I’ve tried everything in my quest for clear, gorgeous skin. My face is an odd combination of oily and dry, with deep blemishes rather than abundant pimples. Face washes never seemed to work as I’d like and I never had time to do all three steps in the clear-skin programs.

Eventually, I resorted to facials—which were the worst. They cleared my skin for a couple weeks but the blackheads always came back. Not only that, but they were painful and left my skin red and irritated.


Despite all the delightful natural ingredients, the face wash doesn’t smell the best. Plus, it’s a little pricey. But for me, the results were worth it for me!

By: Olivia Arlington

 

The leaves are changing colors, brooks are babbling and the temperature is perfect. Yep, there’s no better time to hike than fall. The views are amazing and you can forget about sweating through your t-shirt.
 
Hiking is the fun way to get exercise, especially if you aren’t into team sports or going to the gym. You forget that you are working out because the scenery is absolutely breathtaking. Respecting our earth is an essential part of being a human, and a simple hike can put everything in perspective. You get the bigger picture.

Even though hitting the hills is serene, you’ve gotta dress and pack properly. Toss aside the Uggs and grab yourself a pair of comfortable hiking boots. You will be walking miles, so you need something that is comfortable and has lots of support. While you’re at it, toss a second pair of socks in your bag. You may be surprised to find yourself crossing tiny streams and you don’t want wet socks to ruin the entire hike. You’re gonna wanna wear a hat and pants (no matter the weather), and layers up top.

As far as gear goes there are a few things you must, must, MUST bring along. Water is number one—staying hydrated is super-important—snacks (look for something with protein and carbs, like peanut butter sandwiches) and a first aid kit. A rain jacket will keep you dry if it starts to pour and a watch will keep you on track. It’s key to know when the sun sets and have a map of where you’re gonna be walking around. Of course, never go out alone!

Hiking is a simple, easy and fun way to enjoy nature, so get out there and try it. Even if you aren’t a nature girl, give it a chance. You may be surprised to find your new favorite hobby!

By: Olivia Arrington

 

 

Lookin’ for a exercise DVD that's sure to get your heart pumpin’?  NikkiFitness: Booty Camp cuts your workout in half and def puts the fit in fitness! If you’re looking for a challenge but only have a few minutes to spare, this 30-minute sweat sesh is for you!

 

I’m always a little weary to try new fitness DVDs. It’s either a. waaay too easy, or b. totally crazy that I can’t even keep up! Luckily, Nikki’s Booty Camp workout is in between the two. The routine alternates between toning and cardio intervals to sculpt all parts of your bod and boost your metabolism with every move, all the while targeting your booty!

 

Before starting Booty Camp, grab a light pair of weights and make sure that you have a bottle of water handy to stay hydrated! This workout actually includes water breaks (thanks Nikki!). You can even create your own playlist or choose one at nikkifitness.com. It features jams from artists, like Miley Cyrus, Jesse McCartney and Taylor Swift. So long boring music!

 

One minute you’ll be doing squats at the beach, the next minute you’ll be doing jumping jacks on a rooftop deck in NYC. The change of scenery totally helps the minutes fly by! Have some extra time? Don’t grab your remote just yet! Keep it goin’ with a 15-minute bonus yoga stretch, definitely a great way to cool down after an intense workout.

 

Check out nikkifitness.com to try NikkiFitness: Booty Camp for yourself!

 

In an effort to share my thoughts, like those confident girlies do, I tried to do my best to be outspoken in all my classes. I participated more and more and felt better about myself. I realized it was silly to hold back because of a fear of being wrong.
           
I changed up my outfits, too. Over the years I have developed my own style, not saying I don’t adore it, but I usually don’t try new things when it comes to my wardrobe. During the week, I dug out all those outfits that I had been too scared to wear. At first I was self-conscious of my new look but then I remembered I liked what I was wearing (that’s why I bought it!) and that was all that mattered. At the end of the day, it felt great knowing that I had put aside what other people thought.
 
Having this clearer look into myself I took the last step and brought my new found poise into my social life. For me, this was probably the hardest part. As far as my friends go, I am all about pleasing. I don’t want anyone’s feelings to get hurt and my way of making sure this didn’t happen was being passive in my relationships. This left me in the dust because I would end up being used and my kindness abused. After I spoke up for myself and told my friends how I felt I was amazed by the respect I received.
 
After living a week with a bright new attitude and a whole lot of confidence I will never go back to my old self. I love the positive image I have about myself and the respect I have been getting from others. I would highly suggest everyone trying out a week of sheer confidence!

By: Olivia Arrington