Sip This: 3 Reasons Why Lemon Water Rocks

Lemon and water are a match made in heaven… I’ve started drinking it every day and feel more energized than ever. After learning about the slew of health benefits associated with drinking water and freshly squeezed lemon juice, I decided to make it a part of my daily diet. Lemons are packed with natural vitamins and minerals that are key to your inner and outer beauty regime as well as your general health.

Here are three reasons why you should pair hot water with lemons ladies:

1. It’s a natural energizer! It hydrates and oxygenates the body so it feels revitalized and refreshed.
2. It’s cleansing. According to NaturalNews.com, the citric acid in lemons helps maximize enzyme function, which stimulates the liver and aids in detoxification.
3. It aids in digestion. Not only will this killer combination relieve indigestion, but it will also help flush you out.

Do you drink lemon water?

XO Lee

P.S. For those of you asking, I usually drink about 12-16 oz of cold water with 1/2 a lemon’s juice. But hot water is great too! It really depends on how I’m feeling that day…

A Day At The Fort Lauderdale Beach

Hello Beauties, June 29, I had decided last minute to head to the beach and it turned out to be an experience that I cherish close to my heart. That day, my head became a little clearer and my smile became bigger. My smile was real too. Here are couple of reasons why I cherished that moment so much.

  1. I have anxiety which means I have become antisocial over the years. Being around bunch of people, especially people I don’t know can be stressful for me. I’m always in my head and thinking about the worst. But that day, I survived.
  2. I was at peace by MYSELF. I was there from 11:30 am to 4 or 5 -ish pm. 
  3. I enjoyed the scene and everything with little money I had. I was happy, like truly happy and learned a lot about myself while getting a nice workout in the process.

Making time for yourself and learning how to enjoy your own space is so important. Never in a million years did I think that I would go to the beach by myself and stay there for longer than 15 minutes. I’m happy I did though and can’t wait to go back. I might even just travel to Orlando or Miami just because. You might be thinking girl, it’s just the beach but for me, its more than that. I proved a lot to myself and didn’t let my anxiety or anything else get in my way. I want to do bigger trips but for now, traveling around Florida will do. If you want to know how I did it with basically no money, What I did, and Where I went then keep on reading…

Ft Lauderdale Beach Pics 2

How Did You Get There?

I took the bus, simple. I got the whole day bus pass which is $5 and took Bus Route 40. I asked a nice man who was hitting on me but it didn’t bother me because he wasn’t disrespectful. He told me what bus to take and gave me directions to get to that bus stop. 

Now, if you want to get there quicker without having to wait and make several stops along the way then I suggest you take Lyft. It is going to be pricey depending on where you coming from but you can use my code: CRYSTAL40317 to save $$.

What Places Did You Hangout At?

First, I walked along the beach then I stumbled upon CVS. It wasn’t that far, it was located in Beach Place plaza. I purchased a bottle of coke, I was really thirsty. Mouth felt dry and everything. Thinking back at it, I should had got a water bottle instead especially since when the coke wasn’t cold anymore, it tasted weird. It was warm, not like room temperature, just warm.

Then I went to the beach and dip my toes into the nice cool water. The sun was out but it wasn’t too hot. I wished I had my bathed suit or extra clothing because if I did, I would had became a mermaid for sure lol.

Ft Lauderdale Beach Pics 6

After I finished playing in the water some more, I went up to a family who was tryna take pictures and asked if they needed help. They were so nice, they were traveling from Switzerland. I took some bomb pics for them and said goodbye. Next, I walked some more and saw many parties that was happening at different resorts. I was invited by this lesbian who was cool as fuck. I sat by the pool with them and talked. The music was booming and boobies were out. I spent like 1hr with them before I left. Everyone was just happy and living their best life.

I continued to walk and saw many beautiful resorts, restaurants, hotels, homes, and boats. I decided to turn back around because I was getting hungry and I was a little scared that I might be going too far; I didn’t want to get lost. Since, I wasn’t wearing my glasses, me getting stuck wasn’t the plan and I do sometimes forget things. I just didn’t want to take any chances. Plus, I didn’t have cash on me, so if it had reached 11:59 pm, I would had been screwed because that’s when my bus pass would had expired. 

