Lifestyle

Protecting the environment in Florida, home to the third biggest barrier reef in the world, while staying on top of your wellbeing and fitness routine with The Conqueror’s latest virtual challenge, Florida Keys. At the end of the challenge, everyone will be rewarded with a tailor made medal representative of the Florida Keys, as a fusion between coastal and marine life.

The Florida Keys archipelago extends 125 miles southward, from just below Miami to 90 miles north of Cuba and so the challenge is 125 miles that can be completed by walking, running, cycling or swimming the distance anywhere, anytime.

The Conqueror is a health and wellness app that helps people start and stick to regular exercise, while having fun, and feeling rewarded for their progress along the journey to achieving their goals. Customers can virtually travel iconic routes while tracking their distance based exercise, and on completion of the challenge, they are rewarded with a custom designed physical medal that represents the route.

‍Goals can be set at your own pace and alongside friends or other Conqueror community members to help stick with your routine this summer. and through The Conqueror app everyone will learn about historical, cultural and must-see sights along their journey. The regions include Florida City, Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, Big Pine Key and the eclectic island of Key West and there are virtual postcards at milestones.

As part of The Conqueror’s mission to help shape the future with an environmental and regenerative societal impact, every time participants complete 20% of any regular Conqueror Challenge they help stop 10 plastic bottles from entering the ocean or plant 1 tree, in collaboration with Plastic Bank and Eden Projects, social enterprises that build ethical recycling ecosystems in coastal communities or work in developing countries to rebuild natural landscapes destroyed by deforestation. So far The Conqueror has recovered over 8,000,000 plastic bottles from entering the ocean and planted over 6,000,000 trees.

The Florida Keys Virtual Challenge accompanies other United States landmark sights including 75 miles through Yellowstone Park, 64 miles from Kahului to Hana on the Road to Hana, and 70 miles across Niagara Falls. The top international challenges US people participate in include 20 miles of Angkor Wat in Cambodia, a 500 mile journey through the North Coast Scottish Highlands, a marathon of 26 miles across Athens, a 124 mile circular route around the Iveragh Peninsula in Ireland called the Ring of Kerry, the 41 mile Flower Route in the Netherlands, and more.

To join the Florida Keys challenge or learn about the other challenges, visit theconqueror.events/florida/.

Looking to treat your mind, body, and soul? Miami Spa Months are back! Beginning July 1 and running for two months through August 31, you can get up to 50% off treatments at the world-class hotel and day spas and wellness facilities across Greater Miami and Miami Beach. Check out our list of 5 specials to try and find more at MiamiTemptations.com. 

1. Balance your chakras at K’Alma Spa at Hotel Victor

K’Alma Spa curated the Astrology Spa Month Menu, which offers tailored spa services inspired by the zodiac signs, for the ultimate zen experience. The Devine Duality Massage ($159) 50-minute massage curated for Geminis that combines masculine and feminine energy to help them balance their Yin and Yang d the Recharged and Renewed ($139) treatment for Scorpios featuring a Himalayan salt scrub to help shed what no longer serves them. 

2. Hydrate after a day in the sun at The Spa at Baia Beach Club

This hydrating After Sun CBD treatment ($109) will nourish and replenish the skin’s youthful glow after a day of fun-in-the -sun. At The Spa at Baia Beach Club, the healing CBD balm is applied to the body and slowly absorbed into the skin while a pampering scalp, head or foot massage melts away tension.  

3. Soothe your soul with lemon-infused massages at Leaf Spa at Hotel AKA Brickell 

Leaf Spa is using the holistic properties of lemon in their lemon-inspired treatments. This includes Zestful and Restful ($109), a 45-minute lemon zest infused reflexology massage with hydrotherapy that combines meditation and sound healing and Lemassage ($199), an 80-minute luxurious massage enriched in lemon aromatherapy, sound healing andVichy shower, which invigorates blood flow and helps clear negativity. 

4. Reset with holistic treatments at Satori Spa at Gabriel Miami

Satori Spa is offering guests a 75-minute relaxing full-body brown sugar exfoliation, followed by a full-body aromatherapy massage with a scent of their choice for $109. For $149, guests can be pampered with a 60-minute facial with either Dr. Denis Gross Rejuvenate or Annemarie Borderline Revive facial products, which will be combined with Satori’s LED Collagen light. Spa guests can enjoy a glass of champagne before or after their treatment, and take a plunge at the hotel’s scenic downtown pool as an additional amenity at no extra cost.

5. Build your own touchless wellness circuit at The Spa at Carillon Miami

The Spa at Carillon Miami invites you to try their innovative touchless wellness division. Here you can build your touchless wellness circuit by choosing any 4 treatments for $199. Treatments include Halotherapy + Infrared Sauna, V.E.M.I., Somadome, Prism Light Pod, and NuCalm Recharge Wave Mat, among others. Treatment also includes a thermal hydrotherapy experience and complementary valet. The Carillon is also hosting an emotional wellness series with workshops led by Corey Spiegel, Founder of LightHouse, and Dr. Paul Hokemeyer, Internationally Renowned Relationship Therapist, beginning July 8 and running throughout the summer.

We bet you've never heard of a pre-workout pill before! Psycho Sloth is the first-ever company in the US to introduce a four-ingredient pre-workout pill and they are based right here in the 305.

Miami natives Noah Doris and Byron D'Mello are Psycho Sloth co-founders and best friends ever since their middle school days at GW Carver. In high school, they were varsity rowers and their daily practices and workouts kick-started their passion for fitness and nutrition with the goal of winning races. While they went their separate ways in college, as recent graduates they have now continued their nutrition journey with the launch of Psycho Sloth.

Tired of brands with synthetic, unpronounceable ingredients, Psycho Sloth was invented with four highly-studied ingredients - beet root powder, green tea, electrolytes, and L-theanine. They partnered with expert nutritionists, tested the product for safety in third-party labs, and extracted in state-of-the-art facilities. The result is a safe, effective, and easy-to-swallow capsule.

“We were your typical gym-goers, not training for bodybuilding competitions but simply working to look and feel in shape," said Noah Doris, co-founder of Psycho Sloth. "We were surprised to learn that the only supplements on the market were tailored to the desires of hardcore bodybuilders - meaning extreme stimulants, synthetic ingredients and overall a lack of concern for side effects. We decided something needed to change. We partnered with nutrition experts and developed a simple yet effective four-ingredient solution that delivers the same energy boost, [as synthetic pre’s] without the jitters, crash or nausea."

With 0% synthetic ingredients or fillers, Psycho Sloth's vegan pre-workout pill differs greatly from what’s in the market and is tailored to the health-conscious fitness enthusiast. Expect jitter and crash-free physical and mental energy for a noticeable performance increase.

