Author: HairWeavings Editorial Team

When I shared the first draft of my financial checklist book with a publisher years ago, his reaction surprised me. “This is a ‘honey, I love you’ book!” he said. “I am going to get this book for my wife for Valentine’s Day and tell her that my gift will be to get everything on the checklist completed for her so that she won’t have to worry.” Wow, I thought, that really is a loving husband.

Beyond Valentine’s Day

Whether it is gift giving in the month of love (like Valentine’s Day in February) or another time of year for birthday, anniversary, or another gift giving celebration, maybe it’s time to be selfish and give a gift to ourselves.

Even if we don’t have a spouse, or a spouse like this publisher who will do the work for you, getting your financial house in order is truly a gift worth spending the time on to save money and stress later for you and your family.

The Morbid Details

We need to face the facts. Statistically, we are the ones left to deal with life after the loss of a spouse. 70% of all married women will experience widowhood. 80% of married women will die single whereas 80% of married men die married. And when we add in spouse health issues, 90% of all women will eventually be solely in charge of their household finances. Those facts should convince you to basically prepare for the inevitable.

A long-time friend always made me chuckle when he introduced his wife of 30+ years. He would say, “This is Kathy, my first wife.” Despite his sarcastic humor, it made me think twice when I recently read an article by a writer who realized that his current wife will also likely be his future widow. The article was titled, “She’s Cute. She’s Smart. She’s My Future Widow.”

The facts continue to confirm that assumption. 80% of the 1 million Americans who lose a spouse each year are women. Women outlive men in every country in the world.

The Solution: Getting Financially Organized

So, we women need to get comfortable, or have someone in our life who helps us be comfortable, with our financial life. Getting financially organized is a gift to ourselves. Let’s clarify what it means to be “financially organized.” In my experience, it breaks down to being able to answer three questions.

Question #1: Do You Know What You Have?

You may or may not be able to rattle off the totals at the bank, in IRAs, property values, etc. But information in your head is no good to someone either assisting you if needed or taking care of things after you are gone. If there is no written financial inventory when it’s needed, because you are in the hospital or gone, means someone will have to put together the puzzle pieces found around the house at an already stressful time.

And the devil is in the details. How helpful is it if you have created a net worth statement, for example, which often requires that you just list totals at the bank, a total IRA balance, and a total real estate value? The detail of: where are those accounts, how are they titled, do they have beneficiary designations on them, etc. will all need to be known.

Why not summarize that all in one place. I am a fan of having a summary binder, with a detailed net worth summary in the front and tabs for year-end statements of assets. Further detail is available in the files.

And how about your estate planning documents: a will/trust, powers of attorney for health care/mental health care and financial? Have you drafted them, and do they reflect your current wishes?

Best practice is to review documents every 3-5 years to consider life/law changes.

Question #2: Can Someone Else Find Your Information When Needed?

Don’t make it a scavenger hunt for your family to locate your financial inventory, statements, and estate planning documents. You should tell one of your named fiduciaries where to find everything OR leave them a sealed letter of instructions for when the time comes OR create a document location sheet outlining that detail. There are too many stories out there of families that never found the will or found it in the freezer or under the bed or in a box with the Christmas gift wrap.

Question #3: Have You Told Your Assets Where to Go?

Once you have compiled your financial inventory, your master resource list, your asset list, your net worth summary or whatever you want to call it, then you need to review it in detail. Where did you tell the bank to send your savings account after you are gone, for example? Translation: how is the account titled? Is it joint, or in your name alone, or in the name of a trust?

The bank knows where it goes if it’s titled jointly or in the name of a trust. But if it is only in your name, unless you added a POD (Payable on Death) designation on that account, they will wait for probate (depending on the size of the account and the probate limit in your state) to confirm where that account goes.

And how about your IRA? Did you keep your beneficiary designations current, are the people listed still alive and also reflecting your wishes? And do you have a contingent beneficiary listed in case you and the primary beneficiary are in a car accident together, for example?

Is Your Financial House in Order?

Having your financial house in order comes down to having a detailed asset list, organized documents that are current and findable, and making sure your “where do I want my assets to go?” answer is in writing at every institution because beneficiary designations override the will/trust. Treat yourself to this gift knowing it takes a bit of time to create. But it’s SO worth it!

