California lifestyle
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What I'm Watching, Reading, & Listening to: True Crime Podcasts, Anthony Bourdain, & Aladdin
Despite an influx of social media consulting clients, I still had time to watch a whole slew of television series, listen to a ridiculous amount of true crime murder podcasts, & read the occasional book. I recently reached the 2-year mark of being fully self-employed as a blogging coach, travel influencer/writer, & social media manager for small brands & businesses! I work remotely, so I spend a lot of time in coffee shops, libraries, coworking places, & anywhere with Wi-Fi.
Here's everything I'm watching, reading, & listening to lately!
Here's everything I'm watching, reading, & listening to lately!
* Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you click &/or make a purchase through certain links on this site or my social media platforms, I may make a small commission from that click &/or purchase. It's at no additional cost to you! Learn more about my disclosure.
Reading Kitchen Confidential by Anthony Bourdain & probably listening to a true-crime podcast. |
Read my yearly freelancing anniversary updates from Years 1, 2, & 3!
TV Shows I'm Watching (& One Movie)
Aladdin
Hell yes, I went to see the new Aladdin film with Will Smith in theatres. It was incredible. I was singing along the way & can appreciate some of the updates they made to the characters & plotline to align with modern times. My favorite is the "Prince Ali" song! Did you see the new Aladdin? Do you like the original with Robin Williams or the new one?Rick and Morty
I'm years late to the Rick and Morty party but this inappropriate animated comedy is made for adults. It's the If you're curious where to watch Ricky and Morty online, you can find seasons 1-3 on Hulu.The Act
Being the true crime fan that I am, I promptly watched The Act once I heard it was coming out. I'd already seen the documentary, Mommy Dead and Dearest. The series revolves around the story of Gypsy Rose Blanchard & Dee Blanchard — murder, lies, Munchausen Syndrome by Proxy. The Act stars Patricia Arquette, Joey King, AnnaSophia Robb, & ChloĆ« Sevigny.Game of Thrones
I can't be the only person who completely binge-watched Game of Thrones in a three-month span. Who's with me? Man oh man, although this extremely popular show premiered in 2011, I only began watching in 2019. Spoiler-free commentary from one of my Facebook friends, "I liked the ending but the pacing of the last season was so much faster than the others that it felt off."The Golden Girls
Sometimes you just need a wholesome show to relax after a long day of work. After spending all day listening to true crime podcasts, it's optimal for my brain (& dreams/night terrors) to listen to four mature ladies from the 80s talk about life. The Golden Girls is refreshing & holds up well after all these years.Hey Arnold!
I actually watched Hey Arnold! a lot as a cute little kiddo. It was on Nickelodeon & are used to watch at my grandma's house. All those were the days when responsibilities were little just like myself. I watched whatever is available on Hulu but you can also watch Hey Arnold! The Ultimate Collection.Pretty Little Liars
Pretty Little Liars is the updated version of Gossip Girl, except gnarlier, darker, & deadlier. The show revolves around a bunch of high schoolers & their web of lies. It was something to put on while typing or writing.GLOW
GLOW stars Alison Brie, Betty Gilpin, Marc Maron, among others, & follows a group of ladies as they dabble in the world of wrestling; the show takes place in the 1980s & was inspired by GLOW: Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling, a series which ran from 1986-1989.The Handmaid’s Tale
Other than actual true crime, The Handmaid's Tale is it one of the most horrifying TV shows out there right now. It’s based off a best-selling novel by Margaret Atwood. Set in the modern USA, the show takes place in the totalitarian society of Gilead, where are women are seen as property, oppressed, & forced to carry children for high-ranking officials.Books I'm Reading
Kitchen Confidential by Anthony Bourdain
I read the updated edition of Kitchen Confidential: Adventures in the Culinary Underbelly. Anthony's voice seeps off the pages of Kitchen Confidential. It feels like you're watching him on The Food Network, his voice shines through, almost blindingly. The book reads like a diary entry from the year 2000 before Bourdain became the badass culinary iconic we know him as.You Are a Badass Every Day by Jen Sincero
Technically the full title reads You Are a Badass Every Day: How to Keep Your Motivation Strong, Your Vibe High, and Your Quest for Transformation Unstoppable. Use Sincero's You Are a Badass Every Day as your daily dose of inspiration, affirmations, & strategies to stay empowered to feel your most badass.Podcasts I'm Listening To
Crime Junkie
Ashley Flowers & Brit Prawat host Crime Junkie, one of the most popular true crime podcasts out there. They use sound in the podcast to relay an eerie vibe, much like film scores for soundtracks to dramatic movies. It certainly makes me feel more on edge. Crime Junkie recently made headlines due to plagiarism allegations.Criminal
