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IN: Yoga

5 Stretches You Can Do At Your Desk

January 10, 2017 By Melanie 3 Comments

image2Hi all! I’m back with another rendition of my Yoga #TipTuesday and I have a feeling this one applies to a whole bunch of you. Raise your hand if you work somewhere that requires you to sit for up to 8-10 hours at a time? (*raises hand)  For those of you who don’t know, I currently have a full time job as a digital strategist at a PR firm right in the heart of NYC. As much as I love what I do, I have to say the office life wreaks some serious havoc on my hip flexors, hamstrings and back. When you sit at a desk all day, it’s so easy to develop really bad posture… which is terrible for you. Like, really terrible. Over time, consistent bad posture can lead to headaches, depression, fatigue, sore muscles and in some cases, nerve damage. Yikes!

After years of maintaining a sedentary job, I’ve realized that although exercising and stretching outside of work helps tremendously, it’s still important to find ways to stretch during work. The following are 5 stretches you can do at your desk – without looking like a complete weirdo. Well, I mean you may look a little strange with some of these. My advice? Just own the weirdness.

I demonstrated the following stretches on a piano stool for visibility purposes but these also work in most standard desk chairs. If not, try to make a variation work for you!

Staff Pose with Flexed and Pointed Feet 

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Benefits: 

  • Strengthens and stretches calves, ankles and arches
  • When combined with a slight forward fold (with straight back) it’s a great hamstring stretch
  • Prevents lower back pain

Yogi Tips: This is the most discreet of all the desk-stretches, which is why I make a point to do it multiple times a day. Practice good posture by keeping your spine neutral and reach through your calves and thighs. Lengthen your torso as if someone is pulling the top of your head upwards with an invisible string. Lastly – don’t forget to breathe. Inhale as you flex, exhale as you point.

Seated Backbend

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Benefits: 

  • Stretches chest, shoulders and upper back
  • Enhances circulation by opening up the lungs
  • Nourishes the spine, keeping it healthy and happy (plus it’s a great counter for all that slouching)

Yogi Tips: Start by bringing your bottom towards the end of your seat, leaving enough room for your arms to land behind you. On an inhale, stretch your arms up towards the ceiling and then exhaling lower your arms and grab the back of your seat. On the next inhale, open your heart towards the ceiling until you feel a yummy stretch in your shoulders and chest. Hold for a few breaths and release.

Goddess Pose 

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Benefits: 

  • Stretches hips, inner thigh and groin
  • Tones and strengthens the core muscles
  • Increases circulation and improves concentration (perfect to get you through all those meetings!)

Yogi Tips: You can slowly loosen up the hips by opening and closing one leg at a time until you feel comfortable with opening both knees to the sides of your chair. Keep your spine long and shoulders stacked directly above your sit bones. You can add a spinal twist here or even a simple shoulder stretch! Play around with it and do what feels right – and what you can feasibly do while sitting at a desk. 😉

Seated Side Bend

5 stretches you can do at your desk image9

Benefits: 

  • Stretches the chest, back, obliques and adductors
  • Energizes your body, which makes it a great stretch for those long afternoons
  • Releases stress and tension

Yogi Tips: This is such an invigorating stretch for the entire body! It’s important to keep your hips firmly on the chair and keep the spine long and lean. First inhale deeply, then bring your right arm above your head, exhale while bending towards the left side, turn your head to look at the right elbow and keep the chest open. Stay for a couple breaths and then come back to center. Repeat on the other side.

Easy Pose with Cat/Cow 

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Benefits: 

  • Stretches the neck, shoulders and spine
  • Warms up the body and stimulates the abdominal organs (like the kidneys)
  • Helps to prevent back pain when done regularly

Yogi Tips: I love doing this whenever emails are starting to blur together and I need to take a second to clear my head. Start in easy pose or lotus, and alternate between inhaling as you open your chest and exhaling as you round your back. Repeat this stretch 5-10 times gently and at your own pace.

