Sonia’s Monthly Lifestyle Edit: Celebrating the Texas Ballet Theatre hosted by Neiman Marcus

Sonia’s Monthly Lifestyle Edit: Celebrating the Texas Ballet Theatre hosted by Neiman Marcus

I was honored to be invited to a ladies luncheon celebrating the Texas Ballet Theatre hosted by Janet Rice and Capera Ryan. The Texas Ballet’s creative direction has been the source of a nightly inspiration for my wardrobe choices.

Held at Neiman Marcus I had the pleasure to get to know 10 wonderful Dallas women . we enjoyed a fantastic lunch provided by Neiman Marcus, followed by a gorgeous fashion show highlighting spring fashion. From Gucci to Ferragamo Oscar de la Renta and bottega venetta. Some great spring fashion was on display. 

The Texas Ballet is one of the most frequently selected theatrical productions among my [friends and family]. The non-stop dancing and sophisticated stagecraft are exhilarating even for those accustomed to more sedate ballet experiences.

Like most fashionistas I considered what I would wear carefully. I ended up choosing this Carolina Herrera dress Which I had shortened to tea length for the occasion. A vintage Paloma Picasso purse And my fortunate find Veronica Beard shoes that were perfect for this look; not too dressy not too casual. A little bit of perfume by Fredric Malle and your set.

The Texas Ballet Theater Mission

The mission of Texas Ballet Theater is to create, present and tour world-class ballet, from classical to cutting–edge, and promote its appreciation, accessibility, and technical mastery among students, pre-professionals, and audiences of all ages. We are honored to be the only arts organization to serve as resident company for Bass Performance Hall in Fort Worth and the Winspear Opera House on the AT&T Performing Arts Center Campus in Dallas. Our internationally recognized company is built on a rich history and boasts a repertoire that is creative, expressive and collaborative.

From programs for preschool and school children to summer classes for children and adults the Texas Ballet Theater School offers dance programs in Dallas and Fort Worth with classes that range from beginner ballet to elite professional training. Their curriculum is designed to nurture aspiring artists by strengthening their technical dancing skills, creating a life-long appreciation for ballet, and helping develop critical life skills like confidence, discipline and creativity, which enrich their lives long after classes have concluded. Read more about them here.

If you’ve ever attended a performance of The Texas Ballet, you know it’s a great way to spend an evening. But do not just take my word for it, go and see for yourself!

Details of Style

I also had the privilege of continuing my conversation with Dr. Max Cyader

Dr. Max Cynader is a renowned researcher at the University of British Columbia’s Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health. He is a a Principal Investigator in Canada’s Network of Excellence in Stroke.

The founder of Synaptitude a proactive coaching system for life long cognitive wellness . There are so many issues that affect our cognitive function from sleep and stress. The Exercise and Nutrition his program will guide you in navigating your cognitive strength. My full interview with Dr. Max us up on my IGTV, where you can click here to watch.

Sonia’s Monthly Lifestyle Edit

Sonia’s Monthly Lifestyle Edit

My husband and I had the pleasure of joining Heidi Dillon and her fashionable crew at the Dallas contemporary museum for a private showing of Paolo Roversi: Birds. The Dallas contemporary museum was founded in 1978. Annual exhibits used to be hosted to showcase artwork created by its members. Today, Dallas Contemporary hosts exhibitions of both new and well-known local and international artists. The industrial building provides a unique context for each exhibition and follows the European model of an art hall which is the “welcoming exhibition site for the art of the moment.”

When you don’t know what to wear, do what I do. My Tux Couture custom-made tuxedos come in handy every time. With so many features for you to customize the look you want, Tux Couture is reimagining formal wear.


PAOLO ROVERSI: Birds

Paolo Roversi and the Fashion of Comme de Garçon

This beautiful exhibit showcases Paolo Roversi‘s talent of capturing the movement of Kawakubo models.


Time well spent with Heidi Dillon! Heidi is on the Board of Directors for Dallas Contemporary and a well-known fashionista.


Heidi is an ambassador for Natura Bisse. She was so gracious as to gift us with a bag of wonderful products and a facial I just can’t wait to try!


Fifteen of us continued our evening at Al Biernats. It is always such a delight to catch up with friends and Heidi @heididillon makes that happen with great success. To say the food and service were fantastic is an understatement! And kudos to the staff for keeping up with us all

I felt rejuvenated after a session at the BODYBAR Pilates

I am a long-time fan of Pilates for staying fit and have found the Bodybar Pilates in my new hometown of Dallas. Pilates is a great way to stay toned and challenge all of your muscle groups. However, if you are on the road you can use one of the many apps available and change up your routine. The app that I love to use is Pilates Anytime. I use this app anytime I am on the road or my schedule doesn’t allow for me to make my regularly scheduled class.


Stopped by Vintage Martini to pick up some gorgeous pieces you wouldn’t normally find elsewhere.

With a room dedicated to vintage clothing it’s a great place to step back in time. Racks of beautiful designs all specified by each decade there is to try out and reminisce. The showcase of jewelry is my favorite with a great array of necklaces, bracelets, and earrings.

