3 'E's of Self-Care: Escape, Enjoy, & Enhance

Prioritizing self-care is non-negotiable for me. It's not just a luxury, it's a necessity. Recognizing that to operate at my peak, I must consistently partake in what I call the 3 'E's of self-care: Escape, Enjoy, and Enhance. These pillars of self-care have deeply resonated with me. These three little words hold so much power and have become my personal mantra, guiding me towards a more balanced and fulfilling life.

Escape

Escape embodies the essence of taking a breather, carving out a haven where I can just exist, away from the noise of daily life. When it comes to Escape, I prioritize creating moments of tranquility amidst the chaos of everyday life. It involves disconnecting from the frenzy, reconnecting with my inner self through activities like immersing myself in a captivating book, journaling, or simply embracing a quiet moment of reflection. I cherish these opportunities to reconnect with my inner self and recharge my spirit.

Tuedays with Kerin: Sleep & Relaxation

Happy Tuesday!

I'm feeling absolutely fantastic this morning! I had a restful 6 hours of sleep last night, with a solid 90 minutes of deep sleep – a rare feat for me that I'm over the moon about. Lately, I've been hitting the hay earlier, and it seems to be doing wonders for my sleep quality. While I've been relying on my trusty melatonin gummies, I'm contemplating giving them a break tonight. As we dive headfirst into the sleep segment of my 30-day wellness challenge, I'm optimistic that my sleep patterns will only continue to get better from here on out.

Reflecting on last week, it started off a bit lackluster, but things took a turn for the better towards the end. A last-minute online early screening of  The Idea of You on Wednesday night brought unexpected joy to my day – Anne Hatha-slay truly never fails to impress! The resurgence of romantic comedies has me excited! Speaking of, I've got my sights set on catching  Anyone But You when it hits Netflix this weekend.

How I Stay Motivated on My Fitness Journey, Even When the Road Seems Endless

As I lace up my running shoes and hit the pavement, I can't help but reflect on the ups and downs of my fitness journey.  From the triumphant feeling of crossing the finish line at my first 5K race to the humbling realization that progress is a gradual process, every step has been a lesson in resilience and determination. It's not always easy, but the marathon mentality I've adopted keeps me motivated and moving forward.

Understanding the Marathon Mentality

Ah, the marathon mentality – it's not just about crossing the finish line, but the journey that leads us there. Unlike short-term goals that focus on immediate results, the marathon mentality is all about the long game. It's about embracing the process, acknowledging that progress takes time, and staying committed to the bigger picture. It's about understanding that setbacks are just bumps in the road, not the end of the journey.

Embracing the marathon mentality means shifting our mindset from quick fixes to sustainable habits. It's about setting goals that are challenging yet achievable, keeping our eyes on the prize even when the road gets rocky. While short-term goals may provide instant gratification, the marathon mentality offers lasting fulfillment. It's about building a strong foundation for long-term success, knowing that each step we take brings us closer to our ultimate destination.

Tuesdays with Kerin: A Sleepy Update

Happy Wednesday!

So, I'm a little tardy to the party with this update, but life happens, right?  I hope you're all doing well! Apologies for the delayed update; I've been a bit under the weather lately, dealing with a touch of melancholy and some rough bouts of sleep paralysis. It's strange how these episodes come and go in waves. If anyone has tips on managing sleep paralysis, I'm all ears. It's been adding to my sleep anxiety, which isn't ideal.

Speaking of sleep, I've been popping these melatonin gummies like they're candy. They're like a little slice of sleep heaven, but I'm trying not to get too hooked. I mean, who wants to be dependent on gummies for shut-eye, right?  They've been a comfort, though, and I feel like they've been doing wonders for my rest. Last week, I actually surpassed my sleep goal, averaging a solid 7 hours per night! As I gear up for the sleep phase of my 30-day challenge, I'm realizing the importance of establishing a more consistent bedtime routine.

Tuesdays with Kerin: 9 Days In

Happy Tuesday!