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Estate Planning is the most procrastinated aspect of financial planning. Does it help to think of it as a gift to yourself and your family? What motivates you to take action on this area of your financial life? Have you seen how this gift can make a difference?

One of the most common complaints I hear from my coaching clients about first dates is that they didn’t feel any chemistry. So often we expect it to feel like a bolt of lightning like you see in the movies. We forget, we live in real life, not in a movie.

Can it happen? Sure. But realize that this is more likely a chemical reaction rather than an emotional connection. It’s a love vs. lust concept. If you don’t feel that sizzle as soon as you meet someone, it doesn’t mean there won’t ever be any chemistry between you two. It simply means it may need time to develop.

Most women don’t realize that they carry 50 percent of the responsibility of creating a spark on the first date. If it doesn’t happen naturally, there are some things to help it along. The key is to create enough interest on date number one so that you both want to learn more about each other on date number two.

Try these tips to help create a little sizzle:

Dress Comfortably

It’s hard to know how to dress on a first date. Should you buy something new, wear your best shoes, etc.? The real key is to be your best, beautiful self. Be sure to wear something comfortable that doesn’t slip, bunch, or feel too tight. And wear something that makes you feel like a million dollars. First impressions count.

Look for the Positive

When you go on a first date with a positive attitude and that feeling of excitement, it’s easier to experience that sense of giddiness. If you don’t initially feel it, focus on finding two or three things you really like about your date so your focus is on the positive and not the negative. It makes a difference.

Compliment Him

Yes, men love to hear compliments. If you want to get flirty, you could even say, “You’re cuter than I thought you were” when you first meet. If that’s too much for you, a sincere compliment of “You look nice” can set the stage for more casual compliments throughout the date. You don’t always need to compliment them on how they look. Maybe they have a great laugh or a point of view you appreciate. They’ll enjoy hearing about anything you like about them.

Sit Next to Him

Close the gap at the table by sitting next to him rather than across from him. It feels more intimate and makes it easier for you to talk to each other.

Touch Him

Men don’t experience much physical contact in their day-to-day lives so feel free to touch his arm, hand, or shoulder for emphasis while you’re chatting. You can even go for a hug and peck on the cheek when you first meet or end the date.

Be Authentic

You want to bring your real self to all your first dates. If you’re feeling excited or nervous to meet him, be open and tell him. He may be feeling the same way which can create some common ground, or he may step up to show support which will also create an open dialogue.

Keep Your Body Language Open

Even if you’re nervous, try to smile. Then keep your arms and hands open, it’s hard to feel close to someone with crossed arms. Lean into the conversation rather than away. And make sure your feet are facing in rather than out. Shifting your body to a more open position can lead to more open conversation.

No one can predict how things will go when you meet someone new. That’s why you’ll enjoy making those heart-to-heart connections quickly by using the tips above and the secret language that creates chemistry. You’ll be able to get to know him at a deeper level without feeling intrusive or getting too personal.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Do you believe you need to feel chemistry on date number one in order to go on date number two, or do you give it some time and let things develop?

Inflammation is your body’s favorite companion, sometimes. Realistically, you can’t live without it, but when it becomes too clingy you can’t live with it either. In the short term, inflammation comes to the rescue when you have a minor infection or injury.

It’s protective and isolates your injury or ailment so that your repair cells can come in, swoop out the irritant and start the repair. When inflammation lingers and won’t leave, that’s when the trouble begins.

Inflammation and Bones

Science has proven inflammation to be the underlying cause of most disease, but only in the last 20 years has it become clear that inflammation can cause osteoporosis. According to research done at the Mexico Clinical Research & Osteoporosis Center, if there’s inflammation in your body it causes bone forming cells to produce a protein that increases osteoclast activity (bone degradation), therefore increasing bone loss.

Other research from The University of Pittsburgh shows a relationship between inflammation and frailty, with an eventual outcome being greater fracture risk.

You may already know that the process of bone building begins to slow down in your 30s, causing bone to breakdown faster than it can build back up. When you add age and inflammation to the matrix, you need to be constantly on the alert.

How Inflammation Develops and What It Looks Like

Toxins are often to blame as a precursor to inflammation, along with other factors like stress, poor nutrition, lack of exercise or daily movement, excess weight, sleep issues, medications, preexisting conditions and simply, age. All these things don’t just flare up inflammation in isolation.