“Our mission is to give people the tools to reach their fitness goals while ensuring a healthy future," said Byron D’Mello, co-founder of Psycho Sloth. "Everything we consume directly affects our health for better or worse. This is precisely why we chose beet roots, electrolytes, green tea, and L-theanine as they are safe and extremely effective energy boosters. With every pre-workout pill you purchase, you are voting in favor of your long-term health and against brands who prioritize profit over people."

To learn more about Psycho Sloth's pre-workout pill or to purchase your own, check out psychosloth.co or on Instagram at @psychosloth.co.

PARAISO Miami Beach, the official industry platform of Swim Week, is thrilled to announce the return of what it is to be “the biggest swim week” to date at its renowned tent at Collins Park on Miami Beach, Esme, W South Beach, 1 Hotel Beach Club, and Soho Beach House, with satellite events throughout Miami Beach, including Plymouth Miami Beach and The Standard Spa.

“Since its inception, the focus of PARAISO Miami Beach has been the growth of the swimwear, beachwear, and resort wear industry. Shaping up the platform into a lifestyle cultural sphere was organic, unexpected, and exciting to watch as it introduced brands to a new audience in genuine and unique ways while providing designers an opportunity to bring their creative visions to life. The best collaborations we see now at PARAISO seamlessly integrate partners into the event in new and innovative ways—such as designer partnerships, custom content, and on-site activations," said Natalija Dedic Stojanovic, Co-Founder and Creative Director of PARAISO.

In July 2018, PARAISO opened its doors in Miami Beach to unveil a brand-new experiential festival that creatively united the world’s favorite fashion, wellness, beauty, and lifestyle brands. A multi-day fashion platform centralized in Collins Park and stretching to all surrounding areas of South Beach, PARAISO champions the core values of innovation, originality, and discovery through must-see events, imaginative activations, exclusive launches, runway presentations, and collaborations in design, music, wellness, art, and social media.

The week of events for the Resort 2023 season will kick off with an exciting new initiative between PARAISO and Vogue MX, with the launch of a carefully curated pop-up shop featuring the best in swimwear and resort collections. Karla Martinez, Editor-in-Chief of Vogue Mexico and Vogue Latin America will officially open the pop up and attend the ribbon cutting ceremony on Thursday, July 14.

Additional highlights include:

• The exhibit Endless Summer by Frederic Pinet will open on Thursday, July 14 at the lounge of PARAISO Tent. “Endless Summer” features subjects submerging themselves in water – specifically swimming pools.
• MANA Fashion will be speaking about the creative evolution of the Miami fashion scene on Friday, July 15. MANA Fashion is the newest platform focused on empowering the fashion community, one creative visionary at the time. Panelists include: fashion designer Naeem Khan, director of Istituto Marangoni Miami Hakan Baykam, director of MANA Fashion Martu Freeman-Parker, Editor-in-Chief of Vogue Mexico Karla Martinez, and more.
• PARAISO welcomes back Acacia, Sinesia Karol, and Beach Bunny and new names such as VDM Label, Riot Swim, Azulu, One One, Peixoto, Abyss by Abby Swim, and Icon Swim.
• Kittenish by country-pop music star Jessie James Decker will be debuting its first-ever swim collection and Natasha Oakley and Devin Brugman will introduce the rebranded MONDAY, direct-to-consumer, online swim brand they founded in 2014.
• Also returning to PARAISO are swimwear veterans, Luli Fama, Oh Polly, and Maaji and who will present its upcoming collection for 2023 at the Plymouth Miami Beach. Sports Illustrated Swimsuit marks its return to W South Beach this year with a high-energy runway show, and series of talks, brunches, and wellness activations.
• The third annual DESTINATION Colombia runway show at the PARAISO Tent at Collins Park will present ten Colombian swimwear and resort wear brands to watch. DESTINATION Colombia celebrates thriving fashion, cultural community, and supports the expansion of Colombian brands in the US market. BahiaMaria, Palmacea, Bahama Mama, Mola Mola, Alma Arena, Punta Mar, Praia, Pily Q, Mar de Lua, and Smeralda will present their Resort 2023 collections.
• Sports Illustrated Swimsuit will present a high-energy runway show at the W South Beach as well as a series of talks, brunches, and wellness activations as part of PARAISO.

Each year PARAISO Miami Beach supports non-profit organizations and their focused efforts to address various issues. Amid the global pandemic and recent acts of racial injustice, the organization Models of Color Matters started the conversation and an initiative to increase diversity and equity in fashion and media. The organization is focused on being a confidence booster, a safe place, a wealth of knowledge, and a connector for fashionistas of color. This July, MOCM will support reputable swimwear brand Bfyne, by Nigerian American designer Buki Ade. The creative agency Fika and Miami Design District will partner up to present Segunda Mano, the second annual runway show benefiting Lotus House Women's Shelter to bring awareness to their mission of improving the lives of women, youth and children experiencing homelessness.

For more information on events and shows, head to paraisomiamibeach.com.

Miami Swim Week™ The Shows is returning to Miami for five days from Wednesday, July 13 to Monday, July 18 at the SLS South Beach Hotel. The festival will be spotlighting the latest swim and resort wear fashion designs along a stunning, brand new virtual fashion swimwear Metaverse like never seen before.

“From sustainable and eco-friendly fashion, to Metaverse digital fashion and fashion NFT collections, this year’s Miami Swim Week™ The Shows will be unlike anything the fashion industry has ever seen. We have designers flying into Miami from over 70 countries who will be a part of 50 live fashion shows and pop-up events,” said Moh Ducis, founder & CEO of Miami Swim Week™ The Shows.

Powered by D.C. Swim Week, this year’s swimwear festival will feature dozens of runway shows, VIP events, dinners, parties, and showcases, creating the largest fashion swimwear gathering in the world. Noteworthy Florida-based swimwear brands like Tiare Hawaii, DAYZ DAZE, Maxine, Bikinilista, Onalaja, Dobikinis, and Supermodel Swimwear are showcasing new collections with runway shows. The complete list of registered designers participating and exhibiting at this year’s week-long series of events is available online with more to be added.

One of the biggest highlights of this year’s Miami Swim Week™ The Shows will be introducing a fully interactive Web 3.0 luxury swimwear fashion runway Metaverse and first-of-its-kind social impact swimwear fashion NFTs. In addition, select events and shows will be ticketed with exclusive collectible NFT tickets, available for sale to influencers, VIP guests, and industry professionals.

“Digital swimwear fashion in a decentralized Metaverse provides a leveled playing field and equal opportunity and empowerment to designers and artists around the world— No one has ever seen these kinds of graphics or digital world we have created,” said Ducis.