I hope these stretches help you to feel a little more flexible and less “stiff” at the end of your work day. In addition to consistent stretching, I also recommend getting up and taking 5-10 minute walks every hour. It’s one of the reasons why I don’t keep a water pitcher at my desk… it forces me to get up and walk to the kitchen for refills!

If you try any of these out, please send me a note and let me know how they worked for you. Good luck and happy stretching!

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Filed Under: Yoga

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Sarah says

    January 25, 2017 at 12:39 pm

    Hi Melanie, I loved your Blog…your texts are amazing, and it is always good to see your Yoga Tips with all the benefits that come from it. I don`t know if you`ve heard something about hygge, but I think this new concept it is really related to your lifestyle Hygge

    Reply
  2. Morgan says

    January 28, 2017 at 12:04 pm

    I just stumbled upon your blog and already I am obsessed!! 🙂 I love that you give tips to help the everyday working gal (or guy hehe) stay healthy like this. I’ll definitely be sure to try these stretches when I’m sitting at my desk because my shoulder and lower back seem to get so stiff by the end of the day. Your workout outfit is also super adorbs! Let me know where you got the set 😀

    http://www.momentswithmorgan.com

    Reply
    • Melanie says

      February 1, 2017 at 1:45 pm

      Aw, thanks so much Morgan!! You’re too sweet and I’m so happy to hear that you’ll be trying out these stretches. 🙂 I’m literally doing one of them right now as I type this – haha. The outfit is from Bandier.com! They have the cutest curation of athletic wear.

      Reply

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New Meet Melanie

New Meet Melanie

Hi and welcome to Headstands & Heels! I’m Melanie — a Digital Strategist turned Wellness Entrepreneur, certified yoga instructor (RYT 200), dog mama, and content creator based in NYC. I hope to encourage others to follow their dreams and cultivate a healthy, balanced lifestyle filled with mindfulness and positivity. 💕 Send me a note at: mel@headstandsandheels.com or Read More

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INSTAGRAM VS. REALITY {swipe 👈🏼 for a laugh}
INSTAGRAM VS. REALITY {swipe 👈🏼 for a laugh}. Bay and I went to the William Vale rooftop “Glice” rink yesterday evening to celebrate 🎊 . 
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Sadly I should have read the reviews because it was impossible to skate on!! 😂 It’s made with a synthetic ice that really just doesn’t work... prob would have been better as a roller skating rink. 
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I think we hobbled around for about 15 min before leaving and going downstairs to Westlight for some dinner. 
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Luckily we had quite a few laughs over the whole thing and watched the most beautiful sunset over the city 🌇 . Still a great way to end what was such a wonderful and historic day. ❤️ #IGvsReality

Cozy snowy morning vibes. ❄️ Today feels like
Cozy snowy morning vibes. ❄️ Today feels like the start of new beginnings and I’m here for it. 💕 How are you feeling today, loves? #MelsMeals

Traded sweatpants for sushi 🍣 on last night’s
Traded sweatpants for sushi 🍣 on last night’s date night venture at @sushilab.nyc. It’s no surprise that winter + Covid have made going out a rare occasion for Bay and I. 
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It does make moments like this, when you find an outdoor dining spot that’s so warm you can take your coat off, such a special treat. We savored every second of it. ❤️ 
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If you’re in NYC here are a few other warm and cozy outdoor dining spots that we’ve tried or have made reservations for: 
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✨ @scarpettarestaurants
✨ @boucherienyc
✨ @thenomadhotel rooftop 
✨ @lafayette380
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And two accounts that have amazing recommendations are @covid.date.spots and @nycdatenite. 🔥💯
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Out of curiosity have you all been dining out? Or are you eating most of your meals at home? 🏡 #SushiNight

