The Only Holiday Gift Guide You’ll Need in 2020

December 6, 2020 By lyndsinreallife Leave a Comment

Whether it feels like it or not, the holidays are here. I know for me, it still feels like March (thanks pandemic/COVID-19). Luckily though, the holidays can be a happy time, full of love and cheer. And although this year definitely looks different, and many of us won’t be traveling to see our family and friends, that doesn’t mean we can’t think of our loved ones and surprise them with a gift!

I love gift giving (is that cliché to say?). I especially love when the recipient doesn’t know they’re getting a gift. I put a lot of thought into what I choose for each person, and I’ve done plenty of research on 2020’s top gifts. To save you some time, I’m sharing some of these gifts with you! Whether they’re things you want to gift to loved ones, or things you want to gift yourself (hello self-care), there’s something for everyone on this list. Enjoy!

FITNESS + WELLNESS

NOURISHED Vitamins

Nourished Vitamins are multivitamins that are made completely by YOU! There are 28 different vitamins to choose from. You pick the seven that you want (or you can take a quiz and get a stack built for you!), and your vitamin is 3D printed into a gummy! I love love love Nourished vitamins, because with most multivitamins, there are things that I don’t need, instead of the things I do need. But Nourished lets me choose! I built a stack geared toward mind, immunity, heart health, and hair growth. You get 28 gummies individually wrapped (with your name on the wrappers, how fun!), and can get monthly boxes auto sent to you when you’re running out.

Nourished multivitamin stack blog review holiday gift guide

**NOTE: the individual wrappers contain ZERO plastic, and they are compostable! I try my best to buy from companies that are eco-friendly, so Nourished is a win-win. The gummies are also sugar-free and vegan.

**DISCOUNT: First time customers receive 50% off a one-month subscription with code LAUNCH50 (or receive free shipping on a three-month subscription box) @ https://us.get-nourished.com!

Medterra CBD Oil

Medterra CBD oil (Cannabidiol oil) is probably the best gift you can give, because it has a plethora of uses! CBD can help alleviate things like pain, anxiety, and insomnia. It’s also recommended for overall well-being.

The Medterra CBD products I regularly take/use are: The Keep Calm and Sleep Tight gummies, Liposomal Good Morning capsules, 3000mg tincture, and the rapid cooling pain relief cream.

**DISCOUNT: Get 20% off your order by using code: lyndsay20 at medterracbd.com!

Medterra CBD good morning capsules blog review

Dosha Mat

The Dosha Mat is an acupressure mat that can help everyone, and for so many different reasons! It’s perfect for those who suffer from migraines, depression, anxiety, sciatica pain and more. Get more info about it here!

Perfect Hydration

For all the water lovers in your circle, Perfect Hydration water is, well, perfect! Perfect Hydration is 9.5+ pH electrolyte enhanced water that works great for those who are active and on-the-go. People forget it’s not only water that we need to hydrate ourselves, we need electrolytes as well. The water is also alkaline, which means you’re getting essential minerals!

Perfect Hydration 9.5+ pH Electrolyte Enhanced Alkaline Drinking Water

Jumpstart Energy Shot

Jumpstart Energy Shots are perfect for those seeking more energy + better focus, especially if they’re on-the-go! Jumpstart is meant to be taken before workouts or sporting events because it boosts natural performance. It provides a healthy “pick-me-up”, as it gives you vitamins and nutrients without all the sugar. Get a 12-pack (regular or grape flavor) here!

TRAVEL

EGGTRONIC Laptop Power Bank

eggtronic laptop power bank holiday gift guide

For your loved ones who are always working while traveling, the EGGTRONIC Laptop Power Bank is a perfect gift! This power bank is a USB-C ultra fast battery pack that charges your laptops, phones, tablets, and any other USB-C and USB devices. It looks extra stylish with its canvas covering, and it’s slim enough to fit right in your bag!

