Read more from the April Issue and see #TribeGoals in mag.
Featured #TRIBEGOALS
Read more from the April Issue and see #TribeGoals in mag.
We're always asked what's in our bag. We're focusing on what we bring with us to Hot Yoga. Our current obsession is Y7 as a good flow and sweat is sometimes just what the doctor ordered as we battle the up and down temperatures lately. Here are some of our must have beauty and style finds!
Read more from the Feb Issue and see In Our Bag | We're Off to Hot Yoga in mag.
Take the road less travelled. Venture off-the-beaten path. Escape the tourist trail.
Such route-based clichés are thrown around with wild abandon when we refer to travel. But there’s one we seldom remember to advise upon: Get back on your sleep track, when you return.
Ok, so it might be a less catchy piece of advice. And you’re unlikely to see it adorning posters in a travel agent’s window, or on a piece of distressed wood in a hipster coffee joint. But it’s one that’s well worth bearing in mind.
After all, travelling isn’t all paradise beaches or perfect sunsets. It’s cancelled flights, dodgy stomachs and lost passports. Sure, there’s the adventure of the unknown; but there’s also the loneliness, chaos and pure exhaustion of being thrown into a surreal environment. It can be downright stressful, at times! And of course, it can wreak havoc on your sleep patterns.
A combination of different hotel rooms, overnight buses and noisy neighbours can make it hard enough to sleep when you’re away. Then there’s the homecoming – when you have to readjust to a new time zone, catch up on all the sleep you’ve missed during your journey and get used to it being dark during your morning commute when just last week, you were up for a sunrise jog on the beach 3 hours before.
Such disturbances to your sleep can make those post-holiday blues a whole lot darker. Luckily, I’ve got a few tips to help you stay in the light.
Climbing into bed after a long journey might seem like the best idea in the world...until you wake up in the middle of the night, thinking it’s breakfast time. Or not being able to get up before 2pm for a week after you’ve landed.
Unfortunately, giving into the temptation to crash out post-trip is a sure-fire way to jetlag. This knock to your sleeping pattern will leave you feeling lethargic, irritable and emotional. On the other hand, by making it through a day of pure exhaustion when you land, then having an amazing, deep sleep that night, you’ll feel like a new person come morning!
I know which person I’d rather be after my holiday.
Not to be a total killjoy here but jumping straight into a “welcome home, me!” party when you land isn’t a great idea, either. Sure, you might be high on adrenaline and excitement that night but the repercussions can last for days…giving jet lag another look in when you should be kicking it firmly to the kerb.
My advice? Lie low for at least a day or two when you land. Get to sleep a little earlier than usual and allow yourself more time in bed in the morning, too. Catch up on missed sleep in those first few days and you’ll look better, feel healthier and be more energetic for that reunion when the time comes!
Of course, the travel bug is something that you’ll probably never shake off. But there are other bugs linked to travel that you definitely can…like the mysterious flu that always seems to kick in right after take-off.
Whether it’s the cabin pressure, or the combination of a laughably thin blanket and ice-cold air con or the hotbed of germs that long-haul journeys seem to involve, falling ill after a flight is a fairly common occurrence.
To avoid this happening to you, drink plenty of water during the flight, make sure to get enough sleep between movies and steer clear of caffeine and alcohol if you can. (I know. The teeny flight bottles are so cute. But they’re not your friend.)
After you get home, keep your hydration and Vitamin C levels up with plenty of orange juice and bundle up in lots of layers to help your body adjust to the change in climate. If you must show off that new beach dress, at least pair it with leggings and boots!
By staying healthy when you land, you’ll be able to sleep more easily; and better sleep will lead to you feeling even healthier! Win-win.
Whether it’s your partner sensibly talking you out of a mid-week cocktail party (you’re not still on holidays, after all!) or the experts who know their sleep stuff, be willing to take whatever advice is offered. Take it with a pinch or with a shaker of salt if you prefer but take it all the same!
Because if you’ve just returned home from a trip, with full-on travel blues, chances are you won’t be in the soundest of minds. And if you’re sleep-deprived, you’re probably feeling more irritable, less motivated and incapable of making wise decisions. On the other hand, if you take the advice of those around you and get to bed early, rest rather than partying and so on…well, let’s just say you’ll know what’s good for you come morning!
Your eating, sleep and work habits will improve, making the return to reality a whole lot easier.
