Go-to apps and programs I use in my business

Sharing some of my favorite apps and programs  that I use every day in my business!

Hi friends! How’s the week going so far? We’re hanging out over here – so glad to be done with the school hustle and bustle- and have quite a few appointments and things to do today. I have to take my car to get fixed (wah), head to the eye doctor (my eyes have been driving me crazy with the dry air and pollen), and getting some little goodies together for friends that are coming into town.

(my updated Work from Home setup is here! I now have an eye-level screen that has wireless connection to my computer so I don’t have to look down. I can also use it to watch streaming service, internet content, and apps.)

For today’s post, I wanted to share some of the apps and programs I use in my business. I’ve had some more requests for business and behind-the-scenes type posts, and quite a few of ya let me know that you enjoy when I pull the curtain back and share more about how things operate over here.

It’s easy to think that writing a blog is simply adding some text and photos to a page… but it’s a lot of unseen tasks and juggling. 90% of the work I do is all behind-the-scenes, from research, graphic design, crafting workouts and meal plans, filming content, taking photos, invoicing, emails, brand partnerships, Pinterest, email marketing, the list goes on and on.

There are quite a few tools that help me to stay on track and organized, and I thought I’d share some of my faves in this post! Many of these are helpful even if you don’t work in the online world, especially Canva and Voxer.

Here are some of my go-tos!

Go-to apps and programs I use in my business

Canva

Canva is like having a magic wand for your creativity! It’s a super fun and easy-to-use tool that lets you design stunning visuals without the need for any design skills. Whether you’re a student, a social media enthusiast, or someone who just loves adding a little flair to their projects, Canva is your go-to. With its endless collection of templates, fonts, and images, you can create eye-catching graphics, personalized invitations, beautiful presentations, and so much more.

I’m NOT great at graphic design, but Canva makes it very easy. You can also use it to create beautiful invitations, gift tags, and printables for your fam. (Summer Chore Chart coming in 3….2….)

Leadpages

Leadpages is an incredible tool for entrepreneurs, marketers, and business owners who want to create high-converting landing pages, pop-ups, and sales funnels with ease. With its drag-and-drop interface and extensive library of customizable templates, Leadpages takes the guesswork out of designing and optimizing landing pages. Whether you’re looking to capture leads, promote products, or grow your email list, Leadpages provides the tools and features you need to create compelling and visually stunning pages that drive results.

With seamless integration options, analytics, and A/B testing capabilities, you can track your performance and make data-driven decisions to continually improve your conversions. Say goodbye to the days of hiring expensive web designers or struggling with complex coding—Leadpages empowers you to create professional-looking pages that effortlessly convert visitors into loyal customers.

I’ve used Leadpages for many years, and while it’s on the pricey side, it’s easy to use and I find that it’s my go-to when I want to create a simple landing page. I made this landing page on Leadpages for our Summer Challenge! We start on Monday if you want to join!!

Kajabi

Kajabi is a game-changing all-in-one platform that empowers content creators, educators, and entrepreneurs to build and grow their online businesses with ease. It provides a comprehensive suite of tools and features designed to streamline your entire digital business ecosystem. From creating and hosting online courses, membership sites, and coaching programs to managing marketing campaigns and sales funnels, Kajabi has it.

With its intuitive interface and user-friendly design, you can effortlessly customize your website, design beautiful landing pages, and deliver engaging content to your audience. Kajabi also offers powerful marketing automation, email marketing, and analytics tools, allowing you to nurture your leads, build meaningful relationships, and track your business performance. With Kajabi, you can focus on what you do best—sharing your expertise and growing your online business—while the platform takes care of the technical aspects, providing you with a seamless and professional online presence.

If you want to create a course or membership site, I highly recommend Kajabi. I use this platform for Fit Team – all of the workouts are bonuses are organized beautifully – and also for Total Body Reset and my new program that will launch this fall. You can use this link for 30 days free!

Voxer

Voxer is a dynamic and versatile communication tool that takes the concept of instant messaging to a whole new level. Combining the convenience of text messaging with the power of voice, Voxer allows users to send real-time voice messages, text messages, photos, and even share locations. It’s like having a walkie-talkie in your pocket, enabling seamless and efficient communication with individuals or groups.

With Voxer, you can collaborate on projects, or simply stay connected with friends and loved ones. The ability to hear someone’s voice adds a personal touch and brings conversations to life in a way that traditional text messaging can’t. Whether you’re using Voxer for work or personal purposes, it’s a fantastic tool that enhances communication, fosters connection, and makes staying in touch a breeze.

I use Voxer for my 1:1 clients, with my team, and to catch up with friends! I’m super slow at typing on my phone, so it’s much easier to send a quick voice message.

Asana

Asana is a game-changing project management tool that revolutionizes the way teams collaborate, organize, and track their work. With its intuitive interface and powerful features, Asana helps streamline workflows, improve productivity, and keep everyone on the same page.

From creating and assigning tasks to setting deadlines, attaching files, and tracking progress, Asana provides a centralized platform for teams to manage projects efficiently. Its user-friendly design and customizable project boards make it easy to visualize and prioritize tasks, ensuring that everyone knows what needs to be done and when. Asana also offers seamless integration with other popular tools, allowing for smooth collaboration and efficient information sharing. Whether you’re working on a small team or managing complex projects with multiple stakeholders, Asana is a reliable and efficient tool that empowers teams to work together seamlessly and achieve their goals.

I use Asana with my team and it makes it super easy to keep track of upcoming blog posts, delegate tasks (like SEO and graphic design) and see what’s in the pipeline.

So tell me, friends: what are your all-time favorite apps and programs that you use? They could be work-related or just for fun!

xo

Gina

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Books I’ve read lately (and if I’d recommend them!)

Hi friends! I missed my April book roundup so I’m sharing the books I read in April, and most of the books from May + if I’d recommend adding them to your collection.

Hi hi! Happy Monday and I hope my US friends are enjoying a relaxing Memorial Day. Today, I’m praying for those who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect our country. “Thank you” will never be enough, and I’m holding our Gold Star families in my heart.