"This is Phoebe Judge." Listen to any episode of this podcast & you'll know exactly what I’m talking about; the host, Phoebe Judge has a unique voice, which I always associate with the classic journalism/newscaster persona. Criminal is heavily researched so you know you’re getting the facts & the latest information available on a case.Morbid
Morbid falls under what I consider soap opera/gossipy/personal true crime shows, as does My Favorite Murder (listed below). Morbid, hosted by Ash & Alaina, has a sassy dynamic banter. It turns out the ladies are actually related. Can't lie, it took me about 20 episodes to determine who was speaking because I couldn't tell them apart! P.S. Alaina is an autopsy technician, so she brings real-life perspective to...death.My Favorite Murder
My Favorite Murder might be the original true-crime podcast don’t quote me on that one though. This popular podcast sets itself apart because it's considered a true crime comedy podcast. Hosts Georgia Hardstark & Karen Kilgariff aim to give you a couple of chuckles even though they’re talking about pretty heavy stuff. The ladies released their book Stay Sexy & Don't Get Murdered: The Definitive How-To Guide in mid-2019.To Live and Die in LA
To Live and Die in LA podcast follows the disappearance of actor Adea Shabani. Rolling Stone journalist Neil Strauss investigates the mystery, unraveling one thread at a time until the whole thing comes apart. Unlike the other true crime podcasts in my list, this podcast covers one case the whole way through, allowing Strauss to decipher what happened. Prepare to be enthralled.Anacapa Island Day Trip: Channel Islands National Park
Magic exists in the natural marvels of Channel Islands National Park. Off the coast of Southern California, you'll find five islands: San Miguel, Santa Rosa, Santa Cruz, Santa Barbara, & the smallest island of them all, Anacapa Island. Available by boat only, these other islands are secluded from the buzzing freeways & cell phone chatter of everyday life. You won't find a Wi-Fi signal out here, but you might find yourself. Anacapa Island is 12 miles out to sea. As your boat comes in you might see the sea caves, kelp beds, and arch rock. Seriously the best views for wildlife watching.
Scroll down to learn the answers to: Where is Anacapa Island? How do you get there? Is it part of Channel Islands National Park? What are some things to do on Anacapa Island? Is there camping? Are there hotels in Downtown Oxnard? How can you do an Anacapa Island day trip?
About Carmen
Hello, welcome to my blog! I'm Carmen. I'm a travel writer (also known as a travel blogger or travel influencer). Some of my most popular travel posts are Things to Do at Playas de Tijuana, Mexico, How You Can Visit Central Perk Cafe from Friends, & Your Guide to Oslo, Norway. I prefer black tea over coffee. I've worked with brands & companies such as The French Ministry of Agriculture, KAABOO Del Mar, Queen of the South TV show on USA, OLLY, & more. You can learn more About Me here.Where is Anacapa Island?
Part of the Channel Islands National Park, you can find Anacapa Islands off the coast of Oxnard, California. Oxnard is 60 miles northwest of Los Angeles; 38 miles south of Santa Barbara. Anacapa Island has three islets named East, Middle, & West Anacapa Islands. However, you aren't permitted to explore all three of them.
How do I get to Anacapa Island?
It's not like visitors can walk from one island to the next anyway, that's why you need a boat for transportation. You have to take a boat trip out there. The boat ride over takes about an hour. Visitors can explore the entire island in just half a day. You can't just leave the island when you want, you have to stay there until the boat takes you back later in the afternoon. Perfect excuse to go on an adventure!
Other things to do in California: Go skydiving & wine tasting in Lompoc, California
Travel to Anacapa Island on the Island Packers boat. |
Transportation Around the Islands
I took a majestic boat ride with Island Packers. Arrive at the Oxnard Harbor. Travel time takes about an hour each way. Fred & I downloaded a few episodes of the Dr. Death podcast so we could listen with headphones from our phone. A layer of clouds protected us from the sun & the waves of the ocean. Apparently, the clearer the skies, the choppier the water. The more you know, right?
As we ventured past the Anacapa arch our way back to Oxnard, we saw a pod of dolphins. They swam right next to us. It was a top life experience. Island Packers offers trips to Santa Cruz Island, Santa Rosa Island, Santa Barbara Island, whale watching, & other exciting options for visitors.
Once the Island Packers boat docks, adventurers step onto a ladder at Landing Cove then they corral everyone to cover the essential rules of Anacapa Island. After that, get ready for your quads to burn because you have 157 steps to climb.
I felt a bit winded but the view from the top was spectacular, the first time you can see what it looks like from the island. You're really stuck out there on a small blip of land in the middle of the ocean, okay well it's about 10 miles off the coast of Oxnard, California.
Other things to do in California: Beach hopping & meditation in Encinitas, California
Western Gull mama (probably) & cute little spotted chick. |
Marine Life and Animals on Anacapa Island: Western Gulls, California Brown Pelicans, Island Fox, Oh My!
