Jessica Morante

UPDATE MY HONEST REVIEW 1 YEAR LATER – Finally trying Monat hair products.

Okay guys, so after much deliberation I’m finally trying out these Monat products that I keep hearing so many good things about and I’m taking you all on my hair transformation journey!

My real motivation for trying these products came shortly after receiving a Brazilian Blowout back in June. Immediately, after getting the smoothing treatment I noticed a TON of new breakage throughout my hair.

I’m almost a bit embarrassed at how distressed my hair is at the moment – I’ve been rocking a lot of pony tails & buns because I just cant stand to see how dehydrated and dull my hair looks.

A good friend of mine had been trying to get me to try these products for MONTHS, until she sent me the Monat Blow Out Cream and WOW.

I literally noticed an immediate difference after styling my hair from using just ONE Monat product (I was still using my old shampoo/conditioner).

I gave it a few more tries to see if this “new product glow” was going to fade and it didn’t. My hair actually looked better and better each time I used it! So I said F it let’s try this thing that I hear so many women rave about.

For those that know me well, know I’m very particular with my hair products – I only use good, salon quality products. I have naturally curly frizzy hair that I blow dry & flat iron after every wash – so it needs extra love and care!

All of the different hair products & brands I was going through just weren’t doing it for me. Not to mention, most of these high end brands I was using weren’t even naturally based like Monat is.

monat natural hair care split ends — ***REJUVABEADS Split End Mender***
*Heals split ends and other damaged or stressed areas along the hair shaft, eliminating breakage and frizz, decreasing friction, increasing shine and helping improve color*.

Since I was so blown-away from just trying one of their products, I decided to go for it.

I’ll be sharing this hair journey with you guys and letting you know how these products work for my unruly, dry, damaged hair.

I’ve already got my BEFORE pictures, I cant wait to hopefully share some improved AFTER Monat pictures.

monat natural hair care mask — ***Replenish Masque***
A repairing and hydrating masque ideal for damaged and moisture-starved
hair that penetrates and nurtures the scalp while helping boost natural hair
growth, improve follicle strength, and reduce hair thinning. Infuses
essential moisture and delivers vital nutrients to help eliminate frizz and
reduce split ends.

I’m so looking forward to better, healthier hair!

*update after using monat products for 1 full year

Okay friends, so here is my honest review on Monat hair products.

I have been consistently using Monat products for over a year (14 months to be exact) and to be completely honest with you…I was not blown away.

Yes, it makes my hair feels soft, the products smell lovely and I appreciate the clean ingredients in these products – but it just did not do anything special for my hair.

In fact, for those of you that know me well – know that I have extremely curly, frizzy hair which I blow dry after every wash (I try to only wash my hair 1-2x a week max)

So my hair is already naturally pretty unruly and difficult to manage, so I had somewhat low expectations for these products.

I am in the process of transitioning to a new haircare line, that has a big celebrity following – so stay tuned!

XO, Jess

Smoothing Cellulite with Dry Brushing & Lymphatic Massage at home.

Inexpensive Wet/Dry Body Brush I use from Amazon.

Sometimes, we focus on taking such good care of the skin on our face that we neglect the skin on our body which also needs to be cared for for optimal health.

Let me introduce you to my newest (and possibly my new favorite) self-care routine.

Dry Brushing & Lymphatic Drainage Massage.

First, I like to start with the Body Brush.

I’ve body brushed both in the shower (wet) and post shower (dry). I find that if you do it dry: post shower, you get a more intense exfoliation on the skin. So if your skin is sensitive I would start off brushing in the shower on wet skin – still effective, but its not as abrasive on the skin.

There are SO MANY BENEFITS to body brushing, plus its super easy to do pre or post shower, it only takes a few minutes to get a good scrub down.

Wet or Dry Body Brushing not only softens and smooths dull, dry skin, but it also removes dead skin cells, firms the skin, reduces cellulite & stretch marks and increases circulation!

Increased exfoliation and improved lymphatic drainage renew and recover the skin with each brushstroke.

