Health/ Fitness

Slow Progress is Better Than NO Progress

Slow progress is better than NO progress. | lookingjoligood.wordpress.com

Sometimes we hear about someone who is losing a bunch of weight really fast on a fad diet, it may seem like it isn’t fair. While you are doing things the right way and seeing little losses and slow progress, it can get discouraging.  Don’t give up!  Often with good healthy lifestyle changes the progress seems to be slow going.  But anything worth doing is worth doing right!  While some of these diets seem to give high weight lose quickly, often it is in an unhealthy way!  If you want to have a long healthy life, you have to make permanent changes, not just quick fad diet changes. Your overall heath is much more important than being “skinny”!

Slow progress is better than NO progress. | lookingjoligood.wordpress.com

Slow progress is better than NO progress. Fad diets and quick fixes are not permanent! Only good healthy lifestyle changes will last!  You and your health are worth the time and effort!

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Beauty Subscription

Ipsy Glam Bag March 2016

I can’t believe that another month has flown by and it is already time to receive another ipsy glam bag!  If you don’t know what ipsy is you can check out my previous post all about it by clicking HERE

If you don’t already subscribe to ipsy but you are thinking about trying it out, I’d love fo you to use my referral link https://www.ipsy.com/new?refer=uqdkx

This month’s glam bag is super cute!  Orange background with a teal rose pattern.  I love the bag print this month, it is one of my favorites so far! (Subscribers either got this version, or an opposite teal version with orange rose pattern ). The zipper is across the top, also a feature that I like.

Ipsy Glam Bag March 2016 | lookingjoligood.wordpress.com

If you follow me on Instagram or Facebook you have already seen what I received.  If you don’t follow me on Instagram or Facebook, you totally should be!

Here’s what I got in my glam bag this month…

Ipsy Glam Bag March 2016 | lookingjoligood.wordpress.comAphrodite Skin Care Replenishing Eye Cream

“This anti-aging and hydrating eye cream is a super lightweight and intensely hydrating treatment, formulated with organic extra virgin olive oil and high levels of natural active ingredients such as Argan Oil, Evening Primrose and Shea Butter to insure maximum absorption.

  • Firming and rejuvenating
  • Helps reduce fine lines, dark circles and puffiness
  • Ultra-Nourishing formula for all skin types

Weight: .5 oz”

Skone Cosmetics Insanely Intense Tattooed Eyeliner in Jet Black

“Insanely Intense Tattooed Eyeliner has a liquid felt tip pen applicator that’s super easy to use to create lines, cat eyes, or wings. It’s waterproof, smudge proof and won’t run or feather. Literally lasts ALL day – even through a workout!

  • Bold, long-lasting color
  • Felt tip applicator

Weight: .07 oz”

Ipsy Glam Bag March 2016 | lookingjoligood.wordpress.comPixi by PetraBeauty Blush Duo in Rose Gold

“This silky blush gives the perfect sheer flush on the apples of your cheeks. Its natural mineral powder formula reflects light, applies true to colour, is hydrating and feels lightweight on the skin. Each duo features two shades to be worn alone or layered.

  • Natural-looking glow
  • Apply with a fluffy soft brush

Weight: .16 oz”

Ipsy Glam Bag March 2016 | lookingjoligood.wordpress.com

I swear, ipsy is bound and determined to make me like nail products whether I want to or not!  Yet another nail product in this months bag!  How to I get it so that I don’t keep getting nail polish and nail related things?

Ipsy Glam Bag March 2016 | lookingjoligood.wordpress.comMargaret Dabbs LondonSuper Shiner Buffer

“The Margaret Dabbs Super Shiner Buffer is an easy to use and highly effective buffer. Unique tiny crystal technology, sets the Margaret Dabbs Super Shiner apart. Using the Margaret Dabbs Super Shiner Buffer will instantly shine and illuminate your nails, leaving a long lasting healthy and shiny sheen.