Visit Anacapa Island from April through mid-August & you'll run into some seabirds, particularly the Western gull. An annoyed gull pooped on Fred's backpack as we walked by its nest. If you're not a fan of birds, guano (bird poop), possible bird carcasses, loud squawking (literally anytime you walk by a nest or chicks), questionable smells, then avoid voyaging to the island during this time frame. However, if you want to experience an absolutely remarkable natural phenomenon, then mark your calendar & book a ticket. You might spot California Brown Pelicans, cormorants, pigeon guillemots, western gulls, California sea lions, harbor seals. I saw California Brown Pelicans, Western gulls, sea lions, & dolphins! Just stay on the hiking trails! There is even summer whale watching so you might catch a whale too.Anacapa Island Camping
We only did a day trip on the island, but there are Anacapa Island camping options. We saw several campers already setup from the day before. There were a couple campers who left on the evening boat out for the day. The campsites are "primitive." That's the wording from the National Park Service website, but I'd called them minimal or bare. Anacapa Island provides picnic tables, food storage boxes, & pit toilets for use. But ultimately, you need to take all trash with you as there are no rubbish bins. The island has 7 campsites that fit 4-6 people per site. Reservations are required, so you can't just decide you're having a great time staring at the baby Western Gulls & have a sleepover. Check campsite availability on Recreation.com, the official website to make your Anacapa Island camping reservations.
Is There Food, Drink, & Water on Anacapa Island?
No, make sure to bring everything you need with you. There's no food, drink, or water on the island for visitors to purchase. We brought a couple liters of water, sandwich or pita pockets, chips, fruit, granola bar, & some chocolate in a backpack for our Anacapa Island day trip. You must take all garbage with you; we simply put it in our backpack to throw away once we got back to Oxnard.
Things to Do on Anacapa Island: Hiking, Bird-Watching, Camping. |
Things to Do on Anacapa Island
On our day trip to Anacapa Island, we walked the entire trail around the island, saw the Anacapa Island lighthouse, marveled at the views from Inspiration Point, got pooped on by a Western Gull (well, Fred did at least), picnicked with a panoramic ocean view. Despite the boat full of people we arrived on the island with, we were able to have many private, secluded moments. You can't get super close to the Historic Light house on Anacapa Island but you can definitely get a good photo of it.Activities for Visitors to Do on Anacapa Island
Water Sports
Picnicking
Hiking
Camping
Bird-Watching
Historic & Cultural Site Information Site
Photography
Ranger Station
Snorkeling
Swimming
Small Visitor Center
Wildlife Viewing
Water Access
Scuba Diving
Whale-Watching
Our ocean view room from Embassy Suites Mandalay Beach Hotel & Resort in Oxnard, California. |
Where to Stay (Besides Camping on Anacapa Island): Embassy Suites Mandalay Beach Hotel & Resort
I stayed at the Embassy Suites Mandalay Beach Hotel & Resort with a remarkable ocean view. Our spacious two-room suite Mandalay Beach Hotel is a good option for kids, families, & couples. They have a spa, fitness center, huge pool. I took advantage of Happy Hour by the pool. Just show your wristbands & order your drink. I grabbed the house wine while Fred opted for their beer on tap. We sipped our beverages along with the dozens of other people doing the same thing on a Friday evening. Make sure to eat the made-to-order brekkie at the Coastal Grill in the morning.Hotels in Oxnard
✓ Best Western Oxnard Inn
✓ Embassy Suites Mandalay Beach - Hotel & Resort
✓ Residence Inn by Marriott Oxnard River Ridge
✓ Embassy Suites Mandalay Beach - Hotel & Resort
✓ Residence Inn by Marriott Oxnard River Ridge
✓ Courtyard by Marriott Oxnard/Ventura
Take a look at some of the hotels in Downtown Oxnard. You can customize what day you'll arrive/leave & how many people in your group. You can even expand your hotel search to include Oxnard & surrounding areas:
Booking.com
Things to Do in Oxnard, CA
You can spend the entire day or weekend admiring nature in Oxnard. There are endless things to do in Oxnard, California as far as strolls by the beach, kayaking, exploring the Channel Islands National Park, & thriving outside. Visit Oxnard has some fabulous suggestions if you need more inspiration for places to stay, where to dine, things to do, & local events in Oxnard. There are other other California National Parks as well.Other Fun Stuff
Pin this image on Pinterest - Day Trip to Anacapa Island. |
Have a question? Comment below & I will answer the best I can. Let me know if you've visited Anacapa Island. Would the birds scare you off? :]
Books by Modern Female Authors
Jane Austen, Virginia Woolf, Mary Shelley, Louisa May Alcott, Charlotte Brontƫ, Emily Brontƫ. These are among the best female authors of all time! They've been around for centuries. We've read them in school. We know their names. But.....raise your hand if you're here to learn about modern female authors! Hell yeah, me too!
Okay, so not your granny's favorite author. Not a classic female author. Not the best female author of the 19th century or even the 20th century. This is the 21st century, y'all. Bust out your library card or let's face it, just whip out your credit card to buy it off of Amazon. Ok, let's start reading some modern female authors!
The dictionary definition of the word "modern" states: relating to the present or recent times as opposed to the remote past; it's present-day, contemporary, present-time, present, current, twenty-first-century, recent.
* Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links.
If you want to read something career, business, or success related...
Kate White is a bestselling author, professional speaker, & former editor-in-chief of Cosmopolitan. She's magazine royalty! This modern female author is your go-to for career advice. The Gutsy Girl Handbook: Your Manifesto for Success has knowledge nuggets, strategies, & tips for women who want to make their own rules, advance their careers, & get the opportunities they deserve. It's a modern take on White's book from 1995, Why Good Girls Don't Get Ahead but Gutsy Girls Do.If you're struggling with your identity or world view...