Summer is officially in full swing over here! We had a little end-of-the-year get-together, it was Liv’s First Communion (I’ll share some pics in Fri Faves), and we’ve been living in the pool. We spent all day yesterday floating around at the Lodge, eating delicious food, enjoying cocktail samples, and chatting with friends. It was the perfect day. Friendly reminder that tomorrow is the last day to get 20% off HigherDOSE at this link and with the code MDW2023.

For today’s post, I wanted to share a book recap! I totally missed my recap for April, so I’m combining April’s books + most of May’s in this post. There was quite a mix of subjects and genres, and a couple of huge home runs. Here are all of the details!

 Books I’ve read lately (and if I’d recommend them!)

Guest List

This thrilling novel is like a rollercoaster ride of secrets, surprises, and suspense. Set against the backdrop of a glamorous wedding, the story unfolds with twists and turns that will keep you hooked from start to finish. Lucy Foley’s skillful storytelling brings the characters to life, and you’ll find yourself completely immersed in their world. With its picturesque setting, intriguing plot, and a dash of romance, “The Guest List” is the perfect escape for anyone craving a delightful blend of mystery and excitement.

I tend to stay away from thriller-ish books, but I’ve read a few Lucy Foley books and enjoy them. Plus, I don’t find them to be overly violent or gory. If you’re looking for a beach read that you can blast through, I definitely recommend it. 8/10

From Amazon:

A wedding celebration turns dark and deadly in this deliciously wicked and atmospheric thriller reminiscent of Agatha Christie from the New York Times best-selling author of The Hunting Party.

The bride – the plus one – the best man – the wedding planner – the bridesmaid – the body.

On an island off the coast of Ireland, guests gather to celebrate two people joining their lives together as one. The groom: handsome and charming, a rising television star. The bride: smart and ambitious, a magazine publisher. It’s a wedding for a magazine or for a celebrity: the designer dress, the remote location, the luxe party favors, the boutique whiskey. The cell phone service may be spotty and the waves may be rough, but every detail has been expertly planned and will be expertly executed.

But perfection is for plans, and people are all too human. As the champagne is popped and the festivities begin, resentments and petty jealousies begin to mingle with the reminiscences and well wishes. The groomsmen begin the drinking game from their school days. The bridesmaid not-so-accidentally ruins her dress. The bride’s oldest (male) friend gives an uncomfortably caring toast.

And then someone turns up dead. Who didn’t wish the happy couple well? And perhaps more important, why?

Hang the Moon

TBH SO much happened, and at the same time, nothing really happened. I’m usually a fan of Jeannette Walls, but this book was not it for me. I feel like I could rattle off multiple plots for 20 minutes and still not be able to fully explain what this book was about. Initially, I was wrapped into the story but then got bored as it dragged on and on. 2/10… yikes.

From Amazon:

Sallie Kincaid is the daughter of the biggest man in a small town, the charismatic Duke Kincaid. Born at the turn of the 20th century into a life of comfort and privilege, Sallie remembers little about her mother who died in a violent argument with the Duke. By the time she is just eight years old, the Duke has remarried and had a son, Eddie. While Sallie is her father’s daughter, sharp-witted and resourceful, Eddie is his mother’s son, timid and cerebral. When Sallie tries to teach young Eddie to be more like their father, her daredevil coaching leads to an accident, and Sallie is cast out.

Nine years later, she returns, determined to reclaim her place in the family. That’s a lot more complicated than Sallie expected, and she enters a world of conflict and lawlessness. Sallie confronts the secrets and scandals that hide in the shadows of the Big House, navigates the factions in the family and town, and finally comes into her own as a bold, sometimes reckless bootlegger.

You will fall in love with Sallie Kincaid, a feisty and fearless, terrified and damaged young woman who refuses to be corralled.

Paris the Memoir

Heads up: all of the trigger warnings.

Hands in the air if you had no idea of the atrocities that Paris Hilton has endured. From being abducted in the middle of night, to years of abuse at “elite” boarding schools, she’s been through some horrible circumstances. It was heartbreaking to hear everything she experienced in her own voice, as I listened to this one on Audible. I’ve always been a Paris fan – I admire her grit and could always tell she was strategic and a hard worker – but this book just left me cheering for her even more. It’s also a testament to how unfair the media and paparazzi were to women in the 1990s and early 2000s (like Britney Spears). 9/10 recommend.

From Amazon:

Paris rose to prominence as an heiress to the Hilton Hotels empire, but cultivated her fame and fortune as the It Girl of the aughts, a time marked by the burgeoning twenty-four-hour entertainment news cycle and the advent of the celebrity blog. Using her celebrity brand, Paris set in motion her innovative business ventures, while being the constant target of tabloid culture that dismissively wrote her off as “famous for being famous.” With tenacity, sharp business acumen, and grit, she built a global empire and, in the process, became a truly modern icon beloved around the world.

Now, with courage, honesty, and humor, Paris Hilton is ready to take stock, place it all in context, and share her story with the world. Separating the creation from the creator, the brand from the ambassador, Paris: The Memoir strips away all we thought we knew about a celebrity icon, taking us back to a privileged childhood lived through the lens of undiagnosed ADHD and teenage rebellion that triggered a panicked—and perilous—decision by her parents. Led to believe they were saving their child’s life, Paris’s mother and father had her kidnapped and sent to a series of “emotional growth boarding schools,” where she survived almost two years of verbal, physical, and sexual abuse. In the midst of a hell we now call the “troubled teen industry,” Paris created a beautiful inner world where the ugliness couldn’t touch her. She came out, resolving to trust no one but herself as she transformed that fantasy world into a multibillion-dollar reality.

Recounting her perilous journey through pre-#MeToo sexual politics with grace, dignity, and just the right amount of sass, Paris: The Memoir tracks the evolution of celebrity culture through the story of the figure at its leading edge, full of defining moments and marquee names. Most important, Paris shows us her path to peace while she challenges us to question our role in her story and in our own. Welcome to Paris.