Depending on how much time I have, I like to do quick but firm passes throughout the entire body. I’ll spend a little more time on my stubborn areas with visible cellulite and/or stretch marks, however you want to be gentle and not over do it as it can irritate the skin.

The brush I use pictured above & below was purchased on Amazon, inexpensive but very well made. I have been using it for a few months now and I love it. It has a cloth-like handle on the back of the brush so that it can fit comfortably in your hand. Perfect for brushing those hard to reach stubborn areas: butt, thighs, back of arms, etc.

Link to the brush I use on Amazon: Wet and Dry Body Brush Exfoliator by Scala Beauty, 5 x 2.75 In

Now onto Part 2 of my body focused self-care routine.

Maderotherapy Anti-Cellulite Massage Tool.

This is the holy grail when it comes to flushing out toxins and waste trapped under the skin.

This massage tool is used in maderotherapy (madero – wood) the completely natural and special technique in which lymphatic drainage is stimulated and cellulite is better eliminated, while at the same time breaking the fat cells, improving blood flow and lymphatic flow throughout the body. As a result, the body is better supplied with oxygen and other nutrients that the skin needs to stay firm and improves the flow of blood and lymph throughout the body.

The lymphatic system is a complicated filtration network that helps our bodies get rid of toxins, waste, and other unwanted materials – including bacteria and even cancer cells. Lymph’s are fluids found in our bodies that contain white blood cells called lymphocytes. These powerful cells attack infections and help boost our immune system.

Ever wonder why Doctors feel around your neck when you go for a check-up? That’s because they are feeling around for swollen lymph nodes which indicates that the glands are filled with toxins and bacteria, inflamed lymph nodes are usually an early sign of illness in the body.

Maderotherapy is used for draining and facilitating the reconstruction of trapped toxins and fats lurking under the skin. It is used to tighten the tissue. It helps eliminate all excess fat through the lymphatic system, which in turn also helps improve your immune system – WIN WIN!

I use this massage tool together with favorite body oil, so that the tool can easily glide over the skin. Bonus: Your moisturizing at the same time.

The tool can be used on all sides and has different features to accommodate different body parts. Find what angles work best for you and what feels right.

The wooden massage tool is designed to help battle the unwanted excess fat and water retention that causes the appearance of cellulite.

Anti-cellulite massages have proven essential in getting rid of cellulite. So why not treat yourself at home, a few times a week for much less than the cost of a one-time massage and reap the benefits of smooth, firm skin!

Link to the tool I use from Amazon: Anti Cellulite Massage Tool Maderotherapy Wooden Massager 13×6.3 inches Made from 100% natural wood.

For proper drainage, your going to want to move the tool in the direction of your lymph nodes. You should not be massaging or brushing back and forth.

Check out the guide below on how to effectively body brush and lymphatic massage.

Follow this Lymph Flow Map as a guide for Brushing & Massaging in the right direction.

Combing these two methods of self-care for the body will have you feeling better & looking better from the inside – out!

XO, Jess

Style Inspiration for your next adventure.

I practically live in activewear. It’s sweat resistant, stretchy and these days activewear can be pulled off as a full on look for day or night if you style it right.

As an avid climber, yogi and all-around outdoors kind of girl living in the mountains – having solid activewear looks is a must for me because it just fits my lifestyle.

I’ve compiled a list of my all-time favorite activewear brands that I have been wearing for years and continue to buy from. These are high quality brands that I trust will last me for years to come, making the investment worthwhile.

Lululemon

Power Y Tank (pictured left) This is my one and done kind of tank. This skinny-strap racerback tank has a built-in shelf bra —perfect for tough workouts or when you just feel like wearing one layer (no bra – yes please!) The shelf bra has built in cups so you feel supported, yet so comfortable. These tank tops are made of high quality and durable fabric so they really do last you a long time. I’ve had this one pictured for a few years and I wear it a lot!

Lululemon

Flow Y Bra this buttery-soft, sweat-wicking, four-way stretch lightweight bra is hands down my favorite sports bra. The thin straps make this bra great for layering under your favorite tank or wearing on its own on a hot day. Again, same great Lululemon quality so these will last you for many years to come.

