I AM Strong, Loved , Enough ~ This Affirmation Helped Me Get Thru My Miscarriage

This week has been one of the hardest weeks of my life…

At 48 years old, I discovered I was pregnant. I conceived naturally and surprisingly. This is not an Early April Fools joke.. we were indeed shocked at the results of the home pregnancy test that I took on Feb 27th.

Like many first trimester moms to be, we chose to keep info mostly ourselves but I did tell a few family and friends as we began this journey. Although the odds were against me considering my age, I immediately started doing all the things necessary to prepare my body like taking prenatal vitamins. I remained positive and was doing all things to protect my peace while preparing my body,mind,spirit for what was growing inside me. I got ahead of myself and started posing with my imaginative bump when really it’s just bloating /fat that early in the game. I did have the glow already though!

Monday, we had our 8 week ultrasound and although we got to see the little image on the screen, there was no heartbeat. I had started spotting over the weekend and had some concerns. The week before I said to my husband, I don’t feel pregnant anymore, so I was thinking that maybe there was going to be nothing to see. But there it was. Tears flowed as the realization came to fruition that I had a miscarriage at 7 weeks, 3 days. Per the size of what the technician saw, she advised the heart probably stopped around that time.

Ironically, I had downloaded an app called Hi Mommy and saved a screenshot that day as it talked about if hot tubs were good during pregnancy. Because of upcoming trips we had planned, I was making a note that we’ll guess i can’t get in the hot tub. Being though I was pregnant over 10 years ago with our daughter, I had forgot all the rules and was taking note of everything!

I am currently going thru miscarriage now. Although there is the option of medicine or a surgical procedure, I opted to try to continue with it naturally. Google said it would feel like a heavy period. Not for me. The pain is like labor and contractions. It all hurts ..physically and emotionally. I went thru feeling guilty like did I take the right amount of prenatal vitamins, did I do enough?! The answer is yes I did everything right. I no longer am blaming myself or anything. I have accepted what has happened and know that I can grow past this because I CHOOSE NOT TO WORRY ABOUT THINGS I CAN’T CONTROL.

My husband has been beyond supportive in all of this. He always says “ ..wanna hear God laugh, make plans ”. Because this was an unplanned pregnancy, Barry was anxious about it all and concerned about my health. My daughter, while I thought she would be elated with the idea of having a sibling was ok with not being a big sister. She shared her thoughts after I told her on Monday that I went to the doctors to confirm pregnancy and I’m not anymore. She said she is fine with being an only child because babies cry too much and things would have been chaotic. She said she enjoys her peace. They both have been taking care of me, allowing me to rest and loving me in their beautiful ways.

Having a miscarriage is often not discussed and it is a hard thing to go thru. If you ever want to know how to support someone during this time, let me just share some of the sweet ways that were shown to me by the strong women friends in my life:

1. Essencie saw all of this in the cards. Her interpretation of the messages meant for me were vital. On the day of my ultrasound she pulled the 5 of cups ,then the 5pm cups in reverse for advise. All the things you said resonated with me and your last message about discernment is my focus

2. Khara prayed with me and for me and reminded me to lean on her as she can offer not only comfort but information. Thru her, I gained a new friend Taylor who was the first to ask do I need anything

3. Ro, whom I never met in person, is a god send friend. I never met a more generous soul who knows how to not only be a listening ear but show support in so many ways. She spoils me to the point where I know if something comes to house addressed to Lovely Leslie, it’s her surprising me. The flowers and balloons put a smile on my face. It reminds me to stop and smell the roses and the beauty of your heart.

4. My sister Toya checked in on me one day out the blue. We decided to take the convo from text to talking and actually was able to confide in one another about having a miscarriage. It is not something women openly discuss. Having someone to talk to is priceless and it is important to check in on the people you care about. You never know what someone is going thru.