Two Week’s Notice

I’ve been a fan of Amy Porterfield forever and have always enjoyed her Online Marketing Made Easy podcast, so I was definitely interested in reading her new book.

Amy is a powerhouse in the world of entrepreneurship, and spills all her secrets on how to gracefully transition from a soul-sucking job to pursuing your passion and building a thriving online business. With her signature blend of tough love and practical strategies, Amy empowers you to ditch the nine-to-five grind and create a life on your own terms. It’s like a bootcamp for your mindset, pushing you to step out of your comfort zone and chase your dreams with unwavering determination.

I do think this book is geared more to true beginners in their online entrepreneurship journey. There were a couple of gems that I could use in my current business model, but highly recommend this book if you’re just getting started. 8/10

From Amazon:

Ever wish there was a step-by-step blueprint to design your life for financial freedom, lifestyle flexibility, and major impact?

Are you ready to go from being stuck and complacent to courageous and capable of creating a business offering you the time and financial freedom you never dreamed possible?

Through sharing her tried-and-true strategies, inspiring stories, and mindset shifts, Amy Porterfield, host of the top-rated podcast Online Marketing Made Easy and a 9-to-5 escapee who built an 8-figure online business on her terms, reveals:

· Why you don’t need to know exactly what your business is going to be to get started

· Tips to navigate the 5 most common boss traps, including self-sabotage and “superwoman syndrome”
· How to use your 10 percent edge to build a foolproof marketing plan
· The keys to set up your business to avoid trading your time for money
· How to craft your first offer and overcome the fear of putting it out there

You can have more time, flexibility, recognition, income, and impact. You’re capable of so much more than you know. You’ve got this!

Nora Goes Off Script 

Nora writes fluffy romance scripts for a living, but her most recent work of art has a sad ending: the husband leaves and doesn’t come back. It also happens to be a true story about her life. When the actor playing her ex-husband decides to take a vacation from the Hollywood bustle and stay on her property, her world is flipped upside-down.

This book is a cupcake of a summer beach read: sweet, witty, and so enjoyable. I didn’t want it to end and wish I could read it for the first time all over again. If you’re looking for a summer read, this is it!! 10/10

From Amazon:

Nora Hamilton knows the formula for love better than anyone. As a romance channel screenwriter, it’s her job. But when her too-good-to-work husband leaves her and their two kids, Nora turns her marriage’s collapse into cash and writes the best script of her life. No one is more surprised than her when it’s picked up for the big screen and set to film on location at her 100-year-old home. When former Sexiest Man Alive, Leo Vance, is cast as her ne’er-do-well husband, Nora’s life will never be the same.

The morning after shooting wraps and the crew leaves, Nora finds Leo on her porch with a half-empty bottle of tequila and a proposition. He’ll pay a thousand dollars a day to stay for a week. The extra seven grand would give Nora breathing room, but it’s the need in his eyes that makes her say yes. Seven days: It’s the blink of an eye or an eternity depending on how you look at it. Enough time to fall in love. Enough time to break your heart.

Filled with warmth, wit, and wisdom, Nora Goes Off Script is the best kind of love story—the real kind where love is complicated by work, kids, and the emotional baggage that comes with life. For Nora and Leo, this kind of love is bigger than the big screen.

So tell me, friends: what’s the best book you’ve read recently? Any summer travel book recs? Please send them my way!
xo

Gina

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Friday Faves

Hi friends! The weekend is here and we’re officially into summer! The kids had an amazing school year, but we’re definitely all ready for a break (especially from the early mornings and homework). This weekend is Liv’s First Communion, new Fit Team workouts go out on Sunday, and we’re going to spend lots of time in the pool. I hope you have a lovely and relaxing weekend ahead!

For now, it’s time for the weekly Friday Faves party! This is where I share some of my favorite things from the week and around the web. I always love to hear about your faves, too, so please shout out something you’re loving in the comments section below!

Friday Faves

Life:

We had some friends over to celebrate the end of school and it was the perfect evening.

Here’s the menu:

– Artichoke dip and crackers

– A giant thing of fruit (jicama, mango, cucumber, pineapple) and chamoy that Ana brought

– Always the cheese board

(I tried making little rivers this time instead of piles and like how it turned out)

– Steak with chimmichurri sauce

– Caesar salad with homemade sourdough croutons (this is the dressing)

– Grilled salmon

– Mashed sweet potatos

– Sangria and margaritas

– and for dessert, chocolate cupcakes with peanut butter frosting and the most gorgeous Persian love cakes from Agave Pantry

The kids swam for hours (our babysitter is a lifeguard and came over to keep an extra set of eyes on the pool), we got to catch up with some of our closest friends, and it was a blast.

The kids’ picnic setup from Wicked Picnic:

Health, fitness, + good eats:

Heads up that the HigherDOSE Memorial Sale is here! Use this link and the code MDW2023 for 20% off (minus full-size saunas, subscriptions and bundles). You can use this link and sale code for my beloved sauna blanket, PEMF Go Mat, red light face mask, copper body brush, detox drops, SO much good stuff on the site!

This oatmeal carrot cake looks amazing.

Another potential reason to add high intensity bursts into your routine.

Fashion + beauty:

Lulus has really upped their game lately! I got Liv’s First Communion dress from Lulu’s (it’s this one that she’s going to wear with a white shawl for the ceremony) and my dress is here.

More Memorial Day sales:

Madewell 30% off with the code WARMUP (love their dress selection for summer)

Abercrombie up to 20% off

J Crew 40% with the code weekend

Shopbop 15% off beauty with code BEAUTY15

Anthropologie extra 40% off sale

gap 60% off select dresses, tees, and shorts for kids 

Read, watch, listen:

Check out this week’s podcast episode about navigating postpartum with Sarah Merrill Hall here. 

 So many book recs in this post!

Happy Friday, friends! Have a happy and wonderful weekend. Thank you so much for stopping by the blog today.

xo

Gina

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Just the Facts, Please: Do Birth Control Implants Make You Gain Weight?

The birth control implant, which is known by the brand name Nexplanon, is a long-term birth control method that’s more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. It’s a tiny plastic rod that’s placed just under the skin on the inside of your upper arm.  