SELF-CARE

Alleyoop

pictured from top left: hold tight [setting spray], 11th hour in baby pearl [eyeshadow stick that I use as highlighter], pen pal 4-in-1, slow your roll in sage [aluminum-free deodorant], bottoms up [biodegradable body cleansing cloths] — pictured from top left: **hold tight** [setting spray], **11th hour** in baby pearl [eyeshadow stick that I use as highlighter], **pen pal** 4-in-1, **slow your roll** in sage [aluminum-free deodorant], **bottoms up** [biodegradable body cleansing cloths]

Alleyoop is probably my favorite company ever. Based in Los Angeles, Alleyoop is a women-founded and women-run beauty company dedicated to taking care, not time. Their makeup and body care products are multifunctional, time-saving, compact, and TSA-approved. They’re all cruelty-free, as well as free of parabens, latex, aluminum, and phthalates. I honestly can’t say enough good things about Alleyoop!

**DISCOUNT: Right now, Alleyoop is having a promo where when you bundle 3 items, you get 15% off PLUS one of their BRAND NEW cosmetic bags! Use code: BYOB @ meetalleyoop.com!

the cosmetic case you get for free during alleyoop's current promo. use code BYOB. image borrowed from meetalleyoop.com — the cosmetic case you get for free during alleyoop’s current promo. use code **BYOB**. image borrowed from meetalleyoop.com

I have almost all the Alleyoop products, and still, I’m going to buy duplicates just because this deal is SO GOOD! And be sure to check out the other Alleyoop products that aren’t shown here! [multi-mood lip trio, all-in-one razor, tip off makeup removing swabs, and SO. MUCH. MORE.]

pictured from top: multi-tasker 4-in-1 brush [sponge for concealer, + blush, brow, and eyeshadow brush], pen pal 4-in-1 [eyeliner, brow liner, highlight, and lipliner], stack the odds in sassy pants [blush, contour/bronzer, highlighter, + mirror] — pictured from top: **multi-tasker** 4-in-1 brush [sponge for concealer, + blush, brow, and eyeshadow brush], **pen pal** 4-in-1 [eyeliner, brow liner, highlight, and lipliner], **stack the odds** in sassy pants [blush, contour/bronzer, highlighter, + mirror]

multi-tasker 4-in-1 brush + stack the odds multi-use face palette in sassy pants — **multi-tasker** 4-in-1 brush + **stack the odds** multi-use face palette in sassy pants

STELLARGIRL

STELLARGIRL is a relatively new company & platform for strong and like-minded women to connect and help each other be, well, stellar! They created a glimmer lotion (3 years in the making) that is pretty awesome. It’s hella hydrating and the glimmer definitely pops. This is a must-give for your friends and family who love to shine! Get your Glimmer Lotion here.

PET

Fetching Fields Plant-Based Treats

Fetching Fields dog treats are the perfect stocking stuffer for your pup (or for a friend with pups)! They are human grade, certified organic, plant-based treat bars that are made in the U.S., with your dog’s wellness in mind. They’re also gluten-free, non-GMO, and kosher.

Fetching Fields Plant-Based Treats — fetching fields trekking tails plant-based treat bars. there are 3 different flavors: trekking tails, sit & stay, and on vacay.

We don’t follow a plant-based lifestyle, but my dog Archie LOVES these treats!! It’s really great because Archie is picky AND smart, and he refuses to eat anything plant-related. With FF, Archie is able to get the nutrients he needs. The bars are nice because they are easily broken into 10 pieces, and are individually wrapped for extra convenience when you’re on-the-go.

Get Fetching Fields treats on Amazon or their website!

Whistle FIT Health and Activity Tracker

whistle dog tracker — whistle FIT pet tracker

The Whistle FIT pet tracker is pretty great! Our pup Archie has been wearing one for years. He’s fairly active and it’s cool to track and see when he was active and when he was resting (especially when he’s at the sitter). Whistle Labs also makes the new Whistle GO Explore, which looks amazing!

whistle FIT pet tracker instagram — https://www.instagram.com/p/BvA-paRBXar/?igshid=1dc4uv4efskgq

**DISCOUNT: Get your Whistle FIT here, and be sure to select the “save 15%” coupon!

Medterra Pet CBD

In addition to CBD for humans, Medterra makes CBD products for pets! Medterra offers tinctures and treats for both dogs and cats. We use the tincture (beef flavor) because it’s easy to either put the oil on Archie’s food, or put it directly in his mouth. The treats are great too though; they’re convenient and easy to take anywhere!