🌱5 HOUSEPLANTS FOR BEGINNERS 🌱 Which one is
🌱5 HOUSEPLANTS FOR BEGINNERS 🌱 Which one is your favorite? 
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You all know how much I love my plants and I really do believe they are a great way to cultivate more positive energy in your space. 🏡 
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If you’re looking to add some houseplants to your collection but aren’t sure where to start, here are some of my personal favs!!
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🌱 𝐏𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐬: vining plant that will visibly wilt when it needs to be watered. I water mine once a week 
🌱 𝐒𝐧𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐭: technically a succulent so it’s super low maintenance. I only water mine once every 3-4 weeks
🌱 𝐉𝐚𝐝𝐞 𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐭: another succulent that loves bright light and requires little maintenance 
🌱 𝐑𝐮𝐛𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐞 𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐭: needs medium to bright indirect light and you can water once every 2 weeks 
🌱 𝐙𝐳 𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐭: the toughest plant ever and will survive anything lol mine is in low indirect light and I water it once every 3 weeks 
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I busted out my watercolors for this little illustration and it just makes me so happy. 🎨 I love being able to share these with you all and I hope you enjoy seeing my more artistic side. 🌱 #plantillustration

Give me all the delicious plant-based snacks and a
Give me all the delicious plant-based snacks and a large glass of water after a workout and I’m one happy gal! 🍅 🥕 Lately, I’ve been reaching for these Air Dried Veggies + Nuts by @dirtkitchensnacks and I think you all would LOVE them too. 🎉
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They are crisp, crunchy, and taste so good. This one is the Carrot + Zucchini + Roasted Peanuts pack and it’s seasoned with spicy chili lime seasoning! 🌶 USE CODE: MEL20 FOR A DISCOUNT.🥕🥒
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Bay and I are already planning to reorder the Variety Packs (linked in my story) because they’re one of those snacks that we both love and are beginning to become a staple in our house. 🙌🏻 Who else loves snacking on veggies? #DigInWithDKS #Sponsored

Hey friends! Tell me — where in this big beautif
Hey friends! Tell me — where in this big beautiful world do you live right now? 🌎 
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I had one of those “wow social media is really cool” moments while messaging with a lovely gal from Singapore and another girl who grew up near my hometown in Florida today. 🏝 
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I know IG can be a bit overwhelming at times but I’m so thankful for how easily it can connect so many of us from around the world! 
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And since so many people have moved during this pandemic, I’m also curious as to where everyone ended up. 🗺 
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Can’t wait to hear from you all ❤️🥰. Thanks for being in my small corner of the internet! #NYCblogger

Finding little moments of peace after a very tragi
Finding little moments of peace after a very tragic and heavy week. 🧘🏻‍♀️✨ I had planned to share about my “𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐘𝐞𝐚𝐫, 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬” 𝐯𝐢𝐫𝐭𝐮𝐚𝐥 𝐲𝐨𝐠𝐚 𝐜𝐥𝐚𝐬𝐬 in the spirit of kicking 2021 off on a positive note — but now I’m using it as a way to create space for healing and self care. 
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YOGA CLASS INFO:
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✨ What: 45 min Open Level Vinyasa Flow
✨ When: Sun, Jan 17th at 12pm EST
✨ Ticket donation is $5
✨ LINK IN BIO TO SIGN UP 
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𝐀𝐋𝐋 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐟𝐢𝐭𝐬 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐛𝐞 𝐝𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐌𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡 𝐀𝐦𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐚, a non profit organization dedicated to help those living with mental illness and to promote the mental wellbeing of all. 💖 
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I hope you’re all taking some time for yourself this weekend and I look forward to seeing some of you on your mat. 😘 #MelDoesYoga #MyYogaLife

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Are you team sweet or savory? 🍌 🍅 Personally I always have a hard time choosing, but when they’re both made with delicious ingredients, I’m all about having both. #WasaPartner
 
One of my favorite ways to create these simple snack stacks is with @wasausa Multigrain Crispbreads. 🙌  They are made with wholesome grains like oats and barley, have 0 grams of Trans Fat, no palm oil and are Carbon Neutral from field to shelf, making them a great choice for you and the planet! 🌎  Definitely the perfect pantry staple to kick off the new year. 
 