It prevents pregnancy by releasing a continuous low dose of a progestin hormone called etonogestrel. Progestin is a form of the hormone progesterone, which plays a role in your menstrual cycle and pregnancy.

This release of etonogestrel helps prevent pregnancy by thickening mucus in your cervix, thinning the lining of your uterus, and stopping the release of eggs from your ovaries. 

While the birth control implant is safe, effective, and super convenient (cheers to not needing to remember to take a pill every day!), some people may experience side effects while using it — including weight gain.

Here are all the deets about birth control implants and weight gain.

Does the birth control implant actually cause weight gain? 

The birth control implant has some major benefits. Once it’s implanted under your skin, it does all the work for you. This means no “Oh #$@!%, I forgot to take my birth control pill!” moments. Because the implant doesn’t involve any thinking or planning ahead on your end, it’s often referred to as a “set it and forget it” birth control method.

Plus, it’s more effective at preventing pregnancy than hormonal birth control pills, which are 93% effective with typical use.

But, like other hormonal birth control methods, the implant can cause side effects in some people.

Weight gain is listed as a common side effect of the implant, which means you might gain some weight after getting your birth control implant. 

How common is it to gain weight with the birth control implant?

Studies show that, for the most part, birth control implants don’t lead to significant weight gain.

A 2019 study involving 197 teens and young adults who used the implant found that they gained an average of 7.9 pounds in 2 years, while a control group who were not using birth control implants gained an average of 6.8 pounds.

The researchers didn’t find any significant differences in weight gain between the two groups and concluded that long-term birth control implant use does not lead to significant weight gain in young women. 

Of the 43 participants who had their implants removed during the 2-year study period, only 6.3% (3 people) said that weight gain was the main reason they wanted to remove the implant. 

A 2018 study with 2,963 participants found that implant users had gained an average of 6.6 pounds after 3 years of use. In comparison, users of nonhormonal IUDs gained 2.4 pounds in the same period. 

The researchers found that, in comparison to IUD users, implant users gained 1.6 more pounds per year after getting their implant placed if their baseline weight was between 112 and 152 pounds. Those who weighed 154 pounds or more gained 1.7 more pounds than IUD users. 

Although weight gain is considered a common side effect of the implant, studies show that the percentage of people who gain weight is pretty low. Some research suggests that 7.7–11.6% of people gain 4–8 pounds over 12 months when using the implant.  

While most people don’t gain a significant amount of weight when using the birth control implant, some study findings suggest that factors such as genetics and body weight can influence your susceptibility to gaining weight from the implant. 

For example, research shows that people who have variations in the estrogen receptor 1 (ESR1) gene and those who have a higher body mass index (BMI) are more likely to gain weight after getting a birth control implant. 

Also, a 2017 study with 127 participants suggests that having the birth control implant placed immediately after giving birth may interfere with the ability to lose any weight gained during pregnancy, especially in people who are overweight or have obesity.

If you find that you’ve gained a significant amount of weight and think it may be related to the birth control implant, talk with your doctor about your options. One benefit of the implant is that you can have it removed at any time and for any reason, including side effects like weight gain.

How can I lose weight while on the birth control implant?

Eating a nutritious diet, staying active, managing stress, and getting enough sleep are the best ways to reach and maintain a healthy body weight, no matter which type of birth control you use.

Even though the birth control implant may cause weight gain in some people, it’s important to understand that there are many other possible reasons for weight gain, including medication changes, existing health conditions, reduced physical activity, and dietary changes.

If you haven’t changed your diet or activity levels and still find that you’re gaining weight while using the birth control implant, consider talking with your doctor to see whether the implant might be causing your weight gain. They can help you narrow down possible reasons for weight gain and come up with a safe and effective weight loss plan. 

You always have the option to remove your birth control implant if you find that it has caused you to gain unwanted weight or if you’re experiencing other side effects that are affecting your quality of life.

Does removing the birth control implant make you lose weight?

If you’ve experienced unwanted weight gain related to the birth control implant, removing it should help you lose any excess weight. The hormone that the implant releases causes weight gain in some people, so removing the hormone from your body should help you lose any weight you’ve gained over time.

If you’ve gained a significant amount of weight, it’s important to be kind to yourself and understand that healthy weight loss takes time.

Instead of turning to unhealthy weight loss methods like super low calorie diets, try using more sustainable and safer methods such as cutting back on ultra-processed foods, eating more protein and fiber, and moving more throughout your day. 

What are other potential side effects of the birth control implant?

In addition to weight gain, the birth control implant may cause a few side effects, some of which are more common than others.

Here are the most common side effects:

• changes in your period, such as longer or shorter bleeding times and spotting between periods
• headache
• vaginitis or swelling of the vagina
• breast pain 
• viral infections
• stomach pain
• painful periods
• mood changes
• back pain
• nausea
• dizziness
• pain at the insertion site

The implant also comes with a risk of the following complications, although they are rare:

• pregnancy due to improper insertion
• ovarian cysts
• increased risk of breast cancer, serious blood clots, and liver tumors 
• high blood pressure
• gallbladder issues

While some of these potential side effects sound pretty scary, most people are A-OK while taking birth control and never experience serious health issues.

If you’re concerned about the possible side effects of the birth control implant, talk with your doctor. They can help you decide which birth control method is the safest and most appropriate option for you.  

tl;dr

The birth control implant is a safe and effective way to prevent pregnancy. But, like most other birth control methods, it can lead to side effects in some people.

Some people may experience weight gain when using the birth control implant, although studies suggest that those people usually gain only a small amount. 

If you find that you’re gaining weight after getting a birth control implant and you think the implant may be the cause, talk with your doctor about your options.

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10 Healthy Summer Smoothie Recipes

I’m sharing 10 delicious healthy smoothie recipes – from tart cherry smoothie bowls to tropical mango kiwi coolers – that make for a nutrient-dense snack or meal on a warm summer day.