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is an award-winning author of Purple Hibiscus, Half of a Yellow Sun, & Americanah. Half of a Yellow Sun is inspired by experiences of her parents during the Nigeria-Biafra war, while Americanah revolves around the realities of balancing the delicate mixture of a Nigerian & American life - the perfect read for anyone struggling with their identity, no matter where you live. As a Persian-American, this topic always resonates with me!If you want to read something funny, satirical, or light-hearted...
Sarah Cooper's satirical book How to Be Successful without Hurting Men's Feelings aims to poke fun at business strategies for females. The book shares how women can succeed in their careers without harming the fragile male ego in the meantime. It's a great read if you're feeling especially bitter at your workplace. Sarah Cooper is hilarious.
One of my friends said, "Last time you talked about this book, I bought it. Not very far through it yet, but this year will be 10 years since my mom passed. I thought that it was an appropriate read this year! Thank you."
There are many modern female authors to choose from. Just take a moment to stop scrolling or watch someone's story to read, to live, to think for yourself. We absorb technology all day; when was the last time you absorbed the words of a book?
* Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you click &/or make a purchase through certain links on this site or my social media platforms, I may make a commission from that click &/or purchase. It's at no additional cost to you. Learn more about my disclosure. :]
If your mom died...
Read The Dead Moms Club: A Memoir about Death, Grief, and Surviving the Mother of All Losses by Kate Spencer. Someone asked me, "Is it sad? Or like supportive??" Of course, it isn't the most cheery of topics, but Spencer writes in a quippy, sassy, frank, & overall empowering way! Someone somewhere might benefit from this modern female author; I know it helped me.One of my friends said, "Last time you talked about this book, I bought it. Not very far through it yet, but this year will be 10 years since my mom passed. I thought that it was an appropriate read this year! Thank you."
There are many modern female authors to choose from. Just take a moment to stop scrolling or watch someone's story to read, to live, to think for yourself. We absorb technology all day; when was the last time you absorbed the words of a book?
* Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you click &/or make a purchase through certain links on this site or my social media platforms, I may make a commission from that click &/or purchase. It's at no additional cost to you. Learn more about my disclosure. :]
Things to Do in Encinitas, California: Don't Miss This North County San Diego Gem
San Diego is an enormous county. In fact, it's around 4,500 mi.². I just Googled that. I definitely didn't know that off the top of my head. In North County San Diego alone, there's Del Mar, Escondido, Oceanside, Solana Beach, & more cities. Looking for best things to do in Encinitas? Drive Coast Highway 101 or head to Swami's Beach, Moonlight State Beach, San Diego Botanic Garden, or Encinitas Historical Society. There's a lot you can do. Keep reading!
I enjoy international travel as much as the next person. I visited Spain, Germany, Mexico, & Norway, which proved more than ever that small moments matter, no matter where you are. You have to supplement those getaways with something budget-friendly, something local. At the end of the day, I'm a San Diego lifestyle blogger at heart! There's always something exciting to do in San Diego.
You might also want to read my blog post Encinitas Coffee Shops: Searching for the Best Coffee in Town where I list all the coffee shops in Encinitas all in one place.
Things to Do in Encinitas CA - North County, San Diego
Restaurants, Coffee Shops, What to See: Things to Do in Oceanside, California
Whether you like coffee drinks or walks by the beach, there are plenty of things to do in Encinitas, California. Read this guide for Encinitas points of interest whether you're a North County San Diego local or an out-of-town visitor!
Hanging out at the Moonlight Beach overlook with a stunning view of the Pacific Ocean |
Head to Encinitas Beaches
Encinitas is a beachside town with miles of trails, there are a lot of beaches in this part of North County San Diego! Moonlight State Beach is one of my favorite places to relax, it even has a snack bar. Play volleyball with your friends or dip your toes in the water. Moonlight Beach is beautiful & I've seen some of the best sunsets of my life there. Want other beach options? Check out Cardiff State Beach, San Elijo State Beach, or Swami's State Beach. Again, heaps of beaches & best things to do in Encinitas. Moonlight Beach is a personal favorite of mine, snack bar is cool, but bathrooms can get messy. You can surf or just stare at the ocean! You'll find one of the best views in Encinitas!Related reading: Carlsbad Coffee Shops - Searching for the Best Coffee in Carlsbad, California
What is Encinitas famous for? How much does it cost to live in Encinitas?
Go Downtown
The bustling streets of Encinitas await. Watch a film at La Paloma Theater, which opened in 1928. Moonlight Beach is right there too. There are even things to do in Encinitas with kids. Go to any beach! Moonlight Beach or the tide pools. Stroll along the coast & you'll realize why Encinitas is such a great place. It's popular for a reason.
Grab a cup of coffee
The city of Encinitas has no shortage of coffee shops. Head to Pannikin Coffee & Tea for a coffee & a muffin. Their muffins are enormous & perfect for sharing. I love the Aztec Mocha from Lofty Coffee Co.; it has a spicy kick thanks to the cayenne. There's also Better Buzz Coffee Roasters, Ironsmith Coffee Roasters, Coffee Coffee, Philz Coffee, & a few other spots.