Lululemon

Fast and Free Short 6″ I love these sweat-wicking, breathable shorts. They stay in place while running, climbing or downward dogging. I love a short that’s a little longer so that I can focus on the task at hand, rather than being worried if my high step is going to reveal a butt cheek.

Onzie Glossy Flow Tank, Forever 21 Sports Bra and Lululemon Fast and Free Short 6″ pictured on the left.

Onzie

Glossy Flow Tank Top is one of my all-time favorite tanks that I own in a variety of colors. Made from a quick-drying lightweight spandex/jersey blend, this is my go-to summer tank!

Graphic Leggings these moisture wicking, performance based free-flow fabric technology keeps me cool & comfortable while sweating it out in style. Onzie is perfect for serious sweat situations, salt water and chlorine.

Onzie makes a variety of tops in this super cool, lightweight glossy fabric that I highly recommend. Absolutely one of my favorite activewear lines!

Onzie Glossy Flow Tank, Onzie Graphic Leggings and Lululemon Flow Y Bra pictured on the right.

Spiritual Gangster

I am a HUGE fan of these Cropped Graphic Tanks. SG’s cropped tanks feature deep-cut armholes and flowy fit and are made from an ultra-soft tri-blend jersey. Plus, they come out with some really fun styles with ultra-positive messages and graphics. They’re cute tops and tanks can be worn as active or outerwear which is a win win for me!

Spiritual Gangster

I love Spiritual Gangsters new activewear line! SG was known for cottony soft graphic tee’s and sweats, but they’ve recently introduced a dedicated activewear line and I am obsessed with it!

The Solis Striped Brami features a flattering neck line, triangle cut out back, contrasting side stripes and built in bra for support. The cut is just slightly longer than a regular sports bra for a little extra coverage.

Spiritual Gangster Brami pictured on the right.

Spiritual Gangster

The Spiritual Gangster Varsity Shakti Bra is another Brami style top (Bra / Cami) that’s a little on the longer side. Featuring a deep scoop neck and scooped out racerback so you can comfortably master those poses. Made from SG Tech Suede, a brushed active fabric that’s next-level soft, sweat-wicking and quick-drying. Plus, its got fun rainbow stripes down the sides for a pop of color. See picture in the collage at the bottom of this post for stripe detail.

Spiritual Gangster Shakti Brami pictured on left.

Prana

Prana Briann Pants are my favorite non-legging style of pants for climbing, hiking or just hanging out. The Briann women’s pant features a skinny leg style which is super flatter and can also take on the elements thanks to Stretch Zion quick-drying performance fabric. With water- and abrasion-resistant fabric, plus UPF 50+, you’re ready for anything. I own these in just about every color made and they get alot of use when I want more coverage than a legging.

Anything Prana makes in the Stretch Zion fabric is a win!

Prana Cozy Up Sweatshirt and Prana Briann Pant pictured on the right.

And I’m going to let you in on a little secret of mine – I ONLY purchase items that are marked down. Having worked in the fashion and consumer goods industry for many years, I know that most items have a “retail shelf life” and clothing especially, will eventually be reduced in price to make room for newer collections.

My Tip: Subscribe to your favorite brands email lists or follow them on social media to get alerts on when they are having sales. Online sales usually take place around major holidays (Memorial Day, 4th of July, etc) so that’s usually when I’ll stock up on my favorite brands. But these days with quarantine and all, pop-up sales having been happening randomly, so that’s why I like to subscribe to email alerts for brands I really love.

**All of the items I mentioned above are featured here & a****re available online**!

Don’t forget to subscribe, like & share this post!

XO, Jess

P.S. Follow me on Pinterest for more style inspiration.

Check out my YouTube Channel!

I finally created a YouTube channel where I have posted some of my more recent and favorite climbs throughout the South East!

I had to show off all of the climbing videos my husband Mario spent countless of hours editing GoPro footage. Thanks babe!