5. Dee, thank you for answering all my questions and just being a text away. I was getting anxious about not being able to get a n Ob GyN appt. Having a friend that is a midwife is a blessing. When I started spotting she told me that does not always mean miscarriage that it can be normal for some in first trimester. She has offered to Uber me some food and even called in to her OB Dr friend to let her know to expect me for my upcoming follow up visit in April

6. My ride or die Michelle always comes thru in the clutch. She had no clue about this as I was purposely hiding from talking to her because she was celebrating her birthday in February etc and I wanted to wait until I had definitive info. The moment I shared with her about my miscarriage, she was like what can I send you: food ,snacks, blankets , movies, a night at a hotel. I mean her list had my mind swirling but I said hmm I wish I was laying under your weighted blanket you have at your house. Hour later, instacart delivers a weighted blanket from CVS. It feels like a big ole hug and it’s comfy and cozy. And your husband Jeff, is the best by default as he has chosen you as a wife making us family/friends for life! We love y’all!

7. My cousin Kelli.. I love it when she asks me how do I feel. It forces me to get out of my comfort zone of not talking about my feelings and because I know she loves and cares about me genuinely, she provides a safe space for me to be vulnerable. Plus she and her husband Dev create feel good music and just released The Truth Vol 1. “Victory” and “ I’m Good” are on constant rotation and are providing me with valuable reminders to dance, leave the past behind, move on with your life and remember the blessings from “the one who gives me power”!

8. My Cuzzo Tanya and I have a life path that seems to align itself in mysterious ways. She once called me her guardian angel/fairy god Cuzzo but she has been there for me in times of need. I didn’t know who I could ask about this but was thankful that she shared her experiences with me. She stopped working at an event to call me and offer comforting words. I imagine our lil berries are somewhere together in a field of sunflowers.

9. Melani, you are an amazing woman and an awesome friend who no matter the distance or time passes, we pick up where we left off. The love never dies. Your knowledge on healing and herbs are going to be essential in these next phases for me. Thank you for sending yarrow and the biggest bag of raspberry leaves, I have ever seen from Amazon.

Girrrrrlllaahh, I’m gonna be sipping tea, taking womb baths, using as a hair rinse, bath bomb, face spritz.. you name it.. all thanks to you. Plus I can always count on a good Bmore kee kee when we talk and a lol moment of some sort when we talk. Thanks for sending me this meme:

https://www.instagram.com/reel/CbXKRyTAbYa/?utm_medium=copy_link

10. Speaking of raspberry.. the fetus got to approximately raspberry size and my Mom started calling it Lil Raz ( sounds like a member of B2K right..smh. Lol) . One day in our texts, which I don’t save because it be too much back n forth, I mention to her how it just smells like death around me. To resolve that she has some aromatherapy coming my way via Etsy. No matter how old you get, you find in the hard times, you still want your Mom. She was one of the first people I told because in the case of an emergency,she would have needed to be here with Ava while B and I were at the hospital. After finding out about the loss , I compared it to feeling like you won a trip and then the trip gets cancelled. She was sad about the loss as well because it reminded her of losing a child to stillbirth about 50 years ago. Nonetheless, my Mom reminds me to celebrate life. Her 68th birthday is Saturday and while originally we were going to MD to celebrate, we will meet halfway in Richmond for lunch. I think we all could use a hug in real life! Here she is kicking off her birthday week looking great at almost 68!

I am grateful to the people who have offered kind words, support, prayers, virtual hugs, wisdom, a listening ear ( my Sis in Law Cynthia is the best) , and want to thank ALL of you who reminded me that I am STRONG. I am LOVED. I am ENOUGH

We will get through this. I will get through this. I know too many strong women like my cousin Tiffany and BFF Teri to know that I can and I will!

See you hopefully on the sunny side of things soon ( Kristen, thanks for being so understanding and I know you will be there when I am ready for our self care dates.. Laing, I know you got me with doing some grounding work after this ) and I can’t wait to get some local hugs from Anna & Loretta ….. until then, I am relaxing and releasing with love. Always! ❤️

#NationalAestheticianDay Spotlight on Aesthetics by Aleah in #Raleigh #SkinCare #HealthySkin

Did you know October 15 is National Aesthetician Day? Time to shine the spotlight on the skincare professionals who keep us looking our best! I recently found an Aesthetician here in Raleigh, NC and wanted to share all about my wonderful experience with Aesthetics By Aleah