You can also shop present designer pieces consigned by the most fashionable women in Dallas and beyond.


As you might know, I started my social media journey at 65. Now almost 69 I am meeting more people and doing more things than ever before. The evolution for me has been very edifying and exhilarating. My effort has always been to help women keep their power, stay relevant, and follow their dreams. Tracy and I had a wonderful chat on The Tracy Gold Show with a lot of bonding a lot of laughing just like I like it. In the end, we are all more alike than we might think.

Chocolate for Mothers Day?

Chocolate for Mothers Day?

Do Something a little different – Create Your Very Own ‘Choccuterie’ Board

Indulge in Some Chocolate Pairing with the help of Fames Chocolates

As with everything in life – there’s an art to pairing chocolate. 
chocolateThe Key to Chocolate Pairing:
  • Chocolate & Cheese – since pungent cheeses overwhelm the flavor of chocolate, pair them with soft and creamy cheeses like Brie or Gouda. 

 

  • Chocolate & Nuts – hazelnuts are the most common type of nut used to enhance the flavor of chocolate but there are some other ones out there that are just as good! Macadamia nuts paired with chocolate are quite a delicacy while pistachios are very compatible with any kind of chocolate. 

 

  • Chocolate & Fruits – pairing dark chocolate with very sweet fruits like banana, mangoes and figs balances the flavor and the paring compliments each other. Milk chocolate works with a variety of fruits, whether the fruit is sweet or tart.

 

Inspiration for Chocolate Pairing 

You can pair chocolates with other food items such as coffee, wine, and cheese to enhance or compliment that chocolate’s flavor. Chocolate pairs really well with fruits and cheeses.

Try pairing your favorite dark chocolate with some soft goat cheese and some raspberries. You can also pair chocolate with figs and walnuts – go crazy!

Do you feel inspired to create a ‘Choccuterie’ board? Enjoy!

Give chocolate-eating a new twist with a chocolate charcuterie board or as I like to call it – ‘Choccuterie’ board!

Chocolate tastes amazing with anything! Don’t forget a salty twist!

chocolate

A guide to what’s inside that “Box of Chocolates”

So you can’t get enough of chocolates, but want to avoid the cough-syrup tasting ones? Try looking at the delicate details on your piece of candy. Chocolate stringing is a technique used by chocolatiers to make little designs on a piece of chocolate indicating what’s inside. The strings are drawn by hand or by running chocolates through an enrober. Though this practice started for decoration, it has become convenient for those who’d like to know what flavor they’ll be tasting when picking up a piece of chocolate.

Now let’s get to decoding! 

  • Square Candy – usually contains coconut, fudge, marshmallow, peanut butter, or nougat The peanut butter one may have a P stringed on to it and a nougat one has an N.
  • Lemon will have an L on it, R is for raspberry. 
  • Cream chocolates will also have a letter from the alphabet decorated on them: V is for vanilla cream, M for maple cream, and B for buttercream.

Who knew a box of chocolates isn’t actually full of surprises?!  The little pieces of candy simply have to be decoded.

Not every box of chocolate will be easy to decode since various companies use different methods. Some may print the flavors on the box while others may use letter-molds instead of stringing by hand but there’s always a way to know what flavor you’ll be indulging in.

Chocolates by Fames incorporate some of the best techniques from the cultures of Germany, the Mediterranean, and Brooklyn into each scrumptious chocolate morsel.

These gourmet chocolates are created with elite ingredients and meticulously made in small batches. They will be a perfect choice for any occasion.

 

Cheers to the New Year!

Cheers to the New Year!

With the New Year around the corner, what’s better than learning the history behind your champagne? In 2019, I had the opportunity to drive an hour and a half outside of Paris, France to tour the champagne cellars of Dom Perignon, Veuve Clicquot, and Taittinger in Reims. The image of the beautiful hills and hundreds of thousands of wine bottles I saw beneath the ground remains fresh in my mind. The trip of a lifetime! Each cellar had a unique history, but Veuve Clicquot could inspire you to add something that seems impossible to your New Year resolution list.

While I was in Reims, I learned the Clicquot House was established in 1772, but Madame Clicquot, who was in her 20’s, decided to take over the vineyard after she lost her husband in 1805…hence, “Veuve” meaning Widow in French. Madame Clicquot became one of the first businesswomen of her time by taking creative action like sending over 10,000 bottles of her champagne to Russia after they were victorious over France in war. Who wouldn’t want to celebrate a victory with a champagne from their enemy’s home country? Brilliant marketing, Madame Clicquot. This rich history of Veuve Clicquot makes the delicious champagne even more appreciable. A hard-working, young woman who challenged herself and the culture of her own community.

When I make it back to France, I will be visiting Madame Clicquot’s picture that hangs on a cellar wall where she has inspired many people, young or old, to reach for the impossible. In the meantime, I’ll be drinking Veuve on my couch in Dallas, TX, while dreaming about the day I return to Reims.

