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JenOni

Wellness

Calorie Burning with TNT Pro Series Waist Trimmer and Slimmer Kit

*All three items were received free from TNT Pro Series for review purposes only.  All opinions shared are my own.

Calorie Burned with Waist Trimmer Belt

CalorieHow to burn a calorie? It is very effective with a combination of different activities during a workout.    I am a firm believer in a consistent fitness regimen and eating properly as the key to staying fit and strong.   There was an opportunity to test the TNT Pro Series products so I decided to order the waist trimmer belt as well as the arm and leg slimmer kit.

My workout consists of using my TRX and Real Fit with Amy’s circuit training workout via YouTube.  The belt can be worn directly on skin or over your workout top.   I ordered a size small and it is more than enough room to wrap with the velcro comfortably.   My belt is worn under my workout top during either workout.   After each workout, I remove it and can feel the sweat rolling off of my skin.   Some of the things I like about this brand vs. another brand I tried is the secure fit, it does not slip while I am in motion, the size small is enough to cover my entire stomach area, it is comfortable to use while doing household chores.   I would suggest wiping down after each use.

CalorieWaistTrimmer

 

Calorie Burning with Upper Arm and Leg Slimmer Kit

My arms are starting to take on more form and tone due to consistent biceps and triceps exercises.    Circuit training and my TRX workout are excellent for building strong arms.   The arm slimmer is too loose for my arms which are small and muscular.   My arms are one of my areas I want to increase muscle mass so I think the arm slimmer would defeat that purpose.   For someone who is starting to focus on arms,  this compression wrap is ideal to get burn calories on arms.  I like the muscular tone of my thighs and will definitely try the thigh compression wraps especially if they are great for anti-cellulite.  The size small is a perfect fit for my thighs.

CalorieUpperArmSlimmer

 

CalorieThighSlimmer

You can purchase any of the products at TNT Pro Series.

Self-Care Evening Manicure & Pedicure Manicure Lane Exton, PA

Self-Care ManicreLaneExton

 

Self-Care

Self-Care is important for your mind, body, and soul.   I am enjoying my kid-free weeks before school starts after Labor Day.   I am usually apprehensive about changing locations for my manicure and pedicure salon.    Manicure Lane was convenient to schedule an after work appointment.   After checking their website, I was really impressed with the salon about us page,  the services offered and visiting a fume free salon.

From the moment I walked in the door,  I was greeted and my appointment confirmed.    Next, I was directed to select a color.   I walked to the waiting area which was filled with an assortment of current  magazines.   The staffer walked me over to the pedicure bowl so I could soak my feet until my pedicure.   Beverages are available for clients.   I selected a glass of red wine and the staffer brought a bottle of water too.    The pedicure chairs have a remote with  massage features.    If you are one who enjoys chairs with reclining backs, the chairs are without this feature,  however, you can remove the pillow to make the chair comfy.

Self-Care ManicureLaneFeatured

PEDICURE 

My pedicure lasted 45 minutes, it included soaking my feet, shaping nails, exfoliating, a light massage with a moisturizing lotion, cutting cuticles and polish.

Self-CarePedicure

 

MANICURE

My manicure was done at the nail bar.   I scheduled a dry manicure.   My nails were shaped, cleaned,  cuticles pushed back(my technician did cut my cuticles to clean up around nail bed) and polished.    I loved having my services in separate areas.

Self-Care ManicureLaneNailBar

The drying station is sensor controlled for your hands and feet. There are separate seats for each station.

Self-Care ManicureLaneDryingStation

 

I am looking forward to going back for another manicure and pedicure.  Also to schedule a mommy/daughter day at the salon to have my daughter check out the kid’s manicures and pedicures.   Did I mention they offer designs on the kid’s menu?   There is nothing better than cleanliness, excellent customer service, free wine, and wifi!    The words “happy place” are on multiple pillows and this salon is definitely on my list of favorite places in the area.

Waxing? If You Decide to get a Brazilian Wax, What You Should Know?

WaxingBrazilian

If you are considering scheduling a waxing and have decided on a Brazilian wax, here are a few items to know before and after the appointment.  Another tidbit to consider is if you are a person with a low tolerance for pain, you may want to reconsider.    Also,  you have to be comfortable with the person who is performing this service.  It is very up close and personal.

I would recommend an aesthetician (preferably) who you are comfortable with as this service is very up close and personal.

Fortunately for me,  I found a wonderful certified aesthetician who works within a dermatological center.

BRAZILIAN WAXING

Things to Do Before Scheduling an Appointment

  1. Find a licensed aesthetician
  2. The location for services is everything.  Visit the location before booking an appointment to check out location, staff, and cleanliness.
  3.  Also,  ask what type is wax is used.  My current aesthetician uses a soy based wax, however, this may cause an issue for someone with soy allergies.

It would be lying if I said it is not PAINFUL!  The first time I had it done was right before my  vacation.   Remember each aesthetician will have their own technique for hair removal so again make sure you are comfortable with the overall process.   The results last between4 to 6 weeks.

