I'm always on the hunt for any products that I truly believe will help support healthy routines and results for myself and my clients. Here are some of my most trusted and reliable recommendations.
xo, Emily
Gear
Fjallraven High Coast Hip Pack - I'm a big fan of a small pack when I'm planning to spend time outside being active and need something to hold my personal items, but don't want to deal with a heavy and awkward backpack or purse. This one from Fjallraven is the perfect size and storage capacity for walking, hiking, biking, rollerblading and even running. I like that I can wear it around my waist or across my body, depending on what I'm doing. I give it bonus points for being stylishly understated.
Black Diamond Rechargeable LED Headlamp - If you find yourself skipping outdoor exercise in the early morning or at night because it's dark, try adding some light! While this isn't the most sophisticated headlamp on the market, it's easy to use, lightweight, and relatively comfortable. I also like that it has a dimmer, which I never imagined to be an asset until I tried it.
Fabric Resistance Bands - Resistance bands are a phenomenal way to add some oomph to your workouts. I use mine regularly. Furthermore, I prefer fabric bands to rubber ones, as they tend to be more comfortable and don't slide around when sweaty. These come in 3 different resistance levels, but some brands have 5 or more.
Omorpho Weighted Workout Gear - Burn more calories, boost your cardio and increase the challenge to your muscles. Omorpho's weighted clothing helps you get more from your workout in the same amount of time. Omorpho makes tops and pants from lightweight to fully-loaded for men and women. Plus, you feel like a cool cyberchick (or guy) when you wear them. Or maybe that's just me. :)
Performance & Recovery
Little Saints Non-Alcoholic Spirits - I truly believe that relaxing and socializing with a drink really isn't about the booze (which always leaves me feeling foggy and lethargic in the morning). It's more about having a delicious beverage in hand. Little Saints is exactly that, without the negative health effects. Their zero sugar, non-alcoholic cocktails and spirits are fueled by mushrooms and flavorful botanicals, eliminating the need to choose between having fun and feeling good.
Advanced Hydration Electrolytes Sticks - There are a gazillion electrolyte powders and potions out there. And while I'm grateful that Gatorade isn't the only player in the game anymore, the choices can be overwhelming. I like this one because you get a lot of bang for your box, without a ton of stuff you don't need (preservatives, sugar etc.).
Phormula-1 Protein Powder - I strive to get ~ 30 grams of protein in each meal. Certainly, high-quality real-food sources of protein are ideal. However, if I'm not super hungry (which is most mornings), don't have time to cook, or simply need to boost my protein intake after a workout, I use this. Whey protein is renowned for its high biological value, which means it contains all nine essential amino acids needed by the body for muscle repair and growth. (If you're sensitive to dairy or don't consume animal products, try the Vegan Power Pro)
Micronized Creatine Monohydrate - It used to be that only meatheads at the gym used creatine. However, as one of the most researched compounds, we now know that creatine monohydrate provides numerous benefits for both men and women, no matter how much they bench press. Creatine is a naturally occurring energy source. The body uses it to fight off muscle fatigue, increase endurance and enhance performance. Research also suggests that creatine may promote cognitive functioning as well.
Therabody Theragun Handheld Massager - Who knew getting thumper-punched all over your body could feel good?! Theragun is a lightweight, ergonomic massage gun designed to relieve aches and pains by using light "percussive" motions. They offer multiple designs and speed/motion options to suit your specific muscle recovery needs.
Kanjo Acupressure Mat - This is another hurts-so-good vibe, which isn't going to be everyone's cup of tea. However, if you suffer from tight muscles or headaches... or just want to relax your nervous system, this gets the jobs done. Start with clothes on and work your way up to direct skin contact.
Nourishment and Nutrients
The Daily Stack - Even if you strive to eat super clean and healthy, most of us living in the modern world need additional support to get all of our nutrients.... Especially when short on time or kitchens (such as during travel). The Daily Stack has all of the essential vitamins, minerals, probiotics and other nutrients needed to support gut, energy and immune function. These nutrients are extra important during cold & flu season, but I keep a DS in my wellness cabinet year round.
Bragg Premium Nutritional Yeast Seasoning - Whoever invented this is my hero. It's full of B vitamins and other nutrients, and tastes like a yummy cheesy seasoning (without the dairy). I put it on anything I would want to put "flavor" on - salads, roasted veggies, popcorn, avocado toast, eggs etc.
Kettle And Fire Mushroom Chicken Bone Broth - Bone broth is one of my favorite ways to get protein and collagen without having to fuss. Literally just pour it in a mug, heat it up and drink. I like it in the morning as a savory way to wake up or as a snack before dinner. It's also great for cooking. I like all of Kettle and Fire's flavors, but this one is especially great for its immune-boosting mushroom blend and apple cider vinegar component.
Chocolove Extra Strong 77% Dark Chocolate Bar - It has long been known that dark chocolate containing 70%+ cocoa has antioxidants and boosts serotonin (the neurotransmitter linked to positive mood states). Aside from having snazzy branding, Cocolove is gluten and dairy free, contains no artificial nonsense, and is sustainably sourced. It also tastes delicious. What's not to xoxo about that?
Grooming and Maintenance
Hello Peace Out, Plaque Alcohol-Free Mouthwash (Natural Mint) - My brain almost exploded when I learned that alcohol based mouthwash (which I'd been using for years) is terrible for your health. Much like hand-sanitizer and antibiotics, when we swish alcohol around in our mouth, it kills ALL the bacteria... good and bad alike. This leaves our first line of digestion and immune defense (our mouth) in a vulnerable state. It also negatively affects our overall gut health. I was skeptical that any N/A mouthwash could actually freshen my breath, but Hello's Peace Out, Plaque Natural Mint made me a believer.