We love refreshing smoothies in our house year-round, but especially during those scorching hot Arizona summer days. We usually have a back stock of Daily Harvest smoothies in our freezer, but there’s nothing like throwing a bunch of healthy ingredients into your blender and coming up with your smoothie connection. Whether you’re in the mood for a bright berry smoothie, or you’re craving something citrusy, I’m sharing 10 delicious recipes for the healthiest and best-hydrating smoothies from some of my fellow blogger friends – enjoy!

10 Healthy Summer Smoothie Recipes

Tart Cherry Smoothie Bowl

I use tart cherry juice as the base for this hydrating and replenishing tart cherry smoothie bowl – it’s the perfect post-workout smoothie to help reduce muscle soreness.

Healthy Orange Julius

Dairy-free and healthy, this homemade Orange Julius is a delicious and nutritious treat!

Vitamin C Smoothie

Strawberries, orange juice, soaked goji berries, a splash of lime juice, half a banana, and a hefty pinch of cayenne make this citrus smoothie refreshing to sip! 

Raspberry Orange Smoothie via The Almond Eater

This layered Raspberry Orange Smoothie is a healthy and delicious way to start the day! The entire smoothie requires just 5 ingredients, is packed with Vitamin C, and is an easy way to add fruit and veggie foods into your diet. 

Refreshing Pineapple Kale Smoothie via Ambitious Kitchen

Refreshing pineapple kale smoothie made with five simple ingredients for a wonderful, easy breakfast or snack. Creamy coconut milk gives this vegan pineapple kale smoothie a delicious, tropical flavor you’ll love. 

Summer Berry Smoothie via Minimalist Baker

A simple 5-ingredient smoothie that tastes like summer in a cup! Raspberries, frozen bananas, 2 pure fruit juices, and creamy almond milk make the healthiest tart-sweet smoothie ever.

Golden Milk Smoothie via Eating Bird Food

This golden milk smoothie with fresh turmeric, ginger, and mango is the perfect way to refuel after a workout. It has the protein and carbs your body needs along with anti-inflammation properties to help your body recover.

Happy Digestion Green Smoothie Packs via Making Thyme For Health

Happy Digestion Smoothie Packs are not only packed full of healthy enzymes and probiotics, but they are also a convenient and nutritious way to start your day on the right foot. With a variety of delicious flavors to choose from, these smoothie packs are a great way to support your digestive system and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Mango Kiwi Coolers via Pinch of Yum

Mango Kiwi Coolers are the perfect summer treat. Colorful, sweet, fresh layers of kiwi and mango also pack a nutritious punch. Mango Kiwi Coolers are a sweet and refreshing summer treat that is also packed with nutrients. Together, these two fruits make for a delicious and healthy drink that can help support your immune system and keep you hydrated during the hot summer months.

Lemon Blueberry Smoothie via Running on Real Food

This lemon blueberry smoothie tastes a bit like blueberry pie but you know it’s loaded up with all kinds of nutrition. The recipe features antioxidant-rich berries, frozen bananas, plant-based protein powder, chia seeds, and cinnamon. 

These 10 healthy summer smoothie recipes are a delicious and refreshing way to stay cool and nourished during the warmer months. Whether you’re looking to boost your energy, satisfy your sweet tooth, or simply enjoy a tasty treat, there’s a smoothie on this list for everyone. So grab your blender, and some fresh ingredients, and get ready to sip your way to a healthier summer!

Tell me, friends: what’s your all-time favorite smoothie combo or recipe?

xo

Gina

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WTF Are Birth Control Implants and How Do They Work?

Using birth control is an easy-peasy way to prevent unplanned pregnancy, but choosing a birth control method might seem a little complicated. If you’re interested in starting birth control or you’re looking to switch up your current birth control method, you may feel overwhelmed by the seemingly endless options out there.

There are pills, injections, IUDs, implants … wait, what? Implants?

Yup, birth control implants are a thing, and they might just become your new birth control BFF.

In this article, we’re giving you all the deets about birth control implants so you can decide whether they’re the right option to help you stay safe and pregnancy-free.

How do birth control implants work? 

A birth control implant is a long-term birth control device that’s placed just under the skin on the inside of your nondominant upper arm. 

While they’re not as popular as other birth control methods, such as the pill, birth control implants have been used to prevent pregnancy for more than 15 years. A birth control implant with the brand name Implanon was approved for use by the Food and Drug Administration in 2006 but was replaced with an implant called Nexplanon in 2010.

Nexplanon is easier to insert than Implanon and is designed to be visible on diagnostic imaging tests such as X-rays.

The current birth control implant (brand name Nexplanon) works by releasing a continuous low dose of progestin into your body. Progestin is a form of the naturally occurring sex hormone progesterone.

The hormone prevents pregnancy by thickening mucus in your cervix, thinning the lining of your uterus, and stopping the release of eggs from your ovaries — all of which make it harder for you to become pregnant.   

Unlike with other birth control methods, such as pills, you can’t forget to take the implant or use it incorrectly. Once a healthcare professional inserts your birth control implant, you’re protected for up to 3 years. 

However, while birth control implants help prevent pregnancy, they don’t prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs). So, even if you have a birth control implant, it’s important to protect yourself from STIs by getting tested regularly and using condoms or another barrier method when you’re getting down. 

Insertion and removal

The insertion process for the implant is super simple and takes just a few minutes. 

A healthcare professional will give you an injection to numb your arm and then use a special device to insert the implant just under the skin on the inside of your nondominant upper arm.

Nexplanon is a tiny plastic rod — just 1.6 inches long and 0.125 inches in diameter, which is about the same size as a matchstick. Because it’s so small, it’s not noticeable, but you should be able to feel it under your skin when touching your arm.

You shouldn’t feel any pain when the implant is inserted, but you may feel sore around the insertion area after the numbing agent has worn off.  

It’s recommended that you schedule your implant insertion to take place within the first 5 days of your period. If you follow this recommendation, you’ll be protected right after insertion. If you have the implant inserted at any other time, you’ll need to use a backup form of birth control during sex for 7 days after insertion. 

The implant can last up to 3 years, but you can have it removed at any time. When you’re ready to have it taken out, a healthcare professional will numb your arm before making a small incision in your skin and removing the implant. 