Related reading: 40+ Things To Do In Conejo Valley, California
In awe of the view from the Self-Realization Fellowship Encinitas Temple |
Spend Time in a Garden
The Self-Realization Fellowship Encinitas Temple is one of my favorite spots in North County San Diego because it has some remarkable views. Relax in the peaceful Self Realization Fellowship meditation gardens. Stare at the majestic koi swimming in their ponds. Look out at the vast Pacific Ocean. It's free to enter but donations are welcome. If you want to spend some time in nature with over 4,000 types of plants, visit the San Diego Botanic Garden. The Self Realization Fellowship meditation gardens are certainly worth a visit if you're in Encinitas CA, Southern California!Support Local & Buy Souvenirs
Stroll Downtown Encinitas Main Street for all the cool retail stores & businesses. Caravan West is a bohemian paradise with baskets, blankets, books, & more. Check out Moon Shadow Boutique for bohemian fashion & vintage home accessories. Crystals, hair salons, home decor, kids boutiques, men's clothing, stationery, swimwear, women's clothing, there are local Encinitas, Southern California options for any gift or souvenir need. Downtown Encinitas has a lot of spunky shops!
Related reading: Things To Do in Torrance, California
A coffee & giant muffin from Pannikin Coffee & Tea is one of my favorite things to do in Encinitas |
Drive Historic Highway 101
Spend the day along Highway 101 driving along the beach. Go on a drive after spending time at the San Diego Botanic Garden or at the meditation gardens. Drive North County. U.S. Highway 101 runs through the states of California, Oregon, & Washington. Highway 101 is the longest highway in California. Drive down a piece of history in Encinitas. Downtown Encinitas Main Street is conveniently located on Highway 101; park your car then shop some of the local boutiques & stores.Eat Delicious Food at Encinitas Restaurants
Spend a day at the beach savoring the waves then head to a place to eat. Get a burrito or tacos or anything - you're in a beach city after all. Surf by day then visit a taco shop for a great meal. Go to the nature center or Coast Hwy 101 Encinitas.Fresh fish, tasty vegetarian food, gluten-free options, raw & organic desserts, Downtown Encinitas has restaurants food for all your needs! My other personal favorite restaurants in the city of Encinitas: pastries from St. Tropez Bakery & Bistro ♥ hot & prepared foods from Lazy Acres Natural Market ♥ Machacha Breakfast Burrito from Mozy Cafe (two eggs, jack cheese, & soy chorizo instead of turkey) ♥ organic, fresh options from GOODONYA like the Breakfast Veggie Bowl ♥ EVE Encinitas for all things vegan ♥ Home & Away Encinitas has affordable food & a beautiful space with hand-painted art
Drink Craft Beer at Encinitas Breweries
San Diego County has over 150+ breweries; it's one of the best place to find beer, so it's no surprise that the city of Encinitas has a few craft beer options. Saint Archer Brewing Co. has happy hour from 4-6 pm Monday through Friday - get $2 off a pint. Enjoy plant-based food & a full food menu (in addition to a full craft beer list, obviously). Sip on Thorn Brewing Co. at Home & Away Encinitas. Modern Times Far West Lounge. Culture Brewing Co. always features artists on their walls, so they're kind of like an art gallery with beer. North County has dozens of beer options.How About Cocktails?
Sip on a sexy cocktail at any number of cool Downtown Encinitas CA spots. In addition to a full food & craft beer menu, Bread & Barley has a number of signature cocktails (like the Leucadia Sunrise made with vodka, lemon, lavender, elderflower, cucumber), brunch cocktails, & classics. The Roxy is another classic go-to on Encinitas Main Street. Home & Away Encinitas has some tasty cocktails. Solterra Winery and Kitchen for wine!From La Paloma Theater to the farmers market, Encinitas is open to the public with plenty to offer. What are your favorite things to do in Encinitas? Do you like Moonlight Beach & Highway 101? Would you go surfing? Have you been to Self Realization Fellowship gardens?
Other places to visit in San Diego: La Jolla, Solana Beach, San Elijo Lagoon, anywhere on El Camino Real. Diego, California is a large county & it would take a long time to explore the whole place but you can have fun trying. Enjoy your visit & experience the best has to offer.
Did I miss something? Leave a comment with your 3 favorite things to do in Encinitas.
Have you visited Encinitas CA or North County San Diego? Do you like to explore your own city? :]
Prosource Acupressure Mat and Pillow: Do Acupressure Mats Actually Work?
Sometimes I casually lie down on a bed of needles to release tight muscles & relieve stress. What the hell am I babbling about? Does it help with shoulders or back pain? What about neck and back pain? What about using an acupressure mat for feet or other areas of the body? How many minutes do you stay on it? Do acupressure mats really work? How do you acupressure your feet? Which is the best acupressure mat? Pain sucks, so let's do what we can to keep it at bay. Do you have problems like that also? You don't have to be in pain forever. Acupressure mats might be useful. Get familiar with what the spike mats can do.