Make sure you enjoy this champagne when you’re celebrating the end of 2020 and beginning a fresh trip around the sun. Let me know what you think about Veuve Clicquot, the history behind it, and when you’re taking your trip to the cellars. Until then, cheers to the New Year!

P.S. My name is Senna, and I have the privilege of working with Style Beyond Age. I am a sister to three brothers and the youngest in my family. Life moves quickly while I am working towards my degree and plan to graduate college in May 2021. Fortunately, Sonia has welcomed me into the Style Beyond Age community as she teaches me more about social media platforms and gives me inspiration to live in the moment. The planning that goes into social media and transparency of the individuals behind the accounts and websites is something I love learning about each day. How about a toast to all these wonderful people that allow us to see a glimpse of their world!

My Favorite Holiday Gift Guides

My Favorite Holiday Gift Guides

The holidays are quickly approaching, but instead of flooding your social channels with yet another gift guide, I figured I would share some of my friends’ beautiful thoughts.

 

Crazy Blonde Life Gift Guide

Suzanne has such a beautiful home and she did a beautiful Christmas tour of it recently. The secret to why our homes smell so good, Nest Candles. Seriously, I can’t find a scent I love more than these candles and I love gifting them to everyone on my list! My pro tip… I put them on candle warmers so I don’t have to light the candles and get smoke everywhere.

Who doesn’t crave comfort food when the weather gets cold?! I immediately went for the Truffle Mac and Cheese Crazy Blonde Life recommended because it just looked so good!

 

Tanya Foster Blog Gift Guide

I think the perfect gift for any friend or party hostess is an Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar set! Tanya Foster picked out the perfect one from Terrain. Check out her other suggestions for Hostess, Friends & Neighbors here.

Reinventing 50’s Gift Guide

I met Annette in LA year’s ago. What a vivacious woman! Besides loving vinyl records and including them on her 2020 gift guide, she has something I already own.

The Bey-Berk Shaving Set sits beautifully on my husband’s bathroom counter already, and it works great for him, it might fit under your tree as well.

This beautiful Leather Airpods Case recommended by Reinventing 50’s will make sure you keep your Airpods straight from anyone else’s!

She She Show Gift Guide

I definitely don’t consider myself a Techie by any means, but this gift guide by the She She Show really spoke to me!

With these Airpods, I am able to tune out all of the extra noise around the house! Combined with Annette’s Airpod Case, you have a good gift idea.

Herbs can be so expensive and perish quickly, so the Techie Indoor Garden is a perfect way to make sure they’re always fresh and you’re creating less waste as well.

The Middle Page Gift Guide

Cathy and I met last year and it turns out we have a lot in common! Love for good PJs being one of them…

Usually, my PJ game is not on point, but it’s so easy now to change that. Comfy fashion-forward and super smooth fabric. I could live in these! I totally agree with The Middle Page’s recommendation of these stylish PJs.

 

 

 

Style at a Certain Age Gift Guide

Beth always has great ideas and even better advice. Her 2020 gift guides were no exception!

My husband uses his Yeti everywhere we go and it keeps his water cold and his coffee hot all day long! Style at a Certain Age recommends it as a gift and I do too!

One of the great pieces she recommends is this gorgeous Crossbody Croc Purse from Madewell. This is definitely on my wish list as the perfect around town bag.

Sonia’s Holiday Picks

Alright, so I couldn’t resist giving you just a few of my own tips and ideas!

For both of you…

A Texas Staycation! Why not take a weekend and treat yourself to a staycation at the Crescent Court Hotel in Dallas?! I thoroughly enjoyed my stay in the Presidential Suite and love dining in the Crescent Club after a day of pampering at the Spa. Whether it’s for yourself or a special someone, this is the perfect gift to escape from reality and live the high life for a while!

Another beautiful spot to visit in the great state of Texas is Camp Lucy! This gorgeous little resort sits right in the heart of Texas Hill Country and I had a wonderful time enjoying all of its luxuries.

 

 

 

 

For her…

Le Labo Perfume — Men, if you don’t already have a nice perfume wrapped up for your special lady under the tree, you better be adding to cart now! This is the perfect elegant gift for someone you love. Order my favorite scent from Le Labo here.

Style Beyond Age Not-So-Subtle Hint

Do him a favor with this helpful hint… Throughout the year I take anything I’m interested in and tear it out of the magazine I’m reading and put it in a folder in his desk. Then when it comes time for the holidays, hopefully, he looks there for ideas. This can be anything from cute stationery to a great stay!

For him…

Toledo Knives — These gorgeous knives are light as a feather and are beautiful to display on your kitchen counter. These knives would go perfectly with…

Traeger Grill — What man doesn’t want to fire up some steaks on the grill? Order yours here!

 

For the wine connoisseur…

Coravin — Sometimes I want to open a bottle of wine at dinner, but I’m not always going to finish the whole bottle in one evening! This preservation kit is perfect to keep your favorite or nicest bottle of wine fresh!

Wine Wand — Do you get headaches like I do when drinking red wine? These wands are my greatest find of 2020! They take all of the toxins out of your wine and let you have a fun night without the terrible morning after.