As with the insertion, you shouldn’t feel any pain during removal, but you may feel a bit of discomfort from the incision after the numbing agent wears off.

If you want to continue using the implant, a healthcare professional can insert a new one after removing your old one.

How effective is it?

Birth control implants are one of the most effective forms of birth control available. 

The birth control implant is more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. This means that fewer than 1 in 100 implant users become pregnant each year. 

For comparison, hormonal birth control pills are 93% effective with typical use and 99% effective with perfect use. The main issue that influences the effectiveness of birth control pills is human error, meaning that most people aren’t 100% perfect when it comes to taking a pill every single day. 

One of the reasons the implant is so effective is that once it’s inserted, you’re done. You don’t have to worry about forgetting to take a pill or taking a pill at the wrong time. This is why it’s often called a “set it and forget it” birth control method. 

Pros and cons

As with any other birth control method, there are a few pros and cons to consider when deciding whether a birth control implant is the right choice for you. 

Pros

• It’s implanted in your arm, so you can’t forget to take it or use it incorrectly. 
• It’s 99% effective at preventing pregnancy.
• It’s so small that you usually can’t see it under your skin.
• Most health insurance plans should cover it.
• It can help lighten periods and may help reduce period cramps.
• Because it contains only progestin, it’s a safe choice for people who can’t tolerate estrogen-containing birth control.
• It can be removed at any time and won’t affect your ability to get pregnant in the future.

Cons

• A healthcare professional must insert and remove it.
• It may cause side effects like mood swings, weight gain, headaches, and mood changes.
• You may experience irregular bleeding, especially during the first 6–12 months after insertion.
• It doesn’t prevent STI transmission.

How do I know if the implant is right for me?

The birth control implant is a good option if you don’t want to worry about taking a pill every day or if you can’t tolerate estrogen-containing birth control methods. 

Plus, unlike IUD insertion — which can be painful and cause cramping — getting an implant inserted is no big deal and usually painless. 

If you’re interested in getting a birth control implant, it’s a good idea to discuss your options with a healthcare professional. They can go over the types of birth control that are appropriate for your specific health needs and help you choose the right type based on your preferences.

tl;dr

The birth control implant is a tiny plastic rod that’s placed just under the skin on the inside of your upper arm. 

The insertion and removal processes are super simple and relatively painless. And it’s more than 99% effective at preventing pregnancy.

Once inserted, the implant prevents pregnancy for up to 3 years. But you can get it removed at any time if you want to change up your birth control method or try to get pregnant. 

If you’re interested in learning more about the birth control implant and whether it’s the right choice for you, talk with a healthcare professional. They can answer any questions you have about the implant to help you find the best option that fits your lifestyle and health needs.

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May Amazon Finds

Sharing some of the good stuff we’ve found lately on Amazon. I always love to hear about new things you’re loving, too, so please shout out in the comments below!

Hi hi! How are you?? I hope you’re having a great morning so far! I have to get some things ready for a photo shoot – we’re taking pics for the landing pages + social for my new program – and some end-of-the-year events.

For today’s post, I wanted to share some of the recent Amazon fashion and fun finds. Amazon has come a looooong way in their fashion game, and while I tend to invest more in the classics, it’s the perfect option for trendier items when I don’t want to spend a ton. As far home goods and essentials go, it just makes life so much easier.

Here are some of my favorite finds lately!

May Amazon Finds

This casual beach dress

I ordered this color because I’m trying to lean into the whole *deep winter* color scheme. It’s a perfect casual beach dress or coverup; perfect to layer with your swimsuit and wear to lunch. It’s super lightweight and flattering, plus they have a ton of colors.

This bodycon midi dress

Love the square neck of this dress! It’s more form-fitting (I always wear Spanx with things like this. It’s always worth it, I promise!) and they also offer it in a lot of colors. The fabric is much nicer than I was expecting, too.

The perfect white button-up

I’m super picky about button-up shirts and this one isn’t too sheer, and is oversized enough to wear as a swim coverup. I’ll also wear it with shorts and sandals this summer.

My new favorite set

This is by far my latest favorite Amazon purchase. It’s lightweight – so great for summer – and is a square neck cropped tank with shorts. The shorts have an elastic waistband and a zipper. It’s also very flattering and easy to dress up with platforms and jewelry, or wear with sneakers or sandals. I also ordered a navy blue one to wear with white sneakers!

Everyday sandals

I’ve gone through many pairs of these Bay slide sandals and while the rose gold color might be a bit overdone, I still wanted it. I like that they match everything and are easy to throw on with a dress or shorts.

Neck fans!

I got neck fans for our trip and to prove to the world that we are indeed tourists lol. P tends to get overheated so I didn’t want hr to be too hot!

An updated work-from-home setup

The Pilot thought my walking pad needed an upgrade, so he installed a wall monitor that’s eye level. It’s made such a huge difference! Also, it’s been very fun to play music watch a bit of Netflix while I’m working. (He used this mount for it, which enables me to rotate the screen and use it for workout streaming.)

So tell me friends: any new Amazon finds you’re loving??

Any summer travel must-haves? I’ll post my packing list once I get everything together!
xoxo

Gina

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How To Build Muscle As A Hardgainer

If you want to go from scrawny to brawny, the plan sounds simple: Lift hard and heavy. Eat more. But, for some guys, like our client John, it’s more complicated. 

John was a busy pre-med student tired of feeling skinny and slim. He wanted to add size. And he wanted to feel strong. The challenge is that John is what we call a “hardgainer.” Long and lean, with less than optimal genes for building muscle quickly. 

But being a hardgainer isn’t a muscle-building curse. While genetics inevitably do make a difference, your genetics are not preventing you from adding on pounds of muscle. With our help, John layered on 20+ pounds in just over seven months. Throw the excuses out because that’s incredible progress. 

How did John finally break through for more growth – and how can you achieve similar results? If you want to transform your body there are two muscle growth breakthroughs you need to know. 