Miami Swim Week™ The Shows is also partnering with innovative fashion commerce app, RUNWAY BUY, making every runway show shoppable in real-time via its proprietary, cloud-based interactive video marketplace platform.

“This is Miami’s big moment where all these innovative sectors merge together to spotlight talented designers and models while introducing new swimwear trends and technological experiences that the fashion world hasn’t seen before. This year’s Miami Swim Week™ The Shows will also include partnerships with well-known brands such as Runway Buy, Hammock Shows, JOOR.com, Fashion Innovation NYC, and the City of Miami Beach,” Ducis said.

For more information, visit the Miami Swim Week™ The Shows website and follow on instagram. To purchase tickets to runway shows or parties, visit the official Eventbrite page.

Elspiri is a new swimwear brand launching in the U.S. this summer and are based right here in Miami. Their first-ever swim and beach collection for Summer 2022 will feature colorful florals, bright solids and animal prints that reflect many of the tropical and oceanside colors reminiscent of Santorini and nearby islands.

“Elspiri celebrates individuality and diversity with adjustability and attention to detail to let your body tell your story,” said Juanita Carmet, Swim & Resortwear Designer for Elspiri. “Our feminine styles are designed to make you feel empowered and confident in your own skin.”

The body-positive swimsuits and beachwear evoke wanderlust towards the sea through their vibrant, coastal styles and versatile designs made for every body. The collection includes adjustable and supportive bikini tops with removable bra cups that come in four styles and seven different colors. Styles include:

• Cora - a lace front bralette with a supportive band in tones such as plumbago and fantasy floral
• Athena - an over the shoulder top with tie back, available in a painted animal print and bougainvillea pink
• Lyra - a versatile cross back bralette available in white, sorbet, bougainvillea and painted animal colors
• Ophelia - a triangle over the shoulder top, available in Greek blue and fantasy floral hues.

Elspiri’s bikini bottoms are available in three different styles and a range of colors, including: Thea, a high leg V-cut bottom available in bougainvillea, printed animal and fantasy floral colors; Maya, a high-waisted, high leg bottom available in plumbago and bougainvillea; and Zoe, a drawstring tie-side triangle bottom in sorbet, printed animal, Greek blue, and floral colors.

All bikini tops and bottoms are available in sizes small to extra-large, and can be mixed and matched. Bikini tops start at $79 and bikini bottoms start at $77.

For a little more coverage, Elspiri created two styles of one-piece swimsuits, including Chloe, a lace front piece with a deep V-cut back and adjustable straps, available in sorbet, bougainvillea, and painted animal tones. The Alexandra, is a cut-out, keyhole one piece with adjustable tie back strings and comes available in Greek blue and fantasy floral colors. One-piece swimsuits start at $165 for solid colors and $172 for prints.

In addition to swimwear, Elspiri is launching beachwear that complements its swimsuits or can be worn on their own as casual resort wear. From solid colored shirt dresses for a classic look, to sexy off-the-shoulder crop tops, the beach attire collection has something for everyone. 

When deciding on the collection’s materials to incorporate into the design, Carmet stated that “the brand strived to use quality fabrics from top mills in the industry to provide customers with the most value for their money. The human skin is the largest organ; we wanted to make sure we dressed it in premium fabrics.”

Elspiri is made with quick-dry, anti-pilling, and wrinkle-free premium Italian fabrics that maintain comfort, colorfastness, and elasticity. The beachwear collection is made with 100% Brazilian cotton and 100% viscose, giving each piece a linen appearance that is breathable, lightweight, soft and drapey. All fabrics used are OEKO-TEX® and Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) certified.

To purchase Elspiri’s swimwear and beachwear or for more information, visit shopelspiri.com.

Silver Mirror Facial Bar is bringing its glowing concept Miami. Founded in New York City by Cindy Kim and Matt Maroone, Silver Mirror Facial Bar will be delivering its unique and customized facial treatments to Brickell later this year.

Started in 2016, Silver Mirror Facial Bar aspired to bring fast, effective, and affordable facials to the market. The company lives by three principles: (1) Love your skin (2) Respect your schedule and (3) Provide real results. The Miami location will span almost 1,800 square feet and include nine dedicated treatment stations, the largest for the brand.

“When looking for our first facial bar outside of NYC and Washington D.C., we felt Miami was the perfect next step outside of the northeast to embrace our fresh, modern approach to skincare,” said Maroone. “As a South Florida native, it’s always been my dream to bring our growing start-up to my hometown. From a skincare perspective, South Florida’s tropical climate presents unique skincare challenges, and we are excited to deliver dynamic, personalized solutions so that South Florida residents can feel confident about their skin.”

Silver Mirror Facial Bar offers a spectrum of luxury maintenance and targeted treatments, including the spa’s signature facials as well as add-ons, such as dermaplaning, hydradermabrasion, decompression massages, LED therapy, and chemical peels. In addition to à la carte facials, the brand offers a monthly membership platform that allows customers to prioritize their skincare needs, which includes discounts on services & skincare products, special give-a-ways and promotions, first access to new skincare technology and much more.

To continue an at-home maintenance program, the acclaimed facial bar also carries an extensive collection of the best medical-grade skincare and beauty products on the market today, including iS Clinical, Skinceuticals, Revision, Sanitas, Dr. Dennis Gross and Supergoop! among others.

The company is as passionate about healthy skin as it is about giving back, with a focus on education, healthcare, social justice and women’s economic-development opportunities. The company partners with nonprofits to donate a portion of Seasonal Facial proceeds to the National Pediatric Cancer Foundation, NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, Women’s World Banking, City Year and Experience Camp.

The new Brickell location will be open from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., 7 days a week, offering an easy solution for clients looking to pop in during lunch breaks or on their way home from work. Silver Mirror Facial Bar currently has locations in the Flatiron District and Upper East Side in New York City and in Dupont Circle in Washington, D.C. In addition to its Miami location, the company is opening additional locations in Bryant Park (NYC) and Navy Yard (Washington D.C.) in 2022.

Head to silvermirror.com to learn more or keep up with the new location at 115 SW 8th Street in Brickell.

Definitions of wellness and fitness continue to change and are encompassing a lot more than just "being in shape". In Mindbody's 2022 Fitness Trends Report, they highlight some of the trends they are expecting for this year based on a survey of over 16,000 Americans. Here are five takeaways.

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1. The understanding that wellness is mental, physical, and spiritual

78% of people say wellness is more important than ever

Wellness now encompasses a whole lot more than just being in shape. It includes reducing stress and finding a sense of community and belonging. It spans mental, physical, and spiritual dimensions and people are now prioritized mental wellness above them all.