  • Leaves nails looking natural, healthy, and glossy

Weight: .6 oz”

NYX Cosmetics Liquid Suede Cream Lipstick

Ipsy Glam Bag March 2016 | lookingjoligood.wordpress.com

Doll up your lips with plush and vibrant color! NYX’s Liquid Suede Cream Lipstick glides on smooth and sets into a striking matte finish. Velvety soft and waterproof, this long-lasting lippie creates a positively polished look with every swipe.

  • Waterproof, liquid lipstick infused with avocado oil and Vitamin E
  • Super pigmented lipstick goes on opaque and dries to matte finish
  • Delivers long-wearing, vivid color in one creamy swipe

ipsters who sample this in their Glam Bag will receive the shade Pink LustKitten Heels, or Soft Spoken.
Weight: .13 oz

 I got the shade Kitten Heels, which is not a shade I would normally wear.  I haven’t heard good things about the formulation of these, and I am so picky about liquid lipsticks.  I may not even open this and just pass it a long to one of my friends.

How about you?   Did you get an ipsy’s glam bag?  What did you get in yours?  Were you happy with your samples?  Do you get any other monthly subscription bags/boxes that are worth trying out?  Let me know in the comments below.

If you don’t already subscribe and would like to try out ipsy you can use my referral link by clicking HERE!  Also, if you are interested in seeing my other recent posts about ipsy click HERE

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I would love for you to follow me on Instagram and Facebook. You can find me as Looking Joli Good on both.  I would also love to follow you as well, so let me know your user name in the comment section below!

No Gym No Problem

No Gym? No Problem! #11

Do you remember Jessica Smith (and Peanut) from a few weeks ago?  This is one of my all time absolute favorite exercises routines from her.  If you want a great ab workout without having to do a million crunches, this is just the workout for you!  It takes less than 30 minutes!  No excuses, just do it!

How does the Jessica Smith TV website describe this workout routine?

“What It Is: This cardio kickboxing abs routine is the best way to mix up your abs routine and give unwanted belly fat a one-two punch (don’t forget to pair it with a healthy diet for best results)!

Why You Need It: Let’s face it, crunches aren’t the most effective  and those plank challenges are super boring (and they can really cause poor form). This multi-tasking routine saves you time and maximizes your calorie burn by combining your cardio and core work into a single workout (plus, it’s kind of fun too!).”

Don’t forget to keep good form and warm up and stretch before and after your workout!

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No Gym No Problem

No Gym? No Problem! #10

Since yesterday was Pi day I posted a recipe instead of a workout, but don’t think that I forgot about it for this week!  We all will need this core workout to work off all the pie we ate celebrating pi day yesterday, haha!

This workout only take 15 minutes!  Keep good form, no excuses, just do it!

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No Gym No Problem

No Gym? No Problem! #9

If you have been around Looking Joli Good for any amount of time, you know that I love Jillian Michaels!  I’m pretty sure we are best friends, she just doesn’t know about it. 😉

jillian michaels 30 day shred | lookingjoligood.wordpress.com

Do you think you are ready to tackle one of her work outs?  I have faith in you, you can do it!  This is Level 1 of her 30 Day Shred.  (There are 3 levels total, each a bit harder than the previous level.)  Even though this is one of her older workouts, it is still a really good one and I love it!  Ready?  No excuses, just do it!

Don’t forget to keep good form and do the warm up before and stretch out with Jillian after the exercises, you’ll need it!

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Make up · Tips and Tricks

7 Beauty Products Worth Splurging On (and 5 That Totally Aren’t)

I recently read this article from Real Simple and thought that this was an interesting article.  I wanted to share it with all of you!  What do you think?  Do you agree with these tips on where to scrimp and where to splurge?  PS: I don’t necessarily agree with all of these, but I do think that it is an interesting take on where to spend and where to save.