**DISCOUNT: Use code lyndsay20 for 20% off Medterra CBD pet tinctures and treats @ medterracbd.com/category-pets!

TEACHING

Outschool Gift Cards

Outschool is an online education platform for kids aged 3-17 that offers all kinds of classes taught by teachers of various backgrounds. It’s nice because classes are offered at different times throughout the day, so you can always find something for whatever availability your child has. The cost of the classes are set by the teacher, and often, they will have promos such as discounts or sometimes even $1 classes.

I’ve been teaching with Outschool since the summer and it’s honestly a really great platform! I teach math, and right now I am teaching a 4-week course called “Fun With Fractions (& How They Relate to Decimals and Percents)“, as well as a one-time class by the same name.

**DISCOUNT: Sign up your kiddo for Outschool and get $20 in credit just by clicking this link!

I hope this gift guide is helpful and you find some great gifts for your loved ones! Comment below if there’s anything you think I should add 🙂

Thank you for stopping by!

// Find me on Instagram //

Lifestyle Travel

5 Tips That Will Make Your Vacation Experience Better

November 28, 2020 By lyndsinreallife 2 Comments

Photo by Pexels from Pixabay

Are you looking for ways that you can make your vacation more fun? We’ve got your back with tips that will give you an amazing holiday. These tips include: choosing a fun destination, utilizing shipping services, planning for fun activities, being present, and detoxing from devices. Read on to get a detailed explanation.

Choosing A Fun Destination

When planning for your vacation travel, find out about extraordinary places that you would want to visit. Do some research to learn more about the destination city and its environment/what they offer. For instance, if it’s a hilly place that hosts sports like mountain climbing and biking, it will help you plan for those activities.

If your favorite travel bloggers have been to that place, you can ask them what they thought was the best thing to do while there. Note that anti-mainstream/less traveled locations will give you a more exhilarating experience than iconic, popular destinations.

Utilize Shipping Services for Easy Travel

As we all know, dragging your suitcases and other items in the airport is not fun. Instead of enjoying your journey, you become tired and end up paying for extra costs like luggage fees. You can send certain luggage ahead of your holiday, like golf clubs through https://www.shiply.com/us/ltl-freight-shipping. Doing this will allow you to travel light.

You will have all your items delivered on time and at the right destination. You also get the door-to-door services at an inexpensive fee. Let the shipping company do the carrying for you as you enjoy your trip!

Plan Ahead for Fun Activities

Before your vaca starts, you need to think about the activities you want to participate in. List the fun activities on your to-do-list so you know which one you will prioritize. Early planning will help you de-stress, reduce your hassles, and save you time.

If you are not planning to pre-book a tour, you can explore the various local activities available and then use this information to prepare. It will save you money and make your vacation more exciting. Do not wait till the last day; planning ahead works!

Enjoy the Moment By Being Present

People will often think of their past experiences, possible future experiences, or even get worried about what might go wrong during their vacations. These thoughts will make you absent and anxious. Constantly thinking and stressing about other things/things we can’t control leaves no room to be in the moment. It’s a vacation; you need to have fun!

Enjoy the smells, the sounds, feelings, and sights. If you will be traveling to another country, smell and taste the new food. Learn about their culture and experience it. Focus your mind and energy on having unlimited fun.

Just Unplug

Your devices will always be with you, but vacation is usually a one or two-time experience (depending on how often you travel, of course). To have a truly enjoyable experience, you need to detox from these devices. Take a break from your social media, because being glued to those screens (and being engulfed in other people’s lives) will make you miss the present moment.

When going for dinner, you can leave your phone behind, and bond with your family, friends, or partner. It is your vacation, and you can get away with unanswered messages or calls. Make the most of it!

Bottom Line

If you want to have an exquisite vaca experience, you need to choose a great destination. Use shipping services to send your belongings ahead so that you can travel light. You can also plan for fun activities and take a break from your devices. Finally, be present to experience the moment. You won’t regret any of it!

*Be sure to follow all COVID-19 protocols and safety measures, and hold off on non-essential travel until COVID-19 is under control.*

What are your vacation plans? Where do you like to travel?

