The May Digest
A juicy letter covering mental health, fashion, home and more!
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Last month on IG, I shared that my Spring Reset is officially underway, and this time around, I'm hitting the reset button with more determination than ever before. In essence, I'm streamlining and enhancing various aspects of my life where I've been feeling overwhelmed, pressured, or simply bored. Whether it's through automation, elimination, or my favorite trick: adding a touch of elegance to the mundane, I'm striving for simplicity and beauty.
As for this newsletter, I've decided that sending out one jam-packed edition on the first Sunday of each month feels like a manageable goal. While I have countless ideas for ways to engage and support my online community, I've come to realize that I've been stretching myself too thin in this area once again (and I need to keep myself accountable with what I’ve touched on in this previous letter). You know those instances when an idea initially seems straightforward, but as you dive into it, you realize the immense amount of time and effort it demands? That's precisely what I've been experiencing lately, and I've been placing undue pressure on myself as a result.
In honor of Mental Health Awareness month, I'm committed to keeping this newsletter vibrant, uplifting, and brimming with practical tips and recommendations to bolster our overall mental well-being in different areas of daily living. Let's embrace brightness, fun, and an uplifting atmosphere as we journey together toward greater mental health and contentment.
Ways you can support your mental health this month:
Breathe. Open is having a 14-day Mental Health Detox breathwork series. If it's your first time using the app, sign-up here for a free trial.
Cleanse your social media feed. If you’re looking for a fresh follow, I highly recommend following Priscilla O. Agyeman, the founder of Saddie Baddies. I met Priscilla on Mental Health Awareness Day last October at a dinner hosted by Inside Then Out. She is very passionate about mental health which led her to creating Saddie Baddies (also here on Substack) which normalizes and addresses the deep, uncomfortable, and heavy conversations about mental and emotional health in order to invite learning, unlearning, and healing for all.
Journal. Inside Then Out Journal Use code: ALYSSAJF10 for a discount sitewide
Treat yourself to a massage. Just last week, I indulged in a 50-minute massage at The NOW Massage, an experience I detailed in this highlight. While the primary aim was to address the discomfort of tech neck, the session offered so much more. It was a blissful opportunity to simply unwind, enveloped in the tranquility of white noise and the soothing embrace of essential oils. Beyond easing physical tension, it served as a poignant reminder of the profound benefits of self-care and relaxation in our hectic lives.
Prioritize daily movement. Do whatever feels good to you.
When it comes to my daily movement routine, I'm eagerly anticipating the return of my solo Sunday morning hikes this month. There's an undeniable allure to immersing myself in the great outdoors, surrounded by nature, and pushing my limits to conquer the miles I've set for myself, especially with the added challenge of ankle weights (two colors on sale here). For these outdoor adventures, I prefer wearing vibrant attire that not only adds a pop of fun to my ensemble but also ensures easy visibility when I'm out solo. I'm excited to get more wear out of the Adidas set showcased here, a trusty and stylish two-piece ensemble I acquired last summer, (here's a similar top and bottom).
Recently, I stumbled upon these moisture-wicking shorts from H&M, available in a variety of colors, including a striking orange sherbet hue that pairs perfectly with either these Saloman hiking kicks or these versatile Nike AirMax DN sneakers — which claim to provide all-day comfort without sacrificing style. To alleviate any post-workout muscle tension or discomfort, I still swear by the efficacy of this muscle gel, a staple you've likely seen me share before. Lastly, in my ongoing pursuit of staying hydrated, I've shown this watermelon electrolytes + minerals drink mix in a recent wellness haul. It’s a refreshing addition to replenish vital nutrients post-exercise without that salty taste like most electrolyte mixes.
A short list of in-season faves: (1) Artichoke is in season this month, this isn’t a vegetable that I eat often but I do enjoy it. My recent lab work detected that I have high cholesterol. Artichoke helps lower “bad” LDL cholesterol. (2) The cost of any fruit that ends in “erry” humbles me every time I go shopping. Since it’s cherry season and they’re in abundance right now, I hope I can score some good deals. They’re a great source of vitamin C and fiber. (3) I love using rosemary to perfume my fish when seasoning, and to infuse my water. (4) If you’re a peony lover, they’re in-season! Treat your mom or mother figure to some for Mother’s Day (also sharing gift ideas here)!