Like with all disease, inflammation goes astray when the right number of factors combine. It’s never an isolated incident. Any combination of things could instigate a continual cycle of inflammation. The perfect storm is different for everyone, but it usually takes several elements to brew a chronic inflammatory reaction.

Do you ache all over, are you constantly fatigued, perhaps you have trouble with memory, trouble concentrating? Maybe you’re always getting colds, bacterial infections, fungal infections like candida or skin rashes on your hands? You may have digestive issues like constant bloating, gas or constipation. These are all signs that inflammation is brewing.

Long Term Use of Anti-Inflammatory Medication

Doctors often prescribe corticosteroids like prednisone and hydrocortisone to manage inflammation when there is chronic disease. The problem with these medications is that if treatment continues long term, they have a tendency to weaken your immune response and mimic cortisol in your body.

This directly impacts bone density, the onset of osteoporosis and in addition, atrophy of lymphatic tissue and the muscle surrounding your bones.

Corticosteroids can also affect aldosterone, a hormone that keeps your sodium and potassium levels in check. Although further studies are needed, a meta-analysis and review published in the Frontiers of Endocrinology Journal in 2020 shows clinical studies looking at the relationship between excess aldosterone and osteoporosis indicating a clear connection causing increased risk of bone fracture.

If you are currently on corticosteroids and have been for a long time, you may wish to have a discussion with your doctor about alternative treatments.

Six Ways You Can Protect Your Bones from Inflammation

#1: Avoid Inflammatory Foods

Because inflammation disrupts the body’s ability to absorb nutrients efficiently, the nutrients that are vital for keeping your bones strong may be depleted; things like calcium, zinc, magnesium, vitamin D, K and A, essential fatty acids and proteins.

Lack of nutrients means lack of bone growth and increase of fracture. A healthy anti-inflammatory diet should be your first step toward managing inflammation and maintaining bone integrity.

The easiest way to start is by getting to know what an inflammatory food is. Once you know what causes inflammation you can enjoy everything else that your body’s able to tolerate. By eating a varied whole foods diet with a good amount of fiber, organic vegetables and fruit, wild fatty fish, grass fed and pasture raised meats and poultry, whole grains, nuts and seeds you’re nourishing your body and getting a varied nutrient rich diet.

Sure, there are some foods that are particularly helpful due to their ability to activate certain anti-inflammatory properties. Spices like turmeric, ginger and garlic, fruits like blueberries and pineapple, and vegetables like broccoli and mushrooms are all beneficial.

The list of beneficial foods is endless, that’s why I find it more helpful for people to understand inflammatory foods and remove them first. You’ll find it’s a much easier way to simplify what to eat and what not to eat.

#2: Keep Excess Weight Off

When you’re overweight, inflammation increases because the wrong type of fat tissue reduces a particular protein in your body that works to keep inflammation down. That same fat tissue releases inflammatory cells that proliferate. You can make a major difference in how your body reacts to inflammation by simply managing your weight.

#3: Start a Yoga Practice

Exercise is proven to reduce inflammatory markers; however, if you think you have to push yourself into high intensity exercise in order to stay healthy, you have it all wrong. Too much exercise actually causes stress on the body.

You need to know what is enough for you. Pushing yourself out of your comfort zone is good, but giving yourself ample rest time along with that is best. Steady movement of any kind, done regularly, is a sustainable way to maintain your physical and mental wellbeing.

To keep your muscles toned and your bones strong combine a movement or yoga based practice with resistance training and weekly weight bearing exercises.

#4: Keep Blood and Lymphatic Vessels Flowing

Your circulation and movement of fluids through your body influences how inflammation manifests itself and can be vital to how inflammation plays out in your body. A sedentary lifestyle will not help you here nor anywhere.

#5: Manage Stress

Chronic stress causes increased blood sugar, insulin resistance, weight gain, poor sleep and digestive issues, all the things that lead us back to an increase in inflammation. Remember that stress can be both physical and emotional, so keep your body in check.

Laughter’s my favorite way to relieve stress, but there are so many ways to let your body unwind. Maybe take a warm bath and throw in some magnesium chloride flakes or Epsom salts. It’s relaxation, a boost of magnesium and a detox all in one.