2. More recognition that physical health plays a large role in mental health

77% of people say being physically active helps their mental health

To the majority, a workout is not just a workout. While working out used to be primarily about weight loss and living a long life, the top reasons people workout today are to reduce stress, feel better mentally, and look better physically.

3. Immune health continues to be top of mind

46% of people are interested in trying new services or treatments that support immune health

Almost half of people are interested in more immune-boosting services and education on topics like nutrition, sleep, and stress reduction. There is also an interest in trying new things in general.

4. Virtual fitness can exist with in-person classes

35% of people started going to an in-person fitness class they discovered through virtual fitness

For many, virtual workouts are an extension of a brand they’re already engaging with. In fact, 25% of those who participate in virtual workouts do so with the gym or studio they currently attend.

5. More people are prioritizing recovery

44% of people say recovery is important

While men are more likely to engage in recovery services than women, almost half of participants agree that recovery is an important part of any wellness routine.

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Do you agree with these sentiments? To read the entire report, click here.

March is sleep awareness month and if you’re struggling to get some Z’s, then keep reading. We tapped Dr. Elizabeth Trattner, Doctor of Chinese and Integrative Medicine and Founder of Helia House, a non-toxic healing oasis located in North Miami, for her best tips to help you snooze. Keep reading for five products to help ensure a solid night of shut eye.

Dr. Trattner suggests: 

• Get at least 8 hours of sleep a night, ideally 9-10 hours. Try and go to bed around the same time each night, optimally getting into bed by 10 pm. The sleep between 10 pm and 12 am is some of the most restorative.
• No TV, bright lights, tablets, or cell phones before bedtime or during sleep. They emit blue light which stimulates the brain and suppresses the sleep hormone melatonin, as well as keeps you up and delays and changes sleep onset times. 
• Ban bedtime snacks and keep a regular 12-hour fasting window.  Meaning, if you finish dinner at 8:30 pm, you shouldn't eat breakfast until after 8.30 am the next day. In medicine, both Eastern and Western, it is good to give yourself 3 hours after eating a meal before going to bed. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, food retention is one of the reasons for insomnia. 
• Establish a relaxing nighttime routine that promotes ritual and self-care including a warm bath, aromatherapy, or a nighttime foot rub. These all stimulate the production of oxytocin, a hormone that helps us relax and lowers cortisol, the fight or flight stress hormone.

Beyond Dr. Tratttner’s tips, we found these five products for a good night's sleep. 

1. EightSleep Pod Pro Mattress

If you suffer from sticker shock at the price of a new mattress, try and reframe your thinking as it’s the best investment you can make in yourself and your home. We’re loving EightSleep Pod Pro Mattress, which features a five-layer premium foam mattress that is 12 inches deep for the ideal support in all the right places, along with ambient sensors that measure room temperature and humidity allowing the Pod Pro to automatically maintain your ideal thermal environment. Plus for those that share your bed, no more fighting over the temperature as you can set each side of the bed to anywhere between 55°F - 110°F, controlled by the Eight Sleep app. There are other cool features like chest-level vibration and gradual temperature change to help wake you up in the morning, along with health tracking. $2,845, payment plans available, eightsleep.com, @eightsleep

2. PeachSkinSheets‍

Nothing in our book feels better than crawling into a bed with soft, cool sheets. PeachSkinSheets feature a unique moisture-wicking, temperature controlled fabric, designed to ensure hot sleepers stay cool and cold sleepers stay cozy. The 1500-thread count level is ultra soft and features a velvety brushed PeachSkin finish on each side, along with deep pockets that stay put on the bed. We went with classic white, but they are available in 24 different colors. Starting at $75, peachskinsheets.com, @peachskinsheets

3. Blackberry Rose Sleep Formula

We are no stranger to CBD, but these gumdrops from Molly J. feature a 50mg of the CBD/CBN blend, coupled with 5 mg of melatonin per gumdrop to help relax you into sleep and keep you in a deep one.  Made by hand in small batches with natural fruit flavors and hemp-derived Broad Spectrum CBD that is organically grown in the U.S., and are gluten-free with zero THC. $70 for 9 pack box, mollyj.life , @molly.j.life

4. Dream The Night Away Lotion

This self-care and wellness brand owned and led by expert and entrepreneur, Stephanie Morimoto and Chief Brand officer and tennis star Venus Williams, is on a mission to democratize wellness, making it accessible for those who don’t have lofty budgets or leisure time. We not only love their mission, but their Dream the Night Away lotion with Melatonin and Magnesium. Scented with lemongrass essential oil, this smooth, moisturizing shea butter lotion will ease you right to sleep. Story has it, Venus used the lotion during the product photoshoot and 30 minutes later had to fight to keep her eyes open. Take it from Venus, and use it right before bed. $19.99, ​​asutra.com, @asutra.life

5. myAir Sleepy Gray+ Bar ‍

This yummy bar includes superfood ingredients like dates, hazelnuts, sunflower seeds, cashew nuts and terpenes (plant molecules) widely used to improve sleep quality such as hops. We’re obsessed with these bar’s natural formulas and functional ingredients that are customized to suit your stress levels. Since stress affects everyone differently, be sure to take their online assessment to find out which bars you need based on how stress manifests in your body. $2.99 per bar, myair.ai, @myairsmartfood

New year, new you? Coaches at Life Time say one of the biggest reasons for failed resolutions is that they're too big and broad. People also set too many goals at once, setting themselves up to feel overwhelmed within weeks. Here are 5 tips from Life Time personal trainers on how you can set and keep your goals in 2022.

Tip #1 – Trim your Goals: One Specific Habit at a Time

Rather than set multiple resolutions, you should set one specific positive habit at a time. Once you establish one positive action, you can move on to add another and build momentum through the year.

"Trying to do it all is a recipe for disaster but accomplishing one thing at a time and then moving on to the next will create long-lasting change," Personal Trainer and Dietitian Michelle Wong said. "Be sure to also give yourself a bit of grace, if you backslide one day or one moment, get right back on the horse and move on".

"Most New Year's goals break down after disconnecting the process from the end result," said Nick Sandoval, Personal Trainer. "If you focus on the smaller victories, you don't tend to feel like you're failing and you're less likely to give up."

#2 – Create a plan and track your progress

Once you have a healthy habit in mind (adding a serving of vegetables to your day, walking 30 minutes four times a week, etc.), create a detailed plan and find a way (digitally or on paper) to track how you're doing, said Personal Trainer and Instructor Kemma Cunningham.

"Focus on creating small habits and renew your motivation by rewarding your small wins when you make progress."

#3 – Find a workout buddy or group

No matter what your health goal is, find a friend, group, or digital community with similar goals to keep you motivated and accountable.