Swipe 👈 to see how these snacks came together. The left has crunchy PB butter, bananas, honey and chia seeds while the right has mozzarella cheese, tomatoes, balsamic vinegar and basil. 
 
What healthy toppings do you think you would add to these? 😋  #NewYearNewSnack #SnackWasa #SimplyWasa

VEGGIE EGG MUFFINS coming at you hot!! 🍳🍅 {S
VEGGIE EGG MUFFINS coming at you hot!! 🍳🍅 {Swipe 👈🏼 for a tutorial} 
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I whipped up these egg frittata muffins on Sunday morning and they’re so delicious! They’re filled with diced sweet potato, spinach, onions, feta and celery — but you can add whatever you like! 
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Bonus: keep them in your fridge for a few days to make your weekday breakfasts easy peazy! 🙌🏻
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SAVE THIS RECIPE TO TRY LATER:
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✨ Preheat oven to 350 degrees 
✨ Sauté your choice of diced veggies in non stick skillet with olive oil till cooked through. Set aside 
✨ In mixing bowl, whisk together 10 eggs + 1/3 cup milk + salt + pepper + garlic powder
✨ Spray muffin tin with cooking spray 
✨ Add a little egg mixture to the bottom of each tin 
✨ Scoop cooked veggies and feta into tins 
✨ Top each tin with remaining egg mixture 
✨ Bake for 20-22 min till frittata muffins are cooked through! 
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Give me a thumbs up if you’d like to try these! #MelsMeals #EggMuffins #FrittataMuffins

First Monday of the new year, let’s goooo!! 🌻
First Monday of the new year, let’s goooo!! 🌻 I woke up feeling so rejuvenated after taking some much needed time off the gram and I’m ready to dive into work with a new wave of passion. 🙌🏻
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I spent this morning in my fav cozy sunlit corner, off my phone, writing my thoughts, affirmations and some juicy ideas that came to me over the break. 🥰 
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𝐒𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐈 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐤 𝐰𝐞 𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐚 𝐟𝐞𝐰 𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐤𝐢𝐜𝐤 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐲𝐞𝐚𝐫, 𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝟑 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐈’𝐯𝐞 𝐛𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐫𝐞𝐟𝐥𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠:
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✨𝘐𝘵 𝘮𝘢𝘺 𝘣𝘦 𝘢 𝘯𝘦𝘸 𝘺𝘦𝘢𝘳, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘪𝘵’𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘢𝘮𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘸𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘶𝘱 𝘵𝘰 𝘱𝘶𝘵 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘬 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘥𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘮𝘴. 𝘎𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧 𝘤𝘳𝘦𝘥𝘪𝘵 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘧𝘢𝘳 𝘺𝘰𝘶’𝘷𝘦 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦! 
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✨ 𝘈𝘣𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘦𝘭𝘴𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘮𝘣𝘦𝘳 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 “𝘸𝘩𝘺.” 𝘓𝘦𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘣𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘭𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘨𝘶𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘴 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘥𝘰 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘥𝘰𝘯’𝘵 𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘰𝘸 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧 𝘵𝘰 𝘨𝘦𝘵 𝘥𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘣𝘺 𝘵𝘦𝘮𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘢𝘳𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴. 
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✨ 𝘓𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘢𝘵 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩 𝘢 𝘭𝘦𝘯𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘨𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘵𝘶𝘥𝘦. 𝘈 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬𝘧𝘶𝘭 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘪𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘬𝘦𝘺 𝘵𝘰 𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘳𝘶𝘦 𝘫𝘰𝘺 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘥𝘢𝘺.
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Alright ya’ll, now it’s time for me to pour myself a large iced latte and get to work. ❤️ Big things ahead!
#MyCozyHome #PositiveAffirmations