Find what works for you; whether its baths, meditation or something else, just make it something that lets you fully let go of all the things that weigh you down.

#6: Reduce Daily Toxins

Mold, plastics, household cleaners, cosmetics, GMOs in food, poor cooking methods like frying and using fats that cause oxidative stress are just some of the toxic things that can affect your health and charge inflammation. Sometimes switching up the products used for more natural ones and preparing food differently can make a big difference for someone.

Similar to osteoporosis itself, inflammation begins long before you even know it’s a problem and that’s why it’s so important to practice preventative and restorative measures on a daily basis for best bone outcome.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Is inflammation your constant companion? How long has it stayed with you? When do you feel its impact the most? Are you taking medications to manage inflammation and what is the result? Have you considered other methods for fighting inflammation in your body?

Disclaimer: This article is not intended to provide medical advice. Please consult with your doctor to get specific medical advice for your situation.

Ever wondered about the latest trends in activewear? Whether you’re revamping your workout wardrobe or just aiming for comfort on the go, activewear is a major player right now. It’s not confined to the gym or yoga studio – it’s a lifestyle.

1. Bold Colors – Activewear collections will be loud and bold in 2024! Neons, bold graphics, and even animal prints were seen on the runways.
2. Sustainable and Recycled Fabrics – Almost all apparel categories are now offering sustainable production products and recycled fabrics, this includes the activewear category as well.
3. Wide Leg Pants – Flare pants have been making a comeback and can now be seen in the activewear departments.
4. Oversized Tops – 2024 activewear trends will also put comfort at the forefront with lots of oversized tops.
5. Dresses – Dresses are not only for the golf course anymore. They will be seen in almost every athletic brand collection in 2024.

Let’s take a look at the 2024 activewear trends appropriate for active women over 50. From yoga sessions to navigating city streets, activewear isn’t just a fashion shift; it’s a cultural movement we’re all part of.

What Is Activewear

Activewear refers to a category of clothing designed specifically for physical activities, sports, exercise, and other forms of active lifestyles. These garments are crafted to provide comfort, flexibility, and often incorporate moisture-wicking and breathable materials to enhance performance during physical activities.

Activewear includes a wide range of clothing items such as leggings, sports bras, t-shirts, shorts, jackets, and more. Beyond functionality, activewear has become a significant fashion trend, with many people incorporating these garments into their everyday wardrobes, whether or not they are engaged in formal exercise. It even has a name – athleisure. The versatility and comfort of activewear have contributed to its popularity, making it a staple in both fitness routines and casual wear.

2024 Activewear Trends

Here are some top trends in the activewear apparel industry in 2024.

Bold Colors

Neon hues, ranging from electric greens to vibrant pinks, take center stage, ensuring that your workout wardrobe is anything but dull. These bold, eye-catching colors not only make a striking visual impact but also infuse a sense of dynamism into your active pursuits.

Accompanying the neon trend are bold prints that command attention. Geometric patterns, abstract designs, and playful motifs adorn leggings, sports bras, and tops, transforming activewear into a canvas of self-expression.

And let’s not forget the animal prints that prowl into the activewear arena. From leopard spots to zebra stripes, these prints unleash the inner wild side, adding an element of untamed elegance to your gym or yoga ensemble.

Nike Gym Tote

Lululemon Scuba Oversized Full-Zip Hoodie

Adidas GAZELLE BOLD SHOES

Adidas Essentials 3 Stripes Animal-Print 7/8 Leggings at Macy’s

Sustainable and Recycled Fabrics

There has been a definite shift towards a more eco-friendly and socially responsible approach to activewear, and more brands and retailers will be offering recycled materials and sustainable practices in 2024.

In this movement, recycled fabrics take center stage, repurposing materials like recycled plastic bottles, discarded textiles, or regenerated fibers to craft high-performance activewear. These innovative materials not only divert waste from landfills but also show the transformative power of sustainable fashion.

A key player in this trend is the use of organic cotton, which reduces the ecological footprint by eschewing harmful pesticides and chemicals. Bamboo fabric, with its rapid growth and minimal environmental impact, is also making waves in the sustainable activewear realm. Tencel, derived from sustainably sourced wood pulp, is known for its softness and biodegradability.