So, here I am, 9 days deep into my 30-day wellness challenge, and I must say, things have been going well – pun totally intended! The physical health challenges were a piece of cake, and now we've transitioned to focusing on nutrition. Admittedly, I did have a little slip-up already. The goal yesterday was to incorporate a serving of fruits or vegetables with every meal. While I managed to have a hearty serving of cabbage during lunch yesterday, I fell short because I didn't eat breakfast and dinner. Nevertheless, it's all about progress, not perfection, right?

I got back into the swing of things with my training last week. Four runs, two killer training sessions for both upper and lower body, and even squeezed in a 30-minute mobility session. Ah, it felt so good to be consistent again! On the running front, I conquered my longest distance yet - a 7K, which is equal to just under 4.5 miles. Surprisingly, I completed it in nearly an hour, surpassing my own expectations. Who knew I had it in me? Just gotta triple that distance, and boom, I'll be ready for a half-marathon!

In My Wellness Era: My Journey to a Happier & Healthier Life

Wellness is incredibly important to me because it encompasses all aspects of my well-being – physical, mental, and emotional. It is a holistic approach to living a balanced and fulfilling life. When I first embarked on my health journey, my main focus was on fitness and physical health. It all began with my decision to start weight training. At first, it was a simple desire to improve my physical strength and tone my body. Little did I know that this decision would have a profound impact on all aspects of my well-being. 

My Fitness Era 

During my fitness journey, I gradually transitioned into a more balanced approach to wellness. It all began with my decision to venture into weight training, a realm I was unfamiliar with. Starting from scratch, I found myself gradually developing newfound strength and seeing improvements in my endurance. As I became more committed to my training regimen, I realized that the benefits extended far beyond just building muscle.

One unexpected consequence of my weight training was a positive shift in my eating habits. I started to pay closer attention to the fuel I was putting into my body, recognizing that nourishing it with wholesome foods was essential for optimal performance and recovery. This newfound awareness led me to make healthier choices, embracing a balanced and nutritious approach to my meals. The impact was incredible. This change in my eating habits not only helped me reach my fitness goals faster, but it also made me feel better overall. I had more energy and was able to perform better during my workouts.

Tuesdays With Kerin: The Return

Welcome back to another edition of Tuesdays with Kerin! I know, I know, you've been eagerly awaiting my return, right? I'm thrilled to be reconnecting with all of you for our weekly catch-up session. For my loyal followers, you already know the drill, but for those new to the scene, this is where I spill the tea on what's been happening in my world each week.

So, this week has been pretty chill for me. I laced up my running shoes and tackled another 5k race because apparently, I just can't get enough of them. It's my fourth one this year, if you count the virtual race I did to make up for oversleeping on the Lucky Charm 5k. Whoops!

I've been trying to get back into my running groove after taking a little hiatus. It feels like I'm starting from scratch, but hey, I'm determined to push through and get my endurance back. It's probably a good idea to reincorporate strength training into my routine to enhance my stamina for those long runs. Back when I achieved my personal best, I was diligently hitting the weights. Fortunately, my home gym is decked out with all the necessary gear, so I can sweat it out without stepping foot outside.

I've got about 4 weeks left in my 5k training block, and my goal is to conquer a 34-minute 5k. Then, it's on to 10k training. The grind never stops!

Makeup, Breakup, and Makeup Again

Have you ever felt like your relationship with makeup was more than just cosmetics? I certainly have. As a makeup enthusiast, my journey with cosmetics has been a rollercoaster of self-expression and self-doubt. It all started with a love for creativity and self-expression through makeup. But as time went on, my relationship with makeup became a crutch, a mask I couldn't take off. At one point, I found myself so entrenched in the world of makeup that I couldn't bear to face the world without it. The daily ritual of applying layers of foundation and mascara became more of a necessity than a choice, leading to a detrimental impact on both my skin and mental well-being.

I had to reevaluate my relationship with makeup and rediscover the joy of embracing my bare face. The breakup with makeup was necessary for my skin and mental health. And now, I have found the confidence to rock makeup again, not as a crutch but as a tool for creativity and expression. 

Confessions of A Proud Introvert

Welcome to my little corner of the internet, where I, a proud introvert, am ready to spill the tea on what it's really like to live life on the quieter side. Let's face it, being an introvert in a world that favors the loud and the outgoing can be tough. We introverts often find ourselves labeled as shy, rude, or even snobbish – when really, we're just trying to navigate this extroverted world in our own quiet way. 

