Korean body scrub.

    As a gift for babysitting, a friend treated me to a scrub at the Korean Spa. What would this mean? Would they massage sugar mixed with oils or salt like at home? Is it a dry brush? How could this possibly take thirty minutes? Is this going to be like "Naked and Afraid?" I had no clue what I was getting into.

    Let me tell you, it was beyond expectation. In not your typical spa like setting, naked women are just strolling around the spa area, sipping tea, rinsing off in these kiddie-type toddler stools and hoses, and going to and from the hot tub to the cold bath. I am supposed to either soak in the bath or steam room for twenty minutes so my pores can open and be ready for a hardcore scrubbing. Do I make small talk with the other spa goers? Do I sit quietly and try to relax? WTF am I supposed to do? I chose to drink their sweet bread like corn tea and awkwardly overheat by myself in the steam room. (Legs up of course, thanks Momma for teaching me that one!) 

   Finally I am called, my (scrubist?) in her black lace bra (they are all dressed like this I have no clue why) throws some warm water on me, tells me to lay down and we get crackin'. Heads up- there is no privacy, others are getting massaged or scrubbed in the same room, this spa is not for the modest. With her glove type things and some salt, she starts from the feet up. Since I dry brush, the sensation was nothing new, but it is slightly weird having someone do it for you. When I was flipped over I saw rolls of grey stuff coming off. "IS THAT SKIN?" I shriek. Hong laughs and replies, "Yes." EW. AMAZING. WHOA. Every adjective is crossing my mind as I glance down at my glowing skin.I told her I look like a newborn baby fresh out of the womb. She seemingly agrees. Hong seems to really be focusing on my thighs and booty (sorry honey, the stretch marks are there to stay!) After she tosses my head and neck around for the world's quickest massage, she throws my hair up in a perfect bun, and I am off feeling light as a feather.

   The verdict? So worth it. My skin looks incredibly even, has a beautiful glow, and feels so new. If you are shy or uncomfortable being naked around others, I would suggest a private scrub. 
                           
                               x jules


p.s. I went to Imperial Spa on Geary, $60 for a scrub, and $25 for a day pass with access to sauna, steam, and hot and cold tubs.


Tips
-Rinse off before getting in the steam room or hot tub.
-Bring your own sandals and hair brush.
-Tell her if you prefer lighter or heavier pressure.
-Go in the steam room and then the hot tub right before to relax your muscles if you are apprehensive.
-Bring a heavy lotion or oil to apply after the massage (they rinse you with soap, but you will want something super hydrating.
-Bring a sheet mask to enjoy while you wait in the spa area.
-Bring cash gratuity.

All about collagen.

                       
        Botox, filler, lash injections, lip injections, etc. There are so many directions to go as far as "beauty supplements" Why not keep it simple; eat some jello, bone broth, or for my vegan friends, cabbage and soy products.

       Collagen is a protein found in the connective tissues in the body providing astounding benefits. Gelatin (made from collagen) is a major digestive aid, relief of joint pain as well as giving you plumper and firmer skin, stronger teeth and nails, and lowering pain associated with arthritis. It is proven that you will notice a "glow" to your skin and lowering in anxiety, promotes a healthy sleep, and can slow down the aging process in your skin due to sun damage and hormonal imbalance. Best taken with vitamin c and on an empty stomach, there are many ways to get your collagen fix in. 

Bone broth- derived from grass fed animals whether it be beef, chicken, or turkey, this is the most time consuming process. 15+ hours of making a broth out of the bones, it releases the collagen and nutrients of the animal.

Collagen supplements- whether this be powder or pill form, both are recommended to be taken daily. Powdered collagen is the strongest source. 

Gelatin- this is a fun way to get your collagen in. You can make gelatin squares or make your own flavor of jello, the flavors are endless! I am loving the kombucha-tangerine flavor (I am more than happy to share this recipe or answer any questions to anyone who needs it!)

Vegetarian/Vegan friendly- red fruits such as apples, cherries, strawberries,foods such as beans, soy products,flax seed, walnuts, olives and red vegetables such as beets, red peppers, red potatoes are all high in natural forms of collagen as well as hyaluronic acid to lock in the moisture of your skin and reverse the effects of aging.

    I have been taking a powdered collagen supplement as well as eating jello daily, and I am looking forward to exploring other options as well. I don't notice any major changes in my skin, nails, or hair, however I think it is too soon to see any changes. I take a spoon of the powdered form of collagen daily with room temperature water. (you can mix it into your tea, coffee or juice as well) I take either an acerola tablet or add camu camu powder to the water. It does make me feel calm, and I feel better when running, after eating, and well rested. I look forward to updating you!

                         x jules

SoulCycle

           I rode and I liked it.

       My first experience was in October, my cousin Jamie graciously treated me to my first class in Soho, 7am on a Monday. Against my better judgment I went along for it, and wow I got my ass kicked. First of all I showed up to the class in loose yoga pants (7am on a Monday what do you expect) and not a clue in the world what was about to happen. The room was dark and FILLED with New York's elite. Models, clearly some athletes and people who work out all day. The teacher turn on some high energy music, lights some candles and we are off. Now I am more of a yoga girl, and cardio is usually not really my thing. Not to mention the girl directly in front of me had the PERFECT body/booty and everyone surrounding her looked the same. The best was a woman to my right at least 6 months pregnant and not stopping for a second. If that isn't motivation, I don't know what is. I did fairly well for my first class; ass back eyes forward, keep pedaling. Immediately I could feel my arms, legs, core, all had been worked. Even my hair was sore. Needless to say, the week following I was enchanted by how therapeutic and fun cycling was, and determined to get into my best shape.

    Fast forward to now, I took another one in the Castro district in SF, great music, great teacher, overall super fun class (as I am writing this I am listening to the Kanye remix of "Flashing Lights" singing along "she in the mirror dancing so sleazy") I know Soul is expensive, and for what its worth, you are greeted by a super warm and friendly staff, impeccably clean locker rooms and shower rooms to fix yourself up after being drenched, and music that sets the tone for the day. If you are looking for a class to get your ass in gear and motivate yourself for the start of the year I would highly recommend SoulCycle, or any class that pushes you out of your comfort zone. 

                             x jules

SoulCycle Soho, NYC