Thank you for reading! Find me on Instagram to connect! 🙂

Travel

Advice On Renting A Vehicle

June 14, 2020 By lyndsinreallife Leave a Comment

https://www.pexels.com/photo/action-asphalt-automobile-automotive-593172/

From personal use to business use, there are many different instances when people require vehicle rental services. If you are currently looking to hire a car or trailer, you definitely shouldn’t simply go for the first company you lay your eyes on.

There are several key components you need to take into account if you want to truly benefit from the convenience of hiring a ute or trailer. After all, you don’t want to be going on vacation and the company doesn’t turn up. To ensure this doesn’t happen. Read on to discover the key factors you must consider when looking for the best rental company.

The first thing you should be looking out for is flexibility. This essentially means finding a company that has the ability to cater to your needs entirely. Why should you have to compromise? Start off by making sure the company will deliver the trailer to your desired location and ensure they will collect it as well. A lot of people assume this is the case, yet there are businesses that expect you to collect and drop back off, and this is a huge inconvenience.

In addition to this, you should also make sure the company has several different trailers for you to choose from. After all, not every client is going to have the same demands. You may need a small vehicle for vacation, someone else may need a massive refrigerated trailer for a wedding event. You don’t want to have to pay for something that is much bigger than what you require.

Aside from the points that have already been mentioned, you will want to consider the reputation of the company. What have previous clients had to say about the service they received? Were they happy with it? Would they recommend the company to others? Was the trailer delivered and picked up on time? This is the only way you will get an honest evaluation of the company’s worth. If a business has a bad reputation, this is something you should easily be able to pick up on.

Another factor worth considering is the level of security offered by the company. You should seek a company that takes this seriously. They should make sure that the trailer has a good security system itself, as well as their own premises if you are going to be storing your car there.

Last but not least, price is always an important consideration when you are hiring or purchasing any product. It is no different when it comes to vehicle hire. A lot of people make the mistake of going for the cheapest price they can find. This is an error because you are likely to suffer at the hands of a lack of quality and/or poor service. It is likely the company will use cheap vehicles or cut corners, and so the potential for error is a lot higher. Do your research and find a good price, but one that is not too good to be true.

If you take all of the points that have been mentioned into account, you are guaranteed to be able to find the ideal trailer or ute for you!

Thank you for reading!

Lifestyle Travel

The 5 Top Travel Trends to Follow in 2021

May 28, 2020 By lyndsinreallife 1 Comment

Pixabay

2020 has been a notoriously bad year for travel. Flights are canceled, hospitality services shut down, not to mention the ethical considerations involved in hopping from country to country in the middle of a pandemic.

We will all have to settle for daydreaming about our next vacation, which hopefully will be possible next year. But when 2021 rolls around, the travel industry may look a little different. Tourism is subject to changing whims and fashions every year, and based on recent trends we can predict with some confidence how travelers will be spending their summers.

Here are five of the top travel trends you can expect to see in 2021!

Ancestry Travel

People have been able to conduct home DNA tests to find out about their ancestors for a while, but ancestry travel is now just taking off. People are increasingly going in search of their roots, traveling to the homelands and stomping-grounds of their family’s previous generations. It’s a fantastic way to combine travel with self-discovery, and many companies are now catering to this very niche form of tourism. For example, Airbnb has recently partnered with DNA lab 23andMe to encourage people to explore their heritage.

Wellness Travel

People are no longer content to spend their vaca time lying on a beach, soaking up the sun, and consuming large quantities of food and drink. What many tourists increasingly want from a vacation is to return home feeling healthier, happier, and ultimately transformed. Whether through fitness, nutrition, or meditation, wellness travel helps you to better yourself. It can take many different forms from mental health retreats and digital detox breaks, to fitness boot camps and “rewilding” vacations in which you immerse yourself in nature. There has also been a massive increase in plant medicine and ayahuasca retreats, in which drinking a psychoactive medicinal brew is intended to promote deep healing within the body. Why settle for an all-inclusive beach resort when you could instead opt for the #1 rated Ayahuasca retreat in Peru?

Vegan Travel

Veganism is one of the fastest-growing food trends in the world. More and more people are removing animal products from their diet, and this is beginning to follow through to their vacations as well. Many are opting to stay in vegan hotels, which not only serve a wholly plant-based menu but don’t contain any wool, silk, or feather products. There are currently only a select number of vegan hotels, but it’s only a matter of time before we see numbers grow.

