wellness

Lynn Loves - Beauty

Written & Photographed by A Wild Dove

Welcome to Dove Loves.

Here you’ll find Lynn’s definitive guide to what she’s loving at this very moment. Consider them her favorites du jour - the holy grail of items she’s coveting, researching, talking about, obsessing over - the products across all categories she’s deemed can’t-live-without-worthy and needs to share with you right now. Each month we’ll be bringing you these Dove Loves straight from Lynn herself.

Consider them tried, tested and approved directly from the source of all things A Wild Dove.  Up first? BEAUTY

NATURA  BISSE C+ C  BODY CREAM

“I love this cream for firming and tightening,” says Lynn. “It’s chock full of Vitamin C and the results are amazing. I really see a difference. I’m kind of obsessed with the smell too. And the orange bottle, well, it just makes me happy. It’s a perfect day cream since it’s not too heavy, but still leaves me feeling hydrated.”

LEGOLOGY AIR-LITE

“Hands down my favorite. I can’t live without this product. It smoothes, firms, tightens. It does it all. It also comes in a smaller tube, which is perfect for traveling, since I definitely can not leave home without it.”

 

AGENT NATEUR & SHIVA ROSE HOLI (ROSE) - Nº4 DEODORANT

“I have tried so many natural deodorants and this is the only one that really really works. I love the original scent too, but the Shiva Rose Holi (Rose) is my favorite. I have never really liked rose products, but this one converted me and I’ve recently bought a bunch of other rose products (I’ll be sharing those soon).”

THE NUE CO (DEBLOAT FOOD AND PREBIOTIC)

“It’s magic. It’s a mix of ginger, cinnamon, turmeric and brown rice protein and because it’s food based, it really works from the inside out.

I use it every morning by adding it to my smoothie, mixed with all my Sun Potions and Super Elixir. This product does exactly what it says it does - debloats. It’s anti-inflammatory, so it really calms your stomach.”

JOANNA VARGAS REJUVENATING SERUM

“This product leaves my skin feeling instantly hydrated and so refreshed.  I love the way my skin feels and looks - so dewy! The scent is also a heavenly blend of Argan, Neroli & Olive Oil, which I love. I use it every morning and evening and I mix it with my other serums. I use less in the morning since it’s more oil based but in the evening I load up for night time rejuvenation.”

SHOP THE STORY

Natura Bisse C+C Body Cream | Legolgy Air-Lite | AGENT NATEUR & SHIVA ROSE HOLI (ROSE) - Nº4 DEODORANT

THE NUE CO (DEBLOAT FOOD AND PREBIOTIC) | JOANNA VARGAS REJUVENATING SERUM

Beauty Rituals - Erika Bloom

Written by Erika Bloom & Photographed by A Wild Dove

 

She’s a mama, Founder of Erika Bloom Pilates, a wellness practitioner and member of our Flock. If that weren’t enough, Erika Bloom does it all with a glow that emanates from the inside out. She’s the embodiment of the lifestyle she touts - one of all natural, organic living, from her food to her shampoo. We asked Erika to talk through her beauty rituals with the hope that we’ll maybe get her glow. Read on below.

Our inner health and happiness is reflected in the glow of our skin, the strength of our hair, our expression. My primary focus in my beauty routine is good sleep, low stress and clean eating.  I complement this with skin and hair care rituals encompassing beautiful, luxurious, natural products. I absolutely love the experience of moving through the many steps of cleansing, treating and hydrating.

I choose my products starting from the premise that I would never put something on the outside that I wouldn’t put inside. We absorb the products we use through our skin. Essentially, if I wouldn’t eat it, it doesn’t go in my beauty cabinet. Luckily, there are so many amazing, effective products that satisfy this.

My days are busy. I’m always moving, whether it be exercising, teaching clients or playing with my two children, so throughout I need to refresh my hair and skin. I add smoothness to my hair with Kapuluan Raw Organic Coconut Oil. I tone my face with Tammy Fender Essential C Tonic. I hydrate and give my face a dewy glow with either Herbivore Rose Hibiscus Coconut Water Hydrating Mist or Tata Harper Hydrating Floral Essence.

Natural deodorant is a must. Going from a chemical anti-perspirant to a pure product can be a hard transition but if you manage odor with clean eating and low stress and find the natural deodorant that works with your body chemistry, then you’ll find success. For me it’s Agent Nateur’s holi (stick). It goes on clear and keeps me fresh.

True Botanicals Hydrating Cleanser | Tata Harper Rejuvenating Serum | Tammy Fender Essential C Tonic

My nightly face routine starts with cleansing with True Botanicals Hydrating Cleanser. It naturally hydrates with oils while still removing makeup and impurities. It has been amazing for preventing breakouts without drying out my skin. In the morning I start by toning with Tammy Fender Essential C Tonic. Aloe, Green Tea, Vitamin C, Ginseng and Bergamot restore and feed my skin.

Next is a facial mist. The ritual of surrounding myself in a cloud of essential oils is so calming and centering. It also treats the skin and preps it to absorb my serums. I use the Nutrient Mist from True Botanicals. It contains algae extract to replenish and kombucha to restore balance.

My favorite serum (and desert island product) is Tata Harper's Rejuvenating Serum. I can wake up puffy and creased, put this on and look like my best self pretty instantly. It’s packed with effective natural ingredients that improve tone, texture and lines. I love how it feels and smells and how it works under makeup.

Last, I dab on a facial oil. Right now I’m using Suti’s Rejuvenate Organic Face Oil. It’s chock full of amazing ingredients including rosehip seed oil, evening primrose oil, argan oil, sandalwood, frankincense and neroli. It adds glow for day and deep balancing hydration for night. The essential oils lift my mood and help me sleep.

Fearless Tray by Alexandra Von Frustenberg

A few times a week I take the time for a mask. Herbivore’s Brighten mask improves the color and clarity of my skin. Josh Rosebrook’s Cacao mask is genius at clearing and shrinking pores. The beauty of using natural products is that they don’t just make the skin look better, they actually make it healthier. Many chemical products coat the skin to make it appear smooth but they aren’t actually improving quality or truly hydrating. It makes me feel good to choose things that are good for my insides and outside and that really work.

Herbivore Brighten Mask | Josh Rosebrook Cacao Antioxidant Mask

My body and hair routine is rooted in the same natural principles as my face care. Pre-shower I dry brush with gloves for skin exfoliation and improvement of lymph flow and circulation. I wash and condition my hair with products from John Masters Organics, Rahua and Innersense. Then I use a leave in conditioner from Innersense. It leaves my hair smooth with a beach-y wave. Post-shower I hydrate and nourish my skin with Tammy Fender Bulgarian Lavender Body Oil. Lavender essential oil is so calming for me and I love its subtle scent.

If I need to transition to an after work meeting or event, I add lift to my hair with Rahua Voluminous Dry Shampoo and add scent with LURK oil or Tata Harper Love Potion. They smell amazing and enhance my mood and health with pure essential oils.