That’s about all for now, travel fans! Here’s to a great trip, wherever you go next…and to sweeter dreams when you return.
When you grow up in a creative family, you get to try your hand at a number of things to find out what works for you. Gia Mantegna grew up in the industry and has been acting since she was a kid, is a singer and in addition to her roles, can say that she has been able to spend quality time on set as a fellow actor with her dad, Joe Mantegna in the nail-biting series, Criminal Minds.
We sat down with Gia to talk about how she got into acting, what it's like to be on Criminal Minds, playing dramatic characters with a twist, her new show that is available now on CW Seed, what's going on with her music and some of her go to places in LA as well as when she's here in NYC.
ATHLEISURE MAG: When did the acting bug hit you?
GIA MANTEGNA: I started acting at a really young age in school. I think I was about 11 when I started theater and that’s kind of where I got the bug. I had obviously grown up in the business
because my dad is an actor.
AM: We’re huge fans of him!
GM: Yeah, yeah me too! Growing up around that environment and being in that industry it was just something that was second nature to me. And I was like, "when is it my turn?" Being the second born child and always wanting attention, I was known for having this personality and having a need to be heard. The only outlet for that was to sing and to perform - so that’s how it started. Then after doing theater, I started working in film and going to TV and auditioning. It hasn’t stopped yet – knock on wood.
AM: What are some of the roles that you have been in?
GM: My first big gig was a Christmas film called Unaccompanied Minors which was a film directed by Paul Feig. He did Bridesmaids, The Heat, Ghostbusters (Kristen Wiig and Melissa McCarthy) etc. That was my introduction into really working in Hollywood. It was such a great experience working with Paul and the cast. That was a fun role for me and I have done a lot of
spots on TV.
I’m really drawn to the darker roles naturally. I am a positive person, but I love those really weird roles. I did a role on Perception where I played this girl who swallowed knives and it was a strange one, but I loved it. Now comedy is where things are going for me which I also love because it’s harder and comedic timing is hard to do. The dramatic roles come easier to me but
comedy is where I am falling into and where the world is going, it’s nice to laugh a little bit.
AM: How much has your father been an influence on your roles and how has it been also appearing on Criminal Minds with him?
GM: YES oh my gosh. I can’t watch Criminal Minds – I live alone with a cat!
AM: When we travel, it’s always on as a marathon and we get sucked in, but we have to have a buddy and the lights on to watch it!
GM: Oddly enough, I never worked with him on the show. When I first auditioned for the show, I was 17 there was a different actor playing my father and I never had any scenes with him. Then one day, the writers came to me with an idea where my character came back with Aubrey Plaza’s character as they wanted two strong female characters to come back to shake up the
team. Aubrey and I came out to do it and I didn’t have any good dialogue with my dad, but there was this scene where he pointed a gun at me which was really exciting as that is always fun to work with a family member holding a gun in your face. I mean when is that going to happen? Hopefully not. But it was great because I have worked on a number of shows, but Criminal Minds – that cast is such a tight-knit group, they’re a family. They get along and it’s
been running for so long which is a testament to how great it is to be able to step into that show for a few weeks. It was the greatest gig in the world and to be able to hang out with my dad for a bit. The character was fun too as she was psychotic!
AM: Tell us about CW Seed and how we can watch it?
GM: A lot of networks have digital platforms as I think that they are trying to compete with Netflix and things like that. CW Seed (shows you can catch: Riverdale, Original Dynasty) is CW’s answer to that. It’s their digital platform where they create new media and they also run shows that have already been out on the website. You can watch on their website or their app.
Our show, Life After First Failure has myself and Breanne (who plays my best friend on the show), we received the script and we loved that there were two strong female characters
shaking things up – we fell in love with it. We did 3 episodes in Portland and CW Seed ended up breaking it up into 6 episodes - to make it more palatable for the audience.
The way it seems to be going is that it’s all about quick easy content for quick gratification. At first, I was a little disappointed, but it’s the way that things are going now. I like longer episodes, but the younger generation is easily bored and when they’re bored, you lose your audience. But the character was so much fun to play and it was different and new. Honestly, it was one of my favorite people to play.
AM: Is there a second season coming out?