(1) For about a year now, I've incorporated Dr. Loretta's Hydrating cleanser into my skincare routine, and it has undoubtedly secured its place as a top favorite. This gentle yet effective formula effortlessly rids my skin of makeup and impurities, leaving it feeling refreshed without any sense of stripping. A noteworthy bonus? It's gentle on the eyes, sparing me the discomfort of irritation. So, if you're on the lookout for a cleanser that delivers both efficacy and comfort, this one is definitely worth considering. Shop more of my beauty faves here.
(2) I enjoy incorporating face sprays into my skincare regimen to invigorate and rejuvenate my skin. However, one common issue I've encountered with many face sprays is their tendency to leave the skin feeling excessively dry once fully absorbed — a concern amplified for individuals with dry skin, like myself. Fortunately, this particular spray by Surratt has been a game-changer for me. It doesn’t leave my skin parched moments after application, it also imparts a nourished, dewy glow. Feel free to utilize the code "ALYSSA15" for a discount if you're interested in giving it a try.
(3) I've been an advocate of flaunting my natural nails, opting for UV gel treatments for the past two years. However, I've recently made the decision to switch back to regular gel polish for a couple of reasons, here's the rundown: Firstly, the perpetual struggle of securing an appointment with the sole nail artist who truly understands my desired nail shape has left me feeling exasperated. Secondly, I felt it was time to give my nails a breather. With that resolve in mind, I am taking matters into my own hands and moving forward, I will be doing my nails from home unless I’m in a bind. During my last salon visit, I had a nail tech remove the UV gel and did a regular gel manicure. I opted for a stunning Rose Water shade from Gelcare, a delightful raspberry/red sheer hue I purchased from the brand that's left me thoroughly impressed with its formula. It's been adoring my nails for the past two weeks and I'm happy to report not a single chip in sight.
Judging by the enthusiastic response to my sneaker rotation reels (check them out here and here), it's abundantly clear that my Instagram community shares my passion for quality kicks. With that in mind, I've curated a sneaker shop to cater to our collective love for stylish footwear. I'm always particularly enamored with the effortless versatility of grey sneakers — they seamlessly complement any hue in my wardrobe. While I already have this light grey New Balance pair, I'm also eyeing this timeless grey option for its classic appeal. Feel free to browse through the selection and snag a pair that catches your eye!
After sharing a roundup of denim finds from the Pistola Friends and Family sale on my stories recently, it was evident that many of you were obsessed with this particular pair. Unfortunately, they've since sold out, and the sale has come to a close. However, I've stumbled upon a remarkably similar style from a different brand, and they're priced at under $100. The only downside? Sizes are running low, so you'll want to act fast if you're interested. But here's the silver lining: I've also discovered another similar style for $60, and it's size-inclusive, catering to a broader range of body types.
These joggers, along with the matching top, are currently discounted by 30% (along with the rest of the site) with the code HELLOMAY at checkout. I look at this set as a great way to seamlessly incorporate comfort into your work attire, effortlessly transitioning from loungewear to office chic. I've personally invested in both the top and pants, envisioning them as stylish yet cozy staples for the workplace.
Mark your calendars! H&M Resort Capsule is set to launch on May 9th, and from the sneak peek, it's clear that this lineup is nothing short of breathtaking. Personally, I'm thrilled about several pieces, including this stunning dress, this versatile blazer, and this gold bag.
In my recent Adidas sneaker rotation reel, I have on these cargo pants in the opening frame which prompted a flood of direct messages inquiring about them. Surprisingly, they're actually men's cargo pants. I purchased the smallest size and with the help of my tailor, she adjusted the waist and hemmed them to address the long length.
No matter how hard I try to resist, Zara always manages to reel me in with their irresistible and affordable pieces. Their latest drops are no exception. I couldn't help but be drawn to these easy-to-wear white slides, blue sunnies, and bedazzled flats that recently caught my eye. Shop more Spring + Summer finds across various brands here.
One invaluable lesson I gleaned from the influential women in my life, including my mom and grandmother, was the importance of a well-rounded fragrance collection. From sneaking moments to explore their vanities as a child (who else remembers drenching themselves in Red Door by Elizabeth Arden as a kid?), I realized the transformative power of scent. Embracing a diverse array of fragrances isn't just about smelling good; it's about curating an olfactory wardrobe that reflects different moods, occasions, and personalities, much like the multifaceted women who inspired me.