P.S. These wine glasses make for a great ($300+) stocking stuffer!

 

 

 

Happy gift giving!

Montana Lake House Home Tour and Interior Styling Tips

Montana Lake House Home Tour and Interior Styling Tips

Today at Style Beyond Age I´m welcoming you into my home with open arms for an exclusive Montana lake house home tour and to share a few of my interior styling tips along the way.

I hope you’ll join me…

Montana Lake House Home Tour

 

Living in such a beautiful location is a blessing, but when we originally brought the cabin in Montana, I felt such an obligation to do the surroundings justice. I hope I now have. The first order of business was to extend, adding several decks and floor-to-ceiling windows to the back of the property to make the most of that view.

Style Beyond Age Lakeside Chic House Tour
lake view

Lake House Living

I learnt quickly that what you gain in picturesque privacy, you lose in convenience, and I wasn´t initially prepared for the challenges to come my way.  From being totally cut-off with no power (which also means no water from the well), to being blocked inside our home; there were many obstacles we did not anticipate. However, as the saying goes you live, you learn and as you well know, we made it through those early days to see the other side.

Style Beyond Age Montana House Tour

Livable Luxury

I knew I wanted to stay true to the area, so we developed our own cabin chic style, incorporating local stone and wood with more modern, glossy materials like glass and metals. In our living area, you will see a combination of glass, stone, wood and various textiles tied together with burnt orange accents. The cozy snug just around the corner, incorporates the same hues, but swaps the clean modern walls, for cozier wrap-around wood paneling; perfect for movie night. 

Style Beyond Age Lakeside Chic Living Room
Style Beyond Age Lakeside Chic Living Room 2
Style Beyond Age Lakeside Chic the snug
Style Beyond Age Lakeside Chic the snug 2

Combining Minimalism and Maximalism

When I´m styling a home, especially a home I am living in, I want it to feel organic yet artistic, modern yet diverse and fashion-forward yet established. I find combining minimalist design, with maximalist styling is a great way to inject soul and depth.  I’m obsessed with old tapestries and textiles, especially when mixed in with more modern elements. It all feels so collected over time and has a sense of story, which is something I look for and hope to achieve with my interior styling. You will notice this influence, woven throughout the house, but I really went to town in the guest house.

Style Beyond Age Guest House 1
Style Beyond Age Guest House 2

Bathroom Design

 

When it came to designing the bathrooms, I was thinking mountain chic combined with spa sensuality. As with most rooms in this house, the lake offered inspiration. I pulled colors and textures from outside and chose beautiful statement pieces that exude calm but are far from boring.

This is one tub with a view that I´m sure to miss when we move on…

Style Beyond Age Lakeside Bathroom Inspo
Style Beyond Age Beautiful Bathroom 2
Style Beyond Age Beautiful Bathroom 3

Couples Walk-In Closets

 

And of course, I´ve left the best until last. Follow me through to the closets. You´ll be glad to see we created his and hers areas, so there´s no bickering over closet room in this house. His closet is no fun to look at, so here is a bit of mine. It´s a space I spend a lot of time in and I often come here to think and feel inspired; it´s my #SheChateau if you will.

I have several tips for styling your closet, which I covered in a previous blog, so head over there for some of my ultimate closet hacksDo you have a favorite place to hang out in your home?

Style Beyond Age Closet Tour 1
My Closet the She Chateau
My Closet the She Chateau 2
My Closet the She Chateau 3

Interior Styling Tips

If you´re undergoing a renovation or just feel like refreshing your home, here are some of my favorite home styling tips.

Interior Styling Tip #1

Identify the focal point for your room and develop your style around it – we don´t want too many heroes fighting for attention.

 

Interior Styling Tip #2

We want to create interest, encourage the eye to wander and discover something new. We can achieve this by introducing texture and building up the layers to create depth in each space.

 

Interior Styling Tip #3

As you style a room, notice where the voids are, where you need height and verticality, where you need something to grab attention and where you might want to retain negative space.

Home Styling Tips with Style Beyond Age

Home Styling Tip #4

Consider scale and the variety of shapes you are using, taking note to offset something soft with more angular, weighted pieces.

 

Home Styling Tip #5

Furniture is an art form and a few key pieces will really inject life and creativity into your home. Focus on quality over quantity.

 

Home Styling Tip #6

Aim for livable luxury, rather than show home perfection; it´s much more, well livable, and you´ll quickly feel at home in the space.

Montana Lake House Home Tour

Thanks for joining me today at home in Montana. It´s been great to show you around and I´ve really enjoyed having you here with me. Let´s do it again soon.

 

Until the next catch up, we can stay connected on Instagram and you might want to check out…

The Latest on the Blog 

Over Fifties Fashion, Lifestyle, Travel & Wellness

Why I Stopped and Restarted Eating a Pescatarian Diet

Why I Stopped and Restarted Eating a Pescatarian Diet

I´ve been eating a Pescatarian diet for decades, but there are pros and cons. On the Style Beyond Age blog I´m sharing the benefits and the pitfalls to avoid. I know because I fell into one.