Also what a great way for climbers to keep track of climbs, remember certain moves and just an overall confidence booster! Because honestly, there’s nothing more satisfying that watching yourself accomplish something you set your mind to.

Climbing is such a big part of our lives. Not only does climbing challenge you physically, but it really challenges you mentally.

I’m so happy to have found an activity that not only I can share and create awesome memories with my husband, but I’ve found a sport that challenges me to push past my own limitations and fears. There’s nothing quite like it and that’s why I Rock Climb.

Please LIKE and SUBSCRIBE to my YouTube Channel!

XO, Jess

A.M. Summertime Skincare Routine

Ok so I’m going to be real with you…I’m the sweaty type, especially in the summer!

However, I am a big believer in skincare so I’ve had to find what works for me in terms of keeping my skin hydrated & protected while keeping products from running down my shirt. The struggle is real!

Having worked in the skincare industry for the last few years, I’ve had the chance to try some really great professional products from all price ranges. Here is what I find found to work for my combination skin type. Again, this is for my summertime routine only – once the humidity & heat start to drop my skin becomes drier and requires some more attention.

#1 SKIP cleansing your face in the morning.

I know, this might sound weird but if you cleansed your skin before bedtime (this is an absolute MUST!) and applied your nighttime moisturizer, there is no need to use a cleanser in the morning. All you are doing is stripping away the products you applied at night.

And if you didn’t know, when you go to sleep your skin is hard at work repairing all of the damage it encountered throughout the day – sun exposure, stress, pollution, etc.

Hence why a nighttime skincare routine is where your going to want to spend most of your time & energy using those preventative products.

**Daytime Skincare routine – 2 powerhouse products, that’s it!**

#2 Spray your skin with a hydrating mist instead of lathering on a creamy moisturizer.

I’m a big fan of hydrating mists, especially in the summer. It’s my one-stop-shop for hydrating my skin when its hot out, without having to applying a serum or a moisturizer.

Right now, I am loving the Eminence Neroli Age Corrective Hydrating Mist. This collagen boosting toner with Natural Retinol Alternative and Swiss Green Apple Stem Cells is for all skin types. Your skin feels instantly smoother and appears tighter with the energizing boost of neroli oil. I have been using this mist for a little over a year now and I’d also recommend the other Eminence mists available on their website.

I love this brand because they are cruelty-free and formulated without parabens, sodium lauryl sulfates, animal by-products, synthetic dyes, petrochemicals, phthalates, GMOs and triclosan – ALL the bad stuff!

Again, I have combination skin in the summer – so if you feel the need to apply a little bit more, then choose a lightweight or water based moisturizer. But if your anything like me, and like to spend your days outside, breaking a sweat – this is hydrating enough for me.

#3 SPF with added skincare benefits.

This is the most important step – sunscreen! Whether your using a plain SPF or one that has some added skincare benefits in it, you want to make sure you’ve got some on.

Our skin ages quicker through environmental aggressors than actual aging or genetics does. I know, it’s pretty mind blowing so remember this the next time your out baking in the sun.

A staple product I have been using for a long time that I love is Coola’s Mineral Face Organic Matte Tinted Sunscreen SPF 30.

This velvety-soft organic sunscreen provides broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection without the shine. It features a universally-flattering tint and a mattifying finish that helps even out skin imperfections. Plus, its boosted with an antioxidant-rich Plant Protection Complex, natural rose hip oil, and calming evening primrose, that also helps fight free radicals!

This product has become my summertime “no-makeup makeup” finish. Even though its an SPF, the subtle matte tint really leaves the skin looking picture perfect. Coola also makes a ton of different varieties of their organic SPF formulated for different skin types, if a matte tint isn’t your thing.

My #1 tip for choosing an SPF is to make sure its CLEAN. There are a lot of sunscreen products out there full of harmful chemicals, so you want to be sure your choosing once that has clean/organic ingredients – especially if it’s going on your face.

#4 Eye Cream & Under Eye Concealer (optional)

Depending on what I’ve got going on for the day, I will add a hydrating eye cream and under eye concealer to brighten up my eyes.

