207, LA, CA 90025
OPENED: 2012
STUDIO FITNESS FOCUS: The first elliptical group fitness studio classes with a focus on Elliptifit and CrossElliptiFit. 

WIN THIS:

For our Athleisure Mag readers in LA, we’re giving away 3 passes for 2 weeks for classes at ElliptiFit. Today through Feb 24th, you can enter to win by tweeting your favorite song to work out to and following us on @ ElliptiFit and @AthleisureMag and list your favorite song to work out to. You can enter our giveaway with the full details by clicking here.

STEP INTO NATURAL BEAUTY

Fresh off the New Year, we attended a launch of a new collection of skincare products at David Bouley’s Botanical. With a commitment to creating a line that includes essentials that are good for your body, we sat down with Jane Iredale, Founder and President of Iredale Mineral Cosmetics, Ltd. (makers of jane iredale) to talk about her natural cosmetic and skin-care line that continues to give us exactly what we need and to stay ahead of the innovative curve. We also used her line in our shoot, The Art of the Faux Bob (p.12).

ATHLEISURE MAG: What sets jane iredale apart from other cosmetic brands in the market?

JANE IREDALE: There are a lot of brands on the market now using “mineral” as a marketing term. The misconception is that all mineral makeup is created equal. The mineral makeup category has been one of the fastest growing and almost every major player has some sort of mineral offering. And while I love what some brands have done, some other lines have talc, chemical sunscreen additives, synthetic preservatives, etc. It’s important to read the label to see if the brand you’re about to buy fits with what you want from a product.

Our pure mineral makeup formula hasn’t changed much since we began in 1994. We were the first to use liposomes in makeup like encapsulated algae extracts and antioxidants. We use a lot of plant extracts – most of them are certified organic. Their benefits, taste and smell are in my blood because I’m an avid gardener. Many of them, like pomegranate extract, have active antioxidant properties and help to reverse sun damage. Because our brand is rooted in  science, I love it when I find botanicals that combine the natural and scientific worlds. We source most of our plant extracts from Europe where there is a long heritage of appreciating and understanding their benefits.

AM: What is the primary goal that jane iredale looks to accomplish when making its assortment?

JI: Everything we do is based on making the skin as healthy as possible. As a company, we pledge to provide a product line that has the utmost integrity and the ability to enhance the lives of women through its effectiveness, simplicity and beauty. We believe that our activities should be governed by the requirements of our customers and our concern for the environment.

AM: Recently, you held an editor’s event that focused on #FeedFortifyFinish can you tell us more about that, and is this a new/renewed initiative for the brand?

JI: You’re going to hear us talk a lot about this in the coming year. It’s our new mantra at jane iredale, because we believe that beautiful, healthy skin has to be tackled from three directions:

FEED

It’s now understood that you can effect just as much change, if not more, by feeding skin from the inside as well a the outside. This means eating well and supplementing your diet with food that the skin loves. It will reward you in many ways: clearer, smoother skin at any age; reduced breakouts, irritation and sensitivity; the skin will strengthen its protection from UV damage and it will glow with health. We can help this entire process with our nutritional supplement, Skin Accumax, which contains vitamins and plant nutrients in a synergistic blend that targets the skin. We’ve already seen incredible results with this breakthrough.

FORTIFY

All the good work you do on the inside must be supported outside with a good skin care regimen. (If you have acne, this does not mean over-cleansing which can make matters worse). Your skin care pro-fessional will help you with a routine that is exactly right for your type of skin. Many of our clients have asked for a cleanser, ton-er and moistrizer that work together per-fectly with our makeup, so we’ve launched three producs in as natural a formula as possible. This is where BeautyPrep comes in! The cleanser is a micellar cleanser that lifts dirt through its liposome activity and does not require rinsing off. It contains an organic cucumber extract which is especially designed to remove urban pollution. The toner is full of fruit and vegetable extracts that hydrate the skin and have a soothing, calming effect with a neutral pH. The moisturizer has a wonderful ingredient called Eyebright that is soothing, conditioning and reduces the appearance of under eye puffiness. We’ve also incorpo-rated four rose stem cells from the pet-als of various rose species because they condition the skin in a way you can feel as soon as its applied. BeautyPrep is a simple, effective, natural and skin loving ritual that we feel confident will complement what you're already doing.