The self-care component of using these products is such a part of my wellbeing. I am so grateful to these amazing brands for creating products that are so pure, so effective and so beautiful. And because my products are natural and non-toxic, I can snuggle and hug my children knowing that they are being exposed to healthy ingredients as well.  

Tammy Fender Bulgarian Lavender Body Oil | Agent Nateur holi (stick) Natural Deodorant | Tata Harper Love Potion | Lurk Perfume Oil | Rahua Voluminous Dry Shampoo | Innersense Sweet Spirit Leave In Conditioner | Kapuluan Raw Organic Coconut Oil

FIND OUT MORE

WWW.ERIKABLOOMPILATES.COM | Instagram @erikabloompilates

As modern mamas living in the over information age, (where everyone is an expert and parenting opinions are shared as freely and easily as an Instagram post) it can be tough to filter through the white noise to find the facts. Naturally, we’d love to consider ourselves wise in all sorts of ways, but the truth is sometimes we’re scrawling SOS in the sand. Good thing we’ve got the guidance and expertise of our own personal rockstars: the people who inspire us on the daily. Our rockstars (our flock) are enthusiasts, professionals and influencers in the fields of wellness, travel, education, style—the list goes on. Each one brings a profoundly different perspective to the table, one informed by their own experiences and outlooks. And that perspective is priceless. They say it takes a village…we say it takes a flock.

The Circle Game

Written by A Wild Dove | Photographed by Mel Blanchard

As a doula and spiritual counselor, Paula Mallis is aware of the transformative power that comes with helping women bring life into the world. So she decided to create a space for all women to serve as the physical embodiment of the birthing work she had been doing. The result is WMN Space, a conscious space for women to gather in service to their own healing. The intention of WMN Space is to support women, wherever they are on their journey through classes on women’s health, body work, therapy, spiritual counseling and workshops.

The space has resonated with women, not just near the Culver City abode, but all over Southern California. Her evening moon circles are known to draw a crowd from all over Los Angeles and beyond. We sat down with Paula, where she talked about her journey, these sacred circles and why self love is the best kind of love.

 

Can you describe your journey into becoming a Doula and opening WMN?

My journey into birth Doula work began as I was preparing for my own pregnancy. I found out I was pregnant the day before my Doula training began and the rest is history. After holding space for women in my home for over three years I felt called to take the work I was doing at home out into the world. That was the beginning of the creation of WMN SPACE. I was completely guided to create a space not only for pregnant women and mothers but for all women in service to their unique journey and healing.

We often ask people about their "trigger moments." It sounds like your pregnancy and the birth of your daughter had a lot to do with it for you. Can you share that experience with us?

Pregnancy and all of its shifts and challenges brought up in me a lot of triggers, but through my spiritual journey I was gifted the awareness that the triggers were all an opportunity for personal growth and healing. Once I shifted my perspective, my relationship towards pregnancy and birth began to change inwardly and outwardly, which allowed me the space for a transformational experience.

That makes a lot of sense. Your classes are very diverse in nature and age. How did you hone or curate the offerings for WMN Space? There must have been a lot to choose from in LA.

My intention is for all offerings at WMN SPACE to be fully in alignment with the intention of WMN SPACE. Offerings that are authentic, grounding and accessible to all women, wherever they are on their own journey.

What do you hope women will take from their sessions at WMN space that maybe they're not getting elsewhere?

I hope what women experience is more in connection to the authenticity to who they are. Feeling inspired, supported and empowered.

It must be difficult managing it all - a family, a business and now a new space...AND you give so much of you in your work. How do you do it?

SELF CARE!!!!! I have to put my self care and spiritual practice first. When I do that, I feel I can do it all without burning out.

Yes! Totally. So we love the idea of your Women's Circle's. Can you tell us more about it?

The Women's Circles are an opportunity to come together connect and share our experiences while practicing non-judgmental observation of ourselves and each other in a sacred safe space.

OK, now for the personal stuff. What is your favorite family ritual?

Morning breakfast and setting intentions for the day!

Speaking of, what's the first thing you do in the morning?

I wish I could say meditate. Sometimes that gets pushed back to the school parking lot after drop off, but on the weekends, meditate.

What's the last book you read with your daughter?

Little Bear :)

Love that one. And what's something most people don't know about conscious living or healing that would surprise them?

Conscious living is not for hippies! I think people think to live an aware or spiritual life it's about yoga poses or meditating for hours on end. To me living a conscious life is being "aware" and conscious of our choices, thoughts, actions and behaviors inwardly and outwardly.

What makes you fly?

LOVE

FIND OUT MORE

WWW.WMNSPACE.COM | 10764 Washington Blvd. 2nd Floor Culver City, LA | 310 570 9492

Jungle Cubs

Written & Photographed by A Wild Dove

As adults, we all often crave yoga - whether for exercise, circulation or taking a pause in our everyday lives. But what about children? Surely they too can benefit from the practice in ways we may have never imagined.

Except Eda Ozmen did. She has been teaching yoga to children for the last few years after realizing that her passion for the practice and teaching kids could be united. Eda first got her 200-hour teaching training at Down Dog Yoga in DC and immediately knew she wanted to share the practice with kids. She then attended a children's teacher training through a non profit program in Washington DC called YoKids before moving to New York. Now she is at one of our favorite yoga studios, the newly expanded Lyons Den Power Yoga, where she started the Power Cubs program last year with children ages 2-12 years old. Eda also is a certified corporate wellness specialist, bringing mindful and well being practices to the workplace.

We sat down with Eda to get the lowdown on downward dogging with the mini-set.

What do the children experience in the Power Cubs program?

At the Lyons Den, we teach kids the importance of developing healthy habits, how to pay attention and focus, as well as, to have compassion for themselves and others.

Power Cubs teaches the tools and principles of yoga in a way that is fun and accessible to children. We cultivate each student’s awareness of thoughts, emotions, body sensations, the surrounding environment and kindness to others.

Why is yoga so important and beneficial for kids?

The practices of yoga and mindfulness offer rich experiences that can profoundly impact the lives of young people by redirecting their energy in a positive way. Yoga provides a set of tools to cultivate a wide variety of experiences in mind-body awareness, self-regulation and physical fitness. Yoga at an early age creates positive health implications into adulthood, like  strength, flexibility, balance, coordination, focus, concentration, discipline, creativity, teamwork and a deeper connection to self and others.

What's the the best part about teaching kids?

The best part about teaching kids is experiencing how present and engaged they can be. I see that kids are more in tune with their feelings and emotions while practicing yoga (especially when I see them completely still in final resting pose), which has given me a whole new outlook on my own yoga practice.

 

What does teaching children teach you?

Teaching children is a lot harder than I imagined, but also extremely rewarding!

I have definitely learned to be more patient and mindful in my own actions and attention overall. Teaching them has taught me to practice without judgement, be present in the moment, not take life so seriously, and most importantly...to have fun!

The kids challenge me at times, but they’re also able to bring out the best in me.

Can you tell us about the philosophy behind Little Flowers 5 Elements?