If you would like to read the original article click HERE

7 Beauty Products Worth Splurging On (and 5 That Totally Aren't) | lookingjoligood.wordpress.com

7 Beauty Products Worth Splurging On (and 5 That Totally Aren’t)

“Admit it: The exotic list of ingredients and the promise of supermodel shine are tempting. But then you hear a little voice in your head (hey, is that you, Mom?) saying, “It’s hype! You’re paying for a pretty box.” Some products are worth every dime; some not so much. How to tell the difference.

Shampoo = Scrimp
Springing for extravagant shampoo is essentially like watching your money go down the drain with the suds. However, if you’ve spent a small fortune coloring or highlighting your hair, you might want to go with the product that your hairstylist recommends.

 

7 Beauty Products Worth Splurging On (and 5 That Totally Aren't) | lookingjoligood.wordpress.com
Photo by Serge Bloch from the Real Simple Website

Conditioner = Splurge
Yes, you rinse conditioner out, but these products are emulsions, which means they contain an oil or wax that doesn’t mix with water. So whatever healthy ingredients are in them adhere to the hair and don’t wash away.

Cleanser = Scrimp
Because the fancy-pants ingredients will be on your face for only two seconds—not long enough to be worth the expense. Have acne-prone or sensitive skin? Look for labels that say “gentle” or “noncomedogenic.”

Day cream = Scrimp
Make sure it’s the kind with sunscreen included; it should have broad-spectrum protection of at least SPF 15. You’ll find an aisle full of worthy options at the drugstore.

Foundation = Splurge
Since the chances that your face may end up looking like an Oompa Loompa are high. Instead head to the department-store cosmetics counters, where you can try out not only shades but also formulas before you buy. Do you prefer lightweight and sheer? Or something with more coverage to hide acne?

Powder = Splurge
Unless you opt for a colorless translucent powder (in which case, you can totally go thrifty), you’ll want to try this on before you buy, especially if you’re using powder as an all-purpose foundation/ concealer/makeup setter. A well-made one also gives you that flawless, practically Photoshopped look and will last longer, so you won’t need to apply as much of it.

Powder blush = Splurge
The pigments in blush are very similar to those in eye shadow. The less expensive the product, the more likely it is that the pigments have been diluted with talc and other powder ingredients. Also, cheaper blushes have a tendency to leave streaks.

Eyeliner = Splurge
You don’t want one with a crumbly tip that creates a shaky line. Generally, the more expensive the pencil, the softer the wax and the smoother the application.

Eye shadow = Splurge
Department-store–brand shadows adhere to the lids better, go on smoother, and offer richer colors than their drugstore counterparts. Certain pigments, such as deep blues and purples, are expensive, so companies that charge more can use more of them. But if you want to test-drive trendy shades, then, by all means, go economical.

Mascara = Scrimp
Bombshell: There isn’t a lot of difference between high-end and low-end formulas. Because bacteria grow easily in mascara, you should trash a tube after three months—which is all the more reason to cut corners.

Lip gloss = Scrimp
No need to go all out if you want just a hint of tint and a bit of shine. And who are we kidding? Half of it will rub off on your coffee cup anyway.

Lipstick = Splurge
If it’s your signature shade, don’t cheap out. You’ll get a creamier texture and possibly even extracts or vitamins that will prevent your pucker from becoming caked and flaky.

Excerpted from The Real Simple Guide to Real Life: Adulthood Made Easy. Copyright © 2015 Time Inc. All rights reserved.”

Buy The Real Simple Guide to Real Life here!

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Beauty Subscription · Make up

Ipsy Glam Bag February 2016

I can’t believe that I completely forgot to post about this months ipsy bag!  We were recently away on vacation in sunny Florida, so when my ipsy glam bag arrived I wasn’t even around to open it!!  I haven’t used any of these products yet, so no reviews this month.