FINISH

Once you’ve fed and fortified the skin, its time to add the glamour! And that, of course, means makeup. But don’t undo all the great things you’ve been doing for your skin by stressing it with makeup that contains sensitizing ingredients or block pores. Prime the skin, then apply one of our mineral foundations of your choice. We guarantee that you skin will look and feel better and its absolute best.

AM: How do you plan on introducing new products not for the sake of just having additional products but focusing on the needs of skin?

JI: Listening and learning. More and more, we’re learning that pollution has a real effect on the health of the skin, as does internal stress. Stress damages elastin and collagen, exacerbating fine lines and wrinkles. It also causes our adrenal glands to produce oil – That's why, for example, make matters worse). Your skin care professional will help you with a routine that is exactly right for your type of skin. Many of our clients have asked for a cleanser, ton-er and moisturizer that work together perfectly with our makeup, so we’ve launched three products in as natural a formula as possible. This is where BeautyPrep comes in! The cleanser is a micellar cleanser that lifts dirt through its liposome activity and does not require rinsing off. It contains an organic cucumber extract which is especially designed to remove urban pollu-tion. The toner is full of fruit and vegetable extracts that hydrate the skin and have a soothing, calming effect with a neutral pH. The moisturizer has a wonderful ingredient called Eyebright that is soothing, conditioning and reduces the appearance of under eye puffiness. We’ve also incorporated four rose stem cells from the pet-als of various rose species because they condition the skin in a way you can feel as soon as its applied. BeautyPrep is a simple, effective, natural and skin loving ritual that we feel confident will complement what you're already doing.

FINISH

Once you’ve fed and fortified the skin, its time to add the glamour! And that, of course, means makeup. But don’t undo all the great things you’ve been doing for your skin by stressing it with makeup that contains sensitizing ingredients or block pores. Prime the skin, then apply one of our mineral foundations of your choice. We guarantee that you skin will look and feel better and its absolute best.

AM: How do you plan on introducing new products not for the sake of just having additional products but focusing on the needs of skin?

JI: Listening and learning. More and more, we’re learning that pollution has a real effect on the health of the skin, as does internal stress. Stress damages elastin and collagen, exacerbating fine lines and wrinkles. It also causes our adrenal glands to produce oil – That’s why, for example, brides will break out the week of their wed-ding - it’s the stress that’s causing that. So it’s very important to fortify the skin, to help the skin protect itself from all these influences.

Thanks to bloggers, editors and reviews, we have so much contact now with consumers – More than ever before. The consumer has been saying, “Can you just come out with something really simple – something where I don’t have to worry about extensive protocols, I can just throw on in the morning and at night, to address these concerns?” And the more I thought about it, I realized that it really is our responsibility as a healthy makeup brand to ensure people are prepping their skin correctly so they get the most out of our makeup. 

That was the reason behind launching our new skin care trio. We’ve called it BeautyPrep, because it’s designed to protect and prep the skin to give you the perfect canvas for makeup.

AM: Are there additional launches that you can tease us with that are coming out in 2016?

JI: This spring, we’re launching Skin Is In, a color collection that’s all about the bare skin look, made even better. It has always been important to me that makeup be good for the skin. With Skin Is In, you will see for yourself just how naturally beautiful your skin can be. (You can see Skin Is In on page 27).

AM: What is your favorite product within the line?

JI: The product I’m most proud of is our PurePressed Base Mineral Foundation.  It’s a foundation, powder, sunscreen and concealer all in one and nurtures the skin at the same time.  This is the one I would choose as an introductory product because it has instant gratification and shows what sets minerals apart.

AM: What is a core ingredient that you believe is necessary for us to have within our skincare that is within jane iredale products?