Aleah Pinder offers many treatments from facials, microdermabrasion to microblading eyebrows and hair removal services via waxing.  During my visit, I chose to get the ‘Back Purifier’ services. If you are wondering what that is, it’s like a facial for your back. This treatment is decribed as follows per her website: 

I must say I fell asleep on her warm massage table as I found this treatment to be very relaxing. Aleah loves what she does and it shows in not only the care she provides for skin but the extra relaxation techniques she provides as an add on to your service. For example, I chose lemongrass aromatherapy scents to enhance my treatment. I loved her choice of relaxing spa music and her gentle massage strokes during my back purifier service put my body and mind at ease. We all consider putting our best face forward and often neglect other areas, like our back. She thouroughly cleansed, exfoliated and massaged my back during this unique service. I would tell anyone to treat themselves to this experience!   

 

With specialized training and personalized attention, aestheticians bring out the most radiant skin in each of us. Their knowledge and skills often go unrecognized and yet they deliver superior services every day in spas and medical clinics across the country.  Addressing the complex needs of their clientele, aestheticians rejuvenate and polish even the most sensitive skin. So I am happy to celebrate with Aesthetics by Aleah on National Aesthetician Day and recognize all the care and attention she gives to her clients.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BaIc7yTBumP/

SobeSavvy Tip: Check out these Spa Week specials Aesthetics by Aleah is offering! 

🔸$40 Signature Facial

🔸$50 Microdermabrasion Facial

🔸$50 Back Purifier 

* Deals are ONLY valid October 16 – 21

*All discounts will be applied at checkout 

*Call or book your appointment online 

Aesthetics By Aleah

8368 Six Forks Rd Suite 102

919.696.2494

http://www.aestheticsbyaleah.com

The skin you want is only an appointment away.  Book your service and treat yourself or a loved one today!  


    #Raleigh, Grab Your Tribe & Get Ready to Run the @colorvibe5k on 9/16 + GIVEAWAY for 2 #ColorVibe Tix! 

    Disclaimer:  SobeSavvy.com is partnering with The Color Vibe, who is providing 1 lucky reader TWO FREE tickets to participate in the most #VIBErant 5K run!

    Hey Raleigh! It’s time to lace up your running shoes and get ready to bring your coloful spirit to the Color Vibe 5K, Good Vibes Tour 2017!  Me and my #HeighPartyof3 plan to join others for this 5K Fun Run/Walk taking place on 9/16/17. 

    For a limited time (expires soon), you can REGISTER early and get 60 % off tickets NOW. You don’t want to miss out on this fun running event that inspired people to live a more active life! 


    Here’s why you should do THIS run :

    • It’s for the entire family. toddler and grandparents are all welcome. Kids 1 to 12 run for FREE !
    •  A portion your registration fee goes toward local charities and non profit organizations.
    •  The only competition is who can have the most FUN ! There are no shoe race timing chips or checking your stop watch. This is for FUN FUN FUN.
    • Free Hair coloring ! End the race looking like a rainbow or a purple people eater. You will literally LOL when you look at yourself when it is over.


    #SobeSavvyGiveaway Details: One Lucky Reader will get a chance to win 2 FREE Tickets to this years’s
    Color Vibe 5K held at the Triangle Town Center Mall on Saturday Sept
    16. Just comment below why you want to go for (1) entry and head over to Instagram and Follow @SobeSavvy for details on how to get an additonal entry. Look for this picture and leave comment there also! *winner will be chosen at random on Sept 12 at noon*

    Good Luck and see you at the Color Vibe!

    3 Ways to Feel Relaxed, Refreshed & Rejuvenated for #RelaxationDay with @KneippUSA @Rituals @NailahsShea

    Disclaimer: I received complimentary product for editorial review, however the opinions are mine to share with you!

    August 15th is National Relaxation Day and in honor of this day (which I’d celebrate any time of the year), I would like to share with you 3 ways to Feel Relaxed, Refreshed and Rejuvenated using bath & body products from KneippRituals and Nailah’s Shea.