This magical invention is called an acupressure mat & acupressure pillow. The acupressure mat and pillow set only cost $20. It's spectacular! You can buy it from Amazon & you totally need a mat in your life. Keep reading to find out all about what it does, how to use it, & where to buy one. I bought the ProSource acupressure mat.
What Does an Acupressure Mat Do? Do acupressure mats really work?
Choose a surface to put it on, whether it's the floor or your chair, couch, against the wall. The harder the surface, the more pressure you'll feel. Acupressure mats are basically a bed of nails. At its core, an acupressure mat is a self-applied acupuncture device. You can lay on it, roll on it, sit on it, stand on it, stretch on it. The spiky bits on the mat hit your acupressure points to assist in any back or neck and shoulders pain. You can use it for your feet, legs, arms, & various areas of the body. You use your own weight of your body to heal your body. I've been using the acupressure mat and pillow for over a year, so I developed an understanding of how to use the spike mat & how it benefits me. I use it frequently, especially when my back acts up. Acupressure mats are pretty cool.Some best-selling mats available on Amazon:
INTEY Acupressure Mat and Pillow Massage Set Ideal for Back/Neck Pain Relief & Muscle Relaxation, Sleep Aid with Carrying Bags - click here to view it on Amazon.
At Home Back and Neck Pain Relief - Acupressure Mat and Neck Pillow Set - Stress and Sciatic Pain for Optimal Health and Wellness - click here to view it on Amazon.
Acupressure Mat and Pillow Set - Stress Reliever - Muscle Relaxant - Free Tote Bag - Acupressure Mat and Neck Pillow Set. Comes in a Carry Box with Handle for Storage and Travel - click here to view it on Amazon.
ProSourceFit Acupressure Mat - Find it on Amazon.
Related reading: Why Fresh Mint Tea is My Holy Grail
* Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links.
Acupuncture mats are the hot new thing, well not so new, but you get the point. It helps your body feel looser & aids in pain relief via the pressure points. I bought the acupressure mat and pillow set since it was so affordable. Have you tried an acupuncture mat for lower back and neck and shoulders pain relief? Afterward, it feels like someone gave you a massage or foot rub. You get to feel body relief & that is a wonderful feeling.
Place the mat on the floor. The spikes stimulate pressure points along the areas of the body. People stay on them for a range of time, from just a few minutes to 30 minutes and up.
I chose the grey acupressure mat & pillow set. Chic. Timeless. It goes with the grey rug I bought from Target. But the acupressure mats are available in a delightful range of colors like black, blue, green, pink, purple, & orange. Which color would you pick?
It helps relieve pain in my right shoulder blade from an injury I got in college. It relaxes my muscles in a way nothing else has (other than the equipment my physical therapist used during my semester of rehabilitation. The acupressure mat & pillow set turned out to be one of my favorite Amazon purchases of all time. So worth it. Use it again & again for only $19.99. Worth it for lower back pain. Don't forget that this also comes with an acupressure neck pillow, not only the mat. Your neck could get some relief also.
What are the acupressure mat benefits? Do acupressure mats actually work?
Do acupressure mats do anything? I roll out my spike mat, lie down on it, then roll gently side to side to help release tension in my upper back pain. Essentially, you relax on this “bed of needles” to massage various pressure points on your body. The little spikes can potentially help you self-massage, relieve stress, tension, or pain. It might even help you fall asleep.It helps relieve pain in my right shoulder blade from an injury I got in college. It relaxes my muscles in a way nothing else has (other than the equipment my physical therapist used during my semester of rehabilitation. The acupressure mat & pillow set turned out to be one of my favorite Amazon purchases of all time. So worth it. Use it again & again for only $19.99. Worth it for lower back pain. Don't forget that this also comes with an acupressure neck pillow, not only the mat. Your neck could get some relief also.
It truly feels so good on my back; the pain goes away for a bit. If you're skeptical about acupressure mats, they aren't magical but they are useful. Use the mat for yourself or buy one for a loved one. Actually, as you get used to it, people love using an acupressure mat for relaxation because it ends up being kind of comfortable once you lay on top of that for a while. You can find different angles and pressures.
How long should you lay on acupressure mat?
You can place them out on the floor, on the chair, against a wall. You can use it every day or you may never use it if you keep it hidden away in your garage or closet. Minutes are up to you. On average, I use my mat once per week but you could easily utilize it more frequently, if not every day. You can do 10 Minutes or lay on it for 30 minutes.I like to leave it in the living room area so it's easily accessible with other fitness gear. If you are new to the whole experience, just try it out for a little bit. Make sure you're wearing clothes so you build up a tolerance & get a feel it. Once you have a grasp of the pain level, you can approach with bare skin so you can feel the full effect. If you want to try bare skin first, that's fine too.
That said, mine is well preserved with no stains or anything. The mat & acupressure pillow both have removable covers also. Spot wash & you're ready to go.
Using It For Your Feet: How do you acupressure your feet?
It feels great on your feet too. If you stand directly on your feet you'll be applying maximum pressure of all your bodyweight. Use one foot at a time to apply pressure to work on tender areas or increase blood flow. It feels like a foot massage. You can check out a reflexology foot map to see which pain points go with what.