Get ready to discover that us introverts aren't just antisocial hermits – we're complex, thoughtful individuals with a lot to offer the world. It's time to dive into the truths, unravel the mysteries, and celebrate the quirks of introverted life. Without further ado, here are 10 honest confessions about me as an introvert.

Why I Have a Blog ( And You Should Too)?

Writing has always been a passion of mine, and over the years, I've found that it's not just a hobby but a form of self-expression that holds immense value. I remember the first time I started my blog, pouring my thoughts and experiences onto the digital pages, unsure if anyone would ever read them. But regardless of the number of readers, I quickly realized the importance of writing and the impact it can have on our lives. It's a way to connect with ourselves and others, a therapeutic outlet for our thoughts, and a vehicle for personal growth and self-discovery. And it's truly why I continue to pour my heart and soul into this little corner of the internet.

The Value of Writing

Growing up, I was always lost in my own little world, filled with characters and stories that felt so real to me. Writing became my outlet to bring these thoughts to life and embark on a journey of self-discovery through words. Starting my blog was a big step for me. It was a way to share my thoughts and experiences with others, even if no one was reading. The act of writing itself was so fulfilling, allowing me to express myself authentically and freely.

Ready, Set, Run! A Beginner's Guide to Getting Started on Your Running Journey

Hello there, future runner! Ready to lace up those shoes, take a deep breath, and embark on an extraordinary journey? You've landed in the right place! We'll delve into the fascinating world of running in this blog post and offer you all the necessary tools and tips to hit the ground running. Whether you're a complete novice or seeking to enhance your skills, I've got you covered. So, let’s embark on this exhilarating adventure together!

Benefits of Running

Running can be an immensely rewarding activity. It not only boosts your physical health but also offers ample mental benefits. Mental clarity is one of the unexpected joys I discovered on my running journey. There's something about hitting the pavement that helps shed the stress and worries of the day. 

Plus, it's an effective way to explore the great outdoors and connect with a supportive community. Running has a unique way of fostering a sense of community. During races or running events, you get to meet like-minded individuals from all walks of life. The camaraderie and shared adrenaline are incredible. 

With the right preparation and mindset, anyone can become a runner. I believe running isn’t just about the destination but also about the journey itself. Thus, it’s crucial for beginners to approach it with positivity and patience.

My Natural Hair Journey: From Big Chop to Waist Length - The Transformation and Tips I Learned Along the Way

February 2024

 Hey there, lovely people of the world! I am thrilled to open up about my natural hair journey with all of you today. It has been one heck of a ride since I made the decision to transition from relaxed to natural hair. There have been highs and lows, moments of self-discovery, and a whole lot of experimenting with hair products. But here I am today, absolutely over the moon to tell you that my once damaged and short hair has transformed into a beautiful mane that reached waist length at its longest. I've since cut it to a more manageable bra-strap length, which suits me better personally.

I want to take you along on this journey of mine, sharing the good, the bad, and the ugly. I'll let you in on the tips and tricks I've picked up along the way, as well as the setbacks I've faced. It's been a journey of transformation, and I can't wait to spill all the details with you. So, are you ready to dive in with me? Let's do this!

Saving Bucks like a Pro: The Top Ten Tricks That Keep My Bank Account Happy

Hello, savvy savers! Are you ready to take control of your personal finances and keep your wallet grinning from ear to ear? Well, you're in luck. Today, I'll be sharing my top ten tricks for saving money like a real professional. We'll delve into the world of savings, discussing why it's so vital and exploring various strategies to make it happen. We all understand the importance of saving cash. It could be for an emergency fund, a dream purchase, or to reach our financial goals. Let's get started! 

1. Set Clear Financial Goals 

It's like going on a journey. You wouldn't hit the road without knowing your destination, would you? The same goes for your financial journey. Setting clear financial goals forms the foundation of good money-saving habits. They give you a clear path, a sense of direction, and a finish line to aspire to.