    Relaxing for me usually involves slowing down, enjoying a quiet moment and taking in some deep breaths, while enjoying a long hot bath. Light some candles, pour a glass of wine and voila ~instant relaxation. So you’ve ran your bath water..now what?!?! 

    1. RELAX by using a Kneipp body product made with Lavender oil

    Lavender is known to be a natural herb that produces a gentle, balancing effect while creating a relaxing impact for the mind and body. Let Kneipp help you find your sanctuary by using any of their best selling bath products to help you relax after a long day. Kneipp Lavender Body Lotion in ‘Relaxing’ has a sweet almond oil fragrance that has been blended with high-quality essential lavender oil which is known for comforting the mind. What I like most is that it’s suitable for everyone in my home. So no matter your skin type, this lotion is designed to have your skin nourished and soft. It’s also vegan, so this product doesn’t contain any animal origin components. There is also no paraffin, silicone or mineral oils included. Massage into your skin after showering or bathing, slip into your favorite nightwear and get ready to relax! Available at Kneipp.com

    2. REFRESH and transform your bathroom into a luxurious spa with the NEW Ritual of Hammam

    Ever wanted to experience your own wellness ceremony at home? Well close your eyes and be inspired by one of the oldest cleansing traditions in the world. The Ritual of Hammam collection is offering a range of luxury body products designed to meet the needs of modern times by relaxing our body and purifying the mind with the revitalizing fragrance of refreshing eucalyptus. YOUR HAMMAM RITUAL IN 5 STEPS:

     1.  After you’ve set the mood, start your cleansing ritual with the NEW Black Soap ($15). This nourishing black soap deeply cleanses and purifies the body, removing old skin cells and leaving the skin silky soft and prepared for exfoliation. 


    2.  Follow with the Hot Scrub ($29), which contains purifying sea salt, warming ginger and refreshing eucalyptus, immediately reducing fatigue and boosting your mood. Apply on top of the Black Soap for an even smoother result. 

    3.  Continue with the Body Mud ($17) with mineral-rich rhassoul clay, a mud that intensively purifies and polishes the skin by helping to remove dead skin cells.

    4.  Use the Foaming Shower Gel ($15), containing a purifying, refreshing fragrance that pleasantly and softly cleanses the skin. The gel also soothes and helps the skin to repair itself.

    5.  After you shower, apply the soothing NEW Body Cream ($33) to the body for a nourished and toned skin. SobeSavvy Tip: The packaging for the body cream is eco-chic allowing you to refill while benefitting the environment and your budget!

    Finally mist your skin, bed linen or other textiles with the Body Mist ($25) ,which is infused with rosemary (known for its aromatic fragrance, revitalizing and warming effect and soothes/supports the ability for the skin to repair itself ) & refreshing eucalyptus( known for its healing properties & stimulating effect on body/mind). It does not stain, which makes this light mist good for your skin and in your home.

    Available at Rituals.com and Rituals stores throughout NYC

    3. REJUVENATE and Exfoliate with Nailah’s Shea Zanzibar Spice Sugar Scrub 

    What do you get when you mix spicy orange and sweet clove scents with organic Fair-trade cane sugar? An exotic scrub that is good for your face and body called Zanzibar Spice. This product is also combined with coconut, shea and grapeseed oils which is good for moisture, skin toning and anti-aging! Inspired by owner Camilia Majette travels to Zanzibar, Tanzania, this fragrance is also available as a hand-crafted shea butter soap and whipped shea body butter. I absolutely loved how it made my skin feel as well as the scent after using it in the shower. I even imagined I was on a relaxing getaway to the “Spice Island” while using these products! 

    Made locally in Greensboro, NC., this all natural Shea butter-based beauty and body care line is one of my faves because its free from parabens, alcohol, harsh chemicals, vegan friendly and organic. If you want to begin your journey to healthy naturally glowing skin and travel to Zanzibar in your mind like me, you can purchase online at http://www.nailahsshea.com.

    SobeSavvy tip: Come to West Elm, Southpoint Mall -6910 Fayetteville Rd #1375 in Durham to shop Nailah’s Shea in person on Saturday 8/26 12-5pm . If you don’t need any for yourself, these make amazing gifts!