JI: Ingredients that feed the skin from the inside, like Vitamins A and C, and Diindolymethane (DIM), the phytonutrient found in cruciferous vegetables (all found in our Skin Accumax).  Change on the skin is more effective and longer-lasting when it reflects overall health.  Fortunately, nutritional supplements like Skin Accumax can target the skin by feeding it the nutrients it needs.

AM: At the editors event, you were telling an interesting fact about the relationship to skin and the brain in its embryonic state - can you share that and why this was such an interesting element to share?

JI: Yes! One of the concepts that I learned a lot about at the recent Global Wellness Summit in Mexico City is Psychophysiology. It refers to the phenomenon of how problems that arise in the mind manifest themselves in conditions of the skin, like eczema, psoriasis and acne, and conversely, problems of the skin that manifest themselves in conditions of the mind, causing depression and anxiety. This demon-strates how the skin is an essential part of our well-being. During embryonic development both, the skin cells and brain cells form from the same tissue. The skin develops a local hormonal system of its own, in-dependent of ovaries and adrenal glands, etc. It produces melatonin, which it uses as an antioxidant, as well as estrogen and testosterone – all work together to keep skin healthy. Studies are also showing skin has its own brain, so to speak, and that the power of touch affects our health in profound ways. This completely blew me away, that we can actually affect people’s health just by the way we touch them.

What struck me from all that is that, despite this profound connection, we don’t really pay that much attention to our skin – our routine tends to stop at the chin. We may put some body cream on, but aren’t always thinking about this amazing organ that we have, that serves us all day long. We’re trying to change that. 

AM: How does your belief in natural ingredients in terms of skincare and makeup ex-tend to your life in other sectors - culinary, fashion, etc?

JI: I have always been interested in fashion, in wellness, in beauty, and in personal expression, so the leap into makeup was a very natural one for me to make.

There is also a direct link to the culinary experience. There is a huge trend now in spa towards farm-to-table and organic because spas more and more are embracing a holistic approach to wellness.  What we eat is fundamental to a healthy body.  Clean, fresh food with all its nutrients in tact builds healthy cells; it’s as simple as that.

My garden inspires me constantly and amazes me with its vibrancy given the right ingredients.  Just like our bodies, it needs organic food. That’s why we do our own composting and don’t use any synthetic fertilizers.  I love berries, so we grow blueberries, strawberries, raspberries and blackberries.  For example, when it came to flavoring our new PureGloss Lip Gloss-es, there was only one choice – bring on the berries.

AM: Can we expect jane iredale stores or other ways that friends of the brand can enjoy the jane iredale experience?

JI: We’re currently offered through spas, resorts, apothecaries and medical offices in more than 40 countries! It was the plastic surgeons who first saw and understood the benefits of my makeup, and they are still some of my biggest supporters. Some of the surgeons used to keep our Amazing Base in their assistants’ desk drawers – now they have their own aesthetic centers.

I’m also excited to share we recently launched on Amazon Luxury Beauty. You can find us in Nordstrom Spas as well, and Nordstrom.com.

To find the partner closest to you, click here.

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | Jane Iredale

SHOP THE STORY

Kickstart This Year with These Trainables

BY PAUL FARKAS, TECH DIRECTOR

MICROSOFT BAND 2

Train smarter with Microsoft Band 2, the smart band created to enable you to live healthier and achieve more. This wristwearable tracks your heart rate, exercise, calorie burn and sleep quality, and keeps you connected with email, text, and calendar alerts. Advanced sensors track data specific to running, biking and golfing, and technology from the band and Microsoft Health lets you share your activity data with your favorite fitness apps; gives you actionable insights; and access to experiences with premier sports and lifestyle brands. Live healthier and reach fitness goals with guided workouts and be productive with personal reminders, custom notifications and social updates that matter.
 
SAMSUNG GEAR VR

Samsung Gear VR is underway towards being the first VR headset to get mainstream attention. It makes it possible for anyone to enjoy virtual experiences anytime, anywhere, turning their 2015 Samsung GALAXY flagship smartphones into a portable virtual reality system. Whether you will want to join an immersive fitness experience, take a virtual zen vacation, watch videos hanging out with your friends in a virtual space, or interact with a movie, the possibilities with Gear VR are limitless. 