In each class, I use the teaching model from Little Flowers 5 Elements of Yoga and Mindfulness: Connect, Breath, Move, Focus and Relax.

We play games, do coordination exercises and different activities that focus on the 5 elements below - 

 

CONNECT

 Connect activities foster connections for children internally and externally. They help students make sense of their own emotional experiences and also ground them in an awareness of their environment and the needs of others.

BREATHE

The breath is one of our most powerful tools for self determination, and teaching children that they have some control over their own emotional and energetic state is an empowering lesson.

Gaining control of the breath in a safe way can be extremely beneficial in helping children regulate their emotions and energy level.

MOVE

Yoga poses may be used in a variety of ways as tools to channel student's energy, improve their health, build their confidence and for many other purposes. A central tenet of our program is that no child will ever be forced or pressured into any posture that they feel uncomfortable with for any reason. The emphasis in our movement practice is on exploration, not competition.

FOCUS

Children are often asked to focus and rarely taught how.

Our focus activities are designed to allow children the capacity to experiment with what it means to focus and repeated practice noticing when their mind wanders and bringing it back to the task at hand.

RELAX

All students of any age will benefit from learning to relax and restore. Our children are exposed to an overwhelming amount of sensory stimulation,  chronically sleep deprived and generally have no idea how to calm themselves down. Relax activities provide the opportunity to rest both the body and the mind.

 

Eda's Vest & Leggings by Outdoor Voices

Callum's Vest & Shorts by The Animals Observatory

FIND OUT MORE

Power Cubs at Lyons Den Power Yoga | 279 CHURCH STREET, 3RD FLOOR, NYC | 646 490 8888

On International Women’s Day, We Celebrate The Class

Written by Lynn Levoy | Photographed by Jaimie Baird

I kept hearing so much about The Class that I just knew in my gut I would love it. That was two and a half years ago. I still remember how after first trying it out, I could hear Taryn’s voice inside my head all day. I realized then that this was more than just a “workout.” It was a an emotional and spiritual endeavor, which was exactly what I needed. And I haven’t looked back since.

I had always been a big runner and loved the gym, where I could spend hours. But after Callum was born, I had to be more efficient on every level. The Class is therapy. It allows me to approach my day stronger in every way - myself, my family, my friends, my business. It’s the only exercise that gives me that same running high and even more. It’s where in my voice, in my yelling, screaming, I can release. But just as importantly, Taryn’s words resonate with me. They empower me. As a woman and a mama, I value a space with no judgement and a community where we support and build each other up. After doing The Class regularly, I can see a difference in my everyday life. It gives me strength and forces me to look at all aspects of my life that needed change. And to boot, I can do Burpees for six minutes. Thank you TT!

The Class now has a new home, a recently opened studio in Tribeca. In partnership with interior designer Elizabeth Kohn of Elizabeth Kohn Design, as well as, interior designer and crystal healer, Rashia Bell, Taryn created a zen space featuring gorgeous marble slabs, flickering candles and pink-gray finishes. It’s a sublime gem set in the craziness of New York, where the cleansing, calming scent of Palo Santo wafts as you ascend the staircase.

Follow it to the third floor, to a sanctuary of calm with a soft palette of crystals everywhere! They’re even set into the floor to clear energy and renew balance and confidence. Moving through The Class on top of tourmaline, hematite, clear quartz, amethyst and rose quartz enhances the practice and cleanses. There’s also The Shop - a beautifully curated selection of must-have's like The Airelume Jewelry By Taryn Toomey, Moon Juice Dusts, Cinnamon Projects Incense Sets, Joanna Vargas SkinCare, Sun Potion Adaptogens, Smoke Perfume Essential Oils and bkr Water Bottles.

I am so inspired by Taryn and her teachers. I asked Courtney Deri, Lindsay Tyson and Jaycee Gossett to sound off on why The Class is so powerful and what inspires them.

How does The Class foster community among women?

Courtney - “What I believe The Class does, is gives us the complete freedom to express, explore wherever we are at on any given day. I think it creates the realization that we all have our baggage and are suffering in one way or another. That we all need to RELEASE that weight.”

Jaycee - “Our company culture is one of acceptance, equality and generosity of spirit. In addition to lengthening and strengthening the physical body, The Class method itself provides a mindful opportunity for deep cathartic release. We use movement and sound to witness and process intense emotions - this deep connection to self creates a doorway for one to connect outwardly in community. We bond in the self-strengthening process that occurs in that room.”

Lindsay - “Regardless of where we're coming from, we as women have more in common then we often realize. As I step into The Class again and again, I am beginning to see and feel and know that my pain, my joy and my healing is my own and that there is also so much commonality between what I'm feeling and what other women in the room are feeling.”

Courtney Deri

How does this workout speak to women?

Courtney - “It’s the ability to find and use sound to access your voice which is extremely empowering. Personally, I find it a lot easier to stand up for myself and speak up in times, where I would have used to just keep my mouth shut and suppress. It has been a game changer. I think it shows women how capable we are when we actually put our mind and energy towards something and to not let any type of label or preconception hold us back. The opportunities are ENDLESS.”  

Jaycee - “I think as women we can identify with other women's experiences and the idea that we know we are not alone in that room together or alone in our human journey is very comforting. To know we are all going through the exact same challenges, celebrations and changes creates a deep sense of humanity and community.”

Lindsay - “So many women (myself included) spend so much energy trying to look and act in a way that fulfills some nebulous idea about what it means to be female. We should be attractive but not intimidating; smart but yielding; opinionated but polite. It is often suggested to women that perhaps we should stay small - that making waves and making noise and going after what we want without apologizing is unsafe and unladylike. When we come to The Class, we are asked to pay attention to what we are feeling and we realize that our well of emotions runs deep and that so much of what we are feeling has been with us for a long time and is related to our desire to check all the right boxes.”

Jaycee Gossett

your favorite moment in class ?

Courtney - “I have so many moments that I am so in love with. But I would have to say my ultimate favorite is, right after the climax of the class, (where you are invited to run the sh*t out of your legs and make A LOT of sound) , and right before we move into the 'Heart Clearing.' There is such a beautiful moment of softness, of quiet, of vulnerability and rawness in the space. I tear up almost every time.”

Jaycee - “My favorite moment? Every moment of the 6,500 seconds.”

Lindsay - “My favorite moment in class is three-quarters into the first song. That give me enough time to get into my body, to build heat and then to see what's going on physically, mentally and emotionally. Even if I'm feeling rough, as I get into my body and my stuff, I can feel that I'm on the precipice of some kind of shift. To me, that feels simultaneously thrilling and like a relief.”

Lindsay Tyson

what inspires you ?

Courtney - “ALL the emotions, love, music, Buddhism, The Class by Taryn Toomey's community, anyone who at one point thought they couldn't and then they did.”

Jaycee -  “Everything. Living, experiencing, breathing, music, dancing, all of it. I am constantly marveled by the world around me and in me. I mean it's all pretty surreal isn't it?”