    I hope you are inspired to relax, relate and release using any of these 3 brands products for your bath and body.  

    How do you like to relax? Do you plan to celebrate “National Relaxation Day” ?

    Join @GildenOnline #EspirtdeShe 5k/10K Race #CaryNC on 5/13 + #EDSCary Registration Discount Code

    Today’s #WellnessWednesday share is for ladies only. Ever wanted to participate in a 5K or 10K that celebrates all women? Well now’s your chance to register for the 5th annual Gildan Esprit de She Cary 5K/10K run happening May 13, 2017! 

    This race draws inspirational female runners–including a two-time heart attack survivor, a woman running with her twin sister to come back after pneumonia, an amputee, and many others. In fact, since it’s the day before Mother’s Day, many moms and daughters have participated, including one mom running with her 5-year-old, and three best friends running with their three 15–year–olds. Here are the details:

    Gildan Esprit De She – The Spirit of Her Race
    Series – returns to Cary, NC 
    for 5th annual 5K/10K run 

    Registration open
    for nation’s premiere fitness event series for women, 
    hosted at Koka
    Booth Amphitheatre on Saturday, May 13

     Inside of every woman – no matter what
    age – lies the spirit of courage, determination, strength, fearlessness and
    power – you just have to let her out. As the nation’s premier designer event
    series for women, there is a race for every pace and passion. And, you’re
    invited to
    Gildan
    Esprit de She 5K/10K
    Cary presented by Burt’s Bees, happening May 13, 2017 from 7am-noon
    at the
    Koka Booth Amphitheatre
    just 15 minutes from downtown Raleigh.

    From fashionable freebies to the signature
    Bubbly Bar, treat yourself to a designer experience celebrating
    the spirit of her in the company of
    truly inspirational women.

    It’s a morning that includes a designer race
    experience, high value participant gear, Lifestyle Market including the post-race
    Bubbly Bar and more!
    Whether
    getting in shape, setting a good example for your kids, or challenging yourself
    to reach a new personal best–r
    unners,
    joggers and walkers, you won’t want to miss Gildan Esprit de She presented by Burt’s Bees Cary, NC.

    This event begins with a timed 5K or 10K run and ends
    with a post-race lifestyle market of festive proportions. Participants salute
    their success with a drink at our signature Bubbly Bar and enjoy healthy eats
    and energetic live music while enjoying the popular Beauty Bar powered by
    LifeSpa and the many experiences brought to life by our event partners.

    Produced by LifeTime Fitness, Gildan Esprit
    de She presented by Burt’s Bees is teaming up with top national brands to give
    participants an unforgettable race experience. The generous support of title
    sponsor Gildan, presenting sponsor Burt’s Bees, and sponsors J. R. Watkins,
    Lorissa’s Kitchen, Experience Life!, Athlinks, LifeSpa and Gatorade Endurance
    make this event possible. In addition, charity partner, Girls on the Run of the
    Triangle, will be participating in the event and collecting donations.

    To
    register: 

    http://espritdeshe.com/cary-nc/register/

    Cost per registrant ranges from $25-$45
    per person depending on race

     About Gildan Esprit de She – The Spirit
    of Her Event Series: 
    Gildan Esprit
    de She – The Spirit of Her Event Series is the nation’s premier designer event
    series for women offering a race and fitness event for every pace and passion.
    Hosting events in 10 cities across the United States, Gildan Esprit de She
    hosts 5K/10K fitness-inspired “happy hour” runs, weekend runs, Triathlons
    Duathlons and in-club fitness lifestyle celebrations, all with the signature
    Gildan Esprit de She Lifestyle Market. Owned and operated by Life Time
    SM
    – Healthy Way of Life, the series was founded in 2013 and is currently in its
    fifth event season.