Beyond the materials themselves, there is an emphasis on ethical and transparent production processes. Brands adopting this trend often prioritize fair labor practices, minimizing water usage, and reducing energy consumption to create activewear that not only feels good on your skin but also aligns with your values.

Nike V2K Run made with at least 20% recycled content by weight

Girlfriend Collective Prism Compressive Pocket Legging, made from 79% recycled plastic bottles (RPET) and 21% spandex.

Adidas NMD_R1 SHOES, made with a yarn that features 50% recycled polyester and 50% Parley Ocean Plastic.

Pact On The Go-To Slim Zip Up, made with Organic Cotton in a Fair Trade Factory.

Wide Leg Pants

Departing from the snug fit often associated with traditional workout bottoms, wide-leg activewear pants prioritize freedom of movement and comfort without compromising style.

These pants feature a relaxed, flowing silhouette that flares out from the hips or thighs, offering a breezy and laid-back feel during workouts or other active pursuits. The wide-leg design not only provides ample room for movement but also contributes to a chic and modern aesthetic that seamlessly transitions from the gym or yoga studio to casual settings.

Lululemon Groove Super-High-Rise Flared Pant Nulu

Adidas YGA PANT

Tory Burch Sport SIDE-STRIPED FLARED PANT

Reebok Plus Size Pull-On Drawstring-Waist Tricot Pants at Macy’s

Oversized Tops

Oversized tops redefine the silhouette with a loose and relaxed fit that provides both comfort and a contemporary edge.

Typically characterized by a generous cut and longer lengths, oversized tops offer a versatile option for various activities. Whether you’re engaged in a rigorous workout or simply running errands, these tops provide ample coverage and a laid-back style that transcends traditional athletic wear.

Oversized tops pair seamlessly with leggings, shorts, or even wide-leg pants, creating a balanced and fashionable ensemble. The trend encourages a relaxed yet sophisticated aesthetic.

Lululemon Back In Action V-Neck Long-Sleeve Shirt

Amazon THE GYM PEOPLE Women’s Casual Oversized T-Shirt

Nike Sportswear Essential

Patagonia Short-Sleeved Capilene® Cool Trail Cropped Shirt

Dresses

2024 marks a departure from the conventional notion of workout attire, introducing a fusion of functionality and feminine flair. Activewear dresses seamlessly combine the ease of a dress with the performance features expected in sportswear, creating a versatile garment.

Typically crafted from lightweight, breathable, and moisture-wicking fabrics, activewear dresses prioritize comfort during various physical activities. They often feature stretchable materials that allow for unrestricted movement, making them suitable for a range of workouts, from yoga and pilates to light cardio exercises.

Some may have built-in shorts or leggings for added coverage. The incorporation of racerback styles, cutouts, and other fashionable elements ensures that these dresses not only perform well but also make a stylish statement.

Activewear dresses are not limited to the gym; they effortlessly transition into casual wear or athleisure settings. Paired with sneakers or sporty sandals, these dresses offer a chic and comfortable option for those who seek a versatile and feminine touch in their activewear collection.

This trend reflects a broader shift in the fitness fashion landscape, acknowledging that activewear is not solely about function but also about expressing one’s style and embracing the dynamic intersection of fashion and fitness.

Nike Sportswear Essential Midi Dress (Plus Size)

Adidas VRCT GRAPHIC TEE DRESS

Lululemon Classic-Fit Cotton-Blend T-Shirt Dress

Puma Essentials Logo Short-Sleeve French Terry Dress at Macy’s

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Do you wear activewear or athleisure? What type of clothing do you like when you work out? Do you follow the trends in activewear? Tell us about it in the comments below.

Paige DeSorbo’s White Bomber Jacket and Bralette / Summer House Fashion Season 8 Episode 1

On last night’s Summer House Season 8 premiere Paige DeSorbo took full advantage of the ability to wear white after Labor Day (I know, it’s an old rule but it’s been a long week and I needed something) in not one, but two, monochromatic looks in the shade. And I’m on board with this white bomber jacket and Prada bralette look because I actually had a Style Stealer for this jacket already in my Amazon cart. So whether you scoop up the real deal or the steal, you’ll be ready to go after Memorial Day as soon as it arrives at your door.

The Realest Housewife,

Big Blonde Hair

Originally posted at: Paige DeSorbo’s White Bomber Jacket and Bralette