Lindsay - “I'm inspired by the women who teach The Class. And no one is suggesting that I say that! But this is a team of women who are committed to showing up, doing the work, laughing, dancing, crying and supporting each other. The Class is such a weird and wonderful journey and the women who I teach with are full of courage, humor, compassion and strength. Without them nudging me forward down this path, I'd have run away a thousand times.”

What makes you fly ?

Courtney - “Holding space for others to explore themselves and their process, to see the breakthroughs and to celebrate them after. It's truly ecstasy for me. Also a good belly laugh or an ugly cry.”

Jaycee - “Music blasting, body moving, deep breathing and lots and lots and lots of sweat.”

Lindsay - “A really good laugh - one that makes me clutch my belly and tear up - makes me feel like I'm flying. For these moments of flight, I rely on my mom, my sister and my dearest friends.”

 

FIND OUT MORE

www.Taryntoomey.com

Calm Your Chemistry

Written by Erika Bloom & Photographed by A Wild Dove

Balancing stress is vital in the path to creating healthy lives for ourselves and our children. Stress is a chemical cascade in the body caused by mental or physical demands. Therefore this balance begins and ends with addressing the pharmacy already inside of our bodies.

Our stress hormone, cortisol, regulates and modulates many of the changes that occur in the body in response to stresses. Produced by our adrenals, it ensures homeostasis and many other functions that contribute to our bodies feeling good, looking good, and thriving. Its wide ranging influences include immune responses, blood sugar levels, blood pressure, inflammatory responses, metabolism and central nervous system function. The level of “stress” that we are experiencing in any given moment, regardless of the stressor, has to do with the amount of cortisol created by our bodies.

While it is one of nature’s most brilliant achievements, the hormone is now being called to manage all forms of stress for which it was never designed, from an argument with your spouse or child, to a malfunction of your computer. It is activated so often that the body does not always have a chance to return to normal. This can lead to health problems resulting from too much circulating cortisol and/or from too little cortisol if the adrenal glands become chronically fatigued. Abnormal cortisol levels can make you tired, fat, sick, and depressed.

Our focus on regular, moderate exercise and healthy eating can be undermined by not managing stress. Every choice we make informs the direction of our nervous system and our corresponding cortisol levels. Everything from how we think, to the quality of our sleep, to the people we surround ourselves with, matters. Inversely, physical stressors, such as aggressive exercise and unhealthy eating habits can cause us more stress.

However your stress is brought on, chronically marshaling extra energy for the immune fight or flight response tends to undermine your overall health and vitality. As a mom, I know that my stress level affects my children both in how I engage with them and how they respond. Our children feel our stress, regardless of how we are behaving, and it can affect their ability to learn and feel good.

Every moment you spend with your child, you are either stimulating healthy chemicals in your child’s body and brain, or you are stimulating unhealthy stress chemistry. Moms and dads can sometimes unintentionally cause an increase in their child’s unhealthy stress chemicals, which can contribute to learning, behaviour or mood problems. Therefore, reducing your stress level and increasing the healthy chemistry flowing through your body and brain is a major parenting responsibility.

There are many healthy rituals we can instate as a family to help manage stress. When it comes to creating a balanced, mindful life for ourselves and families, the question becomes “What are we prioritizing?” For my own family, I have daily rituals and tools on hand to help us slow down, find moments of calm, and bring us back into balance.

 
 
 

 

 

Tone up and tune in with conscious, challenging movement you enjoy to help lower your cortisol, blood pressure, and heart rate. 

 

 

Practices such as Pilates, yoga, walking, and swimming help you  connect your body to your breath. With these disciplines, you’re working smarter not harder to strengthen and align the body, as you effectively calm the mind.

 

Sleeping and waking at the same time every day is ideal. Aim for at least 7 hours.

Experiment with a digital detox before bed. Remove all electronics from your room and limit your exposure to blue light in the evening. Create a bedtime routine for the family to transition into relaxation and a sweeter slumber. Brush teeth, put on pajamas in a natural fabric, place a drop of lavender essential oil on the soles of your and your children's feet and give them a foot massage, and read relaxing books.

Let thy food be thy medicine.

Start your day with a big breakfast such as eggs, spinach, avocado, and a piece of gluten free toast. Eat regular meals throughout the day to balance your blood sugar. Swap stimulating coffee for green smoothies or Tulsi (Holy Basil) tea for its calming effects. Moderate your alcohol, dairy, gluten, and refined sugar.

 
 

Negative thoughts or imagined threats can have the same harmful impact as real threats. By turning moments of stress into calm responses, we are able to recognize that we are the chooser of our thoughts. Instead of our usual stress reactions, we can start to move in a direction of elegance and positivity.

Take time daily to list what you're grateful for.

 

Think about what brings you pleasure and find even just a few minutes a day to set aside time for you.

Take a break to drink tea, meditate, chat with friends or organize your desk. Try techniques such as dry-brushing, hot epsom salt baths, acupuncture and massage. They help to increase blood flow and stimulate dopamine to lower cortisol.

NurtureYourSpirit.png
 
 

Spend time with family. Activities like cuddling, reading books. singing songs, listening to music, free movement, dance parties, art projects, cooking and playing with pets all stimulate feelings of happiness. 

Be creative. Every time you laugh with your kids, play a fun game or participate in an entertaining activity, you are stimulating neurochemicals that improve your children’s ability to be happy.  

 
 

Also, spending time outdoors has the power to heal and restore us. When we walk through nature, breathe fresh air, and take in Vitamin D, we feel calmer as it boosts our sense of wellness and supports the immune system. In fact, in Japan, it’s called “forest bathing.” Head out and explore, even if you're in an urban setting. Getting out early in the morning even helps reset healthy circadian patterns.

As modern mamas living in the over information age, (where everyone is an expert and parenting opinions are shared as freely and easily as an Instagram post) it can be tough to filter through the white noise to find the facts. Naturally, we’d love to consider ourselves wise in all sorts of ways, but the truth is sometimes we’re scrawling SOS in the sand. Good thing we’ve got the guidance and expertise of our own personal rockstars: the people who inspire us on the daily. Our rockstars (our flock) are enthusiasts, professionals and influencers in the fields of wellness, travel, education, style—the list goes on. Each one brings a profoundly different perspective to the table, one informed by their own experiences and outlooks. And that perspective is priceless.

They say it takes a village…we say it takes a flock.

 

Spaced Out Skincare

Written & Photographed by A Wild Dove

Beam us up Scotty, because we’re taking a trip to space - Space NK, that is. Yes, we are talking about the go-to beauty boutique for insiders, professionals and product junkies like ourselves.

Brands upon brands of luxury creams, fabulous color cosmetics and top haircare products. We recently hung out at Space NK’s new Brooklyn outpost, where we basically felt like kids in a candy shop, since our version of candy is primers, glosses, shimmer sticks and hair oils. The store is clean, chic, well-lit and so warm and inviting. Plus, with its prime Williamsburg location, it makes it even easier to shop from whichever side of the river you’re on.