Happy New Year! 🎉 It’s time to officially shu
Happy New Year! 🎉 It’s time to officially shut the door on 2020 and get ready to jumpstart 2021 with some fresh goals! One thing that I really want to do is dedicate a little #extra time to yoga -- both my self practice and teaching virtual classes. ✨ 🧘‍♀️ I’ll be kicking that off with a “New Year, New Intentions” Yoga Class later this January (more on this soon)! 
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As I prepare for the class, I’ll be flowing in these peachy-smooth Extra High-Rise Powersoft leggings and matching bra from @oldnavy! 💖 I love the lightweight compression, fun color and how perfectly it fits. 💯  PS: They’re having a major 50% off sale on all their activewear right now so now’s your chance to snag a pair of your own.
 
What is ONE thing you want to spend a little extra time/space/energy on this year? ✨ Share your goal so I can cheer you on. #OldNavyStyle #Sponsored

Hello 2021! ❤️ Every year I write out a few si
Hello 2021! ❤️ Every year I write out a few simple “wellness” related goals that I want to focus on in the next 365 days. 🌱 
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These intentions serve as a little reminder that self care truly comes in multiple forms. ✨ The ones I chose this year are based on habits I started (or wish I started) in 2020 and want to solidify into my routine this year. 
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I thought I’d share my top 10 with you! 
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🔸 Do a little yoga daily 
🔸 Read 1 new book every month 
🔸 Order less takeout!! More cooking 
🔸 Prioritize daily walks 
🔸 Take my vitamins 
🔸 No phone in bed! 
🔸 Use Sundays to clean and plan weekly meals 
🔸 Drink a glass of water before coffee ☕️ 
🔸 Disconnect from social media one day a week
🔸 Schedule (and keep) regular doctor/dental appts
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I’d love to hear a simple and healthy goal you have this year! Did any of mine make your list? #JanuaryIntentions #NewYearsGoals


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  • Here's good news for banana lovers who are trying to keep inflammation under control: You can still avoid sugar, refined flour and dairy and have a breakfast that tastes a lot like banana bread. The not-so-secret ingredient? Oats. In research published in the Journal of Nutrition, overweight and obese participants saw a drop in an inflammatory marker called C-reactive protein (CRP) when they ate foods that were low on the glycemic index, one of which is oats.
  • 5 Easy Tips For A Cozy Master Bedroom Sitting Area - The Home I Create
  • These healthy vegetarian breakfast recipes are the perfect way to start your morning! They are primarily plant-based so they would be easy to make vegan as well. Enjoy!
  • Here are 6 easy recipes for healthy quinoa bowls! These make delicious vegan, gluten-free lunch or dinner ideas. They're also great for meal prep too!

Currently Pinning

  • ... granola pots with blackberries ...
  • Crispy, easy veggie cakes made with grated vegetables – carrots, zucchini, broccoli and corn. Great for lunches, side dish or your small picky eaters.  #vegetablerecipes #vegetarianrecipe #vegetarian #healthysidedish #vegetables
  • Here's good news for banana lovers who are trying to keep inflammation under control: You can still avoid sugar, refined flour and dairy and have a breakfast that tastes a lot like banana bread. The not-so-secret ingredient? Oats. In research published in the Journal of Nutrition, overweight and obese participants saw a drop in an inflammatory marker called C-reactive protein (CRP) when they ate foods that were low on the glycemic index, one of which is oats.
  • 5 Easy Tips For A Cozy Master Bedroom Sitting Area - The Home I Create
  • These healthy vegetarian breakfast recipes are the perfect way to start your morning! They are primarily plant-based so they would be easy to make vegan as well. Enjoy!

