Meditate In Style

I’m always reaching out to new people on my Instagram account and when Samantha Perkins, a fellow mom and blogger, and I connected it was as if the planets had aligned. This self-described “anxious mom” is living a sober lifestyle while also juggling the demands of motherhood and everyday life like so many of us. And like me, Samantha is a mom and a blogger who struggles with anxiety issues. And after getting to know her I didn’t feel like the only non-drinker at the party (so to speak). Because here’s the deal: In a world full of mom tees and tanks that proclaim “I wine because my kids whine” & “Mamacita needs a margarita” makes women think drinking can possibly make motherhood a bit easier on them. And for some, maybe it does. But for many others – like Samantha and me - it’s likely contributing to their anxiety, which is one of the reasons why she decided to write her book Alive AF: One Mom’s Journey to Becoming Alcohol Free. As this week’s special guest on my Not So Darlin podcast, Samantha explains the many ways alcohol actually increases your anxiety, and how you can be a productive, loving parent without imbibing. Listen in on our awesome conversation from my latest podcast episode here, with no judgments whatsoever, and I promise you will be inspired.

This week’s Not So Darlin podcast guest is Desiree Carden the Director of Operations for Blue Halo Med Spa on Barsdstown Road. This Louisville native has devoted her entire career to the art of esthetics, receiving both her Cosmetology Degree and Cosmetology Educators Degree shortly after graduating from high school. Desiree began by teaching Cosmetology for the Hair Design School, and at only 24 years old she was instrumental in the development of creating separate licensure for the field of esthetics in the state of Kentucky, becoming one of the first board licensed Esthetic Educators in the Commonwealth in 2004. I absolutely love Blue Halo Med Spa & there’s much more to learn about this lovely and interesting lady, as you’ll discover when you listen! Bluehalomedspa.com

I love love LOVE workout wear and more often than not you’ll find me in a tank or tee and a pair of leggings. After all, in these crazy times who isn’t dressing like that? That’s why I was especially excited to have lifestyle clothing and accessories brand wreath + robe’s Creator and Founder Janel Broderick as this week’s guest on my podcast She’s a long-time fitness enthusiast, having played team sports throughout school; run an array of marathons; and has a deep and abiding love for yoga, barre, lifting weights, and Peloton workouts. Janel strongly believes in the power of individual potential and action, and that we all have a specific, unique, and important role to play in shaping the world around us. It’s a theme that carries over into her design process where she deliberately incorporates one-of-a-kind elements into each and every ethically-sourced, eco-friendly, small-batch item. And here’s a bonus: she’s giving all of my listeners 20% off any purchase at https://wreathandrobe.com/ with promo code NOTSODARLIN at checkout! Listen for more about this fascinating woman now and be prepared to be entertained and inspired.

It’s hard for me to put into words – and a little emotional – about how much the barre3 workout means to me. Signing up for classes and becoming a member was one of the most instrumental things I did to feel happy with myself during my eating disorder recovery.   Walking through their studio doors on Frankfort Avenue in Louisville for the first time was truly an “ah-hah” moment. And after my very first session it was like Heaven’s gates had opened and I felt a sense of bliss I previously never had. Not only had I strengthened my body, but also my mind. "Barre3 is a full-body, balanced workout that combines strength conditioning, cardio, and mindfulness that will leave you feeling balanced in body and empowered from within," says Frankfort Avenue barre3 studio owner Nikki Naseef (that awesome woman with the gorgeous smile in the photo). And she knows what she’s talking about as a dedicated barre3 enthusiast and studio proprietor (the Frankfort Avenue location celebrated its 5th anniversary this past November). I recently sat down with Nikki to talk all things barre3 on my Not So Darlin podcast. Please listen here to learn more about this incredible mind/body experience she has long embraced, and how it can easily become part of your life as well.   And to give you a taste of how amazing barre3 is in real-time, here’s a Darlin Deal you cannot miss: Join me on Saturday, February 6 at 11:30 a.m. Eastern Time for a 45-minute Zoom livestream class taught by Nikki herself for only $10! To sign up and pay for this class simply CLICK HERE.

Helene is a mom, yoga teacher, wellness blogger and healthy(ish!) foodie. Her goal is to help you figure out what feels good to YOU! She believes that each of us have unique needs both mentally and physically, and there’s no such thing as one size fits all.

If you’re looking for realistic ways to find balance, you’ve come to the right place. From online yoga classes to private wellness sessions, reiki, healthy recipes and holistic health content, Helene is here to support you on your wellness journey every step of the way! www.helenekusman.com

Christmas is just over a week away and while most family and friends get-togethers may be canceled this year, who said sharing gifts has to be? That said, I have put together a short list of gifting ideas that are thoughtful and won't threaten to break the bank. For further information take a listen!!!

Psychologist Lynn Supple is back! We discuss ways to navigate through the holiday season while recovering from a eating disorder. Our hope is to help someone out there struggling through this 2020 covid holiday or any day for that matter! 💓. Lynn Supple, PSYD, license psychologist, owns Aspire Wellness, a private practice dedicated to the treatment of eating disorders, anxiety and related issues in Louisville. Lynn is passionate about challenging the idea of perfectionism when it comes to eating and general expectations for self. When Lynn isn’t working, she is running around with her crazy kids, exploring Louisville and loves being active. www.aspirewellnessky.com 502-771-1183 @aspirewellnessky Facebook

How can we all navigate through this covid holiday season? Good question, so  I brought back Megan to touch base on how to deal with difficult choices that maybe you and your family don't see eye to eye on. We also talk about those who have lost loved ones and how to cope with missing them during this holiday season.

Different ways to look at our current situation. Making the best of this nontraditional holiday. Fun tips and ideas for you and your family to check out.

Stylist,fitness fanatic, and Buckle retail manager of one of the leading denim destinations in the U.S, whose love for people and fashion fuel her passion for growth and success. Firm Believer in building up those around me and inspiring others to believe and express themselves through fashion and fitness. Strong Advocate for women and the belief that “behind every strong woman, there is a tribe of other successful women that have her back “ 💗 

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