    Social Media:

    https://www.facebook.com/EspritdeShe/

    https://twitter.com/EspritdeShe

    https://www.instagram.com/espritdeshe/

    Snapchat UN:
    espritdeshe

    Hashtags:
    #EspritdeShe and #EDSCary

     

    SOBESAVVY TIP: For those of you who want to join in, I am providing my readers with a discount code to use. Register NOW and get $5 off  when you enter this code: SavvyCaryGEDS17 

    If I didn’t have a Mother’s Day weekend getaway planned, I would have enjoyed this. Please have fun and run for me ladies! I am there in spirit. 

    Thanks for reading and feel free to share the discount registration code!


    Hey #FitFam, check out my #FitnessFriday Book Review ’60 Second Sweat’ by @pjstriet

    Overindulged on Valentine’s Day and looking to start a new great workout/nutrition regime? Then you should check out the revolutionary book entitled “60 Second Sweat” by Patrick Striet who is the owner of Live Fit Cincinnati.

    There are a million “workout books” out there but none quite like 60 Second Sweat. It proclaims that you too can get a rock hard body one minute at a time. Patrick’s approach is two fold. Not only does he show the reader how to get a rock hard body 1 minute at a time with High Intensity Interval and metabolic resistance training. Just as important he lays out a sensible AND realistic nutrition {not a diet but a lifestyle nutrition change} plan to those who seek to not only lose weight and gain muscle but more importantly to maintain it over the long term. Eating habits must change if you are to maximize results.

    What I loved most about this book is that Patrick has numerous pictures with real people showing how to do most of the moves. This visual is essential to make sure you have the correct form and posture to get the most out of the workouts. I followed some of the routines but the warm up was first.He spends time going through various warm ups. These warm ups also work specific body areas, so it is like a 2-for-1 !

    Below I am doing two of them. This one is called the “Cat/Camel”

    photogrid_1487296468225

    This next one is the “Bird Dog” which activates your rear end and shoulder muscles. Trying to get my Flotus arms !

    photogrid_1487296811267

    These are just two of the many warm ups that slowly get your body ready for the workout and reduce injury or strains.

    He splits up the workouts to different quadrants of the body. Upper, Lower and Core. So readers can concentrate on all or cherry pick what they want to focus on. Patrick also has a myriad of ” Metabolic Blast Exercises also to get the heart pumping faster. He encourages beginners or those who had a long break from working out to step up and try his program out. You do not have yo have a gym membership either. Some dumbells and a power band and you can perform the vast majority of exercises in the book

    Below, I am using the “Dumbell Front Squat, which is a lower Body Exercise. Each one he has put a little blurb to tell the reader specifically what each exercise is for. This one strengthens all the muscles in your hips and thighs !

    photogrid_1487297844923

    This is a workout book for life, not just a goal. A friend of mine called and said after the amazing Valentine’s day she enjoyed, she was looking to get back in tip top shape. I immediately put her on to this book. ” I am starting that book tomorrow so I can come back like those Patriots did in the Superbowl”!

    You’ve enjoyed the roses, chocolate and champagne, now it’s time to gift yourself or someone else this book as gift for wellness and health…. all in 60 seconds !

    #FitnessMonday Alert! Free Rides @CycleBar ‘s new studio #CaryNC #AlstonTownCenter ~Sign Up Today!


    A month ago I shared my review of Cycle Bar, a new concept in premium indoor cycling that offers a high energy workout in a concert-like atmosphere. Well guess what Cary residents, a new one is opening Thursday, Jan. 19 in the new Alston Town Center at Route 55 and I-540 – just in time to help locals stick with their healthy New Year’s resolutions.

    As part of its grand opening, the boutique fitness studio is inviting the community to try a CycleBar class for free from Jan. 19 through Jan. 29 – offering a total of 2,500 FREE rides! The classes are an awesome 50-minute workout for all skill levels and ages. To take advantage of one of the free rides, registration is required and offered first-come, first-serve starting Jan. 9 at alston.cyclebar.com/schedule.

    “CycleBar®’s invigorating and multi-sensory classes bring a new type of personalized workout experience for locals of all ages and fitness levels,” said Joseph Cece, local franchise owner. “I am proud to bring this energizing and community-centered boutique fitness opportunity to Cary this month!