Before Your Appointment

  1. Now while I do not prep my skin beforehand, I have read that exfoliating the skin before will help avoid  ingrown hairs.
  2.  My skin is very sensitive to the heat of the wax prior to and right after my menstrual cycle.  You may want to keep this is in mind prior to scheduling your appointment.
  3. I do see some will do a full or partial waxing, it all depends on your preference.

After Your Appointment

  1. After my first my Brazilian wax, I was told by the aesthetician to go commando(sans undies)  and apply Gold Bond powder to the area to prevent irritation.
  2. Now after multiple waxes under my belt, I apply the product Bikini Zone to the area and this works well.
  3. I am susceptible to ingrown hairs so shaving is not an option for me which is why I prefer waxing.

 

You can find my aesthetician, Jennifer Morgan at Dermatological Associates of Bryn Mawr in Wynnewood, PA.

Menopause Explained By My OB/GYN

 

MENOPAUSE EXPLAINED

Menopause
Why is being over 45 carte blanche for someone to tell you “oh it’s probably MENOPAUSE“.   Well, guess what YOU’RE WRONG!   Ladies, listen to your bodies  and when something seems off for your body call your doctor.   In the past month, I noticed my cycle (yes I still have one of those, close your mouth) was not consistent with previous month or prior year for that matter.    I was experiencing and a longer cycle and at least four days of clotting.   Although, this may be a normal occurrence for some it was not my normal for my cycle.     When I talked to my mom about  and “she said it was more than likely related to menopause”.    Then I called my OB/GYN practice and the nurse told me “based on your age” blah, blah, blah.   Initially I was going to pass on scheduling an appointment, however, I thought  what if there was a real issue.

Think about it ladies as moms spend so much time scheduling everyone else’s appointment and neglect our health.  I’m diligent about scheduling my annual OB/GYN appointment and mammogram.   If it comes to a blip in the radar I usually put it off for later.    In this case,  I scheduled my appointment.

It was a typical appointment with the nurse taking my weight, blood pressure and then reviewing what prompted me to make the appointment.  She informed me the doctor may do an endometrial biopsy and I will bring you some Advil just in case.    As you can imagine, my head started spinning after hearing the word biopsy and discomfort all in one breath.

what the hell community shirley bennett yvette nicole brown

 When the doctor came in the room, she reviewed my chart and asked all the pertinent question.   She explained the biopsy would rule out the presence of cancerous cells of my endometrial lining.  The biopsy was uncomfortable but I assume all of this is based on your tolerance of pain.  I took the Advil too soon before the biopsy so providing pain relief was out the window.   One thing she noticed with biopsy was the presence of more tissue than normal.   She told I did really well.   While I’m not sure what this means again I assume it depends on your tolerance of pain.   After she completed the biopsy,  I was ready to jump off the table until she instructed me there was still the internal pelvic and anal exams.    Can you say OMG?

In addition to my biopsy, she also ordered a full pelvic ultrasound because she wanted to rule out any polyps or cysts.    I appreciate the fact she was covering all bases.   In my mind, I feel there needs to be a pill created to just stop your menstrual cycle if you are finished with family planning.  No such luck my OB/GYN told she has seen patients have their cycles up to the age of 54.   My mind was screaming…

 

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I can’t believe this monthly visitor has 8 more years, who ordered this up.   Oh, and did I mention the additional expense every other month for pads, tampons, and panty liners.   Who has time for this? My OB/GYN gave me the benefits of staying on the PILL up to menopause and the alternative of using an IUD.    Here I was led to believe taking the PILL in your 40s was an NO,NO!    This is an obvious reason why we should always seek a healthcare professional whenever we have questions related to our health.

FOLLOW-UP:

Fortunately, my biopsy was benign and there was no presence of polyps or cysts.   The only thing she found was inflammation of my endometrial lining and in some cases the biopsy causes bacteria to enter the endometrial lining which is treated with an antibiotic for 10 days.   My ultrasound was normal with my ovaries being normal size and my uterus slightly larger but this is common in some women after childbirth.   Another fact she cleared up was taking the PILL is safe up to menopause.   The IUD is also available if I find the PILL is not working for me.   While the PILL will give my cycle consistency she did advise it may take 2 at least two cycles for me to see a decrease in my heavy flow.  She also cautioned me to continue taking the PILL even if I see breakthrough bleeding.   Stopping the PILL through a cycle has unpleasant results.

I can’t stress enough how important it is for women to listen to your body because only you know when something is not on point.   Always consult a healthcare professional with questions and concerns related to your body and ultimately your health.  Although friends and family mean well not everything is always related to MENOPAUSE if you are over 40 or in my case over 45.

