Archive | HEALTH AND WELLNESS

Let’s be real, summer is gorgeous, but it’s also sweaty, sticky, and nonstop. Whether I’m running errands in the heat, hiking with Jayson, or heading to the farmer’s market in Banner Elk, I’ve found a new little lifesaver that’s earned a permanent spot in my bag: Otella Cooling Body Spray.

With just one spritz, Otella brings this instant, spa-like chill that recharges your whole mood. It’s clean, refreshing, and exactly what I didn’t know I needed to survive long, active summer days.

🌿 Why I Love It:

• 💧 Instant cooling relief (seriously, it works)
• 🚫 No sticky or greasy feeling
• 🌱 Clean, skin-friendly ingredients
• 👜 Purse-, backpack-, glove-compartment-friendly
• 🧘‍♀️ Light, fresh scent that never overwhelms

I’ve used it during road trips, while walking Olive around the neighborhood, between client calls on our porch, and after sweaty summer pickleball games. It’s the perfect quick reset.

☀️ 7 Summer Adventures Otella Was Made For

You know I’m all about simple, intentional summer fun. If you’re looking to make the most of the season and stay cool doing it, here are a few of my favorite activities, with Otella in tow:

1. Morning Farmer’s Market Wanders 🍓
   Start early, beat the heat, grab some local veggies, and freshen up with a spritz before heading to brunch.
2. Picnic Hikes + Paddleboard Breaks 🚣
   Pack lunch, take the long trail, and keep Otella in your backpack for a mid-hike refresh.
3. Backyard Movie Nights 🎬
   Set up a projector, grab your lawn chairs and snacks, and mist yourself when the air gets sticky.
4. Outdoor Yoga or Stretch Sessions 🧘‍♀️
   After that final savasana, cool off instantly, bonus if you’re barefoot on the grass.
5. Beach Days & Lake Dips 🏖️
   Between swims, snacks, and sun-soaked lounging, Otella is like your personal ocean breeze in a bottle.
6. Summer Road Trips 🚗
   Keep one in the glove compartment and spritz when you roll into a new town or scenic overlook.
7. Porch Sitting with Iced Tea 🍹
   Add a cooling mist to your evening wind-down. Sip, spritz, repeat.

💚 Clean Comfort You Can Trust

Otella is thoughtfully made with clean ingredients, no artificial junk, just gentle freshness. It’s perfect for busy parents, travelers, outdoor lovers, and honestly, anyone who’s just plain hot.

And yep, it’s available at Otella, so you can snag one (or three) without leaving your air-conditioned comfort zone.

Summer’s Hot. You Don’t Have to Be.

Whether you’re chasing kids, hitting the trail, or winding down on the back deck, Otella Cooling Body Spray is your low-effort, high-reward way to stay cool, calm, and collected all season long.

Because feeling fresh doesn’t have to be complicated, it just takes one spray. 💦🌿✨

If there’s one thing I’ve been leaning into more this year, it’s slowing down on purpose.

For me, that means making time to stretch before the day starts, sip my tea a little slower, and return to small rituals that nourish my body and my mind. Whether it’s a few yoga poses on the deck or five minutes of quiet breathing before bed, having the right tools has made all the difference. And lately, my self-care toolkit revolves around two absolute favorites: the Round Yoga Bolster and the Zafu Meditation Cushion from Hugger Mugger.

✨ Support That Feels Like a Hug
Let’s talk bolsters. If you’ve never used one, think of it as your yoga mat’s softer, squishier sidekick. The Standard Bolster has this firm-but-comfy vibe that makes it perfect for everything, under your knees in Savasana, across your spine for heart-openers, or supporting your hips in Child’s Pose. I especially love it when I’m reading or doing a gentle restorative flow. It’s like bringing the spa home.

It’s rectangular, super stable, and beautifully made with long-lasting, upholstery-grade fabric (mine’s a deep, grounding hue that looks gorgeous in my sunroom).

🧘‍♀️ Meditation Made Comfortable
The Zafu Cushion might be my favorite little luxury right now. It’s filled with organic buckwheat hulls, which mold perfectly to your body while supporting healthy posture. I use mine not only for meditation but also for journaling or quiet mornings with a warm drink. It lifts your hips just enough to keep your spine tall and your legs comfy, no more tingly feet or slouching halfway through your “me time.”

Plus, it has a convenient handle, so it travels well from room to room (or to the porch for sunrise meditations).

🌿 Designed for Comfort, Built with Care
Hugger Mugger’s whole approach is rooted in sustainability, wellness, and longevity. They’ve been around since 1986 and are known for crafting high-performance yoga and meditation gear that’s free from heavy metals and phthalates, and built to last.

I love that their bolsters and cushions are made in the USA, thoughtfully constructed, and offered in a rainbow of earthy, uplifting colors that make your space feel sacred and serene.