I’m currently using Dr. Dennis Gross Hyaluronic Marine Dew It Right Eye Gel which is really lightweight and perfect for hot summer days.

I also use it as a base for applying my all-time favorite under eye concealer that I have been using for YEARS It Cosmetics Bye Bye Under Eye Anti-Aging Concealer.

Yup, that’s it!

I like to keep my daytime skincare routine light & simple during the warmer months because ain’t nobody got time for constant oil blotting or washing your face mid-day because its just too darn hot & sweaty out there!

XO,

Jess

*This is not a paid or sponsored post. I genuinely use and love these products so much that I wanted to share them with you all.

Not So Basic Banana Bread Recipe

Okay Okay, I know you’re probably tired of hearing about Banana Bread, BUT what better way to put those browned banana’s to good use then to make a cake. Obviously!

I had never attempted to make Banana Bread until this year. Its not really something I ate growing up or heard of until recently. Plus, I’ve got a new thing for baking since the 2020 pandemonium happened so I’d like to say I’ve mastered the banana bread. And the one pictured below was by far my tastiest!

(thanks, extra chocolate chips on top)

I like to make my Banana Bread more of like a yummy dessert so I like to add Dark Chocolate Chips (heavy on the chips) and chopped walnuts for some crunch & added nutrition.

Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Recipe:

3 Banana’s (if you only have 2 that works too!)
1/3 Cup Melted Butter
1 Teaspoon Baking Powder
1 Pinch of Salt
3/4 Cup of Sugar
1 Egg
1 Teaspoon Vanilla Extract
1 1/2 Cups of All-Purpose Flour
Dark Chocolate Chips (optional)
Chopped Walnuts (optional)

Bake at 350 degrees for 35 minutes. Cool before serving.

Enjoy!

XO, Jess

My go-to Green Juice & it’s health benefits.

My go-to green juice: Lemon, Celery & Cucumber.

Eating a perfectly well-balanced diet is not always easy. I’ve found a quick way to eat (in this case drink) your veggies is to combine them into one easy to drink juice.

I like to think of this green juice as my daily multi-vitamin, so I’ve made it a habit to make a juice at home before a workout. Sometimes if I’ve got extra fruits laying around that I need to use up, I will throw them in the juicer too. But for the most part, I try to always incorporate these 3 powerhouse ingredients: Celery, Cucumber & Lemon.

Below, I explain some of the benefits of these fruits and vegetables, and why I incorporate these into my diet.

Celery is a great source of antioxidants + Vitamins + minerals.

Antioxidants protect cells, blood vessels, and organs from oxidative damage.

Celery contains vitamins A, K and C, beta carotene, and flavonoids, but there are at least 12 additional kinds of antioxidant nutrients found in a single stalk. Celery is also a good source of phytonutrients, which have been shown to reduce instances of inflammation in the digestive tract, cells, blood vessels, and organs. Plus, celery contains minerals like potassium and folate.

Juice the leaves! Don’t discard the leaves — that’s where celery has the most calcium, potassium, and vitamin C. But because they don’t store well, consume celery leaves within a day or two of purchase.

Celery Juice Benefits:

Prevents cardiovascular disease
Reduces inflammation
Supports weight loss
Helps heal digestive system
Fights infections
Lowers high cholesterol
Enhances skin health
Detoxifies the liver
Helps prevents UTI’s
Prevents high blood pressure
Relieves arthritis pain

Lemons are an excellent source of vitamin C and flavonoids (antioxidants).

Antioxidants help remove free radicals that can damage cells from the body. Lemons are known for their detoxifying effect on the body, by helping to flush out unwanted waste. These nutrients can help prevent diseases and boost health and wellbeing.

Citrus fruits like lemons are high in Vitamin C which may reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke, and lower blood pressure.

Lemons are great for maintaining a healthy complexion. Vitamin C plays a vital role in the formation of collagen, the support system of the skin. Sun exposure, pollution, age, stress and other factors can all result in skin damage.

Lemons are most commonly known for their immune boosting benefits. Foods that are high in vitamin C and other antioxidants may help strengthen the immune system against the germs that cause the common cold and the flu.