What is a Pescatarian Diet?

 

You hear Pescatarian and you think of fish, but it´s a heavily plant-based diet. The difference being, unlike a vegan or vegetarian diet, it incorporates fish and seafood as a primary protein source.

My Experience Eating a Pescatarian Diet

 

I had been eating this way for decades, then a little over a year ago I had a mercury test. There it was in my bloodstream. I stopped eating fish and began a daily detox shake. Now, I am about to start back on my Pescatarian ways, but I had my scare. Hence why I´m sharing the good with the bad, and the detox juice recipe that helped me through.

Eating-Pescatarian-Diet-Style-Beyond-Age-Lifestyle-Blogger 2

Health Benefits of being Pescatarian

 

The addition of seafood to a heavily plant-based diet means valuable nutrients such as vitamin B12, Omega-3 fatty acids, zinc and protein are in greater supply. According to the experts, health benefits can include lower blood cholesterol, lower blood pressure and a decreased risk of heart disease or diabetes.

 

Cons to a Pescatarian Diet

 

Eating high levels of seafood can expose yourself to higher levels of mercury, which can have alarming side effects and is something to take seriously. Like any diet, it is about balance. The FDA (Food and Drug Administration) advise limiting consumption to two or three servings a week, and opting for fish with low mercury levels.

But how do you know?

Eating-Pescatarian-Diet-Style-Beyond-Age-Lifestyle-Blogger 3

High Mercury Fish

 

As a rule, larger fish are more likely to contain higher levels of mercury. The reason being, they absorb the mercury from the smaller fish they ingest throughout their lifetime. It´s helpful to know which fish are high in mercury, so you know what to avoid, and what to enjoy as you please.

 

Fish Low in Mercury – Eat at will

Anchovies, Scallops, Herring, Pollock, Sardines, Catfish, Shrimp, Oysters, Crayfish, and Squid.

 

Fish with Moderate Levels of Mercury – Enjoy sparingly

Carp, Cod, Lobster, Herring, Hake and Salmon.

 

Fish high in Mercury – Be weary

Swordfish, King Mackerel, Marlin, Bigeye Tuna and Northern Pike.

 

If you are concerned about high levels of mercury, a simple blood test will give you the answer. You know who to call…

Eating-Pescatarian-Diet-Style-Beyond-Age-Lifestyle-Blogger 4

Quality Matters

 

As with most things, quality matters. The amount of mercury in fish can be affected by pollution in its environment or over-farming, so ask the questions about where your fish came from. When shopping for wild-caught fish, FOS (Friend of the Sea) or MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) seals show the catch was responsibly sourced. If purchasing farmed fish, support sustainable operations where possible.

 

Daily Detox Juice Recipe

 

Should you get caught out, like I did, then a detox can help to flush your system. This Heavy Metal Detox Juice is designed to purge them from the body, and it´s a recipe I enjoy. I say recipe, but there is no cooking involved, promise.

Heavy-metal-detox-juice-Style-Beyond-Age-Lifestyle-Blogger
I opt for a juice, as I find smoothies to be a landmine of carbohydrates disguised as something healthy and nutritious; which of course they are, but with consequences that are often ignored. No thank you weight gain; I´m after a cleanse and it´s so simple; you´ll see…

Returning to a Pescatarian Diet

 

So, after a year of detox juices and clean eating, I´m reverting back to my Pescatarian diet; only this time a little wiser.

If you´re also considering the switch, here are some food bloggers for thought…

Pescatarian Friendly Recipes

 

For the keen cooks among you, of which I am not, these are worth a look. I´m all for the culinary creativity, and the eating; it´s the clean-up I can’t stand.

Latest on the Blog

Have you seen?

How to Boost Your Immune System Naturally

How to Boost Your Immune System Naturally

The world is gripped by a pandemic and we´re all doing our part to stay healthy and flatten the curve. Prevention is better than cure, so let´s talk about how we can boost our immune system naturally. Who´s with me?

 

Natural Ways to Boost Your Immune System

 

I am not a healthcare professional (thank you to those that are), but as time is something we have more of recently, I´ve been researching and looking for ways we can boost our immune system naturally. What we eat, how we spend our time and our mindset, all play a part in strengthening ours body´s defenses.

Here are the tips I discovered along the way…

Eat Well

 

Food is our fuel and eating the right food can help to strengthen our immune systems. Here are the key foods experts recommend and why:

 

Citrus Fruits

 

Citrus fruits are a great source of vitamin C, which is said to increase the production of the infection-fighting white blood cells. Our bodies don´t store or produce vitamin C naturally, so we need to obtain in through our diets. Luckily for us, it´s quite easy to do, as there are a wide variety of citrus fruits that are high in vitamin C. These include grapefruit, oranges, tangerines, satsumas, lemons and limes. A hot lemon water in the morning, a fruit Buddha bowl for breakfast, or a zingy lime dressing on a salad; tasty and healthy!