ProSource Acupressure Mat
So you might be interested now & wondering what are the best acupressure mats out there? There are so many mats & acupressure brands out there, so take things into account as you decide what to buy! Use the mat every day or weekly.
I bought my spike mat on Amazon from a brand called ProSourceFit. Made from 100% thick cotton & plant-based eco-foam, the ProSource acupressure mat has 6,210 acupressure points & the neck acupressure pillow has 1,782 acupressure points. That's a lot of spikes!!
When my shoulder acts out, I use the acupressure mat because of its benefits relieve some tension. I messed up my shoulder in college & had to do physical therapy for a semester to curb the pain. It truly makes the area feel better, relaxed, relieved. Buy an acupressure mat & pillow set only $19.99, available on Amazon. Grab one for a friend; it makes a great gift!! It may be plastic but it is effective. Your health is important.
The spike mat is lightweight making it suitable for travel or rolling up & carrying in a beach bag or something like that. It's a great product to help you have a relaxing experience.
This is an affordable relaxation treatment product. Do some research & search for what other users say about products like this. Read customer reviews or top product reviews to see what others say.
Have you tried acupressure therapy? What body pain do you have - neck and shoulders? back? feet? someplace else? How many minutes do you stay on? Use the mat to see if it helps. I definitely recommend getting one to help stretch or ease pain in areas of the body. Once you get used to the feeling, it's comfortable.
Fresh Eucalyptus Leaves: How Long Does Eucalyptus Last in the Shower? Where to Buy?
This fragrant green plant is the perfect addition to your next shower, as a DIY aromatherapy. What is eucalyptus in the shower good for? Any healing or health properties or is that hoo-ah? What are the benefits or therapeutic properties of eucalyptus? What does eucalyptus smell like? How to keep eucalyptus fresh? It can be used in a number of ways. Get ready to learn more about eucalyptus oil, leaves, & more.
Eucalyptus in Shower
You may have read some information about the addition of eucalyptus in shower online and now you're in search of tips. The trees are native to Australia, but did you know there are actually many species of eucalyptus plants? You might see the large tree in a public garden or park. If you head to your local farmers market & ask for some, the leaves might look different. The long leaves are classified as eucalyptus globulus but you might often see the short stubbier leaved version. You can get a lot of use out of one bunch of leaves. Whether you're super crafty or just want to have a refreshing shower, this post will cover everything. Breathe easy. Grab a cuppa tea & start scrolling!
Hang Eucalyptus in Your Shower
Using eucalyptus branches can become a part of your daily routine. Hang one bunch of fresh eucalyptus leaves in your shower to freshen up your bathroom. Get one hair tie, rubber band, twine. Simply tie it with a string or rubber band near your showerhead. The eucalyptus leaf has such a strong, cleansing smell. The hot water hits the leaves to create a eucalyptus steam, kind of like an all-natural shower diffuser based from eucalyptus plant oil. Eucalyptus in the shower can be useful for some anti-stress, energizing, decongesting properties. If you have nasal congestion, this might be a good plant to try.
When hanging eucalyptus in your shower up, the oils from the leaves give off an incredible scent that may potentially last for weeks & up to two months - so you can get a lot of use out of one branch. Wondering how long does fresh eucalyptus plan last in the shower? Scroll down for the answer.
Where to Buy Eucalyptus Plant
What to have a spa like experience of your own? Try to find it at your local farmers' market; that's where the scent is the best! If you can't find it there, you can also buy eucalyptus leaves on Amazon or find an oil. Get the leaves from a range of online shops. The price may vary.
You can get Dried Real Eucalyptus Branches 12 Stems, Natural Eucalyptus Plant Leaves for Arrangement Wedding Home Decor on Amazon.
There's also: Freshly Handpicked & 100% Natural leaves that you can buy on Amazon. | Relieves Stress & Anxiety - Perfect for Self Care.
It's not the same as fresh eucalyptus leaf but using it could be worth a try! Can't find leaves - try an oil instead. Hanging eucalyptus in your shower feels like a stress-free spa like experience with a sense of style and calm. If you can't find eucalyptus plants near you, you can always opt for eucalyptus-based products in the meantime. The price may vary depending on where you buy it.
You could get eucalyptus scented candles instead. There are a lot of eucalyptus scented candles available online on Amazon.
Where Can I Buy Eucalyptus Leaves?
Eucalyptus trees are native to Australia, but you can find the leaves online or maybe in your local store. I'm based in Southern California, so I find my favorite eucalyptus bouquet at my local farmers market, flower shop, or grocery store. I've seen eucalyptus fresh leaves at Trader Joe's, Vons, & some grocery stores by the flower section. Get some at the grocery store or you might be able to find it at craft stores too! Buy fresh dried eucalyptus leaves on Amazon.
How to keep eucalyptus fresh?