So how do we set these goals? Well, it's crucial to keep them realistic and measurable. Don't aim to save a million bucks in a month if you're earning a fraction of that. Start small, and as your income grows, scale your goals upwards. Remember to put a timeline on your goals. It could be short-term, like saving for a vacation, or long-term, like saving for retirement. Having a timeframe in place helps maintain focus and motivation. Finally, your goals must align with your values. If you're passionate about travel, saving for a globetrotting adventure will feel less like a chore and more like an exciting endeavor.

Master the Art of Saving: Tips for a Successful No Buy/No Spend Journey!

Are you ready to master the art of saving? If you're tired of constantly spending money and want to take control of your finances, then you've come to the right place. In this blog post, we'll be diving into the world of the No Buy/No Spend Journey. But what exactly does that mean? Well, it's all about challenging yourself to refrain from making unnecessary purchases and focusing on saving instead. And let me tell you, the benefits of embarking on this journey are truly remarkable. From having more money in your bank account to reducing clutter in your life, you'll be amazed at what you can achieve.

So, grab a cup of coffee and let's get started on this exciting journey of financial freedom!

Assess Your Spending Habits

To embark on this journey, first, we need to confront the enemy: our spending habits. Begin by tracking your expenses. This simple practice will provide a clear picture of where your money goes each month. Once you start, you might be shocked to discover how those seemingly small purchases can pile up.

Next, identify your problem areas. These are the sneaky purchases that creep into your spending without you realizing, such as regular takeout or those weekend online shopping sprees. Recognizing these areas is the first step towards taking control of them.

Having identified your problem areas and tracked your expenses, the next step is setting your savings goals. The key here is to be realistic. Trying to save half of your salary in a month may sound great but it might not be feasible. Your goals must be achievable; otherwise, they may discourage you.

No Spend Lent: How I'm Daring to Ditch the Dollar for 40 Days

It's Ash Wednesday today! A happy Ash Wednesday to you! Now, I'm not sure if people usually greet each other like this on Ash Wednesday, but it's a significant day because it marks the beginning of the Lenten season. Although I'm not a Catholic, I attended a Catholic school for four years. During this time, I was introduced to the practice of observing Lent, and I've adopted the practice into my life.

For those who may not know, Lent is a significant Catholic religious observance that occurs every year. It's a time to remember the 40 days that Jesus Christ spent fasting in the desert, facing temptation from Satan, all before he began his public ministry, as narrated in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke. 

Lent isn't just about remembering these biblical events. It's also a season of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. It starts on Ash Wednesday and ends at sundown on Holy Thursday. The purpose of this season is to prepare for the celebration of the Lord's Resurrection at Easter. So, during Lent, we strive to connect with the Lord in prayer by reading Sacred Scripture, serve others through giving alms, and practice self-control through fasting.

Most people observing Lent choose to either give something up or take on something new during these 40 days. The idea is that this sacrifice will bring you closer to God. This is the part of Lenten practice that I personally resonate with. I don't usually abstain from eating meat on Fridays, but perhaps I might give it a shot this year.

From Frustration to Freedom: Why I'm Finally Giving Up on Growing on Instagram

From now on, I'm stepping away from the crazy rat race of trying to grow my following on Instagram. It's become such an unnecessary source of stress, and, honestly, I’ve had enough. You might have noticed that my blog posts have been dwindling. That's because I've been spending an inordinate amount of time figuring out what to post on Instagram. What will attract more followers? What do they want to see from me? And the truth is, I don’t really know. But I've reached a point where I don't care anymore. 

When I first launched Kerin's Korner in 2017, my goal was never to amass a huge following, especially not on Instagram. I wasn't even an Instagram user back then. I simply switched my personal account to a business one to promote my blog content. However, as my followers began to grow, so did the pressure to create Instagram-exclusive content. I remember hitting the 500 followers mark and feeling so thrilled. They were genuine followers, real people who truly cared about what I had to say. 

Now, my follower count hovers around 1800, but it dips a little more each day. I question the authenticity of most of them. I reckon about 500 of them are genuinely interested in my content. I toyed with the idea of starting anew with a fresh Instagram account to better engage and grow my audience. I even did some research on how to go about it. But, after much contemplation, I realized that's not the real problem. The issue lies in my reluctance to create content purely for Instagram growth. 