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INSTAGRAM VS. REALITY {swipe 👈🏼 for a laugh} INSTAGRAM VS. REALITY {swipe 👈🏼 for a laugh}. Bay and I went to the William Vale rooftop “Glice” rink yesterday evening to celebrate 🎊 . 
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Sadly I should have read the reviews because it was impossible to skate on!! 😂 It’s made with a synthetic ice that really just doesn’t work... prob would have been better as a roller skating rink. 
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I think we hobbled around for about 15 min before leaving and going downstairs to Westlight for some dinner. 
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Luckily we had quite a few laughs over the whole thing and watched the most beautiful sunset over the city 🌇 . Still a great way to end what was such a wonderful and historic day. ❤️ #IGvsReality
Cozy snowy morning vibes. ❄️ Today feels like Cozy snowy morning vibes. ❄️ Today feels like the start of new beginnings and I’m here for it. 💕 How are you feeling today, loves? #MelsMeals
Traded sweatpants for sushi 🍣 on last night’s Traded sweatpants for sushi 🍣 on last night’s date night venture at @sushilab.nyc. It’s no surprise that winter + Covid have made going out a rare occasion for Bay and I. 
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It does make moments like this, when you find an outdoor dining spot that’s so warm you can take your coat off, such a special treat. We savored every second of it. ❤️ 
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If you’re in NYC here are a few other warm and cozy outdoor dining spots that we’ve tried or have made reservations for: 
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✨ @scarpettarestaurants
✨ @boucherienyc
✨ @thenomadhotel rooftop 
✨ @lafayette380
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And two accounts that have amazing recommendations are @covid.date.spots and @nycdatenite. 🔥💯
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Out of curiosity have you all been dining out? Or are you eating most of your meals at home? 🏡 #SushiNight
🌱5 HOUSEPLANTS FOR BEGINNERS 🌱 Which one is 🌱5 HOUSEPLANTS FOR BEGINNERS 🌱 Which one is your favorite? 
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You all know how much I love my plants and I really do believe they are a great way to cultivate more positive energy in your space. 🏡 
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If you’re looking to add some houseplants to your collection but aren’t sure where to start, here are some of my personal favs!!
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🌱 𝐏𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐬: vining plant that will visibly wilt when it needs to be watered. I water mine once a week 
🌱 𝐒𝐧𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐭: technically a succulent so it’s super low maintenance. I only water mine once every 3-4 weeks
🌱 𝐉𝐚𝐝𝐞 𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐭: another succulent that loves bright light and requires little maintenance 
🌱 𝐑𝐮𝐛𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐞 𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐭: needs medium to bright indirect light and you can water once every 2 weeks 
🌱 𝐙𝐳 𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐭: the toughest plant ever and will survive anything lol mine is in low indirect light and I water it once every 3 weeks 
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I busted out my watercolors for this little illustration and it just makes me so happy. 🎨 I love being able to share these with you all and I hope you enjoy seeing my more artistic side. 🌱 #plantillustration
Give me all the delicious plant-based snacks and a Give me all the delicious plant-based snacks and a large glass of water after a workout and I’m one happy gal! 🍅 🥕 Lately, I’ve been reaching for these Air Dried Veggies + Nuts by @dirtkitchensnacks and I think you all would LOVE them too. 🎉
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They are crisp, crunchy, and taste so good. This one is the Carrot + Zucchini + Roasted Peanuts pack and it’s seasoned with spicy chili lime seasoning! 🌶 USE CODE: MEL20 FOR A DISCOUNT.🥕🥒
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Bay and I are already planning to reorder the Variety Packs (linked in my story) because they’re one of those snacks that we both love and are beginning to become a staple in our house. 🙌🏻 Who else loves snacking on veggies? #DigInWithDKS #Sponsored
Hey friends! Tell me — where in this big beautif Hey friends! Tell me — where in this big beautiful world do you live right now? 🌎 
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I had one of those “wow social media is really cool” moments while messaging with a lovely gal from Singapore and another girl who grew up near my hometown in Florida today. 🏝 
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I know IG can be a bit overwhelming at times but I’m so thankful for how easily it can connect so many of us from around the world! 
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And since so many people have moved during this pandemic, I’m also curious as to where everyone ended up. 🗺 
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Can’t wait to hear from you all ❤️🥰. Thanks for being in my small corner of the internet! #NYCblogger
Finding little moments of peace after a very tragi Finding little moments of peace after a very tragic and heavy week. 🧘🏻‍♀️✨ I had planned to share about my “𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐘𝐞𝐚𝐫, 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬” 𝐯𝐢𝐫𝐭𝐮𝐚𝐥 𝐲𝐨𝐠𝐚 𝐜𝐥𝐚𝐬𝐬 in the spirit of kicking 2021 off on a positive note — but now I’m using it as a way to create space for healing and self care. 
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YOGA CLASS INFO:
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✨ What: 45 min Open Level Vinyasa Flow
✨ When: Sun, Jan 17th at 12pm EST
✨ Ticket donation is $5
✨ LINK IN BIO TO SIGN UP 
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𝐀𝐋𝐋 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐟𝐢𝐭𝐬 𝐰𝐢𝐥𝐥 𝐛𝐞 𝐝𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐌𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐥 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐭𝐡 𝐀𝐦𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐚, a non profit organization dedicated to help those living with mental illness and to promote the mental wellbeing of all. 💖 
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I hope you’re all taking some time for yourself this weekend and I look forward to seeing some of you on your mat. 😘 #MelDoesYoga #MyYogaLife
Are you team sweet or savory? 🍌 🍅 Personally Are you team sweet or savory? 🍌 🍅 Personally I always have a hard time choosing, but when they’re both made with delicious ingredients, I’m all about having both. #WasaPartner
 