Space’s beauty gurus just released their spring edit - a powerful mix of products like amazing highlighters by Kevyn Aucoin, the ultimate eyelash curler by Surratt and the most glam mascara by Rodial . They also carry the super exclusive Byredo line, ONLY available at the BK-NK (got that one?) and in their San Francisco boutique. We added a bit of our faves to theirs, for the must-shop list for Spring that will have you looking photo-ready.  

 
 
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Relevée Lash Curler by Suratt Beauty | Lash Dance Mascara by Smith & Cult | Glamolash Mascara XXL by Rodial | The Neo-Limelight by Kevyn Aucoin | The Neo-Highlighter by Kevyn Aucoin | The Neo Powder Brush by Kevyn Aucoin | Surreal Skin Foundation Wand by Suratt Beauty | Lipstick Chess by Lipstick Queen | The Expert Lip Color by Kevyn Aucoin

 
 

Regenerating Cleanser by Tata Harper | Elixir Vitae Serum by Tata Harper | Ultramoor Mud Mask by Omorovicza | Phytoactive Anti-aging Cream by Royal Fern | Neck & Decolletage Treatment By 37 Extreme Actives | Cucumber Balancing Elixir by Kat Burki

Tracie Martyn Shakti Resculpting Body Cream | Tata Harper Revitalizing Body Oil | Malin + Goetz Peppermint Body Scrub | Ren Moroccan Rose Otto Sugar Body Polish | Kat Burki Hand Therapy

 

Gold Lust Repair & Restore Shampoo and Conditioner by Oribe | Volume Powder by Sachajuan | Voluminous Shampoo and Conditioner by

Rahua | Hair Oil by Quai | Extreme Caviar Scalp Mask by Miriam Quevedo

 

 

SpaceNK Apothecary Brooklyn

Hair Affair - Ryan AUSTIN

Written & Photographed by A Wild Dove

For a small town guy, Ryan Austin has made it BIG. Perhaps that’s why celebrities and musicians from Lorde to Icona Pop to Johnny Weir and Macy Gray trust him with their most precious strands. He’s gracious, funny and humble. The hairstylist got his start the way so many do, in an all-female family where he was resident hair stylist before proms, trips to the mall and other social outings.

He grew up in Dunmore, PA and soon enrolled in beauty school, after which he hightailed it to New York City and then worked for some of the most illustrious names in hair (think Oscar Blandi and Sally Hershberger). Now as a stylist at Cutler Salon in Soho and Williamsburg, he works on shoots with mags ranging from Vogue to GQ to Nylon and with the world’s top photographers like Terry Richardson, Sophie Elgort and Mary Ellen Matthews. We sat down with Ryan to chat Olsen hair, Beyonce break dancing and the products he’s currently loving - 

So we are obviously obsessed with your work. Can you describe your journey and how you ended up doing hair?

From a very young age I was obsessed with fashion magazines, models and musicians. Edgy and powerful women like Madonna, Kate Moss and the Spice Girls all had a role in impacting my obsession with hair and fashion. What I most admired about these particular women was their ability to constantly switch up their looks so effortlessly, especially their hair. On top of this, I grew up with two sisters at home so I was constantly exercising my obsession by cutting and styling them for proms, weddings or just for fun. I even styled my sister for her homecoming ceremony. She won, obviously.

Obviously! Did you always know that's what you wanted to do?

Yes, I love being able to help someone change up their look or vibe with a simple haircut. Making someone feel great about themselves, more confident or sexier is so rewarding. A great haircut or style can truly change a person’s life.

We can speak from experience that it DEFINITELY can! How would you describe your philosophy on hair?

My philosophy is that hair shouldn’t be stressful, it should always be fun and bring you confidence that leave you feeling renewed. So, I would say don’t be afraid to take risks, build a solid relationship with your hairstylist and have fun. Period.

Yes! Period. And how do you stay balanced in this crazy industry?

I try to choose hobbies that help me clear my head. I try to switch it up all the time, so some days I’ll go to boxing or a figure drawing class which I really enjoy. Every now and then a Beyoncè dance class can be fun.

 

Who has the best hair, either now or in history?

So many good ones but I'd say top 5 would be Cher, Mary Kate Olsen, Anna Wintour, Kristen Stewart, Chelo Alonso and Louise Brooks.

Mary Kate! Yassss. Ok, so...what would your hip hop name be?

I heard that your hip hop name is if you put LIL in front of the last thing you ate so I guess mine would be Lil' Smoothie.

Ha! I guess we’d be Lil' Kale. Does that work? And what's your favorite app?

I'm really into music so I'd say Spotify or Shazam. I recently downloaded Meitu, it's an app that turns you into an anime character! I'm obsessed. Also Uber is important.

So fun, must try Meitu! Lastly, what makes you fly?

Traveling outside the country makes me the happiest…

 

See below for Ryan’s favorite products of the moment -

Sachajuan Salt Spray - “For for someone with ultra soft hair, this product is super light and build-able. I love to spray it into a messy ponytail or topknot.”

Sachajuan Leave-in - Conditioner - “It’s the ultimate leave-in conditioner! It's great for super dry and staticky winter hair. I use this for every type of hair from super coarse to very fine thin hair.”

Redken Powder Grip - “Perfect for that little added texture in the crown. This product gives you that next day hair look.”

FATBOY Shampoo and Conditioner - “This combo is a perfect shampoo and conditioner. It smells great, it's sulfate, paraben and gluten free. It also protects hair color from sun damage and is keratin safe. And it's made and packaged in Brooklyn!”

Harry Josh Hot Tools -  “ I use these tools everyday!! The curling iron has a detachable clamp and can be turned into a curling wand and the flat iron’s ceramic plates create the shiniest hair you can ever imagine. Best in the game.”

Amika Blow Dryer -  “It’s super light and easy to use. It’s also really modern looking, which I like.”

Sachajuan Sea Salt Spray | Sachajuan Leave -in Conditioner | Redken Power Grip | Fatboy Shampoo | Fatboy Conditioner | Harry Josh Hot Tools | Amika Blow Dryer

To FIND OUT MORE Contact

RYAN AUSTIN WWW.RYANAUSTINHAIR.COM | INSTAGRAM @ryaustinhair

As modern mamas living in the over information age, (where everyone is an expert and parenting opinions are shared as freely and easily as an Instagram post) it can be tough to filter through the white noise to find the facts. Naturally, we’d love to consider ourselves wise in all sorts of ways, but the truth is sometimes we’re scrawling SOS in the sand. Good thing we’ve got the guidance and expertise of our own personal rockstars: the people who inspire us on the daily. Our rockstars (our flock) are enthusiasts, professionals and influencers in the fields of wellness, travel, education, style—the list goes on. Each one brings a profoundly different perspective to the table, one informed by their own experiences and outlooks. And that perspective is priceless.

They say it takes a village…we say it takes a flock.

Smart Cookie

Written & Photographed by A Wild Dove

As Mamas, Valentine’s Day takes on an entirely different meaning. Of course we love to shower our partners with love and affection, but it’s really all about the kids. So what to get your lil’ ones whose main goal in life is obtaining their next dessert? Enter Eleni’s Bakery, a sweets shop that offers a wealth of adorable, kid-friendly (and nut-free BTW) options. 