Lemon Juice Benefits:

Boost Immune System
Balances PH
Detoxifying – flushes out unwanted materials
Improves skin health
Reduces acne / blemishes
Blood purifier
Cures throat infections
Aids in weight loss
Helps fade scars
Reduces wrinkle density
Helps with indigestion and constipation
Lowers blood pressure

Cucumbers are one of the most hydrating foods + contain electrolytes.

Cucumbers are loaded with Vitamin K that helps improve calcium absorption, which can contribute to good bone health. Cucumbers are also great for skin and hair health which is something I recently discovered!

I recently planted cucumbers in our garden, because quality cucumbers are not cheap and they make a great additional to almost any salad!

Cucumber Juice Benefits:

Hydration – 95% water
Aids digestion
Promotes healthy skin
High silica content for silky hair
Flushes out toxins
Rich in Vitamins A, B1, B6, C & D
Contains Folate, Calcium, Magnesium & Potassium
Promotes joint health
Aids in managing diabetes
Helps lower blood pressure
Prevents headaches
Kills bad breath causing bacteria

You don’t need a big fancy juicer to get the job done. I’ve linked the inexpensive juicer that I’m currently using from Hamilton Beach which can be found on Amazon.

Recycle the scraps

I add the leftover scraps from the juicer to our compost station.

Compost is organic matter that has been decomposed in a process called composting. This process recycles various organic materials otherwise regarded as waste and produces a soil conditioner. Compost is rich in nutrients and is great for maintaining a healthy, organic garden.

XO, Jess

The smoothing treatment saving my hair from summer frizz.

Only those who know me VERY well know that I have extremely curly, frizzy, uncontrollable hair. Some of my closest friends wouldn’t even know that, because catching me with curly hair is so rare, I think you’d have a better chance at spotting a unicorn.

I have been straightening my hair for as long as I could remember. Professional blowouts and trips to the salon were always top of my birthday and Christmas wish lists as a teen. The moment I discovered professional smoothing treatments (smooth hair that last past the first wash) I was hooked.

I have been getting professional keratin smoothing treatments for the past 12+ years so you can say I’ve done some research and I’ve tried various different brands and systems. Born and raised in Miami, where there is high humidity literally year-round, having something in my hair other than an over-the-counter product was critical.

So, what is a keratin treatment?

A keratin treatment is a chemical process that smooths and shines frizzy hair. Results can last up to six months. There are many different versions of the treatment that go by different names – Brazilian Blowout, was my most recent treatment.

Your hairstylist should be able to customize a blend of the formula to suit your needs and desired results. Keratin treatments get deep into the hair follicle and inject porous areas with keratin, an essential hair protein. Your hair will appear healthier, because it actually is!

Results vary depending on the strength of the treatment, how it’s applied, the temperature of the flat-iron, how porous your hair is, and other factors you really can’t control. But don’t let that scare you away. Just do your research and find a salon that specializes in these treatments, read a ton of reviews, and talk openly with your stylist about what you do and don’t want from a smoothing treatment. After all, it’ll wash out in a few months, anyway.

Why I’m Loving Brazilian Blowout

Through the use of bonding technologies, these customizable smoothing treatments actually improve the condition of the hair by creating a protective protein layer around the hair shaft to eliminate frizz and smooth the cuticle.

Like I mentioned above, I’ve done many of these treatments over the years and I have to admit the Brazilian Blowout is probably one of the most effective treatments I have ever received. My hair is super soft, shiny and most importantly frizz-free!

I’m currently 4 weeks post treatment and we are in the middle of summer with high humidity and my hair has never looked better. I spend a lot of time outside as you may know; rock climbing, gardening, hiking, ect. and this treatment has been a game changer for my unruly hair. Even when I sweat or get caught in the rain (see picture below) my hair remains pretty straight and smooth.

*Brazilian Blowout is no match for getting caught in the rain or an outdoor sweat sessions.* *Day 18 – post treatment.*

What makes Brazilian Blowout professional smoothing treatments different?