My Hair Care Secrets: Unveiling My Long Type 4 Hair Wash Routine

Hello there, my wonderful readers! I'm ecstatic to let you in on my hair care secrets today, dedicated primarily to my long Type 4 hair wash routine. Look, I've got Type 4 hair, so I completely get the unique obstacles and misunderstandings that come with caring for this gorgeous texture. Hence, I'd love to walk you through my tried-and-true routine, every step of the way. Believe me when I say that a consistent hair wash regime is critical for maintaining the health and vitality of Type 4 hair. So, let's immerse ourselves in the realm of curls, coils, and kinks, and let me show you exactly how I keep my long Type 4 hair looking and feeling top-notch!

New Year, New You: How to Stay Fit and Fabulous (Without Giving Up Pizza)

Photo by Peter Bravo de los Rios on Unsplash

Ah, the familiar refrain of "New Year, New You!" We all know it well. It's the echo bouncing off the gym walls, the mantra written in bold across our diaries, the promise we make to ourselves as the clock strikes midnight on December 31st. And yet, amidst the sea of resolve and ambition, there's a slice of reality we can't ignore: pizza is life.

Okay, maybe that's a bit exaggerated. But the point remains, we love our pizza or cake or $5 Biggie Bag (if you know, you know😉). And why should we have to give it up in the name of fitness? The good news is, we don't have to. This blog post is devoted to showing you how you can maintain a fit and healthy lifestyle without bidding adieu to your beloved pizza. So, grab a slice (or two), sit back, and get ready to embark on your wellness journey without letting go of your favorite indulgence.

I've Slipped Up with My Nutrition Habits, but Here's My Game Plan to Get Back on Track

It's time for some real talk. Lately, I've been slipping up with my nutrition habits. Life has been hectic, and I've found myself reaching for convenient, unhealthy options more often than I'd like to admit. But hey, we're all human, right? The important thing is recognizing when we've veered off course and having a game plan to get back on track. That's exactly what I want to share with you today - my personal journey of slipping up on nutrition habits and my game plan for getting back on track. So, grab a cup of tea and let's dive in because we're in this together.

Introduction

Allow me to elaborate on our topic of discussion. It's easy to fall into the trap of unhealthy eating habits, especially when life gets busy. Suddenly, before you know it, you're off the health wagon and into the fast-food drive-thru. It's something I've personally experienced recently. Having a game plan to get back on track is crucial. It's like a roadmap that guides you back to your health goals when you've taken a detour. With this in mind, my goal today is to shed some light on my journey and share my strategy for getting back to healthier habits. So, why is this necessary? It's simple. Our dietary habits significantly influence our health, energy levels, and overall quality of life. Regularly consuming unhealthy food can lead to issues like weight gain, fatigue, and even more severe health problems.

5 Misconceptions of Starting Your Fitness Journey: Let's Get Real, People!

Hey there, fitness enthusiasts and soon-to-be fitness fanatics! Are you ready to embark on a journey that will transform your body and mind? Well, before you lace up those sneakers and start pumping iron like a maniac, let's take a moment to debunk some common fitness myths that might be holding you back. Trust me, separating fact from fiction will save you from a world of pain and confusion. So, grab a protein shake, sit back, and get ready to be enlightened!

We all know that starting a fitness journey can be as overwhelming as trying to pick the perfect avocado in the supermarket. There's just so much information out there, and it's hard to know what's true and what's just a load of sweaty hogwash. But fear not, my friends, because today we're going to set the record straight and expose those pesky misconceptions that have been sabotaging your fitness dreams.

Now, I could give you a long, boring lecture filled with scientific jargon and fancy fitness terms, but where's the fun in that? Instead, let's approach this with a sense of humor and a sprinkle of sarcasm, shall we? After all, laughter is the best ab workout, right? So, tighten those abs and let's dive into the hilarious world of fitness myths!

But before we jump into the myths, let me remind you of one crucial thing: fitness is not a one-size-fits-all journey. Everyone's body is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. So, listen to your body, be kind to yourself, and let's bust these myths together.

Ready? Let's go!