"This could come in the form of hiring a coach, finding a workout buddy or group, or being held accountable to yourself by tracking healthy habits in your digital app or wearable technology," says Lindsay Ogden, Digital Manager for Content and Coaching at Life Time.

"It's always more fun when you accomplish a task with someone else but it also provides you built-in accountability," Wong said.

#4 – Remind Yourself of Your Goal Daily

Personal Trainer Dan Hove says this can be as simple as hanging a note somewhere where you see it every day, or setting reminders on your phone. Daily check-ins and reminders ensure your goal is top of mind.

"When things get tough, dig back into the why of your goal and remind yourself why you wanted to do this."

#5 – Visualize Success

Visualize what a successful outcome is for your goal. It will be easier for you to develop a game plan and be motivated to keep moving when things get tough. "Think about when you accomplished a goal before and ask yourself what did you need to be successful? How did you overcome the obstacles then?" Wong says.

According to Life Time's recent national wellness survey of nearly 1,000 people across the country, the top health resolutions expected in 2022 are:

• Lose weight (31%)
• Build muscle (22%)
• Eat better (13%)
• Move more (13%)
• Improve mental wellbeing (11%)

What are your 2022 goals?

It used to be Black Friday. Then Cyber Monday. And now it’s Cyber Week. Get ready to shop at a serious savings for all your fitness and wellness wishes, wants and needs. Here we compiled some of the best deals we feel you might love. Whether you are gifting yourself or the wellness and fitness junkies on your holiday list, be sure to check these out. 

1. Heat Healer Sauna Blanket‍

We could go on and on for our love for a good sauna session, but we’ll spare you and let you try it for yourself. The Heat Healer Infrared Sauna Blanket heats up to 158 degrees and features 96 smooth Jade and Tourmaline stones that perfectly distribute heat with maximum infrared emissivity and EMF blocking technology. Heat Healer Sauna Blanket is 20% off through Monday, November 29 heathealer.com,  @heathealer

2. Dosha Mat

‍Acupressure Mat helps relieve tension, soreness and pain in the back, head, neck, shoulders, hips, feet, and other parts of the body, and can aid in deep state of relaxation, more restful sleep, reduce stress, eliminate headaches, increase circulation, and many other health benefits. We love that Dosha Mat is 100% eco-friendly, handmade using the highest-quality, hypoallergenic natural linen, and features 4,500 high-quality acupressure points in the shape of honeycombs. Dosha Mat is 20% Black Friday Doshamat.com, @doshamat‍

3. Liteboxer‍

Punch away holiday stress and pounds and get into fighting shape with this at-home boxing platform that combines gaming with fitness like never before. Think Simon Says meets Dance Dance Revolutions meets the most killer playlist that gets your heart pumping and your body sweating. Choose from trainer-led workouts, sparring sessions or Punch Tracks, aka choose your own music from a well-stocked library of popular music. Liteboxer is the only fitness platform where you can choose your own music. Starting Wednesday, November 24 through Monday, November 29, take $750 off any Liteboxer package (regularly priced at $1,495 for the wall mount and $1,695 for the free-standing unit.)  Liteboxer.com, @liteboxer   ‍

4. SoulCycle At-Home Bike

‍Cycling at home just got sweeter as SoulCycle at-home bike is offering $600 off the SoulCycle at-home bike, which brings the bike to $1,900 from $2,500. This also includes free shipping and assembly. Sale runs through Friday, December 24. equinoxplus.com, @eqxplus‍

5. The Ness

‍Jump for joy and your health with this celeb-approved springless trampoline that offers a high-impact, low-intensity workout and endless health benefits including lymphatic drainage, pelvic floor strength and mental, emotional, and physical stamina. Take 20% (*originally $499) and get 3 free months of digital subscription. Or opt for 35% off the first 3 months of The Ness Digital Subscription (originally $39.00/month), which includes over 380 on-demand bounce and sculpt videos, 10 different modalities and seasonal special programs + challenges. Sale applicable only for new subscribers. Use Promo Code: FRIDAY. thenessnyc.com, @thenessnyc‍

6. equipt 

‍Arguably the most stylish workout equipment, the popular U bar weight available in 4lb, 8lb, 12lb, and 16lbs, is ergonomically shaped for comfort and utility. Save 20% sitewide Friday, November 26 - Monday, November 29 (no code required) on these functional fitness equipment that can double as home décor. equiptmovement.com @equiptmovement‍

7. AGOGIE Resistance Pants‍

We’re always up for an extra push and AGOGIE Resistance Pants (styles for men and women) have eight resistance bands built in to add constant tension, turning  every movement into a calorie-burning and muscle toning workout. Receive $25 off 1 pair or $30 off 2 pairs each. agogie.com, @agogielife‍

8. IBKÜL

‍Your go-to for functional temperature controlled apparel (think tops that lower your body temp by 5 degrees, and pullovers and vest solutions to keep you warm), for men, women, and girls is offering not to be missed deals. Use Code BLACKFRIDAY15 to get $15 off $150; BLACKFRIDAY25 to get $25 off $250, BLACKFRIDAY35 to get $35 off $350. Valid on Friday, November 26. www.ibkul.com,  @ibkulbrand‍

9. Ivy by BellaBeat

‍Going beyond a smart watch, Ivy is a health and wellness tracker disguised as a stylish bracelet that is engineered specifically for the female body with proprietary app algorithms that monitors biometric data - anatomic, mental and physiological. Tracking everything from resting heart rate, respiratory rate, and cardiac coherence to menstrual cycles, Ivy will be 20% Friday, November 26 - Wednesday, December 1. Receive 2-year subscription with every IVY purchase. Bellabeat.com, @bellabeat ‍

10. NutraMilk‍

Perfect for the chef or the DIYer, NutraMilk is the only patented processor/blender appliance that can produce fresh, ready to drink alternative milks, butters, dips, spreads, smoothies, and other delicious treats in minutes from virtually any nut, seed, grain, legume. Take $100 off plus free shipping for customers based in the continental US. Sale currently running through Monday, November 29. thenutramilk.com, @thenutramilk‍

As a dietitian, I often get asked about intermittent fasting. What is it? Are there any benefits to intermittent fasting (IF)? How long do I have to go without eating? Can I work out when I fast? Who should not do Intermittent Fasting?

We are a 24/7 nation. Food is available about every place you turn. We are bombarded with commercials about fast food and we have delivery companies that will deliver food anytime, anywhere from your favorite restaurants. Food is easily accessible all of the time. And most people find it difficult to fast. 