Goop Dry Brush - The self-care ritual you never you knew you needed... Dry brushing is something you have to experience to believe. One time is all it took for me to become hooked. It truly does wake up all of your senses, as it simultaneously exfoliates the skin and encourages lymphatic movement.
Jade Roller and Gua Sha Set - More lymphatic magic, but this one is for the face. I try to do this at least a few times per week, usually first thing in the morning. For such a simple set of tools, the results are remarkable. Pro-Tip: I do not recommend watching the video in the link, because I was taught to always use gentle strokes from the inner face outward and down. This moves toxins along the natural path of lymphatic drainage.
1st Phorm Collagen Natural with Dermaval - Yes, another plug for collagen! This could actually be listed in multiple of my "fave" categories, as collagen is an underappreciated multitasker of a nutrient. It's renowned for its ability to support hair, skin and nail growth (who doesn't love that?). However, collagen is also high in protein, great for joint health and helps repair the gut. I'm partial to the vanilla flavor, as I like to add it to my morning coffee for a boost of nutrients fresh out of bed.
Tummy Love
Hilma Natural Gas & Bloating Relief and Hilma Digestive Enzymes - I have no idea why Amazon lists these products as being "for women". Men and women alike can benefit from Hilma's thoughtful and effective herbal and enzyme formulas. The Digestive Enzymes have been game-changing for my overall comfort and digestive health. But when I do need the Gas and Bloating Relief, I'm happy to have it in the wellness cabinet.
Maty's Apple Cider Vinegar Capsules - If you follow me on Insta, you've heard me talk about the benefits of ACV on digestive and metabolic health. Not only does it enhance digestion by supporting balanced stomach acid, ACV also helps control blood sugar. While you can certainly just down a shot of actual liquid ACV, it's not the most appetizing way to prime your gut (translation: it tastes disgusting). That's when it's great to have capsules handy. Plus, they contain no added sugar, flavor, colors, or preservatives. I take 1-2 capsules before meals.
Pendulum Metabolic Daily Pro - Formulated with Akkermansia muciniphila, and other probiotic species shown to help balance blood sugar and cravings, this live, multi-strain probiotic naturally replenishes the gut microbiome to optimize metabolism and support a healthy weight.
1P Glutamine - My health coaching clients know I'm bullish on belly health, and glutamine is a big part of my arsenal. Glutamine is the most abundant amino acid in the body, but it gets depleted easily during periods of intense activity, high stress or even illness. Glutamine is anti-inflammatory, and is known to help repair the lining of the gut to keep it functioning optimally.
Apps & Websites
Reveri - Pioneered and co-founded by leading Stanford psychiatrist, Dr. David Spiegel, Reveri offers self-hypnosis guidance for a range of issues and health goals, including improving stress, sleep, focus, and more. While self-hypnosis might sound weird and scary, it's not like you see in the movies. Think of it as deep guided meditation for behavior change.
Obé Fitness - Branded as personalized fitness made for women, Obé offers workouts and personal training tailored to women, including pelvic floor strengthening and pre/post natal exercises. They also offer insights on cycle tracking for optimal performance, mood, mindfulness and more.
Man Flow Yoga - There's no reason yoga should be considered a female activity, but it so happens that dudes are not always chomping at the bit to try it. Enter Dean Pohlman. Dean is widely considered to be an authority on yoga for men. His workouts and programs have been used by professional and collegiate athletes and trainers, and come highly recommended by physical therapists, chiropractors, and other medical professionals. Dude, who knows... you might actually like it!
Reads
Atomic Habits by James Clear
This book is straight-forward, practical and insanely helpful for gaining insights on how good habits are built and bad ones are extinguished. A must-read for changing your health routine or any other habits.
The Happiness Trap by Dr. Russ Harris
This is a must-read for any human being (or rather, human "doing" as the author says). Whether you're struggling with depression or anxiety, or simply want to manage stress better and improve your relationships, this book offers a refreshing perspective on the concept of "happiness". It also offers practical and actionable strategies for achieving your goals, and living a life of fulfillment and abundance.
Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art by James Nestor
I feel like the title says it all. A fascinating deep dive into what is arguably our most underappreciated autonomic function. Research shows that making even slight adjustments to the way we inhale and exhale can improve athletic performance; rejuvenate internal organs; halt snoring, asthma, and autoimmune disease; and even straighten scoliotic spines.
Expecting Better: Why the Conventional Pregnancy Wisdom Is Wrong and What You Really Need to Know by Emily Oster
I devoured this book. It is so educational and easy to read. Regardless of whether or not you're planning to be (or get someone else) preggers, I highly recommend this book. Emily Oster is an award-winning economist who decided to data-test the traditional rules of pregnancy and discusses which ones do and do not hold up.
Outlive by Dr. Peter Attia, MD
This might be the best book I've ever read on how to live healthier for longer (what Dr. Attia calls "healthspan"). It's also incredibly validating for folks like me who have studied Functional Medicine. Dr. Attia is a world-renown physician who shares data challenging the conventional medical wisdom on aging, and reveals a new approach to preventing chronic disease and extending long-term health. I also recommend listening to his podcast.
Mocktail Party by Diana Licalzi, MS, RD, CDCES and Kerry Benson, MS, RD
Written by two Registered Dietitians, the non-alcoholic drink recipes in 'Mocktail Party' feature plant-based ingredients with minimal sugar that you can easily find at any grocery store. The book also features valuable information about the benefits of an alcohol-free lifestyle, tips for sustainable mixology, and advice for ordering mocktails at a restaurant or bar.
What are some of your favorite health and wellness products? Drop me a note! xo
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