     

    The 2,300-square-foot boutique studio, owned by avid cyclist and former CEO of Global Knowledge of Cary Joseph Cece, will offer riders a low-impact and high-intensity exercise method. CycleBar® offers a pay-per-class model, with no membership necessary. Concierge service and amenities include free towels, water bottles, showers, lockers and shoes.

    The dynamic classes take place in a state-of-the-art CycleTheatre® and are led by CycleStar® instructors who take participants through a 50-minute high energy ride. The CycleTheatre® features tiers for 48 bikes plus LED lighting, wide-screen graphics and state-of-the-art audio with a DJ booth. Riders can also track performance data via CycleStats® and can download music used in the class session. After class, riders cool down with fresh fruit and water, while aromatherapy helps guests relax throughout the facility.

    CycleBar® also does more than just help people stay in shape, it gives them the opportunity to work out to support a cause through philanthropic CycleGiving® events that regularly take place at the studios. In 2015, CycleBar® supported Susan G. Komen to raise funds for breast cancer awareness, the American Heart Association to raise funds for heart disease research and prevention and The Movember Foundation to raise awareness for men’s health and well-being.

    Stay up to date and follow CycleBar Alston on Facebook . Feel free to spread this #FitnessMonday news and share that CycleBar is opening in Cary, NC plus giving away Free Rides! Sign up before the seats are all gone and be sure to tell them know Leslie at SobeSavvy.com sent you to Rock Your Ride!  

    #WellnessWednesday : Gym Bag Swag Giveaway #bandeodorant #AD #totalrefresh #SobeSavvy

    Hi, my name is Leslie. I am a member of a gym (shout out to LifeTime Fitness) and I love going to Zumba!  It’s a fun cardio workout and with any great cardio class comes alot of sweat. That’s why when I heard about Ban products and how they help you stay fresh, I figured I’d add some new swag to my gym bag!

    I learned Ban Roll-On Deodorant ($4.99),  offers 24 hours of invisible protection against odor causing sweat! The formula that glides on easily contains Ban’s breakthrough technology, which specifically targets and virtually eliminates (not cover up) stress odor that other
    antiperspirant/deodorants may leave behind. I usually opt to use a solid vs a roll on, but
    am excited to put Ban to the test!

    Did you know that Ban has a product that will help your skin feel smooth and silky, not wet and sticky after a workout? It’s called Total Refresh Cooling Body Cloths ($3.29) which work to slick away excess body sweat with just one wipe ! This would be great for after a workout or a touch up throughout the day and fits perfectly in a purse.

     
    Thank you Ban for sending some samples to giveaway to some of my Zumba peeps. I put together this Ban gym bag essentials duo and surprised a few ladies with some new gym bag swag of their own!

    Like I always say….Friends who sweat together, stay fresh together! 

    No matter where you go this season – whether it’s work, running errands or to the gym– Ban products promises to help you stay fresh and smelling clean all day long! Choose from Unscented
    for sensitive skin, Regular for a light and clean floral fragrance, Powder
    Fresh
    for a classic powder scent, Satin Breeze for a feminine touch
    with green and citrus notes, Fresh Cotton for a refreshing floral heart
    with a hint of fruit, and lastly Simply Clean for fresh and powdery
    amber notes with hint of peach nectar! 

    For a full list of scents and additional information, visit www.feelbanfresh.com.  

    #TransformationTuesday spotlight on @CB_BrierCreek Premium #IndoorCycling in #Raleigh #CycleBar

    Looking to transform your body into a healthier you and have fun while doing it? Well CycleBar Brier Creek is just the place! I had a chance to check out a few of their spin classes at their premium indoor cycling studio located in the Brier Creek Shopping Center (next to AppleBee’s) and let me tell you it’s like a party on a bike with all the benefits of an awesome workout.

    When I started going to CycleBar late November, everyone had the same question: Is it crazy intense ? My reply: it is intense but you would be crazy to not challenge yourself! That’s what a great cardio fitness workout does. Working out shouldn’t be something you dread – it should calm your mind, elevate your mood and revive your senses. That is what they do at CycleBar with fitness classes that feel part sanctuary, part concert.