Running a 5K: How I Crushed My Goal and Crossed the Finish Line

I'm thrilled to finally share my journey with you because, yes, you guessed it right! I did it! I ran a 5K and crushed my goal right out of the ballpark. I'm not going to lie, there were days filled with self-doubt where I questioned my ability to cross that finish line. But, guess what? I did it! And if I can do it, believe me, you can too. So buckle up as I take you on my journey from being a non-runner to a triumphant 5K finisher.

Introduction

Everyone has a dream. For me, it was tackling a 5K run. But why? Well, it was simple. The milestones I'd set for my fitness journey were incremental, and a 5K felt like the right next step. It wasn't just about losing weight or looking fit. Running a 5K was a tangible goal I could work towards, something I could measure in time, distance, and endurance. It was about making a promise to myself and going the extra mile to keep it.

For some background, I should say I ran in high school, but I was a sprinter and I hadn't done any sort of running since then. My physical activity was limited to mostly walks and I had started weight training a few months prior to beginning my 5K training. For all intents and purposes, I was a novice runner - certainly a novice distance runner. I had the desire to run a 5K for a while. I've walked a 5K every year on Thanksgiving for the past couple of years, but last year, I decided it was high time to buck up and charge towards my desire for better health and mental strength. This 5K wasn't just a race, it was a battle against myself and my limitations.

To be honest, looking back, the journey was far from easy. There were days when I wanted to throw in the towel, days when my legs felt like lead, and days when I questioned my sanity for setting such a challenging goal. But I stuck to my guns. I dug my feet in, pushed through the pain, the doubts, and the exhaustion, and made it to the other side. And boy, was it worth it!

Leveling Up: New Healthy Habits I'm Embracing This Year - Join Me!

Hello World!

I'm so excited to share with you some of the new healthy habits I'm incorporating into my life this year, and I invite you to join me on this journey of growth and self-improvement. In this post, I'll be covering a range of topics, from prioritizing self-care and incorporating physical activity, to mindful eating, cultivating a positive mindset, getting enough sleep, setting realistic goals, and more. So let's dive in and explore these new habits together, shall we?

Introduction

Leveling up—in essence, it means going a step above your current state. It's about seeking growth, embracing change, and striving to become a better version of oneself. This concept is not merely confined to video games or professional progression. It applies to our personal lives too, especially when it comes to our health and well-being. Healthy habits play a crucial role in our overall wellness. What we eat, how much we sleep, our physical activity levels, our mindset—each of these factors contributes to our health in significant ways. While we might not see immediate effects, consistent healthy habits help us level up our lives in the long run. Here are some healthy habits, I'll be incorporating this year.

Becoming the Best Version of Myself: How 2023 Transformed Me into a Healthier and Wealthier Individual

Hello World!

Can you believe it's already 2024? As I sit here reflecting on the past year, I can't help but feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude and accomplishment. You see, 2023 was the year that transformed me into a healthier and wealthier individual, and I couldn't be more proud of the progress I've made. The concept of "becoming the best version of oneself" is often tossed around, but it wasn't until 2023 that I truly understood its power. Today, I want to take you on a journey through my personal transformation and share with you how I became the best version of myself. From prioritizing physical health to nurturing mental well-being, and from achieving financial growth to reflecting on personal growth, this blog post will cover it all. So grab a cozy blanket, a warm cup of tea, and let's dive in!

Introduction

Photo by Estúdio Bloom on Unsplash

We've all heard the phrase "be the best version of yourself." It's something of a mantra in self-help circles, but it can often feel like a vague and nebulous concept. It wasn't until last year that I grasped the true meaning of this mantra and took it to heart. I decided to mold myself into the best I could be – physically, mentally, and financially.

My life before 2023 was comfortable, but it lacked direction and fulfillment. I was drifting along, living life on autopilot. I was physically unfit, mentally tired, and financially unstable. The dissatisfaction kept gnawing at me until one day, it dawned on me - I deserved better, and I was the only one who could make it happen. I decided to hit the reset button in 2023.

The year 2023 was a revelation! Through the course of the year, I made conscious, deliberate choices which had a significant impact on my life. From choosing to eat healthier, incorporating physical activities into my daily routine, prioritizing mental health – I realized that becoming the best version of oneself is an inside job.