Have you experienced "Without A Trace" by Fine'ry yet? If you haven't jumped on the Fine'ry bandwagon, it’s time. There's an enigmatic allure to this fragrance that's truly captivating. Personally, I find it difficult to articulate the sensations it evokes—it's unlike anything I've encountered before. Right now, I particularly like it as a daytime scent.
Smells like: Neroli Blossom, Cedarwood, Suede Musk
"Bare Rose" by Victoria’s Secret has caught my attention, especially with its nomination in the Popular Category for The Fragrance Foundation awards. Despite its undeniable appeal, I personally don’t hear enough about this fragrance. My recent encounter with it left me thoroughly impressed. If you're as enamored as I am, don't miss the chance to cast your vote for your favorite fragrances in The Fragrance Foundation awards. Let's give credit where it's due and celebrate the standout scents that deserve recognition.
Smells like: Pear and flowers
I was recently gifted “Libre Intense” by YSL Beauty, and while I had encountered it in stores before, it wasn't until I caught a whiff of it on my friend Brittany Branche at last year's LoveLand Foundation Gala that I felt truly compelled to incorporate it into my fragrance collection. The scent was simply captivating on her, leaving a lasting impression that lingered in my mind. Now, having the opportunity to make it a part of my own fragrance wardrobe feels like a special moment of connection and admiration.
CODE: FRIEND gets you 15% off here (ends tonight!)
Smells like: Vanilla, Lavender, Orchid
When it comes to prioritizing sleep, having the right tools and bedding is essential. Brooklinen is currently hosting their anniversary sale, offering a generous 25% off sitewide (but act fast, it's ending soon!). Personally, I've had my eye on a Brooklinen robe for quite some time, although my preferred colorway is unfortunately sold out in my size. However, I'm contemplating the green option. Additionally, this Piped Classic Percale Duvet Set has been tempting me, despite not quite matching my room's color scheme. Nonetheless, I can attest to the exceptional quality of their Luxe Sateen Bedding Bundle, which I currently own. It's not only easy to care for but also feels incredibly luxurious against the skin. For those who tend to run hot during sleep, I highly recommend considering the Classic Percale Bundle for its cooling properties. Investing in high-quality bedding can truly make a difference in the quality of your sleep.
Despite my repeated attempts to infuse more color into my home decor, I always find myself drawn back to neutral tones. Currently, I'm eyeing this textured terracotta bowl for displaying fruits, these wine glasses (currently on sale btw), and this elegant vase to elevate my space (also on sale). For inspiration, I've been poring over the pages of Livable Luxe, finding myself particularly inspired by interior designer Brigette Romanek's ability to strike the perfect balance between luxury and approachability.
Continuing on my journey to support my hormones, I recently introduced a new cleaning concentrate into my routine (I’ve been advised to reduce my plastic use to support my hormones and most of my cleaning products are in plastic), as showcased in this wellness haul I previously mentioned at the beginning of this letter. I found myself yearning for that fresh, clean scent that lingers post-cleaning vs. settling for unscented options. Not only does this elevate my cleaning regimen but it also restores that satisfying aroma to my home, enhancing both the sensory and wellness aspects of my environment.
I've been hearing quite a bit about Snif's laundry detergent recently and I'm intrigued to give it a try. Have you had the chance to test it out? I'm curious to hear your thoughts and experiences with it.
If you need a reminder about the importance of taking care of your gut, do yourself a favor and watch the Hack Your Health documentary on Netflix. I watched it last week and let me tell you, it's brimming with valuable insights presented in an effortlessly understandable manner. Trust me, I’ve watched and listened to my fair share of lectures on gut health on my quest to getting to the root of my endometriosis flare ups and the information can sometimes feel so overwhelming and difficult to digest — no pun intended. This documentary offers clarity and actionable takeaways to help you embark on your gut health journey.
At the onset of the year, rather than crafting resolutions, I opted for a list of areas I aim to improve upon. Among these aspirations was the desire to improve my bouquet-making skills. As evidenced by my penchant for crafting my own floral arrangements, it's a passion rooted in my childhood memories of watching my parents tend to our home garden, just like they did growing up in Grenada. Fast forward to this month, this new addition to my library filled with amazing tutorials, has reignited my enthusiasm.
Have a great May and I’d love to hear from you! What are you loving, reading, looking forward to this month? Drop me a line in the comments. I look forward to connecting with you!