If you’re into monogramming, you can have your child’s face plastered on a sugar cookie or cupcake. Or for a fun, Valentine’s Day activity, opt for the fun “Color Me” cookies in dinosaur, butterfly or heart shapes, they’ll love the edible ink. If your preteens are already hashtag #obsessed with Instagram, pick them up the love emoji shaped treats. You can even design your own cookies. There is seemingly nothing this amazing cookie and cupcake purveyor can’t do, and they offer same day delivery in New York City for all you procrastinating Romeos.

Callum and Lucas are huge fans of Eleni’s. This Valentine’s Day, follow along with them as they bite into love, one delicious cookie at a time.

 
 
 

All Clothes by Trico Field

Lynn Loves

Written & Photographed by A Wild Dove

To us, being sexy isn’t just about wearing head-to-toe lingerie and a three-inch stiletto (though it certainly can be). We love carving out small opportunities to feel sexy and beautiful everyday, even during the most banal of moments...like getting out of the bath or finishing a super intense workout.

So while we don’t need a designated day to be “sexy,” we can still use February 14th as an excuse to elevate our sex appeal with a few simple items. Be it for the body, the home, the wardrobe or for our own self love...here are some of our favorite gifts to steer us in the direction of love all around, this Valentine’s Day.

Shoes by Saint Laurent | Lace Cuffs by Aurelie Bidermann | Rose Moon Sea Salts by Shiva Rose | Room Scent in Tabaco by Coqui Coqui | Eat Beautiful by Wendy Rowe | Invincible Living by Guru Jagat | The Body Book by Cameron Diaz | Red Socks by Vetements | Cade 26 Candle by Le Labo

Mama Said - Eva Alexandridis

Written & Photographed by A Wild Dove

What on earth could a plastic surgeon have in common with astronauts?
Not much, we would assume. Well, fortunately for our skin, Dr. Yannis Alexandridis realized quite a bit.

When the London-based plastic surgeon started his practice, he couldn’t find skincare that would help heal his patients’ skin effectively following cosmetic procedures. In continuing his research, he found that skin ages faster in space due to environmental extremes and sought to collaborate with scientists responsible for astronauts’ well-being. Enter 111 Skin, a performance-driven skincare line that uses a special patented formula in its highly coveted, sell-out serums, masks and creams that we are obsessed with.

Speaking of obsession, Dr. Alexandridis’ wife Eva, who runs the business side of 111 Skin, is an inspiration in her own right. She’s hip, global and is the perfect physical manifestation of what space-age skincare can do. Not to mention, she’s a Mama balancing it all. We sat down with Eva to chat work, skincare and how she puts family first.

CAN YOU TALK US THROUGH HOW IT OCCURRED TO YOU TO CONNECT SKINCARE WITH ASTRONAUTS? A SEEMINGLY UNLIKELY CONNECTION, NO?

Your skin ages faster in space because of environmental extremes. For that reason, Dr. Alexandridis sought to collaborate with space scientists responsible for the well-being of astronauts. Our aims were essentially the same – creating a formula to protect, repair, prevent aging and nourish the skin. The key ingredient in our NAC Y² formula, N-Cystine, is an essential amino acid given to astronauts to delay damage from environmental extremes and radiation.

WOW. OK THAT MAKES SENSE. WHAT WAS IT LIKE COLLABORATING WITH SPACE SCIENTISTS? CAN YOU GIVE US A PEEK INTO THAT INITIAL CONVERSATION?

It was very exciting. It was great to work with an extremely talented and a knowledgeable group of people who understood our aims and needs of what we were looking to create. Astronauts need to have the most effectives formulas to cope in extremely harsh conditions – there is higher radiation, and no gravity – both accelerate aging and that needs to be balanced off with proper supplements.

THAT SOUNDS HARSHER THAN LIVING IN NEW YORK! WAS THERE A “TRIGGER MOMENT” IN CREATING 111 SKIN? OR DID IT HAPPEN OVER TIME?

In the beginning, my husband had no intention of creating a skincare range. He created the Y Theorem Repair Serum to help patients heal after surgery; it was a small little bottle that he would give complementary to clients in his clinic after they had surgical or nonsurgical treatments, but many were coming back and asking for more. It became almost impossible to stock, so he decided to create a range for everyone to use.

 

CAN YOU DESCRIBE THE PROCESS IN FIGURING OUT THE EXACT INGREDIENTS FOR THE NAC Y² ? DID YOU HAVE AN IDEA OF WHAT SHOULD BE INVOLVED OR WAS IT PURE TRIAL AND ERROR?

We had an initial idea but we worked closely with the space scientists and after a few revisions came up with the perfect ingredients. The key amino acid is the ingredient that is used in space to delay negative environmental conditions. The potent form of Vitamin C – Ascorbil Phosphate was suggested by Dr. Alexandridis, as it is a star antioxidant that can treat acne on the surface, stimulate collagen and also has skin-whitening abilities.

 

AND WHAT ABOUT GLUTATHIONE...SOUNDS LIKE A MIRACLE WORKER. HOW DID YOU HAPPEN UPON IT OR IS IT SOMETHING YOU’VE BEEN WORKING WITH FOR A LONG TIME?

As a medical student in the U.S. training to be a surgeon, Dr. Alexandridis administers Glutathione injection for liver failure so he knew it was vital for life. It plays an important protection role by neutralizing harmful free radicals and repairing cells.

That’s incredible. OK now for some Fun questions. Can you take us through a typical day in terms of your diet and wellness regimen?

I start everyday with freshly squeezed grapefruit juice; it’s such a refreshing wake-up that gets me energized for the day ahead. After a proper breakfast of granola or fruit, I usually walk my youngest to school for some quality time together. Right after school drop off I have either a quick run or a 30 min workout session at home (using fitness DVD’s). Sadly I do not have one whole hour to dedicate to a gym session and that is why I discovered the DVD’s-they travel with me everywhere as it is so easy to do 30 minutes anytime. I do try to have a work lunch. I love dark chocolate and have a bit every day. Dinners are usually at home with the kids, healthy recipes following the Mediterranean diet, lots of fresh fish and grass fed meat and always variety of veggies.

What’s your favorite ritual with your family?

My husband and I work in close proximity to each other, my office is around the corner from his Harley Street Clinic. We try and see each other for a quick lunch once or twice a week and in the evenings we spend time with our two sons and stay off email and phones to avoid being distracted by work issues. Family holidays are always set in advance and never changed for work related issues. Skiing in February and sailing in the Greek islands are a yearly occurrence. Recently we started diving. My 11 year old son, my husband and I dive together while our 6 year old stays on the surface snorkeling. Luckily he sees just as much exciting corals as we do in the deep waters.

Love that. What’s your “therapy?”

Spending time with friends and family. Family is so important and watching my sons grow up and planning activities for us to do is what makes me most happy.  I also love to take time out to go for a run, having previously trained as an athlete, taking time to exercise clears my head and prepares me for the day. Our new addition, a Jack Russell, allows us all to hang out more together as a family, as we go for long walks in the park together.