Why These Belong in Your Daily Routine
Even if you’re not a hardcore yogi or regular meditator, the bolster and Zafu cushion are beautiful additions to any wellness practice. Use them for:

✔️ Supported stretching or gentle yoga
✔️ Quiet reflection or mindfulness
✔️ Creating a cozy corner for reading or resting
✔️ Encouraging better posture while sitting

They’re the kind of everyday tools that gently invite you to slow down, breathe a little deeper, and create space for calm, even if it’s just for five minutes.

Ready to Add a Little More Ahhh to Your Routine?
You can find the Standard Yoga Bolster ($97.95+) and Zafu Cushion ($68.95+) at HuggerMugger.com, or shop them through Amazon, Nordstrom, and Free People.

Because wellness doesn’t need to be complicated. Sometimes, all it takes is a little cushion, a deep breath, and a quiet moment to reconnect.

Namaste, friends. 🌿✨

CBD has taken the supplement world by storm. Derived from the cannabis plant, this chemical compound offers various benefits including helping to relieve pain, reduce anxiety and boost sleep quality. Unlike cannabis itself, it does make you high due to the absence of THC. This makes it a great way of experiencing the benefits of cannabis without the psychoactive effects. 

You can find CBD infused into many products ranging from oil to bath bombs. Below are 7 examples of different ways to try CBD.

Oil

A common way to try this supplement is in the form of CBD oil. This consists of a carrier oil (such as hemp oil, olive oil or coconut oil) that is infused with CBD. The oil comes in a little bottle with a dropper. You dispense drops directly into the mouth or add CBD to drinks and food. It usually takes an hour to work and the effects can last up to 6 hours. 

Tinctures

CBD tinctures are similar to CBD oil – they come in a small bottle and are dispensed using a dropper. But the CBD is infused in alcohol instead of oil. The effects are faster, longer and more potent. However, it has a bitter taste that some find less appealing. You can similarly dispense droplets into the mouth or add to your food and drink.

Tablets

You can also take CBD in the form of tablets. These can be swallowed with water so that you don’t have to taste the CBD itself. The effects can take as little as 30 minutes to kick in and will last several hours. 

Gummies

You could also try CBD gummies for relaxation and potential pain relief. These are consumed just like candy gummies and taste much nicer than some other forms of edible CBD. The effects are similar to a tablet.

Beverages

A large number of beverages are now available that are infused with CBD to help relieve anxiety and help with chronic pain. This includes juices, sparkling drinks, teas and even alcoholic drinks. Like gummies, this can be a more flavorsome way to enjoy the effects of CBD. The potency can vary depending on the drink product. 

Topical creams

You can also buy several lotions and creams that contain CBD. These can be applied directly to parts of the body to provide topical pain relief and muscle relaxation. There are some claims that CBD creams may reduce inflammation and even fight acne, but research is still needed to fully support these effects.

Bath bombs

Finally, it’s possible to buy bath bombs that are infused with CBD. The CBD is inhaled and soaked into the skin as you’re taking a bath, helping to make bath time more relaxing, and potentially helping with pain relief. 

Conclusion

These are just some of the different ways to try CBD. Whether you’re looking to reduce stress or help fight insomnia, it’s worth trying this compound to see if it has an impact. Be wary that some people do experience side effects like nausea and diarrhea, but these are relatively rare and mild. 

Let’s be honest—some days just call for a hot bath and a deep breath. Lately, I’ve been making my bath time feel a little more like a mini spa retreat, and the secret to that transformation? Bootleg Bath’s Lavender Bath Oil.

I don’t say this lightly: it smells so good. Like, close-your-eyes-and-let-it-all-go good. The kind of scent that instantly melts the stress off your shoulders and makes you forget about your to-do list for a little while. It’s floral and soothing, but not overpowering—just the perfect balance of calming lavender and silky botanical goodness.

Why I’m Obsessed

The first thing you notice (besides the dreamy scent) is the texture. It’s rich and luxurious without feeling greasy, and it turns an ordinary bath into a soft, aromatic soak that leaves your skin feeling so smooth.

And it’s not just about indulgence—there’s a lot of love behind the label:
🌱 Plant-based ingredients that are kind to your skin and the planet
💧 A little goes a long way—just a few drops create a full-sensory experience
🧘‍♀️ The lavender essential oil is perfect for unwinding before bed or anytime you need a reset

How I Use It

🛁 In the Bath – Just a few drops under running water and your bathroom turns into a spa. The scent is soothing, the oil makes the water feel silky, and it helps lock in moisture while you soak.

🧴 As a Body Oil – I’ll sometimes use it right after the bath while my skin is still damp. It leaves a subtle glow and a calming scent that stays with me into the evening.

💆‍♀️ On Pressure Points – A tiny bit rubbed into my temples, neck, or chest is amazing before meditation, sleep, or any time I need to breathe a little deeper.