Climate-Neutral Travel

With Greta Thunberg taking travelers to account for unnecessary flying, people are starting to be more eco-friendly with their travel decisions. We will see more travelers turning to trains or other forms of transport, and even taking steps to offset their holiday’s carbon footprint by booking eco-hotels and environmentally friendly travel providers.

Space Tourism

It may be a long time until this one is accessible to the general public, but with Virgin Galactic nearing completion, we are closer than ever before. Other companies are fast competing to be the first space tourism provider, and 2021 could well be the first year we see (ultra-rich) tourists heading into the stratosphere.

•What are your travel plans for 2021?

Thank you for reading!

Lifestyle Travel

Where The Weather Is Always Warm

February 10, 2020 By lyndsinreallife 1 Comment

While the autumn and winter have a particular type of charm, the crunchy leaves, the low sun, and bundling up in your most beloved winter sweaters and blankets, there is something wonderful about the sunshine.

Photo by Fezbot2000 on Unsplash

Even if you choose to travel during the off-season, you can still enjoy a huge fix of the fun in the sun. Obviously, a small amount of research is going to be needed before you jet off on your next adventure. However, there are a number of places that experience warm weather all year round. So it is time to grab your sunglasses, pack your bag, and head off!

India

On the west coast of India lies Goa. This was previously a Portuguese colony on the trade routes. It actually does experience rainy weather out there in monsoon season, but the chances are you wouldn’t be going there anyway. The monsoon season lasts from the end of May to around the beginning of October. However, the weather is still warm. So actually if you don’t mind a little warm rain and then Goa will be the perfect place for you. Keep in mind, it really is best to travel outside of monsoon season if you want tours and sunshine.

Costa Rica

Central valley in Costa Rica is one of the most beautiful destinations for adventurers looking for a gorgeous escape any time of the year. It is one of the most stable places in the world, as the country does not have an army. Nature is very respected and something that is preserved. You’ll find the people are super relaxed too; this might be because of the absolutely stunning surroundings and always having a healthy dose of vitamin D. You can head to the mountains, the beaches, the valleys, all the rainforest and still enjoy the most luxurious sunshine.

Thailand

Thailand also experiences a rainy season, albeit the weather is still always warm. This means you can choose any time of the year and soak up some natural wonders in the sunshine. You could head to the east and go to the Gulf of Thailand, or perhaps you’d prefer the west of the mainland in the Andaman Islands. It doesn’t matter which direction you choose; there is a considerable mix of unspoiled locations. This is ideal for using up all of that memory on your camera. Thailand is blessed with fantastic weather and wonderful people that will make you feel like you have found a paradise.

USA

One of the sunniest places on Earth is Arizona. It is dry and hot almost all year, and the city of Yuma is known for having at least 11 hours of sunshine every single day of the year. It isn’t the biggest place; in fact, it is known as a small desert city, but there are some fascinating museums that you can visit, and not to mention some of the hiking trails are phenomenal too. The city of Sedona, Arizona is one of the most gorgeous cities in the US. It’s totally worth checking out!

While you’re in the USA, you might as well head to Santa Barbara. Its beautiful coastal city has warm to hot weather year-round. You will, however, need to consider the 30% humidity, which can make it feel much warmer than it really is. It almost never rains in Santa Barbara, so if you are very dedicated to the sun, this is probably somewhere you want to visit. Even during the winter, you’re not going to really need much warm clothing, so you can travel very lightly any time of the year.

Brazil

São Paulo is known for some of the most beautiful weather all year round. Of course, this means it is actually very popular, it might be Brazil’s most temperate city, too. The consistent temperature means you’ll know exactly what to pack from the start to the end of your vacation. If you want to really experience the sunshine, then Rio de Janeiro has a lot more sunshine and really cranks up the heat.

Spain

Spain is not one of the best-kept secrets when it comes to great places to visit, but Malaga actually might be. Malaga experiences incredibly warm winters and very hot summers. So if you’re looking for a vacation to a great city that has a lot of places to eat, super fun outdoor activities, and so many beaches, then you’ll find that all in Malaga.