If you don’t already know what ipsy is you can check out my previous post all about it by clicking HERE.  If you are thinking about trying out ipsy, I would love it if you were to use my referral link  https://www.ipsy.com/new?refer=uqdkx

February 2016 Ipsy Glam Bag | lookingjoligood.wordpress.comThis month’s glam bag theme is “Pretty In Ipsy Pink“. The bag is a cute pixilated white envelope with a pink heart.  The main side is a bumpy texture with pink smooth patten leather on the back.  Again this month the zipper is across the top which, you may remember, I like a lot better than the style of the ones that have the zipper 1/4 of the way down.  This is one of my favorite bag designs so far.

If you follow me on Instagram or Facebook you have already seen what I received.  If you don’t follow me on Instagram or Facebook, you totally should be 😉 !

February 2016 Ipsy Glam Bag | lookingjoligood.wordpress.com

Here is what I got in my glam bag this month…

February 2016 Ipsy Glam Bag | lookingjoligood.wordpress.comGirls! Oh my goodness! I got another nail polish product in my bag again this month! I have retaken the quiz so many times, and yet I still keep getting nail polishes!  I have filled out the ratings every time I have gotten a nail polish/nail product and I have even called and complained.  Still, still I get another nail product!  If any of you know a trick to get less nail polishes PLEASE tell me!!!
Perfect FormulaPink Gel Coat (Weight: .17 oz)
The “Suit of Armor” for your nails. Instantly achieve strong, healthier-looking natural nails.

  • Instantly Strengthens
  • Brightens, seals, and protects
  • High Gloss Finish

February 2016 Ipsy Glam Bag | lookingjoligood.wordpress.comBelláPierre Cosmetics Mineral Blush (Weight: .2 oz)
This creamy, non-comedogenic Mineral Blush gives you a beautiful, healthy flush that looks natural. Recommended by make-up artists and dermatologists, this award-winning blush is talc-free, paraben-free, and suitable for all skin types and conditions.

  • All natural
  • Vegan
  • Creates a natural blush

ipsters who sample Mineral Blush will receive the shade Desert Rose.

February 2016 Ipsy Glam Bag | lookingjoligood.wordpress.comSmashbox Cosmetics Photo Finish Primer Oil (Weight: .13 oz)
The Power of a Primer. The Luxury of a Face Oil.

Fall in love with your skin — before you put on makeup — with the first ever primer specially formulated in a lightweight, lustrous oil. This fast-absorbing hero blend of 15 essential and lipid-rich plant oils penetrate instantly to moisturize your face for seamless foundation application with a dewy, youthful finish. In fact, you might think twice before you reach for your makeup.

  • Softens complexion to make foundation look like skin
  • Instantly absorbs and adds radiance
  • 15 essential and lipid-rich plant oils including moisturizing jojoba and calming chamomile
  • Apply a few drops to split-ends, cuticles, elbows and clavicle for a dewy, youthful sheen

February 2016 Ipsy Glam Bag | lookingjoligood.wordpress.comDr. Brandt PoreDermabrasion (Weight: .25 oz)
Dr. brandt PoreDermabrasion is a unique physical and chemical exfoliator and pore perfector in one. No matter how old you are or what type of skin you have, enlarged pores are a huge concern. Shrink them down to the vanishing point while smoothing and evening skin’s texture.

  • Helps refine the appearance of pores
  • Helps cleanse pores
  • Helps smooth and even skin texture

 

February 2016 Ipsy Glam Bag | lookingjoligood.wordpress.comMOR Emporium Classics Hand & Body Lotion in Candied Vanilla (Weight: 1 oz)
A luxurious Hand & Body Lotion enriched with Macadamia and Soybean Oils, Shea Butter and Vitamin E that leaves skin feeling supple. Sweet almond extract and argan oil deeply moisturizes and leaves skin delicately scented.

  • Free from mineral oils, parabens, synthetic dyes and sulphates
  • This product is not tested on animals

How about you?   Did you get an ipsy’s glam bag?  What did you get in yours?  Were you happy with your samples?  Do you get any other monthly subscription bags/boxes that are worth trying out?  Let me know in the comments below.