One of my favorite ways to create these simple snack stacks is with @wasausa Multigrain Crispbreads. 🙌  They are made with wholesome grains like oats and barley, have 0 grams of Trans Fat, no palm oil and are Carbon Neutral from field to shelf, making them a great choice for you and the planet! 🌎  Definitely the perfect pantry staple to kick off the new year. 
 
Swipe 👈 to see how these snacks came together. The left has crunchy PB butter, bananas, honey and chia seeds while the right has mozzarella cheese, tomatoes, balsamic vinegar and basil. 
 
What healthy toppings do you think you would add to these? 😋  #NewYearNewSnack #SnackWasa #SimplyWasa
VEGGIE EGG MUFFINS coming at you hot!! 🍳🍅 {S VEGGIE EGG MUFFINS coming at you hot!! 🍳🍅 {Swipe 👈🏼 for a tutorial} 
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I whipped up these egg frittata muffins on Sunday morning and they’re so delicious! They’re filled with diced sweet potato, spinach, onions, feta and celery — but you can add whatever you like! 
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Bonus: keep them in your fridge for a few days to make your weekday breakfasts easy peazy! 🙌🏻
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SAVE THIS RECIPE TO TRY LATER:
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✨ Preheat oven to 350 degrees 
✨ Sauté your choice of diced veggies in non stick skillet with olive oil till cooked through. Set aside 
✨ In mixing bowl, whisk together 10 eggs + 1/3 cup milk + salt + pepper + garlic powder
✨ Spray muffin tin with cooking spray 
✨ Add a little egg mixture to the bottom of each tin 
✨ Scoop cooked veggies and feta into tins 
✨ Top each tin with remaining egg mixture 
✨ Bake for 20-22 min till frittata muffins are cooked through! 
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Give me a thumbs up if you’d like to try these! #MelsMeals #EggMuffins #FrittataMuffins
First Monday of the new year, let’s goooo!! 🌻 First Monday of the new year, let’s goooo!! 🌻 I woke up feeling so rejuvenated after taking some much needed time off the gram and I’m ready to dive into work with a new wave of passion. 🙌🏻
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I spent this morning in my fav cozy sunlit corner, off my phone, writing my thoughts, affirmations and some juicy ideas that came to me over the break. 🥰 
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𝐒𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐈 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐤 𝐰𝐞 𝐜𝐚𝐧 𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐚 𝐟𝐞𝐰 𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐬 𝐭𝐨 𝐤𝐢𝐜𝐤 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐲𝐞𝐚𝐫, 𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝟑 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐈’𝐯𝐞 𝐛𝐞𝐞𝐧 𝐫𝐞𝐟𝐥𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠:
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✨𝘐𝘵 𝘮𝘢𝘺 𝘣𝘦 𝘢 𝘯𝘦𝘸 𝘺𝘦𝘢𝘳, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘪𝘵’𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘢𝘮𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘸𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘶𝘱 𝘵𝘰 𝘱𝘶𝘵 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘬 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘥𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘮𝘴. 𝘎𝘪𝘷𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧 𝘤𝘳𝘦𝘥𝘪𝘵 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘧𝘢𝘳 𝘺𝘰𝘶’𝘷𝘦 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦! 