You're stranded on a desert island, what are you five must-haves?

My husband, kids, Y Theorem Repair Serum, music and champagne.

What makes you fly?

Seeing my kids laugh for no reason and seeing my business grow with the help of my very young and talented team.

FInd out More

www.111skin.com

Our Modern Day Healer - Angela Shore & Jiva-Apoha

Written by A Wild Dove 

 

Angela Shore came into our world like a beam of light that warmed us from within.

This was six years ago and she was in the process of starting her Ayurvedic oil brand Jiva-Apoha and gave us some samples to try. In one fell swoop, we were hooked.

(Personal favorite? Atman, meaning spirit. It’s calming, grounding and purifying). Since then Angela has touched so many lives with her oils and her presence. Her seasoned past, having studied Ayurveda in Kerala and working under a master healer and seasoned medicine woman for 15 years, comes through in every product.

She is truly healer in her own right, whose oils help others find peace, relief and answers. 

We are honored to feature Angela and Jiva-Apoha as she embodies everything A Wild Dove is all about.

Read on as she shares her beautiful journey below -

Full disclosure - We love your oils. So naturally we’d love to know how you were introduced to oils and the impact they've had on your life….

I became a believer in using plant and essential oils almost 30 years ago, tapping into anything that was cutting edge in alternative healing for the body. I learned how to cook with root vegetables, spices and herbs; it all went hand in hand in recognizing the choices that offered good health. Back then I did my first cleanse, detox, and had a strict vegetarian diet for some time. It was truly the beginning to feel the difference in shedding layers physically and mentally which brought me to finding my spirituality.

Amazing. And what benefits can modern women receive from having these oils in their life? How about Ayurveda in general?

Prevention is a modern way in caring for ourselves. The more we educate, gain knowledge, practice ancient remedies and treat our skin with the best oils, the more we can achieve in feeling better with a peace of mind. Skincare is body care, which is a personal love in healing. In Ayurveda, it’s normal to oil the body for 20 minutes before rinsing which is traditional. In the West, it’s more common that people may not have enough time to practice, so it’s easier to have an oiling body ritual as a steady grab as soon as you step out the bath or shower, which in return allows the oil to absorb right away in the pores, gives the body what it needs by receiving nutrients, nourishes the tissues, organs, and gives an overall glowing physical appearance in moisturizing.

Can you tell us how you create the oils?

Jiva-Apoha oil blends are created with a feeling that resonates a story; each chosen oil essentially make up’s the unique healing properties. A day in the lab requires devoted attention as each is bottle is made by hand with clarity. It’s a soothing joyful rhythm; where energy exudes within on the receiving end.

I treat each order as a personal healing.

 

Speaking of clarity what's your definition of balance?  

Happiness.

How do you maintain it?

Keeping a healthy routine by positive choices, working with good diet and supplements and letting go of what no longer serves energetically. Time is of essence and I choose to surround myself with people who live for creating happy moments.

 

Love that. Can you describe your favorite ritual of the week?

Going to a quiet place within, sometimes with bodywork or a visit in nature.

And where, when and with whom do you feel most alive?

I’m stimulated in extreme environments - from sensory overload in cities to driving through the desert, to experiencing other cultures. I get a rush in the journey itself exploring new places and travels. I’m most alive when I work with the divine.

Can you describe your journey in launching Jiva-Apoha and any mistakes you've made along the way that have helped you grow? Do you have any lessons to impart?

It’s a learning process as every business has its ups and downs. I started Jiva-Apoha on credit. In some ways it’s been challenging, which in retrospect has brought me more personal growth in the making. I just want to continue building solid relationships and doing good business with others who are in full support of where Wellness can lead to down the road.

Ok, switching gears. What is your spirit animal?

Cheetah.

WHO ARE YOUR DREAM DINNER PARTY GUESTS AND WHAT IS YOUR DREAM SETTING?

At this very moment; Barack and Michelle Obama, Meryl Streep, Winona LaDuke, Mark Ruffalo, LaDonna Brave Bull Allard, Mavis Staples, Neil Young, Susan Sarandon, Patti Smith, Iggy Pop, Anthony Bourdain, Gloria Steinem, Julianne Moore, Viggo Mortensen, Viola Davis, Leo DiCaprio and Dalai Lama.
We’re sitting in a rustic farm setting with lush rolling hills on a private tropical island surrounded by turquoise blue water.

That sounds heavenly. And how has music shaped your path? What's your greatest music memory?

Music has opened my heart and keeps my spirit alive in motion all these years. I have many great music memories. As a young kid I started going to shows but one vivid memory in 1977, I snuck through backstage with my Uncle Ricky at Fleetwood Mac concert during their Rumours tour. I remember my heart beating fast and sliding past security while Mick Fleetwood was on the longest drum roll.   

What makes you fly?   

Benevolence

Angela Shore - Photographed by Martin Sobey | Jiva Apoha Products -  Photographed by Eric White & Styled by Lynn Levoy

FIND OUT MORE

www.jivaapoha.com

The Art of Smudging

Written & Photographed by A Wild Dove

There was a brief period in time when my kids suspected I was smoking weed in my bedroom.

They didn't know what I was up to, but the smell of me burning sage or ‘SMUDGING” before my mediations was something new for them. Today, Smudging is a consistent practice I do in my home and whenever I travel. Smudging, or the burning of certain herbs, has a rich spiritual past that’s originated in the Native American culture. The intentional act of of smudging is believed to cleanse negative energy, purify and protect in a place, object or person.

Many differing cultures have their own methods and herbal mixtures for this purpose. Smudging, when done correctly, can bring physical, spiritual and emotional balance. If you are someone sensitive to energy and the vibration around you, you will notice a difference of clarity in your environment after smudging.

When to Smudge

- Clearing energy when moving into a new space. We never know who was in the space prior so it’s important to cleanse the space and banish unwanted energies.

- After an argument or leftover bad feelings. (After any sad or traumatic events)

- Routinely weekly cleansing

HERBS 

Sage is the most commonly used herb for smudging. The smoke of  sage is intended to heal and purify the mind, body, and environment and clear negative energy. Sage also has a calming effect on our nerves, so it is particularly useful if we’re feeling nervous, angry, or our space feels that type of energy is lingering.

Cypress and Juniper works both as a purifier and as a way to attract good energy in your direction.

Palo Santo is known as the “holy wood/stick.” Palo santo is derived from specific trees found in the South American rainforests of Galapagos Islands, Ecuador and Peru and has been used for most of known history for a variety of healing. This includes medicines, native ceremonies and especially in Incan culture, spiritual clearing of a space, crowd or person. Palo Santo is a personal favorite scent I love and I keep it burning throughout my home.

Design Your Own
I create my own sage bundles with rose petals and a variety of loose flowers for holiday gifts. I love the way look setting out with my collection of crystals.

 
 

Practice

Set your intention before you light your sage. Be clear about what it is your soul is wanting and as you burn your herbs, you can either say your intention firmly or recite a mantra to ask the negative energies to leave and bring light and love into your space. Make it personal to whatever it is you are desiring.