Mediterranean

While there are many islands in the Mediterranean, and most of them really deserve a visit, Cyprus is actually home to one of the most exceptional coastal destinations. It stays warm all year round. However, it should be noted that the inland can experience snow in the mountains during winter. You can still have long, luxurious days on the beach at the same time as the snow lands inland. The peak season lasts from June to September, which is one of the most excellent times to visit if you are purely interested in getting the most amount of rays. Spring and autumn do hold their charm, too, though!

Africa

On the north coast of Africa, you’ll find Morocco. Not only is the cuisine some of the best in the world, but it’s just a short flight away from Spain. Which means potentially you could do a two-for-one trip. Morocco has beautiful temperate weather, just like most of the Mediterranean coastal cities. However, because it faces the Atlantic Ocean on the west, you will find that it can be slightly cooler and have more breezy weather. So it can be incredibly refreshing to have a warm balmy sun and a slightly more cool breeze.

When you are looking for your super sunny holidays, remember that you will need to take extra sun protection, sunglasses, a hat, and really light clothing. So if you are ready for your next adventure, why not choose one from the list above? You are almost 100% guaranteed warm, welcoming sunny weather no matter what time of year you go.

This post was a collaboration.

Las Vegas Lifestyle

Eat, Work, Play, Exercise, and Live, All in One Place: The Gramercy Vegas

October 27, 2017 By lyndsinreallife Leave a Comment

I used to nanny in Playa Vista, CA, aka Silicon Beach. I loved it because it had condos/apartments, shopping, restaurants, and even a movie theater within walking distance. I haven’t been able to find anything like that in Las Vegas. When I first moved here June 2016, I lived in a 327 sq ft. studio (I know, right?!). When I was searching for a much-needed upgrade, I looked specifically for apartments near retail and restaurants. I’m not always in the mood to go far from my place. Unfortunately, I didn’t find exactly what I was looking for. At least not yet.

Driving down the 215-W, after dropping off my boyfriend at Mandalay Bay, I was always noticing this big sign for The Gramercy.

Photo Credit: Gramercy Vegas Facebook Page

Shortly after first noticing the sign (what was it for, I wondered?!), Vegas Lifestyle Influencers announced the opportunity to check it out: a brand new residential apartment complex, complete with retail, restaurants, and office space!

We were greeted with champagne & swag bags

With the ladies of Vegas Lifestyle Influencers inside Pinches Tacos :: Photo By: @InAndOutOfVegas

RETAIL

Restaurants:

Pinches Tacos
DW Bistro
Portion Control
The Cuppa Coffee Bar
Kitchen Table (coming soon!)

Tacos el Pastor + Blood Orange Margarita @ Pinches Tacos

Exercise:

Raw Fitness

Beauty:

NOHEA Nails

Chicken + Zoodles / Chalk Wall at Portion Control

The Gramercy offers:

Studios, one, two, and three bedroom apartments and penthouse lofts
Urban-style luxury apartments (private balconies, high ceilings, open kitchens)
Underground parking , direct access elevators, and plenty of guest parking
Work, play, eat, and exercise without leaving home!
Play with your pup at the dog park
Resident perks
Conveniently located (15 minutes to The Strip, 10 minutes to Downtown Summerlin)

For more information on The Gramercy Vegas, visit their website, Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter!

What do you look for in an apartment complex?
What is one thing you’d love to suggest to add to The Gramercy?

Thank you for reading! Subscribe below:

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Events Fitness Lifestyle

A Yoga Retreat You Don’t Want To Miss

July 14, 2014 By lyndsinreallife 16 Comments

Do you enjoy yoga? Surfing? Beautiful beaches? Then you want to check out the Gondwana Ecotour (with Project Pangia) that’s happening this October (2014) in Costa Rica!

You will spend seven days (Oct. 4-11) in beautiful Costa Rica on a yoga retreat dedicated to sustainability. Each morning will begin with yoga, followed by tours with local naturalists to explore the local plants, animals (like sloths!), and herbs. There will be additional things to do, like surfing, snorkeling, and bird-watching. You can also choose to just relax or learn about local culture!

I have been looking for a yoga retreat to attend, and this one is definitely it! I’ve never been to Costa Rica, but by taking one look at it, I know I need to be there.