If you don’t already subscribe and would like to try out ipsy you can use my referral link by clicking HERE!  Also, if you are interested in seeing my other recent posts about ipsy click HERE.

lookingjoligood.wordpress.com

I would love for you to follow me on Instagram and Facebook. You can find me as Looking Joli Good on both.  I would also love to follow you as well, so let me know your user name in the comment section below!

 

No Gym No Problem

No Gym? No Problem! #8

We have completed two months of this new year, can you believe it?!  How are things going with your new years resolutions?  Have you been eating well and working out?  If not, today is a great day to start!

This 10 minute workout focuses on the arms.  You’ll need  2 sets of weights: a light and heavier set.  I prefer to use 3 and 8 lbs weights, but if you only have 3 and 5 lbs that works out fine as well.

Remember, keep good form, warm up before and stretch after you exercises!  No excuses, just do it!

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Flab to FAB · Health/ Fitness · Jillian Michaels Body Revolution

Jillian Michaels Body Revolution Cardio 2 Review

**Please see update below

Phase 2 Cardio 2 for Weeks 5 through 8 

What will you need?  Good supportive athletic shoes, that’s it.

No warm up for this workout, it starts right up with the circuit.  Each of the fourteen parts is done for 30 seconds and repeated through twice for a total of three times.

Jillian Michaels Body Revolution Cardio 1 Review | lookingjoligood.wordpress.com

Workout:
1. Jumprope
2. Butt Kicks
3. High Knees
4.Alternating Knee Strikes
5. Jumping Jacks
6. Fast Feet
7. Skiers
8. Skaters
9. Plié Hops
10. Cross Jacks
11.Upper Cuts
12. Towel Runs Right then Left
13. Hooks Right then Left
14. Burpees (I HATE burpees, but then again, who doesn’t.)

Repeat twice.

Cool Down/Stretches

I love this workout.  I think that because each of the moves only lasts for 30 seconds it is much more tolerable and enjoyable!

Follow along with me as I journey from Flab to FAB!

I hope this was helpful if you are trying to decide if Jillian Michaels Body Revolution is right for you!

Here is one of my very favorite Jillian Micheals quotes:

“Many are so preoccupied with what others think it defines their existence. When we fixate externally, it keeps us from truly knowing ourselves and our destiny. Most [people] fear looking inward for worry they won’t find greatness, but when you stop allowing others to define your worth, you’ll see—greatness exists in us all, waiting to be
 expressed”

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**Update:

Initially, I found Jillian Michaels’ approach to exercise and dieting highly motivational. Her intense workouts and strict dietary guidelines pushed me to achieve remarkable physical results, which fueled my motivation and determination. I embraced her no-nonsense attitude and believed that pushing my body to its limits was the only way to achieve success. However, as time went on, I began to realize that this approach was taking a toll on my mental health. The relentless pursuit of physical perfection and the constant pressure I placed on myself led to feelings of anxiety, guilt, and a distorted body image. It was then that I decided to change my perspective and adopt a more balanced and loving approach to my body. By prioritizing self-compassion, listening to my body’s needs, and embracing acceptance, I discovered a newfound sense of mental well-being. This shift in thinking allowed me to find joy in movement, cultivate a positive relationship with my body, and ultimately, achieve a healthier and more sustainable approach to overall well-being.

No Gym No Problem

No Gym? No Problem! #7

7-minute-routine-workout.jpg

This routine combines the best 10 exercises to burn calories, do each for 30 seconds with a 10 second rest in between in order for the workout to be effective. This circuit should take 7 minutes challenge yourself by repeating it two or three times.

Remember to always keep your ab muscles contracted, keep good form warm up before and stretch afterwards!  No excuses, just do it!

1. Jumping Jacks

2. Wall Sit

3. Push-Up

4. Abdominal Crunch

5. Step-Up onto Chair

6. Squat

7. Triceps Dip On Chair

8. Plank

9. High Knees Running In Place

10. Lunge

I originally read about this workout on CNN Life.  If you would like to check it out for yourself click HERE!

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