Muscle Growth Breakthrough #1: Focus on Progression

We kept John’s training simple. But don’t mistake simple for effective. If you want to build muscle, it comes down to getting stronger and progressively doing more work month after month. 

And if muscle-building is the goal, then variety is your friend. This doesn’t mean altering up your workouts every day, but it does mean going through cycles where you rotate your reps and the movements you perform.

In John’s training plan, we alternated between strength-focused plans for one month, emphasizing lower reps and increasing weight each week. Then, the next month, we’d emphasize higher sets and reps, but with moderate weight (instead of max). 

To help illustrate what these plans might look like, here is a simplified example of how you could set up each training month: 

Month 1 – Lower Reps, Increasing Weight

Week 1:

• Exercise 1 – Squats: 4 sets x 6 reps (70% of your one-rep max)
• Exercise 2 – Bench Press: 4 sets x 6 reps (70% of your one-rep max)
• Exercise 3 – Deadlifts: 4 sets x 6 reps (70% of your one-rep max)

Week 2:

Increase the weight by 5-10 pounds (depending on your strength level) for each exercise compared to Week 1.

• Exercise 1 – Squats: 3-4 sets x 6 reps (75% of your one-rep max)
• Exercise 2 – Bench Press: 3-4 sets x 6 reps (75% of your one-rep max)
• Exercise 3 – Deadlifts: 3-4 sets x 6 reps (75% of your one-rep max)

Weeks 3 and 4 would continue this progression, eventually ending at 85% of your one-rep max. 

Month 2 – Higher Sets and Reps, Moderate Weight

Week 1:

• Exercise 1 – Reverse Lunge: 4-5 sets x 10 reps (60% of your one-rep max)
• Exercise 2 – Dumbbell Incline Press: 4-5 sets x 10 reps (60% of your one-rep max)
• Exercise 3 – Prone Leg: 4-5 sets x 10 reps (60% of your one-rep max)

Week 2:

Increase the weight by 5-10 pounds for each exercise compared to Week 1.

• Exercise 1 – Reverse Lunge: 4-5 sets x 10 reps (65% of your one-rep max)
• Exercise 2 – Dumbbell Incline Press: 4-5 sets x 10 reps (65% of your one-rep max)
• Exercise 3 – Prone Leg Curl: 4-5 sets x 10 reps (65% of your one-rep max)

Weeks 3 and 4 would continue this progression, eventually ending at 75% of your one-rep max. 

It’s a good reminder that multiple rep ranges can lead to growth, but it’s important to focus on a specific goal and make it easy to see progress. Dramatically changing your workouts each session might seem like a good idea, but not if it makes it hard to track progress and improve in the ways that allow you to pack on muscle. 

Muscle Growth Breakthrough #2: Pushing the Calorie Threshold

Like most hardgainers, John’s biggest challenge was eating enough. If your goal is to build muscle, you need to eat more calories than you burn (plus consume adequate protein). These are the raw materials for new growth. 

Sounds great, right? You get to eat more food! 

But, this isn’t always easy or as fun as it sounds when you’re naturally very lean like John. “Hardgainers” like John often feel full before hitting their target calories for the day. Eating becomes a chore. 

That’s why you need to change the rules of eating for muscle building. You might need to eat past your hunger to put on new muscle. (Note: this is very different when focusing on fat loss and body recomposition, which is shifting your body fat percentage.)

High-quality foods should form the base of any good diet, think your protein, produce, and fiber-rich carbs). Yet, we often suggest adding higher-calorie foods traditionally labeled as “unhealthy” for clients struggling to eat enough.

Finding ways to sneak in extra calories in ways that are fun and enjoyable can make eating less of a chore, and help pack on the necessary calories. 

Little wins can be healthy-ish behaviors, like adding extra peanut butter to your smoothies or having a second serving of pasta. But, it can also mean hitting up Shake Shack and enjoying a milkshake. 

We’re not encouraging a free for all, but these foods provide a ton of calories and take up less volume in the stomach (meaning you feel less full). And that gets the job done and presses the right buttons so your training turns into muscle. And, when done right, it means more muscle without much added fat. 

Ready to create your own muscle growth breakthrough?

With Born Fitness Online Coaching, you’ll have not one, but two dedicated coaches – one for fitness and one for diet. Say goodbye to generic muscle-building workout plans and cookie-cutter meal plans that don’t work. We’ll help you create a customized plan that challenges you and helps you build muscle effectively. You can apply here if interested.

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Green juice chat

Hi friends! How was the weekend? I hope you had a wonderful one. Ours was filled with events – a very typical Maycember – but lots of fun time with friends and family. We had a birthday party, graduation party, dance party, and I taught a couple of classes.

It’s been a while since we’ve had a little catch-up post around here. While I wish I could have a green juice or coffee with you in real life, virtual will have to do for now. 🙂 So please grab a green juice or coffee, let’s share a giant pastry, and catch up a bit on life!

If we were having green juice right now…

I’d ask you about summer plans! I always love to hear what you’re up to over the summer, camps the kiddos are doing, and if you have upcoming travels.

I’d also tell you about our upcoming trip to Italy and Greece! I’m SO so looking forward to it (the scenery! the food! the SHOPPING) and the kiddos can’t wait, too. If you have any tips for jet lag, please send them my way lol.

Also, I’m having the hardest time finding sandals with a strap that don’t look like old lady sandals or toddler shoes. If you have any Europe sandals (with a heel strap) that are comfy for all day walking and still stylish, pleeeeease lmk. I don’t want to go the Birks or Tevas route, and am just looking for something neutral, comfy and cute! I’ll be wearing these unicorn sandals and my white Vivobarefoots while we walk around and explore.

If we were having green juice right now, I’d tell ya that I’m thisclose to finishing my Integrative Health Practitioner Level 2 certification and am so pumped about it. I could have blasted through the material and finished quickly, but I wanted to make sure I absorbed as much as possible and truly learned everything I could. I’ll also repeat modules to review material later on because it’s a LOT. I can’t wait to put this into practice, interpret real-life test results, and help clients and friends make some incredible and positive life changes.