Over the years as portion sizes have increased, so has our waist size and risk for CVD and type 2 diabetes. In fact, an estimated 88 million Americans (more than 1 in 3) have prediabetes. And most of them don’t know they have it. Pre-diabetes puts you at an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease and stroke. 

Before considering intermittent fasting, check with your doctor, especially if you have been diagnosed with a chronic disease or if you are on certain medications that require you to take them with food. 

What is intermittent fasting?

It involves metabolic switching from one fuel source to another and reduction of cellular stress. The key to intermittent fasting is the timing of the fast. 

The science behind Intermittent Fasting is that when we eat carbohydrates they are quickly broken down into sugars which our cells use for energy. If we eat too many carbs or our cells cannot use what we have eaten, any extra is stored in our liver as glycogen and in our fat cells as fat. The hormone insulin made by the pancreas, helps get the sugar into the cells.

Between our meals, our insulin levels normally will go down and our fat cells will release the stored sugar to be used as energy.  When we let our insulin levels go down, we start burning fat. The goal of IF is to allow the insulin level to go down enough for a longer period of time to help burn off the fat to lose weight. 

How do I start intermittent fasting? How long do I go without eating? 

There are several ways to approach intermittent fasting.

• You may eat during an 8-9 hour window and then fast the rest of the time. For example: Eat breakfast at 9:00 AM and have your dinner at 5:00 and then do not eat again until the next morning at 9:00. This will be about 16 hours of intermittent fasting, most of it while you are sleeping. This seems to be the easiest way to do intermittent fasting, since you are sleeping through most of the fast. (Unless of course, you are a sleepwalker who wears out a path to the kitchen during your nightly walks.)
• There is the 5:2 intermittent fasting approach: where you eat regularly for 5 days of the week, then on the other 2 days, you eat one 500-600 calorie meal each day and fast the rest of the day. As a dietitian, I think 500-600 calories/day is too low of an intake. 

Going long periods without food (48-72 hours) is not any better for you and could actually encourage your body to start storing fat because it thinks you are trying to starve it.  

It can take your body several weeks before it gets used to intermittent fasting. Initially you may feel hungry and/or irritable, however people that can get through those weeks report feeling better from intermittent fasting. 

So during the fasting period, can I drink beverages?

Yes, you can drink water, carbonated water without calories, black coffee and tea without milk or sweetener. This does not mean that during your eating period you can pack in the calories and eat junk food or highly processed refined foods and sweets. Eat your normal 3 meals and a snack if that’s what you typically eat. 

Can I workout when I am fasting? 

When fasting your glycogen stores will become depleted and you will start burning fat as fuel, so during your workout you will be burning more fat. But you may also be breaking down the muscle you worked hard to build to use as protein for fuel. And you may have less energy to perform your workout or hit the wall sooner due to lack of available fuel. In my opinion, I would not exercise on the days you fast. 

What are the benefits of intermittent fasting?

A New England Journal of Medicine study found that intermittent fasting in the short term can lead to increased insulin sensitivity and reduced waist circumference and in the long term, increased longevity and decreased incidence of cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and obesity. 

Source: Effects on Intermittent Fasting on Health, Aging and Disease; de Cabo R, Mattonson MP New England Journal of Medicine. nejm.org.  Dec. 2019

Metabolic Effects of Intermittent Fasting. Annual review of Nutrition. August 2017

The Obesity Code, by Jason Fung, MD

Intermittent fasting: Surprising Update- Harvard Health. www.health.harvard.edu 

It's no secret that Miami is a city with tons of talented fitness professionals. Now, Motto - a new fitness concierge platform, is allowing you to discover and book the hottest trainers in town for individuals and groups.

RELATED: 25 Miami Fitness Trainers You Need to Follow in 2021

Motto solves the common challenge of discovering and booking high-quality, trusted personal trainers by giving you access to their community of vetted and hand-selected talent across four cities (Miami, Palm Beach, New York City & the Hamptons). Users can book trainers who offer strength & HIIT, boxing, yoga and pilates with different session types.

“We created this platform because we needed it and recognized this would help the industry,” said Co-Founder, Leanna Brittis. “We are hoping that Motto refocuses the industry and provides a safe and trusted place for people to turn to.”

Motto offers personalized training for individuals and groups of all sizes with no upfront or subscription fees - only the price of the session, this provides users with the flexibility to try various trainers and workout types without commitment. These sessions can be booked at home, a location of your choice or virtually.

• 1-on-1 (1 person): Individual session to improve one’s mental and physical health
• Social Sessions (2-4 people): Small group training to get social with friends, colleagues or clients
• Group Classes (5-15 people): Group workouts that allow the client create a class to bring together friends, coworkers, bridesmaids etc

Trainers build out their profiles and list their own rates and availability for clients to choose from. Motto allows for direct messaging between users and trainers should they need to request a specific availability that may not be listed on a trainer's schedule.

For more information, visit https://bookmotto.com/welcome

At some point, we’re not quite sure when, we ditched body lotion and began moisturizing with body oils. Given our hot and humid climate, one might think that body oils are too heavy for us Floridians, but the truth is, there are so many lightweight and fast-absorbing oils that they are in fact the perfect option to keep skin healthy and hydrated. The trick is to apply right after your shower, giving skin the ultimate glow-up. Here are our top 5 finds!

1. Versed Keep It Supple Body Oil 

First we fell in love with the mess-free, mist-on application of this quick-absorbing formula and then the delicate, floral scent of ylang ylang oil, one of many oils in this affordable body oil. This sustainable and clean brand blends sweet almond, macadamia nut, and coconut oils with nourishing calendula flower extract and vitamin E to keep skin supple. Hence the name. $15,  versedskin.com, @versed 

2. Jordan Samuel Skin Olio Per Il Corpo Body Oil 

Formulated by a former professional ballet dancer, the ingredient list reads more like a salad. Inspired by the Sicilian countryside it includes antioxidant rich, Grapeseed Oil and Tomato Extract along with anti-inflammatory Broccoli Seed Oil, Mango Citrus Fruit Blend, Rosemary Leaf Extract, Olive Leaf Extract among others.  Not only does this soothe our skin, but it has the most intoxicating, sweet-smelling Citrus scent  that does in fact transport you via your senses to Italy. $32, https://jordansamuelskin.com,  @jordansamuelskin 

3. African Botanics Firming Botanical Oil

Hydrate and firm with this 100% cold-pressed oil that combines the firming and restorative benefits of antioxidant rich and nutrient dense Pinotage Grape, Marula, Moringa, Kalahari Melon and Rose extract, which have firming and toning benefits. Ever so slightly scented this is our go to when we need a little extra firmness or spent too much time in the sun 