(Image Source)

Trip Highlights:

(As found on the Gondwana website)

Start each day off with a morning yoga practice in an ecolodge nestled in the jungle
Travelers interested in surfing, whether renting boards or getting their first lessons, will have the chance to check out various surf breaks along the coast
Wonderful, local Costa Rican vegetarian-friendly cuisine provided by the Yoga Center’s staff
Visit the sloth sanctuary, a center that rescues and rehabilitates native sloths
A guided tour of some of the best hiking and waterfalls in central America
A led excursion to watch and learn about the vast number of tropical birds in the area, boasting one of the greatest number of species anywhere on earth
Work with a naturalist to learn about local plants and their healing properties

Yeah, this is happening. So the question is, who’s joining me?! The deadline to book is August 20, so make sure to reserve your spot ASAP.

If you don’t want to take my word for it, here’s what one traveler said about her experience with the ecotour:

“The trip was perfection. If you want to broaden your horizons and go to exotic places all while feeling taken care of and in good hands I recommend Gondwana Tours. I truly enjoyed the mix of luxury, rugged adventure, great food and enough swank to keep my whole family happy at every turn.”

— Jena Frederick

If that still isn’t enough, don’t forget about the sloths!

If you’re excited about this ecotour, head on over to the Gondwana website and fill out the form!

You can also follow Gondwana Ecotours on Twitter and Facebook.

Price: All Inclusive; $1, 430 per person

Have you ever been to Costa Rica?
Have you ever attended a yoga retreat? Where?

XO,

Lyndsay

Bipolar Disorder Personal SoCal

The Importance of Getting Out of Your Comfort Zone; How Moving to Los Angeles Changed My Life

February 12, 2014 By lyndsinreallife Leave a Comment

It has been exactly one year since I moved to Los Angeles from Cleveland, OH. February 12. The journey I have been on since last Feb. 12 has been the most emotional, yet most rewarding journey I’ve experienced thus far.

When visiting LA that previous November, I found a career opportunity doing something I love (nutrition and fitness), and also fell in love with my best friend of 19 years (crazy how these things happen, right?). Three months later, I was on a plane, leaving the comfort of the home I grew up in for 25 years, to move to Los Angeles to pursue the life I’ve always dreamed of.

I cried literally the ENTIRE day I was moving. Before leaving my house, in the line at security, in the line to board my plane, on the plane, and so on. It was so emotional, leaving my friends and family, but I was also very excited to see my boyfriend Tim whom I hadn’t seen for 6 weeks. It was the most surreal feeling. I had no idea how California was going to be. Would I fit in? Would I feel at home? Would Tim and I get along living with each other? Would I ever make friends?

Fast forward one year. Everyone always told me to give it a year no matter what. That if I didn’t like it in LA after one year, then I could leave. But until then, I had to stick it out. I was crazy homesick until about the end of September. My parents, my brothers, and my nephews are my world. It was very hard for me, especially with having bipolar disorder. I went through a depressive episode for about 5 months in the summer, and being away from my family only made it worse. Luckily, I spent my year in LA building a support system through the people I met at Active Nutrition (some of us then opened our own wellness center two weeks ago, The Fit Lab). I’m really glad I gave it a year. I was almost ready to move back to Ohio in June and then again in September, but now that it has been a full year, I couldn’t be happier!

Getting out of your comfort zone is one of the best things you can do for yourself. Yeah, your comfort zone feels nice, but outside of it is where growth happens. One of the quotes that actually helped me to make my decision to move to LA was, “Life begins at the end of your comfort zone.” And it is incredibly true. I met people I would not have otherwise met. I went places I would not have otherwise went. I never even thought the “city life” was for me, but it is! After one year, I truly feel like I belong here. my purpose is to change the nutritional habits of the world and help as many people as possible get healthy. I spend every single day making myself better and doing what I love. I have the sun, the ocean, the mountains, the desert- the life I’ve always dreamed of but never thought I would have.

I grew so much this past year and became the person I truly want to be. And I know that as the next few years go by, I will grow more and more into the person I want to be. Moving to LA changed my life, and although it was hard at first, I am incredibly grateful I had this opportunity and took it, because I love the life I live now.