GM: In a perfect world, yes – the hope was that the network would see that there was a strong response to it – but they’re kind of new. So a lot of it has been left to us and social media has really helped in terms of campaigning for the show. We definitely want to come back to do more episodes – right now we’re not sure so we want people to watch and tweet to request more episodes.
AM: We know that you are also a singer can you tell us about how you started that and what your plans are?
GM: I was always singing at a young age. My parents threw me into everything soccer, piano, saxophone etc. Singing stuck with me – my sister and I took lessons at a very young age. Both of my parents have a musical background and it was just one of those things that I always kept in my back pocket, but I was too scared to use and then it got to a point that I really wanted to do a show so I got a producer and a band and we put it together with a show at The Whiskey in LA. It was so great, but there aren’t really any plans as I was starting to work on an album and then acting picked up, but it's always something I go back to. Right now, I record things and sell them to shows and just kind of do it as a hobby.
AM: What is the genre?
GM: It ended up being a rock show when I was at The Whiskey. But the song I’m most proud of, ‘I Won’t Wait’ it’s alternative/electronic. It has a cool vibe to it as I’m inspired by Banks and Tove Lo - just I love that electronic ease and fun. But when I get back into singing, I want to do a lot of oldies covers as I listen to a lot of 70s music. I love Top 40, but I’m inspired by that era. I have been listening to a lot of THEM (Van Morrison’s old band) lately and I thought it would be really fun to do a lot of covers of music that my parents grew up with as that's what I listened to growing up.
AM: What is your personal style when you're going out for brunch versus when you're having a night out?
GM: It doesn’t change – it’s always the same – I’m all black everything – it makes doing laundry very easy. I always dress for winter or fall – I wear Doc Martins all the time, I live in them. I love skinny jeans and a baggy sweatshirt on top. I love jewelry which allows me to go a little crazy and I love makeup! My sister and I went to makeup school just for fun and my sister was really into it – she has autism and is really high functioning, but my parents didn’t want her to go alone so I went as her pal and I ended up loving it. I love playing with makeup looks and it taught me what I could do with makeup – so it’s all about the accessories.
AM: How do you take time for yourself in the midst of your busy schedule?
GM: It’s interesting as an actor, you’re your own boss and there is going to be downtime so you’re always trying to stay proactive. I do piano as much as I can to stay with my music.
I do meditate - big meditator. I tried running for 5 mins. - it was horrible, but I really love yoga. There is a huge yoga culture in LA - which I know is everywhere as well. But I have been doing
yoga for so long that I just do it on my own and I just do it in my trailer. Now that I have this amazing cat in my life, I love meditating and doing yoga at home. I don’t do any high impact – I
don’t. I can’t do it because I have this really weird jaw issue which is a severe form of TMJ where I have to get injections in my masseter muscles. So when I do anything high impact the stress goes to my neck and my face and then I have to go to the Chiropractor and it becomes this whole thing. Everything is low impact and easy – I walk a lot and although LA is not a walking town, I live in West Hollywood so I can do that.
AM: What charity/philanthropy do you do?
GM: Because my sister has autism, I have always been involved in that as it has been a big part of my life and to give back to the community. My family and I do not support Autism Speaks as they have paid celebrities to do endorsements which makes sense, but many don't know what they're talking about and funds have gone to the CEOs and very little of the money is going to autism research. More grassroots organizations is where we go and my dad does a lot of work with veterans so anything that involves them and the military, I am all about it. Autism is big for me and there isn’t one that I champion specifically.
AM: What's on your playlist?
GM: I’ve been listening to a lot of THEM, Van Morrison, Bob Dylan – I went to a concert of his last year and it was so great. I just really love him. Let me grab my phone out. I love Tove Lo and Banks of course. A lot of oldies - OH - Roy Orbison - he's the best for the holidays - I really love his stuff and I have been getting obsessed with Chris Isaak again. OH Tom Jones is my
go to when I'm getting ready, I go to Spotify, put in Tom Jones and listen to everything. It gets crazy and my dad makes fun of me and asks, “why do you listen to my music?” I love it and everything coming out lately now – it’s cool to vibe out to in the background, but I don’t connect with it and it’s not inspirational to me.
AM: When you're in LA, what's 1 place you work out, 1 place you eat at 1 place you shop? What version do you have for that here in NYC?