$130, Africanbotanics.com, @africanbotanics  

4. J.R. Watkins LOVE Body Oil Mist

This oil mist has a powerful blend of natural pink peppercorn and guarana, both of which may boost sexual desire and stimulation which is an added perk. It also hydrates with sunflower seed oil extracts, jojoba seed oil and apricot kernel oil along with summery scents peony and patchouli that left us loving how our skin felt. $15, jrwatkins.com,  @jr_watkins

5. NEOM Perfect Night’s Sleep Body Oil 

Prepare your body and mind for a restful night with this oil that includes a complex blend of 19 essential oils to help you ease into sleep including English lavender, along with sweet basil and jasmine. The nourishing and skin softening blend also includes safflower oil, jojoba oil and rosehip oil to keep skin soft. $40, neomorganics.com, @neomorganics 

When “MYP Athletes” was created, athletes were, of course, the primary focus. I also knew it was time to offer more than just yoga, which I had already been offering for years. I began to notice a shift in the types of needs more and more of these athletes were having. As a result of them beginning to resonate with and ask for mindfulness/meditation work, as well as Pilates, I knew that this was an opportunity for MYP to fully serve as a go-to for “working in.” Therefore, adding both of these to the mix was a no-brainer. I know first hand how valuable these forms of “working in” are, as they ultimately allow an individual to keep cultivating and creating the energy needed to continue performing and working out. This was why offering more than one option seemed to be what made my brand and vision feel complete. Except it wasn’t.

RELATED: Bend Like a Pro with These 10 Athletic Yoga Poses

Once again, I realized there was more to “MYP Athletes” than I was tapping in to. After working with athletes at all levels, as well as people who push their bodies and minds like athletes do, I realized that “MYP Athletes” was meant to serve more people. The people I am referring to, for example, are those who are low on time because they already commit themselves to working out almost as much as athletes do; those who consistently prioritize bettering themselves, not just physically, but also mentally; and those who fully understand the importance of recovery and taking care of their mind, body, and spirit, yet don’t necessarily want togo to a yoga or Pilates studio.

In essence, “MYP Athletes” is here to help the real MVP’s: the ones who are committed, willing, and connected to not just being the best, but also feeling the best. The ones who prioritize “working in” just as much as working out.

We offer an all-encompassing online sanctuary consisting of body-part specific recovery, homeostasis attainment, add-ons to current fitness regimens, and convenient + on-the-go videos. This is by design to create the ultimate mind-body connection so that you can heal, perform all tasks better, and enhance your current skill set.

“MYP Athletes” is here for you if being a yogi isn’t your thing, but you still connect to the actual practice of yoga facilitating recovery, healing, and feeling your best. We got you covered without the yogi flair. MYP is here for you if having to drive and show up to yet another class just isn’t for you. We got you covered with several types of classes/categories to help you “work in” at various durations. MYP is here for you if you know you need to “work in,” but staying within a budget is also a priority. We got you covered with a 7-day complimentary trial and a $29/month membership. MYP is here for you if adding anything else to your schedule is just not practical. We got you covered with time-efficient classes, as short as10 minutes, to add-on to your current fitness regimen. MYP Athletes is here for you if you feel like a novice at this work or even intimidated by it. We goty ou covered with classes you can access from your phone, tablet, or computer in the privacy of your home, backyard, hotel room, or office. MYP Athletes has been made with YOU in mind.

Life is meant to be lived feeling good and being your very best from the inside out. Join the team. We are waiting for you.

We’ve been keeping a secret, but in the interest of sharing is caring, we are going to let you in on it. It’s called Miami Sample, and it’s the best thing that has happened to our wardrobe. Miami Sample is an online sample sale site that offers the most incredible sales on top athletic wear brands, think Heroine Sport, Year of Ours, Beach Riot, Koral, APL sneaker and brace yourself because this Thursday, September 9, they are launching Adam Selman Sport at 12PM. There will be sizes ranging from XXS-XXL along with all types of inventory: bras, leggings, hoodies, crop tops, skirts, etc. and at crazy discounts, of course. 

We’ve been shopping the site since its initial launch and finally caught up with the Founder Bree Feibischoff to get the scoop on Miami Sample. 

Miami Sample is the best kept secret (until now). Tell us a bit about how you got started? 

I moved to Miami From NYC in 2019 and found myself flying back to New York for sample sales on weekends. Sample Sales were a part of my daily schedule in NYC and I just couldn't understand how Miami didn’t have them. My background is advertising- I was a copywriter at an agency in New York. I figured, if I’m here with the NYC work ethic, a background in advertising and a cool idea, why not just go for it? I quit my job and decided to go all in on a concept that to me was a no-brainer. Who doesn’t like discounts?

You launched right when COVID shut things down. Did you have to pivot to online or was that always part of the plan?

Online sample sales were never really a thing! My store opened in March of 2020 and had a 2-hour wait to get into the first weekend we opened. After launching with such great momentum and then being told I had to close my doors two weeks later, I knew I had to pivot and make it work online. COVID created an environment where stores were canceling brands’ orders, and it gave a lot of the companies no choice, but to let us do the sales online. Brands didn’t really want to show sample sale prices online, but we got creative with ways of keeping it “exclusive” to our following.

Tell us how the sales work? VIP vs open to the public? 

We are open to the public for over 90% of our sales, but we do have a VIP program, called VICE, which not only grants our VICE members early access to our sales, but gives exclusive invitations to some of our smaller-inventory, high-demand sales.

In addition to the killer activewear and athleisure brands, you also have insane sales on accessories, home décor and top name designers? How do these collabs come to be? 

On the B2B side most of our sales and connections come from word of mouth. We’ve maintained great relationships with our partner brands which not only allows us to host great sales, but leads to most of our new sales which come from referrals. I am super picky with the brands we work with for being such a young company! I think it’s extremely important to work with brands that appeal to our customers and our own brand! I basically study our followers in my down time. What do they like? Who are they? Where are they from? Do they like trends or classics? Where do they vacation? LOL I want to know everything so that I can work with brands that they genuinely love. I’m obsessed with our insta-fam.

Dream sale?

Easy - Golden Goose. Our favorite types of sales are luxury items that most people don't splurge on, so that we can allow them to purchase at affordable price points without going too over their budget.

Tell us about you, Bree:

I’m a total weirdo. I hate water. I don’t sleep. California rolls only at a sushi restaurant. The epitome of unpopular opinions. I work all day long and love every second of it. I hate people that say “if you love what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life” and yet I find myself saying it...all the time. I love to gamble. Let’s play craps!

What’s your favorite way to sweat? 

Any way as long as it’s while working out. And it doesn’t count unless it’s a LOT of sweat. But the second I’m sweating outside of a workout, in hot weather, sauna, meat sweats…. it’s game over. Find me the nearest shower ASAP.