I headed back to Beach Place to rest up. There were many tourists. It wasn’t packed but it was still busy. My back felt better, my body felt better so I got up and continued to see what the prices were looking like for the food. One restaurant had a sale going like buy a burger and get a coke for free and another restaurant Lona had different promotional flyers up. That place was busy, well from what I saw at least. People were eating, drinking and just chilling. Honestly, I wanted a hot dog but the place wasn’t open and there were no other place that was selling hot dogs.

Ft Lauderdale Beach Pics 5

I rode back taking the Bus Route 40 then jumped on Bus Route 22 to get back home. I ended my day with a sweet tea from Dunkin Donuts and 6 pieces of hush browns. They have sweet tea, any size for a $1. I am kinda sad that I missed the Live Music & Entertainment at Fort Lauderdale beach but next time.

Share some of your favorite beach day tips!

Have you traveled to Florida? And if you have, what was your experience like?

When was the last time you explored the town you live in or a neighboring town? That could be a fun journey and an escape from the everyday grind, couldn’t it?

XO Lee

 

 

 

 

 

HOLD MY DRINK, ANESE IS HERE…


me

By now, you know I am a crazy skin care junky. Taking care of my skin is my number one priority within my beauty routine. The less I need to cover up with makeup, the better. You’re probably catching on to the fact that I am also really into natural skincare. Right now my Holy Grail beauty routine is still a work in progress, but I was definitely thrilled with experimenting with Anese.co.

Okay, so here’s how this all started — I was scrolling through the gram looking for some goodies to try out and then it happened. Out the corner of my eye, I spotted Anese page and had to give it a scroll. I saw a product called, “Down With The Thickness ” Collagen Booty Mask and that was it, I had to check out their collection. I headed straight to their site to see if they were 100% cruelty-free. Not only did Anese check that box, but it also checked the natural-derived-ingredients box too. Um, sold. 

I immediately started reading about each individual product and quickly filled my cart with what I wanted to try first. It was a difficult decision — between the raving reviews for every single product and the cute sexy clever names, I was as indecisive as a kitty trying to choose whether or not to come into the house. But I finally settled on a few to try out and even got my twin something. 

Slay.

Skin perfecting serum.$48.00

SLAYThe Slay Revive and Glow White Truffle Perfecting Serum is magic in a bottle. Slay targets dry, dull looking skin that needs a healthy boost of moisture and vitamins. Formulated with DMAE, known to tighten and firm with noticeable effects within 20 minutes. Slay is your key to that youthful natural glow. 

Beauty Lesson: Okay, in case you’ve never heard of this acronym, DMAE (dimethylaminoethanol) is a substance naturally produced in small amounts in the brain and also found in anchovies and sardines. DMAE supplements are promoted to boost brainpower, improve memory, and slow aging. DMAE helps to tighten skin and reduce sagging, improve firmness and elasticity, smooth lines and wrinkles and also brighten the skin. What’s more, it will enhance the effects of alternative antioxidants and is, therefore, best used in combination with Vitamins A, E, and C or alpha lipoic acid.

Basically, this shit is good for your skin. If used consistently, it can tighten and tone skin from all the ‘methyl donation’. The formula of this serum is a thick, milky texture, which absorbs into the skin nicely, with NO leftover flaky tacky sticky feeling. 

Girl Power Mask Duo – Save $5!

Mask $39.00

I usually do a mask like 1-2 times a week, just as a quick pick-me-up for the skin. And although not always 100% necessary, it’s a nice gesture to do for your skin. So be nice to yours and treat it with this something special. This duo is a good place to start, because you get two-for-one, and they both have totally different skin-salving properties.
  Pretty Sure I’m Gorgeous is a super hydration charcoal mask that feels more a like a cream on your skin, than drying. It also has the aforementioned DMAE qualities in it so it tones your skin as it moisturizes. A clarifying charcoal creme mask for when your skin and ego needs a boost. Perfect for acne prone and oily skin. Reduces the appearance of large pores and blemishes. Gentle and creamy, quenches skin. Activated charcoal clarifies and removes impurities from your skin, hyaluronic acid, organic olive and jojoba oils act as an ultra hydrator. Antioxidant organic rooibos, spirulina detoxes, DMAE tones. Apply a thick layer to cleansed skin, avoiding eye area. Rinse off after 10-15 minutes. Repeat twice a week. Tone using L’OREAL PARIS HYDRAFRESH TONER.