Out of the gate you’ll be able to explore 70+ movies from 20th Century Fox and Lionsgate, access 9,000 videos from Vimeo or live broadcasts from Twitch, and explore the world around you in 360 degrees with more than 200,000 immersive photos captured by the world’s leading photographers. Gear VR customers can also watch the entire Netflix catalog of original series, documentaries and films through the Netflix Gear VR app. 

JAWBONE UP4

Stay in style with the elegant Jawbone Up4. This popular activity tracker has breakthrough heart health monitoring sensor technology that features both Resting Heart Rate and Passive Heart Rate. Its on board analysis also gives diet and sleep insights. Also, it boasts quick tap to pay for American Express® Card members for taxis, buying coffees, groceries and more.

Winter Skincare Tips

Many have experienced mild (and surprisingly warm) temperatures over the winter holidays, January tends to be quite chilly. In addition to staying warm. it’s about protecting your skin - face, body and armpits too! Dermatologist and Dove Deodorant Spokesperson, Dr. Alicia Barba shares how skin can stay nourished this season.

ATHLEISURE MAG: How do we care for skin with temperatures and wind chill that can cause damaging effects?

DR ALICIA BARBA: There are a lot of factors that affect your skin in the winter months, especially in colder climates, that lead to dry skin. Everything from the wind to heating systems to low humidity can wreak havoc on healthy, glowing skin. To defend against the elements, it’s important to wear soft, natural clothing fibers such as cotton, as well as outerwear such as hats, scarves, and gloves that will act as your first line of protection, and recognize that moisturizer will be a key element in protecting your skin.

AM: How can we maintain moisture within our face, body, and underarms?

DR B: Never be exclusionary with your skin care routine, and that means paying attention to your entire body including your face, hands, neck, knees, elbows and even underarms. Look for multi-benefit products like Dove Dry Spray Antiperspirant, which will provide odor and wetness protection as well as moisturizers to keep your underarms soft and smooth. Face creams with SPF and moisturizing body washes are also great for a simplified routine. 

AM: How do you know when your skin has been affected by extreme temperatures?

DR B: You can tell your skin has been affected by cold temperatures when chaffing occurs, or when it appears burnt, flaky or ashy. This can sometimes lead to itchy skin, which I call “winter itch.”

AM: How important is SPF in the winter especially on days when we don’t see the sun?

DR B: SPF is extremely important in the winter! During the colder season, the ozone layer is thinner, which can increase the damaging effects of the sun. 

On cloudy days when we don’t see the sun, it’s important to protect your skin against harmful rays as UVA and UVB penetrate clouds! All year, you should wear sunscreen with SPF 30 or more. 
 
AM: What should the skincare routine be during the winter when you’re maintaining great skin?

DR B: During the winter, take short showers in water that’s not too hot since it can have a drying effect on the skin. Use a gentle shower cleanser and follow with moisturizing body and face creams. Areas like your underarms where many women shave also need to be moisturized, so I like to use Dove Dry Spray Antiperspirant that has built in moisturizers in addition to 48 hour odor and wetness protection. As always, for any skin that is exposed to the sun, be sure to apply sunscreen. 

AM: What products are perfect to use in the winter in colder climates?

DR B: This time of year it’s all about moisturizers and protectants, and you can often find multi-benefit products that can do both. Everything from moisturizing lip balms and cleansers to face creams with SPF to antiperspirants that provide moisturizers for softer, smoother underarms. 

AM: Are there certain ingredients that we should aim to include within our routine for optimal skin?

DR B: As mentioned, look for multi-benefit products that emphasize the inclusion of moisturizers and protectants. Other products that are great for your skin are plant-based oils such as avocado, primrose and almond. These oils sink into your skin to keep you hydrated longer.

 PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | Dove

Bingely Streaming

After exiting from E!, back in 2014, we knew that Chelsea Handler wouldn’t be gone for very long. After much anticipation, funny has returned. She’s hosting  a series of programming with Netflix® in a four part documentary series. First up is, “Chelsea Does,” which is original content for the network. Each one is like a film and covers marriage, drugs, racism and Silicon Valley.

The introspective documentaries, are available to stream on Jan 23rd, are separate from the talk show that will air on the same platform. This is their first time doing a news format with plans to continue to increase investment within this and documentary and original programming.

| New Girl, Season 4 | Jan 5th | KEY ART COURTESY FOX/New Girl

Our DVR works overtime with so many great shows. Every now and then a season escapes us or maybe we have to relive the shenanigans due to a long flight. Season 4 of FOX’s hit TV show, New Girl makes its way to Netflix with our favorite roommates. With 22 episodes and guest appearances by Jessica Biel, Reid Scott, Kaitlin Olson, Lisa Bonet and Regis Philbin to name a few, it’s a great way to catch up before returning to Season 5.

| Spotify | Radio Station: Afternoon Acoustic | PLAYLIST COVER Spotify

Whether you’re staying in to crank out some serious work, staying in due to bad weather or want to just lounge all day, you need a soundtrack that has an array of your favorite songs where you can work without having to shuffle from one song to the next.

Spotify’s Afternoon Acoustic is the perfect way to get things (or nothing) done. This station includes many of your favorites songs within an instrumental track including The Beatles, Hozier, Jack Johnson, Sam Smith and more for nearly 7 hours of music.

Of course, there are a number of stations available for you to listen to no matter the mood.

Bingely Books

At one point in time, everyone has had a roommate experience or two. The very idea of this subject generates an array of stories that could make you laugh, cry or stay confuzzled. 

New York Times best selling author (fresh off Maybe Someday) Colleen Hoover brings the story of Warren to life when he not only gets a roommate but one that is female! He’s excited about the opp;ortunities that could come from this pairing - or maybe not. 

His roommate Bridgette is not the warmest person and at times seems to be calculating. The tension that erupts between the two results into tempers that don’t allow them to be within the same room.  As uncomfortable as his living situation has become, Warren begins to think that anyone who has such a focus on hating everything could have the ability to love. Could all this hate transition into passionate love?

Even after enduring such strains, Warren decides to take on the ultimate challenge with Bridgette and decides he will personally test his theory. As curious as it sounds, he takes it upon himself to not only have her warm up to him but to learn the power of love.

Maybe.

Maybe Not.

| The Age of Reinvention | Karine Tuil | BOOK COVER COURTESY Simon & Schuster

Life is what you make of it and when this Gatsby-esque International Bestseller tells the story of Elite Manhattan criminal defense attorney, Sam Tahar has a life that looks great on paper. From good looks, the perfect family (include a wife from a prominent family) and well deserved prestige. In all accounts, his life is the perfect story. 

But this picture book lifestyle is not what it seems as Sam Tahar grew up as Samir Tahar. He grew up in a poor Muslim family in a gritty Paris apartment. By all accounts, his life was a social jail and one day he decided that he refused to be imprisoned in a life that was not his destiny. 

All his success sits on a lie and intricate love triangle that took place  years ago during his law school days. Ultimately, his decision brought hijm to America with a new identiy and life. Decades later, the love triangle resurfaces and forces Sam (Samir), his former friend Samuel Baron and Nina  collide to deal with the issue of becoming someone else.

| Catching the Sky | Colten Moore with Keith O’Brien | BOOK COVER COURTESY Simon & Schuster

Author Colten Moore is a six times X-Games medalist and a pioneer in the space, shares a story about finding happiness, family and the connection between brothers.

This autobiographical novel introduces the Moore family whose generations grew up and were nurtured by the vast prarie in the Texas Panhandle. Unlike previous family members, Colten and Caleb did not embrace working on the land and with cattle. They wanted to follow their dreams athletically and trailblazed within the world of X-Games within freestyle ATV and snowmobile circuits.