CUSTOMIZABLE – keep and define your curls or go for a sleek and smooth look.
GREAT FOR ALL HAIR TYPES – wavy, straight, curly. If you’ve got frizz, this treatment has got you covered.
NO WAITING PERIOD – the minute you leave the salon you can immediately wash your hair, exercise, put it in a pony tail or clip without having to wait days to do so. This is HUGE! I was not able to do this with traditional keratin treatments I’ve done in the past.
NO LINE OF DEMARCATION WITH NEW HAIR GROWTH – great for transitioning from Japanese straighteners, relaxers or other keratin treatments.

The end result is smooth, frizz-free hair with radiant shine for up to 12 weeks!*

*Açai aftercare products ensure longest lasting results. Below are the at-home products I have been using to maintain the treatment and I honestly have been loving these as well. I would highly recommend investing in the at-home products to get the most out of your treatment.

*Day 1- Brazilian Blowout fresh out of the salon. Hair is soft and touchable, unlike traditional keratin treatments that leave your hair feeling tacky until your first wash.*

Chattanooga Locals

I recently discovered Tiffany at Salon Haven for the Brazilian Blowout treatment. She offers more than one type of smoothing treatment so that you can really get the desired result your hair needs. She was fantastic and very knowledge on these types of smoothing treatments- I would highly recommend giving her a call!

Plus, they are currently offering $50 off smoothing treatments. Just in time for Summer!

XO, Jess

Iced Coffee with a side of Cinnamon & Collagen.

Breakfast is my favorite meal of the day and I don’t know about you, but when I wake up I’m ready for a full-on meal. You wont catch me getting full from a juice or surviving off of lemon water in the morning. I go out all – eggs, pancakes, and of course COFFEE.

As someone who stays very active, (I’m always hungry) I need to fuel my body with the right nutrients to keep me going. I try to always be mindful of how I’m replenishing my body and what nutrients I’m feeding myself.

So I’m going to share with you what I have been adding to my morning coffee for added health benefits.

First, let me start by saying I drink my coffee black – yes, that means no dairy, not even the nut milk kind. I cut out milk a few years ago because of the effect it had on my skin and on my gut.

Drinking your coffee straight up is definitely an acquired taste and something I have gotten used to. Now I can’t drink coffee any other way without having an upset stomach. However, since the 2020 pandemic happened, I’ve been looking for ways to add in additional immune support to my morning routine and then I learned about the health benefits of something we probably all have in our kitchen – CINNAMON.

Cinnamon is high in cinnamaldehyde, which according to scientists has powerful effects on health and metabolism.

Cinnamon has anti-inflammatory properties – I actually learned about this when I had a very swollen, sprained ankle last year. I began adding cinnamon to my coffee to help the swelling go down.

Cinnamon may fight off cancer cells. Cancer is characterized by uncontrolled cell growth. Cinnamon acts by reducing the growth of cancer cells. Findings show that cinnamon activates protective antioxidant responses in human cells.

Cinnamon also has antifungal and antibacterial properties, which may reduce infections and help fight tooth decay and bad breath.

Cinnamon is loaded with powerful antioxidants that can protect your body from oxidative damage caused by free radicals. What are free radicals? They are molecules responsible for aging, tissue damage, and possibly some diseases. These molecules are very unstable, therefore they look to bond with other molecules, destroying their health and further continuing the damaging process.

Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between the production of free radicals and the body’s ability to counteract their damaging effects through neutralization with antioxidants. Oxidative damage is the harm to cells and tissues that are unable to keep up with free radical production.

Last but not least, I add a scoop of my favorite Collagen Peptides Protein powder. I have been consistently adding this collagen powder into my morning coffee for the past two years and it has done wonders for not only my hair & skin, but it has made a huge difference in my training and recovery.

Collagen is the main structural protein in the connective tissues in the body. As the main component of connective tissue, it is the most abundant protein in mammals, making up from 25% to 35% of the whole-body protein content. Collagen consists of amino acids bound together to form a triple helix of elongated fibril known as a collagen helix. It is mostly found in fibrous tissues such as tendons, ligaments, and skin.