    With spinning, the instructors known as the CycleStars, guide you and suggest how intense you can go. However, you go at your own pace and adjust to what you feel comfortable with. No need to feel intimidated..it’s just you and your bike. The atmosphere is so fun, they want you to enjoy it so you will come back and rock the ride each and every time.  Coming to CycleBar Brier Creek has helped me stay on track with my fitness goals! 
    https://www.instagram.com/p/BM-IVimgkaH/

    Here is some background on CycleBar Brier Creek: 

    • It’s fairly new..just opened April 2016. The bikes are state of the art!
    • All ages and skill levels are welcomed.Owner, Christie Meyers and her team of CycleStars go out of their way to provide great customer service. It’s quite the family atmosphere!
    • This premium indoor cycling studio offers a one time 30 min Free Intro session, 50-minute rides and 75-minute rides. They offer special deals and packages at affordable prices.
    • Amenities provided such as locker room and toiletries for riders to use,free shoes, complimentary water bottle and snacks. 
    • This is not your average spin class – they offer different kinds of themed rides such as our Hip Hop/Rap ride, Wine Down Wednesdays, Throwback Thursdays, Happy Hour on Fridays and Sunday Brunch..complete with Mimosas!


    CycleBar is expanding throughout the Triangle and getting a new studio in Cary, NC. The Alston location will be giving away free rides and has some fun Grand Opening things planned. Be sure to sign up here to stay in the know! Follow @CB_ BrierCreek on Twitter/Instagram, hashtag #cyclebarbriercreek to see what the CB Nation is up to and stay informed at CycleBar.com ! 


    Although Brier Creek is not that close to me, I like the convenient schedule they offer every day of the week and that there are no memberships…you just pay as you go. Now that you know what to expect, why not sign up HERE for a First time ride free 30 min session or use promo code “FreeRide” and get one 50 min complimentary ride. Be sure to stop by their CB boutique where they have plenty of Cycle Bar fitness apparel for you to rock your ride in style! 

    PS ~You still have until the end of today, midnight EST to enter my giveaway for a 3 ride pass to take 3 free spin classes at Cycle Bar Brier Creek ! 

    Dont’t wait…Get your resolutions and transformations started now. Good luck! 

    Have you ever been to a spin/indoor cycling class ? Share your experience and Comment below if you would like to MEET ME at THE BAR..Cycle Bar that is! 

    Win 3 Ride Pass to #SpinClass @CB_BrierCreek #GivingTuesday #SobeSavvyGiveaway 


    This #GivingTuesday, SobeSavvy.com is kicking off the giving season by giving away a free 3 ride pass to spin class at Cycle Bar Brier Creek. Tis’ the season to give back and get back to a healthier you!

    I have been able to go check out CycleBar for myself and can’t wait to give my full review soon but before I do, I am hosting this giveaway for 1 lucky reader to win a 3 ride pass to attend any of their classes! That’s three spin classes to burn off that Thanksgiving feast and get you into gear for the New Year.

    Here’s what you can expect at CycleBar Brier Creek:

    •       CycleBar is a low-impact and high-intensity exercise method, offering an intoxicating sense of community in state-of-the-art studios with concierge-level service, premium amenities and pay-per-class options.
    • ·         The dynamic cycling classes offer a multi-sensory workout in a concert-like atmosphere, where experienced instructors take participants through a 50-minute high-energy ride.

    • ·        The studio features tiers for the bikes plus LED lighting, wide-screen graphics and state-of-the-art audio with a DJ booth.

    • ·         CycleBar classes are invigorating and fun, with themed rides for charity fundraising, Throwback Thursdays, Happy Hour on Fridays, artist-specific playlists and more.

    • ·         After a class, riders cool down with complimentary fresh fruit, water, and if its Sunday, free mimosas after the Brunch themed ride!

    • ·         Riders can also easily track performance data via CycleStats and download music used in the class session. 

      To learn more about CycleBar in Brier Creek, visit briercreek.cyclebar.com 

           See below to enter today for this awesome giveaway! Winner will be chosen at random on 12/6/16 ..Good Luck!

      ENTER HERE