Spinach

 

Spinach is another great source of vitamin C and it´s packed full of antioxidants. These beauties help to fight infections and are great friends to our immune system. Like most green vegetables, spinach retains the most nutrients when it is cooked as little as possible. You can enjoy it raw in it a morning smoothie or green salad. If you prefer spinach cooked, try it with fish or a poached egg. Just wilt it lightly as this enhances the vitamin A levels and ensures you still receive maximum goodness.

 

Broccoli

 

This is one vegetable that is supercharged with vitamins and minerals. Broccoli contains vitamins A, C and E as well as antioxidants and fiber. To keep all of  it´s nutrients intact, cook it as little as possible, or better yet, enjoy it raw in a crunchy salad.

 

Garlic

 

Garlic is said to have many benefits for good health. Its immune-boosting properties come from a high concentration of sulfur-rich compounds. They think it also lowers blood pressure and helps to maintain healthy arteries. Garlic is found in cuisines around the world and can be worked into most meals, so it´s easy to reap the benefits.

 

Ginger

 

Ginger has long been used for medicinal purposes. Its benefits include reduced inflammation, lower cholesterol and reduced feelings of nausea. It packs a punch, but it is also very versatile. Add it to a morning smoothie, sip a ginger tea or create a simple stir fry.

Almonds

 

Almonds are packed full of vitamin E and although this normally takes a back seat to vitamin C, it is still crucial to maintaining a healthy immune system. Nuts are also packed full of healthy fats and make a great snack. A half-cup serving of almonds, provides almost all of your daily recommended amount of vitamin E.

 

Green Tea

 

Green team is packed with antioxidants and specifically EGCG, which has been shown to enhance immune function. Enjoy regularly to help you stay in tip top shape.

Rest to be at Your Best

 

Our body needs time to rest, repair and recuperate and it does that while we sleep. Advice recommends we have at least seven hours each night to give our body time to do it´s thing. If you find yourself struggling to sleep, regular exercise, a healthy diet and reducing stress can help you to have a more peaceful night.

Find Positive Ways to Pass the Time

 

Have you already enjoyed a Netflix binge watching session? Yes, me too! Netflix has been a great way to relax and pass the time, but sitting on the couch all day isn´t necessarily great for our soul or state of mind. We don´t have to stop the series binges, but incorporating other activities into the day can have some great benefits to our mental health and our immune system.

Here are some suggestions I came across that I found useful:

Zoom with Family

Staying connected with loved ones, when we can´t actually meet, hug or touch each other, is so important. Zoom allows you to get the whole gang together. Enjoy a casual call with friends, or take it to the next level with a pre-arranged quiz or games night.

 

Laughter is the Best Medicine

I was pleasantly surprised by this one, as it turns out laughter really is the best medicine. It boosts your mood and can also increase the levels of antibodies in the mucus of your nose and mouth. It sounds icky, but as this is an entry point for many germs, laughter is a great form of defense. 

 

Exercise Little and Often

 

With movement restrictions in place all around the world, we have to get a little creative when it comes to exercise. Little and often works well. Try for 30 minutes, 5 days a week and you´ll reap the benefits. Exercise not only helps to maintain a healthy body weight, it also boosts your immune system and mental health.

Avoid Stress and Additional Anxiety

 

Stress and anxiety have a negative impact on our immune systems, so if you find yourself feeling anxious after watching the news or scrolling through social media then make an effort to switch off. Take a few days away from the media and instead use the time connect with friends. They´ll pick you up in no time and may be feeling the same way too.

I hope you found this share helpful.

Stay healthy. Stay happy. Stay safe.

Manage Mental Health with these 10 “Me Time” Tips

Manage Mental Health with these 10 “Me Time” Tips

At Style Beyond Age we´re firm believer that “Me Time” and mental health go hand in hand, so today on the blog we´re sharing how to manage mental health with these 10 “Me Time” tips

After a few midnight musings, I’ve realized its unhealthy to get too wrapped up in the media machine. Instead, let´s treat ourselves and manage mental health with these 10 “Me Time” tips. We can use this time to nurture ourselves, both mentally and physically and maybe make a few lifestyle improvements along the way, although that isn´t my main aim here. This is all about managing our mental health and giving ourselves some TLC.  “Me time” also doesn´t need to mean more isolation and deep thinking; it´s about doing the things that make us feel good.

Here are some of the ways I´ll be taking care of myself and monitoring my mental health along the way.

Manage Mental Health with these 10 “Me Time” Tips 

1 – Rest to Feel Your Best

 

A good day starts with a good night’s sleep. We should all be getting seven hours or more each night. If sleep is something you struggle with, experiment with a few drops of essential oil on your pillow or added to a bath before bed, lavender works great.

 

2 – Get Outside

 

Being outside in nature is incredibly soothing. With movement restrictions in place, we´re a bit limited, but a walk around the garden, out with the dog or yoga on the terrace are all ways we can still enjoy the outdoors. The benefits include reduced anxiety and stress, as well as improved physical and mental wellbeing, which are all currently welcome.