Make It a Ritual: Fun Ideas for Relaxing in the Bath

Want to turn your next bath into a full-on vibe? Here are a few of my favorite ways to create a truly relaxing soak with your lavender bath oil:

🕯 Light a few candles – Dim the lights and let candlelight soften the mood. Bonus points for a wood wick candle for a cozy crackle.

🎧 Play a chill playlist – Think acoustic covers, soft instrumentals, or spa-inspired sounds. Lavender + lo-fi = instant peace.

📚 Read something indulgent – Whether it’s a novel, a magazine, or a poetry book, bring something light and feel-good. (Just be careful with the splashes!)

🍵 Sip something warm – A calming herbal tea like chamomile or mint is the perfect bath companion.

🧖‍♀️ Apply a face mask – Multitask your self-care with a hydrating mask while you soak. Your skin will thank you.

🌿 Add some extras – A sprinkle of dried lavender, a little bath salt, or even flower petals can make the bath feel even more luxurious.

📱 Unplug completely – Leave your phone outside the bathroom and give yourself permission to fully check out for 20–30 minutes. Trust me, you’ll feel so much better for it.

A Moment of Peace, Naturally

In a world that feels like it’s always on, I’ve been craving more moments that help me slow down, breathe deeper, and care for myself with intention. Bootleg Bath’s Lavender Bath Oil has become one of those little luxuries that I reach for when I need to feel grounded.

It’s a small thing—but it’s also a powerful reminder that self-care doesn’t have to be elaborate to be effective. Sometimes, it’s as simple as warm water, a soothing scent, and ten quiet minutes to yourself.

If you’re looking to elevate your self-care game or create a more relaxing evening routine, you need this bath oil in your life. It’s beautiful, effective, sustainably made, and smells absolutely divine.

👉 Find it at BootlegBath.com and thank me later.

💬 Already tried it? Tell me how you use it—or share your favorite way to unwind after a long day!

If you’ve been around here for a while, you know that Olive, our sweet Frenchie, has quite the personality… and quite the list of allergies. Finding treats that are safe, healthy, and actually excite her? Let’s just say it hasn’t been easy. So when we discovered Natural Farm Pet chews, it was a total game-changer, for all of us.

These chews are the only ones she’s truly obsessed with and trust me, she doesn’t hold back when she loves something. The second I grab the bag, she’s spinning in happy circles. And once she gets one? It’s full-on tunnel vision chew mode. I even have to hold the end of the chew while she snacks, otherwise, she’d try to gulp it whole out of sheer excitement! P.S. I didn’t take new photos of Olive chowing down, she’s been really sick lately.

🐶 The Allergy-Friendly Treat We’ve Been Searching For

Olive’s skin and stomach are both incredibly sensitive, so we’ve had to be extra cautious with everything she eats. That’s one of the main reasons I love Natural Farm:

🌿 100% natural, single-ingredient treats
❌ No chemicals, fillers, or artificial additives
🐄 Grass-fed, hormone-free beef
📦 Eco-conscious packaging

Their chews are gentle on her stomach, great for her teeth, and don’t trigger any of her allergy flare-ups. And for a dog who’s allergic to just about everything… that’s a BIG deal.

🦴 Olive’s Favorite Chews (and Mine, Too)

We’ve tried a few different Natural Farm varieties, but Olive’s top picks are the bully sticks and odor-free braided chews. She loves the flavor and the satisfying texture, and I love that they last longer than most chews and don’t leave a sticky mess on the rug.

And let’s be real—as much as we all love our dogs, not all chews are created equal. Natural Farm’s chews don’t smell terrible, don’t splinter, and they actually do what they promise: keep Olive happy, occupied, and safe.

🐾 Why Natural Farm Stands Out

What really sets Natural Farm apart is their commitment to transparency and sustainability. As a pet parent, I care not only about what’s in Olive’s treats—but where they come from, how they’re made, and the values behind the brand.

✅ All-natural, traceable ingredients
✅ Ethically sourced and made with care
✅ No mystery meat, no junk, just real, high-quality protein
✅ Eco-friendly packaging to reduce plastic waste

They’re a brand I feel genuinely good about supporting and that peace of mind is priceless.

🐕 Treat Time = Bonding Time

One of my favorite parts of Olive’s chew routine? The little moment we share when I hold the end of her treat and she goes to town. It might seem silly, but it’s become a sweet little bonding ritual. She looks up at me with those big, grateful eyes like, “Thanks, Mom. You get me.”

🐾 Final Thoughts: A Treat Worth Barking About

If you’ve got a pup with allergies, a picky eater, or just a serious chewer who deserves something better, Natural Farm Pet chews are 100% worth trying. They’re clean, simple, and made with love—and if Olive’s reaction is any indication, your dog is going to be obsessed too.

🛒 You can check them out here.

💬 Got a pup with allergies or a favorite chew you swear by? Let me know! I’m always on the lookout for Olive-approved options.