I’d also probably tell ya about a program that I’ve been working on, and will be sharing later this summer/ early fall / when it’s finished. It really is the whole package and it’s something I wish would have existed when I was in the depths of my health journey. When I wanted to nap all day, couldn’t wake up in the morning, depending on sugar, had horrible anxiety, I wish this would have existed.

I’ll share more soon, but it’s going to be geared towards moms who feel completely burned out and want to find more joy and balance in their life. If you want the info first, just comment WAITLIST on this post (and that your email address with your comment is valid; it won’t be published but I can save it to send you the info when everything is ready).

If we were having green juice right now, I’d tell you that we’re a year and a half away from closing the chapter on military life. And since we’re just chatting and having a juice together, I’d tell ya the truth. I’m ready. The Pilot has had a long, wonderful career, I’m incredibly proud of him, and we’ve met some great friends. At the same time, I can’t even imagine what it will be like to have him home more often (even when he’s flying commercially again) without the pressure, instability, and urgency that often accompanies this life.

I’d want to know if you’ve found any new restaurants or enjoyed any new fitness classes lately. I’ve been LOVING Lagree – we don’t have a studio here but it’s something I enjoy taking when we travel- and hot yoga has felt extra amazing. Restaurant-wise, we have some places opening here in Tucson: True Food is FINALLY coming. For local fare, I definitely recommend BATA for my Tucson friends who haven’t been already.

So tell me, friends: what’s going on in your world? What are you looking forward to the most right now? Any summer travel plans? If you could design a wellness program to help with anything you’re experiencing, what would you include?? (<— this would help me a ton as I finish designing the framework!)

Happy Monday, friends. Thanks for being here today and I’ll see ya tomorrow!
xo

Gina

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Friday Faves 5.19

Hi friends! The weekend is heeeeere! What do you have going on? We have two birthday parties, a graduation party, and an end-of-dance season party. I’m looking forward to lots of fun with friends and I can’t believe the kids are done with school next week. We’re SO ready for summer! I’d love to hear what you have going on.

I’m also teaching barre, spin, and blasting through IHP content. I finally finished the massive Organic Acids module and have been learning so much. I’m excited to be able to offer these tests to 1:1 clients in the future.

For now, it’s time for the weekly Friday Faves party! This is where I share some of my favorite things from the week and around the web. I always love to hear about your faves, too, so please shout out something you’re loving in the comments section below!

Friday Faves

Life:

Mother’s Day surprise

The Pilot was supposed to leave on a work trip on Mother’s Day. I was a bit bummed about it, not because of the actual holiday – I knew we could just plan another day to celebrate together – but because I feel like he’s been gone a lot lately and was going to miss having him around.

I took the girls + my nana and mom to brunch at Hacienda del Sol as he left for the airport, and we were shocked when he walked into the dining room in his Peloton athleisure. 🙂 He was driving to the airport and his flight was canceled! It was an amazing surprise.

Brunch at Hacienda was perfect as always. I highly recommend their brunch (or even just dinner outside on the patio) if you’re visiting from out-of-town.

Health, fitness, + good eats:

Flash sale from my friends at EquiLife through this afternoon. 25% off and you can stack my code FITNESSISTA at this link for an extra 10% off for new clients. This is where I get my beloved quarterly detox and binder.

I recently bought their Para Support protocol and it’s part of the sale, too. (I’ll be doing a full blog post review on the protocol. A heads up: make sure your drainage pathways are supported first and I also recommend working with a practitioner for protocols. I’ve been working on liver health, dry brushing, and sauna for the past couple of years and felt like I was ready for something like this.)

Check out the full line-up here; the promo ends at 4pm EST.

Summer accountability challenge is coming May 29th! Mark your calendars and stay tuned for the details next week. It will be a two-week free health and fitness challenge with lots of group motivation and prizes for checking in. 🙂

One dumbbell driveway workout

Chickpea curry with spinach and rice

Making a batch of peach baked oatmeal for the weekend

How physical activity can help pre teens

30-minute power yoga flow

Fashion + beauty:

After years of searching, I FINALLY found a nontoxic shampoo and conditioner that I love and that works for my long hair. I was interviewed for the IHP Success Podcast, and while we were chatting, Julia Hayes told me about Under Luna. She has the most ridiculously gorgeous hair I’ve ever seen, so I was willing to step out of my Costco shampoo comfort bubble and try something new.

I bought the trial bottles of Warrior Shampoo and Revive Conditioner and decided to give it a whirl.

It takes a little while to get used to *clean* shampoo, because they don’t contain the foaming agents of traditional hair care. It doesn’t bubble and froth in the shower; but it definitely feels clean afterwards. It also smells amaaaazing. I still use Moroccan oil on my ends. The biggest differences I’ve noticed: hardly any hair falls out in the shower, and I’ve had a ton of new growth around my temple.

Before, it was very common for me to have a nice handful of hair in the shower (gross, but real). Now, it’s maybe less than 10 strands. It’s been mind-blowing! I’m definitely converted and will be using this from now on.

The best part? Under Luna saw my Instagram stories and kindly offered a 10% discount code for my reader friends. Just click here and use FITNESSISTA at checkout!

Vuori swim! I told ya I’d report back on their swimwear and it.is.awesome. It’s the same dreamy soft stretchy fabric we all love, and the fit is excellent. I’m always a bit wary about buying swimsuit online, but it fit true to size and feels like everything will stay in place. These are the dune bottoms and dune top, and while the bottoms are a tiny bit cheeky, it’s enough to be on trend without being *too much.* I think it’s my new fave swimsuit!

Obsessed with this Amazon set. It was only $35 and they have a ton of colors. It’s shorts, a cropped-ish top, super comfy yet put-together.

Read, watch, listen:

Don’t forget to check out this week’s podcast episode with Lauren George here!

Confessions of a fitness professional (agree with so many of these!)

What are the random finds you swear by?

The shocking truth about “forever chemicals”

Mistakes fitness influencers make

Happy Friday, friends! Have a happy and wonderful weekend. Thank you so much for stopping by the blog today.

xo

Gina

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