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✨ 𝘈𝘣𝘰𝘷𝘦 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘦𝘭𝘴𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘮𝘣𝘦𝘳 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 “𝘸𝘩𝘺.” 𝘓𝘦𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘣𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘭𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘨𝘶𝘪𝘥𝘦𝘴 𝘸𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘥𝘰 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘥𝘰𝘯’𝘵 𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘰𝘸 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧 𝘵𝘰 𝘨𝘦𝘵 𝘥𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘣𝘺 𝘵𝘦𝘮𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘢𝘳𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨𝘴. 
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✨ 𝘓𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘢𝘵 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘩𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩 𝘢 𝘭𝘦𝘯𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘨𝘳𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘵𝘶𝘥𝘦. 𝘈 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬𝘧𝘶𝘭 𝘩𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘪𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘬𝘦𝘺 𝘵𝘰 𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘵𝘳𝘶𝘦 𝘫𝘰𝘺 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺 𝘥𝘢𝘺.
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Alright ya’ll, now it’s time for me to pour myself a large iced latte and get to work. ❤️ Big things ahead!
#MyCozyHome #PositiveAffirmations
Happy New Year! 🎉 It’s time to officially shu Happy New Year! 🎉 It’s time to officially shut the door on 2020 and get ready to jumpstart 2021 with some fresh goals! One thing that I really want to do is dedicate a little #extra time to yoga -- both my self practice and teaching virtual classes. ✨ 🧘‍♀️ I’ll be kicking that off with a “New Year, New Intentions” Yoga Class later this January (more on this soon)! 
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As I prepare for the class, I’ll be flowing in these peachy-smooth Extra High-Rise Powersoft leggings and matching bra from @oldnavy! 💖 I love the lightweight compression, fun color and how perfectly it fits. 💯  PS: They’re having a major 50% off sale on all their activewear right now so now’s your chance to snag a pair of your own.
 
What is ONE thing you want to spend a little extra time/space/energy on this year? ✨ Share your goal so I can cheer you on. #OldNavyStyle #Sponsored
Hello 2021! ❤️ Every year I write out a few si Hello 2021! ❤️ Every year I write out a few simple “wellness” related goals that I want to focus on in the next 365 days. 🌱 
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These intentions serve as a little reminder that self care truly comes in multiple forms. ✨ The ones I chose this year are based on habits I started (or wish I started) in 2020 and want to solidify into my routine this year. 
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I thought I’d share my top 10 with you! 
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🔸 Do a little yoga daily 
🔸 Read 1 new book every month 
🔸 Order less takeout!! More cooking 
🔸 Prioritize daily walks 
🔸 Take my vitamins 
🔸 No phone in bed! 
🔸 Use Sundays to clean and plan weekly meals 
🔸 Drink a glass of water before coffee ☕️ 
🔸 Disconnect from social media one day a week
🔸 Schedule (and keep) regular doctor/dental appts
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I’d love to hear a simple and healthy goal you have this year! Did any of mine make your list? #JanuaryIntentions #NewYearsGoals
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