 

3 – Unplug from the Media 

 

Take some “Me Time” and really enjoy it. Turn off the news, put down your phone and stop scrolling. Just sit back, relax, enjoy yourself and those around you. You could read a few chapters of your book, enjoy a calming meditation, play games together; whatever gives you the good feels; do it!

4 – Take an Epsom Salt Bath

 

An Epsom Salt bath soothes many woes; from eliminating dry skin and inflammation to encouraging detoxification and relaxation. For an extra treat I recommend adding a splash of lavender essential oil. It´s total bliss!

 

5 – Continue your Skincare Routine  

 

When our skin feels good, we feel good. Treat yourself to a relaxing face mask and leave yourself with a soft and glowing complexion. You could amp up the enjoyment with a home face massage too. A good hand care regime is also needed, with all this hand washing. Find out what products I´m using to ward off dry hands here. 

 

6 – Make Staying Active a Priority

 

Staying active offers so many benefits. It helps to keep us strong, healthy, flexible and can ease the menopause monster. Gyms might be closed, but we can still join an online class, train in the garden, or watch some of the many free classes available on video platforms like YouTube.

7 – Connect with Your Favorites

 

Family and friends bring with them all the good feels. Make the effort and time to enjoy the company of those you love the most, and do it as often as possible. Video calls and online meeting services like Zoom, make staying connected simple.

 

8 – Enjoy feeling Sexy

 

Sexy is an attitude rather than a look. Be confident, enjoy your body, have fun and your personal style of sexy will shine through.

 

9 – Say No when it suits You

 

Learn to say “no” when something doesn´t serve you. Toxicity is like poison. Let go of it and allow yourself to thrive.

 

10 – Self-Monitor through Meditation

 

I recognize the benefits of meditation, but I can´t say it came to me naturally. I´ve never been one to sit still for too long. Meditation is about more than that though. It´s your time to check in with yourself. It allows us to manage our mindset. Notice how your feeling, the peaks and troughs, and act.

 

Manage Mental Health with these 10 “Me Time” Tips 

 

Shut out the noise and allow some serenity in.  Good health isn´t just physical. Our souls need TLC too.

Now go treat yourself and manage mental health with these 10 “Me Time” tips.

Stay safe. Stay home. Stay healthy.

Coronavirus Advice from a Source I Trust: Let´s Do More

Coronavirus Advice from a Source I Trust: Let´s Do More

Coronavirus advice from a source I trust. What is true and what is fake news? What should we be concerned about and what is just fear mongering? What habits should be disregarded and what more could we be doing to get the spread of Covid-19 under control?  If you´re anything like me, your head is full of questions just like this.

 

It´s an unprecedented time and we´ve all been enlisted to do our part. For some that involves fighting this fight on the front lines, and a huge thanks to you all, but for most of us it simply means staying at home and taking responsibility for our own actions.

 

I was recently sent the following from Irene Ken, a physician whose daughter is an Assistant Professor in infectious diseases at Johns Hopkins University. It’s quite informative and outlines truths, unthruths and actions we can all be taking. It is clear, to the point and fear-monger free, which is why I approve. I hope you also find it useful at this crazy time.

 

Remember fear and panic are contagious, but so are happiness, laughter and peace. Choose wisely.

Battling Coronavirus

Facts, Fiction & Actions to take  

 

  • The virus is not a living organism, but a protein molecule (DNA) covered by a protective layer of lipid (fat), which, when absorbed by the cells of the ocular, nasal or buccal mucosa, changes their genetic code (mutation) and convert them into aggressor and multiplier cells.

 

  • Since the virus is not a living organism but a protein molecule, it is not killed, but decays on its own.  The disintegration time depends on the temperature, humidity and type of material where it lies.

 

  • The virus is very fragile; the only thing that protects it is a thin outer layer of fat.  That is why any soap or detergent is the best remedy, because the foam cuts through the fat (that is why it´s important to rub so much: for 20 seconds or more, to make a lot of foam).  By dissolving the fat layer, the protein molecule disperses and breaks down on its own.

 

  • Heat melts fat; this is why it is so good to use water above 25 degrees Celsius for washing hands, clothes and everything.  In addition, hot water makes more foam and that makes it even more useful.
  • Alcohol or any mixture with alcohol over 65% dissolves any fat, especially the external lipid layer of the virus.

 

  • Any mix with 1 part bleach and 5 parts water directly dissolves the protein, breaks it down from the inside.

 

  • Oxygenated water helps long after soap, alcohol and chlorine, because peroxide dissolves the virus protein, but you have to use it pure and it hurts your skin.

 

  • No Bactericide serves.  The virus is not a living organism like bacteria; they cannot kill what is not alive with antibiotics, but we can quickly disintegrate its structure with the other tips included here.

 

  • Never shake used or unused clothing, sheets or cloth.  While it is glued to a porous surface, it is very inert and disintegrates only between 3 hours (fabric and porous), 4 hours (copper, because it is naturally antiseptic; and wood, because it removes all the moisture and does not let it peel off and disintegrates), 24 hours (cardboard), 42 hours (metal) and 72 hours (plastic).  But if you shake it or use a feather duster, the virus molecules float in the air for up to 3 hours and can lodge in your nose.