Open a window to allow the negative energies out and light the smudge stick or pick off one leaf to burn. Once the flame ignites quickly blow it out.

Waft the smoke first around yourself either from head to toe or from the bottom up.I like to make sure I get to all of my chakras.

Next, smudge around the space (make sure to get the corners of the areas where it holds stagnant energy). You can use a feather to waft the smoke in a clockwise direction, or you can use your hand as well. You can place the herb in a fireproof vessel while mediating and setting intentions. (please make sure the flame is down)

Smudging objects is important, especially crystals to make sure they are purified before practices. And, as someone who loves vintage shopping, I always smudge my purchases when I bring them home.

Rockstar Teenagers - Sophie Kos

Written & Photographed by A Wild Dove

We often read about the benefits of yoga to help us destress, find our centers, connect with mindful living. There’s also been a lot of research that supports how helpful it is for children to prevent ADHD, anger and anxiety. But what about pre-teens and teenagers? Those whose hormones are through the roof, those who are at “that age” and discovering themselves at the cross section between childhood and adulthood?  Sophie Kos, 16, questioned that too.

A New York native, she started practicing yoga when she was 11 years old to help with anxiety disorders and learning disabilities. “I was taken out of school by my parents to heal from very severe dyslexia and anxiety,” says Sophie. “I was not in a great place and I was barely doing any type of movement at all.  I was about to be put on medication but my parents decided to hire a private yoga instructor.” Sophie’s mother and father (designer Jay Kos) hired a woman named Katrina Foy, who Sophie started working with weekly. While she was challenged in the beginning, after a few months her passion for yoga and movement came through.  Fast forward five years, and Sophie is a certified full-time instructor. With her parents’ blessing, she dropped out of school and earned her 200 hour certification from Ishtar Yoga and is currently working on her 300 hour certification. She is specializing in helping teens like herself use yoga toward through everyday battles of life. We sat down with this rockstar teenager to talk about her path, her family and how she hopes to help others like herself - 

 

Wow, so you’re 16 and teaching yoga. Amazing.

Can you describe how yoga has helped shaped the path to where you are now?

Over the years I have suffered from a lot of anxiety and learning challenges and was always trying to escape what I felt.  But yoga teaches you to focus inward and listen to whatever feelings may be coming up then to create some space between them and then you go from there. I decided to start this teen yoga class because I know that yoga can be very beneficial to teens since it is a time where there is so much stress from school, hormones, and more. It’s so easy to lose your individuality in our very “by the book society” that we so easily get stuck just moving through the motions. So I wanted to create a space where we can really focus inward on what you need and what your intentions are.  

So true. And why do you think you resonated so much with yoga? Did you try other things in the past that you enjoyed or didn't enjoy?

I think what really resonated with me was how individualized the yoga practice can be.  There is really no right or wrong way to do yoga or what your yoga practice needs to look like or feel like.  I have always had a very hard time feeling comfortable in my body and yoga has really helped me with that as well.  I have always loved fitness and working out and still do. I have tried almost everything - pilates, barre, cardio classes, running, cycling, boxing. I love a lot of these things as well, as long as I balance them out with yoga.  

For me yoga has been something that I can do when I am feeling overly stressed, anxious, down or even if I can’t sleep.  I think it has made me less of a nervous person as well.  One of the major things is that I feel like it has made me way more in touch with my body and what I’m feeling.  I also feel that I listen to pain or symptoms in my body with a lot more respect than I used to.  I used to push myself at the gym way past my limit and now when I feel something I know to stop or take a step back.  

 
 

It’s incredible how self-aware you are, more than most adults! So when you have time, what are some of your favorite things to do besides yoga?

I love to go to other fitness classes at The Circuit of Change and The Class is a recent discovery. I love to take bike rides on the Hudson River with my mom, family dinners when my dad cooks, family walks around the West Village on the weekends...I love fashion, putting on essential oils, playing with my dog.

Family time is so special. Speaking of which, how have your parents played a role through your journey?

My parents have played a huge role in my journey by allowing me to drop out of high school and always supporting the decisions that I make. They helped me get internship and introduced me to people in the fashion/fitness industry to help me get jobs and network. And just always giving me great advice and protecting me.  I seriously couldn’t and wouldn’t be in the place I am in without them.  

 
 

AWW. LOVE THAT! OK NOW FOR THE FUN STUFF. WHAT WOULD YOUR HIP HOP NAME BE?

“Yo Gee”

PERFECT.. AND WHAT'S YOUR SPIRIT ANIMAL?

A black panther.

WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE MUSIC?

I love a lot of different kind of music but my favorite is Alternative and Rap...some of my favorite artists are  Florence and the Machine, Coldplay, Sia, Frank Ocean, Jay Z, Kygo, Regina Spektor, Eminem.  

WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE APP ?

Mind Body - I love working out and trying new classes so it helps me book different workout classes and try new things.

LASTLY, WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE YOGA POSE?

Pigeon pose with a bolster.

SOPHIE'S TEEN YOGA CLASS IS OFFERED 2:00 - 3.15 PM ON SUNDAYS AT BOWERY YOGA

FIND OUT MORE

WWW.BOWERYYOGA.COM

 

Master Cleanse

Written & Photographed by A Wild Dove

There seems to be a disconnect between how much we value our clothing and how we end up caring for it...why buy a Vetements sweatshirt, only to throw it into the washing machine with a heaping scoop of harsh detergent ? When we first walked by The Laundress in Soho, a jewel box of a shop complete with crystal chandeliers and a clean, crisp white palette, we were enthralled with the seemingly unlimited options of how to care for your, well, everything.

It’s easy to get lost in the world of The Laundress', founders' Gwen Whiting and Lindsey Boyd’s vision of how to best advance the world of fabric care through luxury products. We became instantly hooked on the Signature Detergent, which is perfectly formulated with surfactants, color guard and stain-fighting enzymes, yet with an addictively lush scent of jasmine. The fabric conditioner helps clothing and sheets be their best selves, with a plant-derived fabric softener that reduces wrinkles and conditions properly. There’s literally a treatment for every item in your closet. For you SoulCyclers or The Class addicts, the Sport Detergent keeps you smelling fresh before, during and after your workout. It has a special formulation that keeps activewear in top form. We even love the baby detergent - it’s non-toxic, allergen-free and oh, so sweet smelling. Plus, the New Mom Starter Kit makes the perfect gift. It's all mamas need to keep their babes looking and smelling fresh with an assortment of Baby Detergent, Fabric Conditioner, Baby Fabric Fresh, Stain Solution and Bleach Alternative - all super safe and gentle. From Denim Wash to Wool and Cashmere spray, you’ll be overtaking your laundry room in no time.

As if we couldn’t get more addicted, there’s also a full-fledged collection of home cleaners like dish detergent, surface spray and bleach alternative. Because who doesn’t want to feel just a little fabulous, even amidst life’s most unfabulous moments? 

A WILD DOVE

 
 
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