Unlike harsh exfoliants, So Over It does NOT remove dead skin by scrubbing it off. It gently exfoliates, increasing cell turnover and improves the overall texture of your face.
The result is brighter, cleaner and smoother skin. So Over It can work for all skin types but it is particularly amazing for dry skin.

For when you’re super over dry, flaky patches on your t-zone or you’ve been searching the deep depths of the internet for how to get that dewey fresh radiant look. Look no further, So Over It is going to be your fresh face champion. It is a gentle exfoliant that is made with papaya and pineapple enzymes.
 Use 2-3 times per week, apply a thick layer to cleansed skin and scroll through BeautyLeeBar instagram for 15-20 minutes while the enzymes work its magic. Rinse with warm water and follow with the Slay serum.

So Over It, is great after a long day (or week) when you skin needs a little detoxification. This gently exfoliates and adds a smoothness to your complexion. You cans also buy both separately, but you get the better deal with the duo, just saying.

Beauty Tip: Not only does the Papaya Exfoliating Mask removes dead skin and give you that natural fresh radiant glow all year round, but it also helps dematerialize black spots.

Swipe right.

Highlighting moisturizer.$38.00

swipe

This illuminating balm is a lightweight cream with a subtle silver sheen and a light floral scent. An illuminating skin balm that leaves a pearlescent shine. Swipe right is made with natural oils that moisturize and nourish skin while leaving a trace of sparkle. Perfect for cheekbones, shoulders and legs. Swipe right offers more than your basic moisturizer. 

Swipe right illuminating moisturizer is perfect for those who desires an illuminated effect for a day out at the beach or just general glamness. It Moisturizes, hydrates and softens skin while adding a light highlight.

Beauty Tip: For those who don’t wear makeup, use this product anywhere you would normally do with other highlighters. I usually put it on my nose, cheekbones, collarbones, arms and legs; if I’m showing some skin. My perfect skin secret for this summer is: Swipe Right (highlighter) + Hold my drink (Coconut body scrub). The shimmer is subtle and not overwhelming, so I feel comfortable wearing it regularly. It also is a great moisturizer! 

P.S. One of the most enjoyable parts of doing this blog is finding really innovative, cool ass brands and getting to share them with you guys. Brands that you’ve probably never have heard of, and otherwise would have never bought on your own. And guys, remember it is so important to support brands like this who are standing for what they believe in, putting safe products out on the market, and who genuinely care about their customers well-being. If you’re looking for gentle, effective skin care that are cruelty-free, all natural, and organic, then try this brand. Join their #skinsquad here

  • Have you tried anything from Anese? Let me know in the comments section below!
  • Like what you see? Sign up to receive updates straight to your inbox: Sign up here!
  • Anese.co is having a sale, so go check them out here.

**FTC: This post is not sponsored. No monetary compensation was received for this post, however products were sent to me. Opinions are 100% my own, of course.

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How To Create The Perfect Cozy Setting For Sleep

Lately, I haven’t been able to sleep but I realized why… not only because of my spine but it was also because I am stress and my room is full of clutter.

I feel like I m going to write a lot about sleep, but that’s because it’s a topic I’m so passionate about. It also plays a BIG part, when it comes to beauty. I know firsthand the power a good night of sleep can have, as well as how crappy getting bad/no sleep can make me feel. One thing that I swear by is turning my bedroom into the perfect cozy setting for sleep. Not only does this allow me to fall asleep faster, but I feel like it also falls under the category of “self care” because it makes going to bed that much more enjoyable.

TEMPERATURE

I’m a huge advocate of sleeping in a chilly space. There’s truly nothing better than a cold bedroom because you get to snuggle up under all of your blankets without having to worry about getting too hot in the middle of the night. I hate waking up feeling sweaty, so I always make sure to turn the temperature down a degree or two when I go to bed – I’ve even gone so far as turning the fan up at the same time.

MOOD

Setting the mood for sleep is essential for drifting off quickly and getting a quality night of zzz’s. To create the perfect cozy atmosphere, I like to dim the lights, light a candle or turn on my lava lamp, put on the Rain Rain App, and spray my pillows with a soothing blend of essential oils or Febreze.  Rain Rain helps you fall asleep fast! Has over 100 high-quality endless sounds lull you to sleep in no time and Rain Rain includes unlimited free access to 35 full high quality endless sounds, with more added all the time. Bonus: It also provides premium new and existing sound packs at a low price. It even lets you try a different sound every day for free.