Asthma- Weather, Triggers and Hospital Stay

Asthma and Weather Changes

In the last two weeks, I have learned more about asthma triggers in managing my daughter’s health.     Her daily medication is required twice a day as well as her rescue inhaler .    We no longer see her allergy doctor, however, her pediatrician is extremely knowledge with the proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Asthma Action Plan

The best information I received was an asthma plan which provides detailed information on which medications, medication frequency and  when to call PCP.   This is a detailed and proactive way to manage daily medication and keep your child feeling great.  There is also an excellent video that provides a great resource for asthma patients.    Thanks to our doctors we are able to access excellent resources for educating caregivers on asthma.   You can find great information here Kids Health

AsthmaPlan

Triggers

What are triggers in the home and your outside of the home?   Her previous allergy specialist tested her for environmental allergies and she tested positive for dogs and cats.   One trigger that I really pay attention to during the spring season is the pollen count and ozone conditions.   This allows me to know which days she needs to take it easy.    In our apartment I have decided to incorporate the following:

  1. Allergen cover for the mattress
  2. Asthma/allergy pillow(Home Goods sells 2 in a pack for under $20)
  3. No stuffed pillows or animals on the bed, I try to eliminate as many as possible
  4. Wash all linens in hot water
  5. Dust as often as possible
  6. Clean air conditioner filter twice per season
  7. Cool mist humidifier

TriggerSheet

 

Shop for hypo-alergenic at Amazon here: Asthma/Allergen Products

If you have a hospital stay, some things to pack:

hospital pic (2)

What To Bring If You Stay?

  1. pajamas for yourself, the pediatric unit provides PJs for kids
  2. extra socks, rooms are a bit chilly, the pediatric unit may or may not have socks
  3. toiletries, toothbrush, deodorant, toothpaste, body wash
  4. linens: towel and washcloth for yourself; pediatric unit provides for kids
  5. shower shoes and slippers

 

 

Tattoo, One & Done ?

Tattoo

Tattoo, My Experience

I have wanted a tattoo since my 40th birthday.  In March, after a girls night out with my high school classmates one conversation moved to tattoos.    I made arrangements to search for an artist and schedule with one of my classmates.  My biggest dilemma was finding a good place with great reviews.  The place with the best rating in the area was MainLine Tattooing.  One of my friends gave it a thumbs up.   I found a design on Pinterest and was all set for May 21st.   I did it solo.
Now, I know a few people with tattoo and was prepared for the expected pain.  I say this lightly because is it a real way to prepare for pain.  I decided to get the tattoo on my back instead of my hip.  The first step was making a copy of my design and applying to stencil.  Next, he wiped down my back with alcohol and applied the stencil.
There is really no way to prepare for what comes next! As the artist was preparing the ink, I could feel a rush of heat!   The sound of the needle to apply the ink sounds like a power drill.

 

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If only there were earplugs to drown out the sound.
When the needle hit my skin it was way too late to get and run.  The only thing I could think to do was to clutch my hands together.

 

via GIPHY

I swear there are not enough cuss words to describe the intensity of pain as that needle went up and down on my back.   Oh, and the real kicker is when the design is done and the artist says time for color.   Don’t even begin to think it is like airbrushing!  No, No and No.  The color is the same pain level as the design.  On a scale from 1 to 100, I would give it 101!

Some will say the pain is like childbirth and you quickly forget it. I totally disagree although I told my 9yo when she is old enough we can go to get matching tattoos. What in the world? If and only if I decide to do it again the next tattoo will be the tiniest design with to no detail. No, I beg to differ the pain is memorable. I wish I could provide a list of things to do better prepare but I’m lost for words.

Now what I can offer for a first tattoo are the following:

  1. Don’t go overboard with the design, KEEP IT SIMPLE!
  2. Pick a location for the tattoo with thicker skin.  As stated, my tattoo is on my back.  My theory is the wrist and foot are a bit more painful.
  3. Consult with the artist on design and the amount of time from start to finish.  Some designs look beautiful, however, the time to complete may require hours if not days.
  4. Take someone for moral support
  5. Don’t consult with anyone who has over 5+ tattoos, they have no threshold of pain!
  6. Do have a great cocktail after you’re finished.

TattooFirst

Fitness: TRX (Total Resistance Exercise) System for In Home Workout

My return to my TRX for my in home fitness.  I’m still holding out to buy the Peloton cycle so until then I am switching back to using my TRX.

 Fitness: Week 11 of using my TRX Update

Some  things I learned in 11 weeks:

  1. Adjusting the straps for specific exercises
  2. How to challenge me with proper positioning
  3. Proper form while completing each exercise
  4. Improved endurance
  5. Muscle definition

DIYFitnessTRXKit-2

I will admit it is a GREAT way to challenge your body. When you first look at the bands it does look challenging however over time it gets easier. I found a great video on YouTube to get started as a beginner. The video was excellent for my initial 4 weeks. My progress is evident after 4 weeks in terms of my form and endurance. The video is at RealFitTv and you can move at your own pace. I was able to finish 2 sets in my first four weeks but I will say I am ready to progress to 3 sets.

DIYFitnessTRXKIt-1

The only confusing part with using the TRX is the length of the bands. There are three different lengths: short, mid-length(marks on the band) and long. Also, there is the mid-calf length as well if you are doing exercises from the floor.   I will also let you know that using the TRX with feet in stir-ups is an exercise challenge.   This will definitely take some time to perfect.

I a found a video on Shape.com to set-up TRX at home

 

This is another home workout using your TRX.