New Year Self-Care

I’m not one for making grand New Years’ Eve resolutions, but when January 1st rolls around, I do like to evaluate things and decide if there are any changes I want to make – whether it’s rearranging my schedule, adjusting priorities or committing to something that’s important to me…the beginning of the year is a perfect time to sit down & make a new plan.  Taking care of my body is always a top priority for me because it’s essential to managing my Lupus symptoms & keeping my disease in remission as much as possible.

Since my diagnosis in 2014, I’ve learned so much & I’ve had to come to a place of acceptance in regards to my physical limitations.  I will never be a hard core fitness star or someone who can run multiple marathons because my body simply won’t let me…and that’s okay.  Rather than fighting that, I’ve chosen instead to pour my energy into replenishing my immune system, healing my body & doing what I can (even if some days that means just gentle stretching).  Making a weekly exercise plan is great, but really listening to my body is even more important so I don’t get run-down or overdo it.

So, if you’re heading into the new year with a plan to recommit to physical fitness & self-care, I want to encourage you to give yourself grace – you don’t have to live in the black & white in order to achieve your goals.  Your journey will be a much more enjoyable one if you can learn to be flexible & make adjustments along the way.  Allow yourself treats, take days off & find a healthy balance that works best for you!

I’ve always believed that one of the keys to having a consistent workout schedule is having the right gear.  And I think we can all agree that we’re more motivated to hit the gym when we have something cute to wear that we feel good in!  So, today I’m sharing 3 new activewear looks with you that I’ve specifically tailored to different workouts – no matter what type of exercise is your go-to, I’ve got you covered.  And they’re all on sale now as part of Lord & Taylor’s New Year, New You Sale – get an extra 15% off regular & sale-priced styles now through January 8th using code NEWYEAR!

I tend to be the most picky about workout pants, so I wanted to really put these to the test before sharing my honest reviews with you.  So, for each of these looks, I actually wore them for a full workout to see if they were easy to move around in, comfortable & held their shape.  All three were slightly different (which I’ll share in more detail below), but I was very impressed with the quality, so I feel 100% confident recommending them to you today.

These leggings have the lowest compression of the three pairs I’m wearing here, which would make them best for a spin class, strength training or Barre.  They are super soft & comfortable and I liked the moto detailing, which gives them a cool, modern vibe.  Plus, they’re under $14 – such a steal!  I ordered my usual size & found that they stretched a bit with wear & movement, so I would recommend sizing down in these so you don’t have to worry about pulling them up throughout the day.

Words cannot describe how obsessed I am with this top – I mean, how cool is the texture?!  And it has thumb holes + pockets in the front!!  This is one of those “special pieces” that is a bit of a splurge, but it’s so unique.  I had never heard of this brand before but, as you’ll notice, several of the items I’m wearing here are by them.  Their styles can be somewhat expensive at full price, so it’s great to snatch them up while they’re on sale.

These are definitely the coolest sneakers I own & I was so impressed with the quality for the price!  I probably wouldn’t run in these, but they are perfect for a casual weekend or athleisure look.  I love that the color is a lighter neutral, which will be ideal for transitioning into the spring (recommend going down a half size in these as they run a little big).

What I’m wearing:
c/o Shape Funnelneck Top, c/o Askya Sports Bra,
c/o Askya Moto Leggings, c/o Timberland Knit Sneakers

When I’m running or going to Zumba class, I want to wear pieces that will stay put & hold everything in.  These pants have a high compression (which I love) and they were definitely my favorite of the bunch.  The colorblocking is subtle but gives them a little more interest than solid black leggings.  I also picked up the matching sports bra because I loved the longer length & I threw this cute puffer jacket on top, which is surprisingly warm for how thin it is!

What I’m wearing:
c/o Design Lab Puffer Jacket (another option here), c/o Shape Sports Bra,
c/o Shape High-Rise Leggings, c/o Skechers Sneakers

I saved my favorite outfit for last – I honestly didn’t want to take it off!  I’d wear this ensemble to Pilates, yoga or for a walk along the canal.  But you could easily pair the top & vest with jeans & rain boots for a casual weekend look – I love pieces that can do double-duty like that!  I’ve actually been wearing this sweatshirt around the house with joggers & cozy socks – it’s great for lounging around in & you can’t beat the price (only $13.50!).

These pants are a medium compression & they have a high waist, which is great for wearing with cropped tees & long-sleeve tops (my favorite).  I liked the shorter capri length & the mesh detail – just be careful when putting them on so you don’t pull too hard in that area and tear one of the holes!  These run true to size & also come in black – there’s also a hidden pocket for a key or your ID.

What I’m wearing:
c/o Marc New York Quilted Vest, c/o Askya Cropped Sweatshirt,
c/o Shape Capri Leggings, c/o Skechers Sneakers

Thank you to Lord & Taylor and ShopStyle for kindly sponsoring this post.
All opinions are 100% honest & all items were hand-selected by me.

MY ACTIVEWEAR PICKS