Care Tip: Shake off the leaves after every shower to avoid gnats or rotting. Preserve eucalyptus stems with this tip. The green fresh eucalyptus bunch leaves can be flat & hold a lot of water. Get the most from your leaves. Shake it, shake it, shake it like a Polaroid picture! Hey yaaa! After you turn off the water, shake as much water from the hanging leaves as you can. Get as much off as possible. Then you're ready to go. The eucalyptus leaf keeps the water if you don't shake it off & it takes hours to dry (if it dries at all).How Long Do Eucalyptus Leaves Last in the Shower?
How long does fresh eucalyptus last in the shower? Well, how frequently do you use it? Is your family of 6 using one shower 8 times per day? If that's the case, it's better to count the number of uses the leaves got, rather than the days. It ultimately depends how frequently you shower & how you care for the bundle of leaves. If the eucalyptus shower gets used multiple times a day, it may last two to three weeks or so. We had our hanging eucalyptus branches for two to three weeks, went on a 3-week trip, & came back to the most fragrant, fantastic scent of eucalyptus wafting through the bathroom. We used it for one more week before heading to the farmers market for a new bundle. If you use your shower a lot, the leaves won't last as long in terms of days. Buy fresh dried eucalyptus leaves on Amazon.Can I Use Eucalyptus Oil Instead?
Of course! You may use whatever you have on hand. I dabbled with oil eucalyptus for several years. It all started in 2014 with my very first bottle of eucalyptus essential oil. I prefer the fresh leaves because the scent is much more potent than the essential oils. But the eucalyptus essential oil is convenient & travel-friendly since you may take a small bottle with you wherever you go. Click here for my favorite eucalyptus essential oil (*affiliate link). Eucalyptus oil still has benefits too! You can also buy real eucalyptus leaves on Amazon. The oil of eucalyptus is a good alternative if you can't find the fresh version. It's important to be careful when applying eucalyptus oil to your skin.What Does Eucalyptus Leaves Smell Like?
What does eucalyptus smell like? Hmm good question. The eucalyptus smell is potent. has a potent, in-your-face smell kind of like spearmint or pine. The oil itself might smell different than the leaf but overall it's natural, earthy, & menthol-y. It might be considered similar to camphor or cedar. Think something along those lines as far as the smell. However, the fresh version will be milder than the oil version.
You might ask yourself, so...what're the eucalyptus bunch benefits? What are the common uses? Can it be used on a daily basis? It smells fantastic. It's a natural room perfume aromatherapy. But in addition to that, it may help clear your sinuses, nasal congestion or a stuffy nose. Just inhale the eucalyptus steam as you shower. You may want to add it to your routine. It might be worth it rather than have to get some similar product from the pharmacy.
So yes, while fresh eucalyptus oil from the leaves and steam is the best option you may use essential oils, hanging dried leaves, or whatever you want to start with. Some people have different preferences.
What Can You Do With Fresh Eucalyptus Leaves?
You might ask yourself, so...what're the eucalyptus bunch benefits? What are the common uses? Can it be used on a daily basis? It smells fantastic. It's a natural room perfume aromatherapy. But in addition to that, it may help clear your sinuses, nasal congestion or a stuffy nose. Just inhale the eucalyptus steam as you shower. You may want to add it to your routine. It might be worth it rather than have to get some similar product from the pharmacy.
So yes, while fresh eucalyptus oil from the leaves and steam is the best option you may use essential oils, hanging dried leaves, or whatever you want to start with. Some people have different preferences.
It's Pretty
Last but certainly not least, hanging eucalyptus bundles to your shower head is aesthetically pleasing. It looks beautiful hanging in the shower. The green leaves ad a touch of natural ambiance and aromatherapy to your bathroom. If you want to add a touch of freshness into your bathroom, this is a relatively simple way to do so. You could opt for preserved eucalyptus instead. If you want the leaves to last even longer, get creative. Add eucalyptus stems to a jar or vase in your bathroom rather than hanging it up in the shower. It won't really have I scent but it's worth a shot for the vibes. If you're crafty, you can make projects with the leftover dried leaves. What would you make? If you found this post, it's a sign.
How have you seen people use eucalyptus leaves in the shower or to your shower head? Is it something you'd be willing to try out or are you just dabbling for now? I love the way it looks hanging in my bathroom & the way it smells & the way it makes me feel rejuvenated. It feels like this topic is so popular right now. Every influencer has some leaves in their shower or somebody talked about it in a magazine. This is something I've been doing for years now & it's part of my daily routine. My friends know I do it. I've converted friends into it trying out. So finally I decided to write about it! I hope this brought you value.
Do you use eucalyptus leaves or oils eucalyptus in the shower? If you prefer the oil, how do you like to use it? Leave a comment! Tell me about your experience. Feel free to ask a question! What are some of the eucalyptus benefits you've found? Any other ways it can be used? Add a luxurious touch of natural aromatherapy to your next shower.
About Me
Hi, thanks for making it all the way down here. I'm Carmen, a writer & social media manager based in San Diego, California. I like to travel, eat tostadas, & drink hot Earl Grey tea whenever possible. Learn more about my Press + Media page to see the brands & companies I've worked with in the past. I've created content for a range of travel, lifestyle, & food brands.
* Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. Learn more about my disclosure. :]
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