Features

Over 25 free sounds

Seamless, endless audio

Mix sounds to create custom ambiance

Sleep Timer gently fades after a duration or at a time

Bedtime Reminder

art4  Right now, I’m using the AN (Art Naturals) AROMA OIL DIFFUSER and I’m absolutely loving it because it helps me to sensify my space. It is perfect for anyone after a restful shavasana or a mindful meditation. Bonus: It is an Ultra Sonic Humidifier and Air Purifier. Sometimes, I’ll even spritz some essential pure oil on my pillows and then do my nighttime skin care routine to give it a chance to fully settle before I lay down.

Yin Yang on Apple iOS 11.2
THE CHEMICAL PROPERTIES IN THE ESSENTIAL OILS CLEANSE, TONE, AND BALANCE YOUR SKIN, HAIR AND HEALTH.
Nose: Medium-Dark Skin Tone on Apple iOS 11.2
SMELL THE SWEETNESS OF NATURAL EXRACTS. AROMAS BRING CLARITY, ENERGY AND STRESS RELIEF.
Eye on emojidex 1.0.34
LIGHT UP YOUR ROOM WITH THE COLORS OF SERENITY. THE HUES OF NATURE WILL SOOTHE AND RELAX.

BEDDING

Having a bed to fall into at night that is covered in squishy, soft blankets and sheets is one of the best feelings in the world. I used to just opt for whatever was cheapest when it came to my bedding, but now I actually put a little thought and effort into what goes on my bed. I am that girl who loves a lot of blankets and pillows on her bed. I have 2 long pillows that I purchased at Big Lots and OMG…. I’m in love and those pillows are my cuddle buddy for life. Certain blankets I have had for years and for me, it brings comfort and joy.

SURROUNDINGS

I think it’s really important to keep your surroundings in mind when trying to create a cozy sleep setting. You may have the most comfortable bed ever, but if the rest of your room is a mess it’s going to make you feel less cozy and more chaotic. Try to take a few minutes before bed each night to tidy up and put things away. Not only will it allow you to feel more at ease when going to sleep, but you’ll also start the day off on the right foot with clean surroundings.

ROUTINE

I really believe that having a good bedtime routine is essential for falling asleep quicker and easier. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy either – just doing the same 2-3 things each night before bed is enough to let your body know that its time to sleep. Like I mentioned before, I like to spray my pillows with a sleep mist and then do my skin care routine while it dries down. I love to take a late night shower because a hot shower also helps lower your body’s temperature. Yeah, your temperature goes up while you’re in the bath, but your body’s response to the heat will be to drop your temperature way down low. After brushing my teeth and washing my face, I’ll usually opt for a quick mask. Lately I’ve been loving the Epielle Facial Essence Mask (Lifting & Forming with Vitamin C) because it gives my skin such a fantastic boost of hydration.

https://twitter.com/iamcrystalee/status/968272672273596417

Beauty Secret: My go-to companies/brands for masks are

  1. EPIELLE
  2. GLOBAL BEAUTY CARE
  3. MISS SPA
  4. TO GO SPA
  5. L’OREAL PARIS PURE-CLAY MASK
  6. TRUSELF ORGANICS
  7. BIORE SKINCARE

While that’s soaking and working its magic, I’ll take a moment to apply some of the Sculpt Sweat Workout Enhancer Cream by Perfect Sculpt, all over my stomach and lower back area then put on my waist trainer from Shape Waist by Giselle Alonso.

BONUS:

  1. Not only does the Waist Trainer gives an hourglass figure and mobilizes fat cell, it is like you can feel the compression and your stomach is tightening up.
  2. The Sweat Cream enhances circulation, improves fat loss, combats muscle fatigue and delivers therapeutic effects to ailing muscles.
  • Fun Fact: I sleep semi-naked. It’s easier to adjust your comfort zone with sheets and blankets you can pull up or throw off rather than a long nightgown or a pair of fleece pajamas, says neurologist Charles J. Bae, M.D., a sleep specialist at the Cleveland Clinic Sleep Disorders Center. The idea is to make the adjustment in a way that rouses you from sleep the least.

What Are Your Tips For Creating The Perfect Cozy Setting For Sleep/Nap?

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