As you age, your bones will also start to lose density as collagen levels naturally drop once you hit 25. Your joints and ligaments start to become weaker and less elastic. Collagen acts like a cushion between your joints and bones. When that collagen isn’t as abundant anymore, it can reduce this cushion and cause problems.

As a rock climber, my joints and tendons are under constant stress and are more prone to injury, so its vital that I replenish lost collagen.

Not to mention, Collagen Powder has been shown to repair the lining of our stomach! The lining of our gut is actually made up of collagen. Good health starts with a healthy gut.

*P.S. this is not a sponsored or paid post, I honestly have just found this product to be super helpful for me and I wanted to share.

Sold on Amazon Prime!

So go on and drink up all of those health benefits in your daily cup of coffee!

XO, Jess

Easy Dairy-Free Berry Cake Recipe

First off, let me start by saying I never really enjoyed cooking anything from scratch until quarantine 2020 changed our lives. Being home for three plus months really challenged my cooking game and I am so thankful for it!

I have a newfound love for cooking & baking. Which I think having a newly remodeled kitchen, that I designed from scratch, definitely added some inspiration for me.

This Dairy Free cake is super simple to make. I combine all ingredients into one large glass bowl for easy clean up. I highly recommend use an electric mixer to really blend all ingredients and it will save your arms from an added workout!

You can choose any fruit that you like an keep the measurements the same for all other ingredients. I make this cake a few times a week (I know, so bad I have a big sweet tooth!) and I change out the fruits depending on what I have on hand at home.

For this recipe I used Raspberries, but I have this cake with Blueberries, Strawberries, Blackberries, and sometimes I combined all of these for extra berry anti-oxidants!

You can always double up on the recipe if your going for a thicker, larger cake. The recipe listed below has a serving size of about 4. My husband and I finish a cake between the two of us in about 1-2 days.

For baking I use a glass baking pan 7″ x 11″ x 2″ for reference.

**Dairy-Free Berry Cake Recipe**
Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees

*You will need:*

2 Eggs
1 Cup of Sugar
1/2 Cup of melted Butter
1 Cup of All Purpose Flour
1/4 Teaspoon Baking Powder
1/4 Teaspoon Vanilla Extract
1 Tablespoon Lemon Juice
A Pinch of Salt

**1 Cup Fruit of choice**
(Strawberries, Blueberries, Raspberries, etc.)
**1/2 Cup of Chocolate Chips** *optional*
**1/2 Cup of Walnuts** *optional*

Combine all ingredients in a large mixing bowl and blend together until you get a creamy consistency. Use a spatula to scrape all of the blended ingredients into your baking pan.

Bake for 35 min at 350 degrees.
Remove from the oven and let cool before digging in, enjoy!

How to remove wax from a used candle.

Have you ever had a hard time parting ways with a candle once the wick has been used up? I often find myself not wanting to throw away the pretty glass jars, especially if I’ve treated myself to a luxe candles. (Guilty!)

Pictured above is one (of many) Lafco candles I recently used up from their Holiday collection. Yes, I burn Holiday candles in the summer if they smell that good. These candles in particular, come in a handblown art glass jar – so you know I couldn’t toss these in the trash!

Removing the excess wax from the glass is so simple, I wish I would’ve known about this trick sooner. But then again, I might have just become a candle hoarder so its probably a good thing.

How to remove excess candle wax:

Step 1: Stick the burned down candle in the freezer over night.

Step 2: Remove from freezer and scoop out wax with a spoon. You’ll be able to remove the metal wick holder easily with the spoon as well.

Step 3: Wipe off any excess wax scraps with a paper towel.

You can also save the left over wax from the bottom of the jars in a ziplock bag to melt in a wax-melter later, really not letting any bit of your candle go to waste.

And now your ready to enjoy your new flower vase, cotton swab holder, jewelry organizer or what I’m using these for – hair accessory organizer!

(sneak peek inside my daily skincare drawer, below)

So go ahead and recycle those used candles.

Candles shown: https://www.lafco.com/scented-candle