 

  • The virus molecules remain very stable in external cold, or artificial conditioned air in houses and cars.  They also need moisture to stay stable and darkness.  Therefore, dehumidified, dry, warm and bright environments will degrade it faster.

 

  • UV Light on any object that may contain it, breaks down the virus protein.  For example, to disinfect and reuse a mask UV light is perfect.  Be careful, it also breaks down collagen (which is protein) in the skin, eventually causing wrinkles and skin cancer.

     

    • The virus cannot go through healthy skin.

     

    • Vinegar is not useful because it does not break down the protective layer of fat.

     

    • Spirits or vodka aren´t enough. The strongest vodka is 40% alcohol, and you need 65%.

     

    • Listerine works! It is 65% alcohol.

     

    • The more confined the space, the more concentration of the virus there can be.  The more open or naturally ventilated, the less.

     

    • This is said a lot, but you must wash your hands before and after touching pets, food, locks, knobs, switches, remote control, cell phones, watches, computers, desks, TV, etc.  And when using the bathroom.

     

    • Keep hands moisturized. They dry out after lots of washing and the molecules can hide in the micro cracks.  The thicker the moisturizer, the better.  

     

    • Keep your nails short so that the virus does not hide there.

    I made it home to Montana and now I´m staying here.

     

    Sending you lots of love, light and laughter. Stay safe, stay home and thank you to everyone for doing your part.

    Take Control This Valentine’s Day

    Take Control This Valentine’s Day

    Take control this Valentine´s Day.

    This year we´re doing things a little differently. It’s less about me, more about him. I´m about to take control this Valentine´s day; and after a fantastic day and night, you might consider doing the same.

    There is so much emphasis on men handling the Valentine’s Day arrangements, so I´ve decided I´m taking charge this year; it´s my chance to treat him.

    Take Control this Valentine´s Day

    The Action Plan

     

    The stage is set and the treats are all lined up.

    I´ve arranged hubby a massage at The Crescent Court Wellness Spa, a stunning hotel in uptown Dallas. It´s the perfect place to relax and recharge before a night of fun. As well as the treatment rooms, there’s  a hot and cold whirlpool, cryotherapy chamber, wellness center and nail bar. I may even grab myself a quick Mani Pedi while I wait.

    Wine and Dine HIM this Valentine´s Day 

    To follow, we´ll be enjoying a lobster dinner at The Crescent Club, Dallas, whilst soaking up the stunning views from the 17th floor. My mouth is watering already!

    ↑ ↑ ↑

    I’m still wondering where it all went! 

    For Afters 

     

    Once we´ve wined and dined ourselves to satisfaction, we´ll probably head out for a walk around the vibrant Dallas arts district. It´s only a few blocks away, so it would be rude not too explore a little.

     

    Take Control this Valentine´s Day

     

    And there we have it. My Valentine’s Day treat to my husband. Thanks to The Crescent Court Hotel for helping me to make it one to remember. I´m sure I´ll be sharing lots of snippets on my Instagram Stories so stay tuned.

    How will you be spending this Valentine’s Day? Let me know in the comments…

    On the Blog

    Have you seen?

    Flying First Class to a Safari Shack

    Flying First Class to a Safari Shack

    Join our Resident Traveler as she´s flying fist class to a safari shack. This one was a trip filled with indulgence, adventure and inspiration. It began in the lap of luxury and ended in an African safari hut. Both equally delightful in their own unique way, but a trip full of juxtaposition.

    Intrigued? Let´s join our resident traveler for the journey…

    Flying First Class to Dubai

     

    A real bathroom, a real bar, a huge TV, a cute desk, comfy pajamas, private space and food that is delicious beyond words. No, this isn´t a 5* hotel, it´s an airplane, honest!

    This sneak peek is thanks to Emirates and our resident traveler, my sister. I’m told it´s the best 16 hours she´s ever spent in the air, however, this was one adventure that was not going to continue the way it started!

    Boarding a Bush Plane

     

    After disembarking in Dubai and enjoying the land of luxury, the next stage of the journey began. It was time to board a bush plane destined for Zambia. The environment couldn´t have been more of a contrast; leaving the land of luxury behind and becoming immersed in the understated magic of a Zambian reserve.

    It was a change of circumstances for sure, but both were equally beautiful. The luxury bathroom 35,000 feet in the sky was replaced with an open-roof shack, and visits from the first-class cabin crew replaced with wild animals wandering free outside the door. Wow! The opulence was gone, and it was replaced with something very different, but equally unique and amazing.

    Flying First Class to a Safari Shack 

    The lesson of the trip? There is beauty in every situation, we just need to open our eyes and appreciate it.

    This was one trip that was full of contrasts, but what an adventure! I hope you enjoyed joining our resident traveler for this beautiful journey.

    Until the next time…

    Have you Seen?