Favorite studio(s)?

Solidcore has changed my body, but Tone House in NYC is where I will always return to if I want to feel humbled.

Favorite instructor’s class? 

Kira Stokes used to have a 90 minute class in NYC on Monday nights that turned into a 2.5 hour class weekly. We were all in it together and the class became a family. I haven’t found that in Miami yet, but you can find me at Solidcore every single day at 8:10 AM. Every instructor is equally successful at torturing me there!

Do you prefer solo workouts or are you more of a sweat-with-a-friend type of active? 

I’m actually a sweat-with-a-rando type of active. I’m so competitive by nature that I like to keep my friends separate from my workouts LOL. But give me a rando on a treadmill next to me at Barry’s and you better believe we will be racing the entire class. Or at least I’ll secretly be racing them.

Favorite healthy place to grab a bite? 

Pura Vida never fails.

How do you take your coffee? 

Often. Like 3 or 4 times a day. Iced with almond milk, no sugar.

What are three things we will never find you without? 

1. Sweatpants
2. My intern who happens to be a mini goldendoodle
3. GUM. I never am not chewing gum!

Anything else you can share with us? 

If you ever see something when you’re shopping that you don’t want to spend the money on, slide into my DM’s. I’ll get you a sample sale. And if you ever find a great workout class in Miami, let me know, I’ll do it with you! Will never turn down a workout class :)

Be sure to follow Miami Sample on Instagram (@miamisample) as they post teasers, flash deals for followers and to stay tuned for the latest upcoming sales. And subscribe to their list online https://miamisample.com. 

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When it comes to shopping for dad, let’s leave gifting him ties a thing of the past. Rather, this Father’s Day, help the male role model in your life look and feel his best with these five gifts that will certainly wow. 

1. Liteboxer

Yes, it’s a splurge, but dad deserves to be in frightening shape. Litboxer is not your ordinary punching bag. This freestanding, lightweight device is a first-of-its-kind fitness platform that provides a heart-pounding, full-body and sensory experience, boxing workout. By combining advanced gaming technology, music, and expert training all-in-one platform, dad will be ready to rumble. Liteboxer costs $1,495 and $29 for the subscription service, Liteboxer.com, @liteboxer

2. Shiatsu Neck & Back Massager

We’re pretty sure at some time in your life you’ve been a pain in dad’s neck. But we’ve found the perfect solution for stress related to nagging kids, work, or stress the body endures from a hard workout. For at-home or on-the-go relief this Shiatsu Massager for Neck and Back features 16 massager nodes that will provide instant relief of aches, knots, and muscle tension. With three strength modes and infrared heat, muscle tension will melt away. $46, Amazon.com 

3. Biography

Not all men are great at taking care of their skin, because let’s be honest, skincare can oftentimes be complicated and overwhelming. Enter Biography Few Words Oil. This luxurious face oil that is cruelty-free, paraben-free, free of fillers, mineral oils, preservatives, alcohol and water protects skin from razor burn, moisturizes itchy and dry skin, prevents ingrown hairs, bumps & nicks, and promotes beard growth. $52, Bazaar Project Coconut Grove, biographynyc.com, @dearbiography

4. Revtown

No dad jeans here. Revtown’s premium jeans are designed with the performance and comfort of athletic pants, but with the look and feel of designer jeans and are touted as “the most comfortable jeans on the planet.” Launched by former Under Armour executives, Revtown allows for shopping by fit as well as by using their online  “digital tailor” sizing tool, which offers 96% accuracy. Stylist and sustainable, 100% of all waste is recycled, and their denim is sustainably dyed using shrimp shells, orange peels, and nutshells – saving energy, water, and using fewer chemicals in the process. Jeans start at $79, Revtownusa.com, @revtown 

5. Mizzen+Main

You got him the jeans, now complete the look with Mizzen + Main, shirts designed to be wrinkle resistant, and featuring four-way stretch and moisture wicking fabric that will have dad looking and feeling cool. You can shop their dress shirts, but we suggest the Leeward Vacation Shirt (Classic or Trim fit) available in Blue and Green Palm Print, as it gives off that Miami vibe. $88,  mizzenandmain.com, @mizzenandmain 

Check out these three Miami-based products to help you get your glow on.

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1. Careen

‍We’re suckers for body oils so when we first heard about Careen’s vegan, plant, and sea-based line with no artificial fragrance and no artificial dyes, we had to check it out. We fell instantly in love with both the Renewing and Illuminating Body oils and have an equal affinity for the body scrubs and body soaks. Launched during the pandemic by Kristen Panebianco, Careen is perfect for soothing skin and detoxing sore muscles as the salt-based products combine Dead Sea, Epsom salt, Himalayan salt, and regular sea salt for deep detoxification.  Plus the packing, shipping, and bottling products are recyclable, and some elements, when noted, are compostable. Going the extra step, Careen also recycles all the waste from making the products and has a composting partnership with Compost for Life Miami for the products that use fresh fruit peels. https://www.careen.us, @careen.us 

2. NĀELI

‍This all-natural skincare company caught our attention with its simple yet chic packaging and “free-off” ingredient list -- free of harsh chemicals, paraben-free, MEA/DEA/TEA free, sulfate-free, dye-free, synthetic fragrance-free, phthalate-free, Dimethicone free, Silicone free resulting in us feeling worry-free about what we’re putting on our skin. The brand name NĀELI means “the truth will be revealed,” and they’ve set out to make the collection clean, effective, and affordable. The standout for us is the  4.25% Retinoid Collagen Night Moisturizer ($26) as its lightweight formula smoothes into the skin and delivers a collagen and elastin boost with its retinol, Hyaluronic Acid, and peptides. Plus the lemongrass scent makes the application a spa-like experience. https://naelinaturals.com, @naelinaturals 

3. CTRL

‍If you have sensitive skin, finding products that are effective yet non-irritating can sometimes be a challenge. Until now. CTRL created a collection of skincare (and some killer lipglosses) that uses effective and natural ingredients that target sensitive skin without feeling “too clinical” and are also affordable. The Rejuvenation Facial Polish uses amber granules to gently exfoliate skin and the honey and vanilla-infused polish is hydrating and soothing on the skin and the senses. And since there is no avoiding our hot, humid summers, the Paradise Smooth Moisturizing Gel, will be your new BFF. This oil-free formula is extremely lightweight, instantly absorbs, and doesn't leave you feeling greasy. It helps to minimize pores while keeping skin hydrated with botanical antioxidants like Snow Algae, Vitamin A-rich Cloudberry, and Caffeine, which also work to revive dull skin, support collagen and boost skin defenses. https://ctrlcosmetics.com, @ctrlcosmetic