Colten shares the path to success via sacrifice, determination and the  challenges that come  when passion drives your path in Catching the Sky. His journey and dreams, which are shared by his brother is a deeply moving account with a fresh year ahead.  

BRUNCH IT UP

Colder temperatures mean that you have to switch things up to ensure that you don’t succumb to the dreaded cabin fever that can set in as we all wait for Spring to arrive!

Thankfully we have weekends with brunch and gameday dates as well as a myriad and of excuses to make the classic Bloody Mary with a twist. Courtesy of our friends at The Bar.com, your next impressive drink that you’ll make for friends is the Bloody Caesar! Mixed with Don Julio® Blanco Tequila, this variation creates heat and a satisfying fizz that will amp up any frittata or zippy wings.

THE BLOODY CAESAR
 
You’ll Need:

•1 oz. Don Julio® Blanco Tequila
•0.5 oz. fresh lime juice
•1 tsp. hot sauce
•1 dash of Worcestershire sauce
•3 oz. Mexican style beer
•4 oz. tomato and clam juice

This recipe makes one serving. Combine first 5 ingredients in an ice filled shaker. Shake well and strain into an ice filled glass rimmed with chili-salt. Garnish with a lime wedge.

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | Bar.com

CLEANSE PROGRAMS

A powerful component of balance pre- and post workout is ensuring that your body is getting essential nutrients that it needs. Pressed juices and cleanses are all the rage as we look for ways to automate better health. Celebrity Nutritionist, Kimberly Snyder has hand selected an array of vitamins and other power foods within Glow Bio that is located in LA but ships nationwide. 

Kimberly’s approach to this process is to  cleanse while adding nutritional value with Glow Bio’s one of a kind cleanses. Not only does it maximize the experience by eliminating toxins, but it maintains blood sugar levels via strategically placed fiber! The goal in this process is not to starve the body (which is the first thought that comes to mind when embarking on journeys of this nature). The true purpose is to rebuild the digestive system while ensuring that the results are sustainable to keep you on track.  

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You can select whether your cleanse will be 1 to 5 days (once again images of other cleanses that last for weeks on end come to mind). Whatever the choice, the primary goal is to have renewed energy, a toned body and of course great looking skin from the inside out.  

Visit the shop (or online) for the full line of cleanses and cold pressed juices at Glow Bio. It is located in LA 7473 Melrose Ave. (Cross Gardner) Los Angeles, CA 90046.

Kimberly Snyder is LA’s go to Celebrity Nutritionist, author and beauty expert (as seen on top morning shows, magazines ) Kimberly Snyder, has a star studded client list that includes Mark Ruffalo, Channing Tatum, Drew Barrymore, Dita Von Teese, Reese Weatherspoon and Kevin James. to name a few She sourced also provided food during production of movies including The Avengers, The Internship, 21 Jump Street and The Secret Life of Walter Mitty.

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | Kimberly Snyder

DR SADIO - SUB ROSA AESTHETICS

Customization, personalization, baselines and “less is more” are just some of the keywords that plastic surgeon Dr Sadio uses to help women avoid surgery with her powers to help women.

We all have beauty services that we do with a set person who does our gel manis, eyebrow threading etc. It’s a trusted relationship where you feel that you can get what you need while being confident in placing yourself in the hands of a professional. After sitting with Dr Sonita Sadio at an event held at her West Village practice and again for our one on one interview, we love the focus and service provided at Sub Rosa Aesthetics! 

Talking with Dr Sadio is like speaking with a girlfriend that you have known for years. She talks with you about life, how your day is and when the topic of beauty and specifically what you want to do to ensure that your ageless beauty needs are met, you find that she looks to create the best look possible to avoid surgery. This fact is important to note as Dr Sadio is a plastic surgeon and focused on aesthetic surgery in her studies!

While you marinate on that fact, let’s talk about her member only practice. Her clients are those that start early to avoid doing more later in life for their skincare needs. They are not looking to appear “done” and are not interested in invasive procedures. 

Prior to becoming a member, there is a consultation which includes an intake question including surgeries and photos are taken. Goals are discussed and more importantly, a baseline is established. This is a question which allows the patient to share when they felt they looked their best. This moment in time assists Dr Sadio with how her client wants to look.

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Products that are currently used are reviewed. If both are comfortable with one another, membership would be approved and goals are set within a routine to get her to where she would like to be. During this time, Dr Sadio looks for products (not products created by her) that assist the goals outlined which include items the client already uses,  those that are available at your favorite department store counters, Duane Reade etc. In addition, nutrients that she believes should be within our skincare she creates with a pharmacologist that are made for the client specifically. 

Clients leave understanding the science, being able to work together to build their plan and having a routine that could include the first six months focusing on the reset or corrective process, and then the timeline of check ups is based on the individual needs.

Ageing graciously is about making good choices as being done is the new old. When she is working on someone’s face to ensure that their baseline is met, she offers a pro tip - when managing your skincare the face as well as the hands and neck need to be maintained. A face that looks youthful but hands and neck that look like they belong to someone older is a tell tale sign that work has been “done” (and in one area only).

Dr Sadio spent a decade at some of the world’s finest schools - Harvard Medical School, The Mayo Clinic and Yale College. As a medical student at Georgetown University she was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha honor society for academic excellence and won the school’s award for Leadership & Compassion.

The practice began to become a vision during her aesthetic surgery fellowship training in Manhattan. After performing a facelift, she looked through images of  her thirty and forty-something botox and filler patients. She realized that her minimally invasive approach had the power to make a woman continue to look on the outside as she feels on the inside -- energetic, happy, beloved - but without surgery.  

Even those who are not members of her practice  can hear her thoughts on an array of beauty topics on skincare management via her YouTube channel. 

 PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY | Dr. Sadio

IL PRINCIPE @ HOTEL HUGO

Whether you’re meeting with friends, enjoying a meal or savoring a beverage, it is clear that attention to detail is a primary focus at Hotel Hugo’s ground restaurant, Il Principe Cucina Italiana. While here, you’re engaging with the waitstaff, hostess or bartender, you’re bound to bump into Samantha McCrimmon, who serves as the restaurant’s General Manager and Wine Director. From the time that you enter to the time you leave, she ensures that she and her staff have you in mind. 

Prior to Il Principe, Samantha was the Wine Director for Plein Sud at The Smyth, a Thompson Hotel property. Her knowledge of wine from decades of being in the industry, comes from an innate passion and the ability to create and run a wine program.

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Wine culture continues to grow within a number of restaurants as there is a need to facilitate more knowledge within this area. Her role at Il Principe is to bring in big names from Italy, France and California as well as interesting varietals that may be lesser known. 

She highlights that Rose (whether by the glass or bottle) is outstanding and is hotter than ever, especially during the summer. The trifecta of wine, cuisine and food creates a symphony that is reflected in the menu. Guests can enjoy off the menu gems and vintages which enhances their experience.

As Samantha recovers from the holiday season, she notes that breakfast and lunch are perfect for guests and business meetings. When having dinner at Il Principe, it’s not only a romantic vibe but guests agree that newly appointed Chef Christine has created a menu that places innovative twists on classic dishes. For those who enjoy her much buzzed about homemade lasagna, there are plenty of savory dishes  within the  menu.

Read more from the Jan Issue

Brunch Style

The most important meal of the week without question is brunch. It’s the time to meet with friends, share what you’ve been up to and of course to catch up on a bit of friendly gossip. An Athleisurist knows that style is all about keeping it easy and versatile. This month, our radar is abuzz with layering tonal neutrals with pops of cool tones. Own your next brunch lady date with layers, wool, cashmere a bit of leather.

| STELLA MCCARTNEY Draped Knitted Blanket Coat | ATM Scoop Neck Tank Top | BURBERRY Heritage Giant Check Fringed Cashmere Muffler | SAINT LAURENT Tassel Necklace | BALENCIAGA  Giant 12 Golden City Bag | SONIA RYKIEL Moto Style Wool Blend Leggings | ADIDAS ORIGINALS Leather Superstar Sneakers |