GM: The answer to most of those questions is home, home, home haha. In NY, I go to McSorley’s Old Ale House - I was just there last night with my mom and my sister. So only in NY
would this take place, we met these two guys where one had just broken up with his wife and one with his girlfriend and they wanted to recreate this picture that they had taken when they were with them at the same bar a few years prior! One ex was blonde and one was brunette and we re-created the picture.
In LA, people are very "don’t talk to me," but in NY it’s so different and they were from Orange County. It was hysterical and the picture was identical and I even arranged everything on the table the same way. McSorley's is my go to.
In LA, I go anywhere although there is this cool Australian bar called The Eveleigh. Serafina just opened in LA so I love that – they’re on Sunset. I work out at home in LA so I just go outside as there is so much hiking you can do and I want to try boxing. For shopping, I am all about ASOS – they have great stuff, affordable and they always have black options. In NY it’s anywhere.
I’m obsessed with shoes, so any shoe store. I love Opening Ceremony and I love Soho in general. Evolution is here and I love them, we have something similar in LA called Necromance, but I haven’t bought anything. Where am I going to put taxidermy squirrels?
My God mom has a store in Toluca Lake near my parents house called Pergolina and she has these beautiful taxidermy animals which she gets from Necromance. Her store is where I get my jewelry and I wear these bracelets all the time. But I’m not a big shopper – I’m an eater – I love to eat. My mom has a restaurant in Burbank called Taste Chicago.
AM: Wait we have heard of Taste Chicago!
GM: I know a lot of people think that it’s my dad’s, but it’s my moms!
AM: Which one is from Chicago?
GM: Both – my whole family is from Chicago and here. We’re here because one of my family members just bought a house in New Jersey. We’re the only ones in LA. We needed to bring Chicago to LA.
AM: So what are we ordering at Taste Chicago?
GM: Chicago dogs, Sicilian Pan Pizza, Deep Dish, Italian Beef, everything – it’s hard core. You don’t go there to get a salad, you go there to work! But I actually prefer NY style pizza haha but I go there for the Italian Beef.
Read more from the Dec Issue and see From LA with Love, Gia Mantegna in mag.
Reverb launched in its current home in April 2017; however, it began as outreach classes in Nov 2016 by founder, Ashley Bell who first taught dance and group fitness in the early 90s.
At Reverb, Center classes and Unwind classes are among their most popular offerings. Center classes allow folks to find the fluid nature of vinyasa practice at a slower pace, and without the shoulder and wrist heavy transitions of that practice. Unwind classes focus entirely on mobility and breath work, allowing the teachers to call on their preferred techniques, such as yin yoga and myofascial release, to unpack stress and tension. People also enjoy the studio's Lotus Flow classes. This dynamic style was created in NYC by Dana Flynn and Jasmine Tarkeshi, and Ashley has 300-hours of training from the Manhattan outpost of that studio, Laughing Lotus.
Community outreach is approached in a variety of ways. On-site, the studio offers a self-selected drop-in rate, allowing students to choose a cost from a price range that works for their budget. Space is also donated to two lo- cal non-profits each week so that they can use the income from those classes to raise funds for their organizations. One of those classes is a Recovery Yoga class, for those affected by the disease of addiction. Residents of a local treatment program also participate each week. They recently added a free class for local F&B workers in conjunction with the Heirloom Foundation, a group that champions health initiatives for folks in the food and beverage industry – a cornerstone of our local economy.
Reverb’s studio includes the “Light Box," a 33’x33’ square space with three of the four 20-foot walls made entirely of polycarbonate – a transparent material that allows for ample natural light that shifts beautifully throughout the day. There is a smaller studio as well, a lovely lounge area with a library of inspiring books and writing/drawing materials, a sizable dressing room, and restroom with shower. Reverb also offers a small selection of yoga mats and branded gear.
There is a deck that is shared with neighboring offices that overlooks a courtyard adjacent to several restaurant concepts: Bad Wolf, a coffee shop with tasty pastries, homemade ice cream, and a small but crafty cocktail menu; Workshop, an upscale food hall featuring five different rotating restaurant concepts; and Edmund’s East Brewing Company, the tap room/brewing and bottling facilities for a successful neighborhood eatery with a celebrated bar program.
1503 King St
Ste 200
Charleston SC 29405
Read more from the Oct Issue and see Athleisure List Reverb in mag.
Ketanga Fitness Retreats launched in 2014 and is founded by Stacy Schwartz, a born-and-raised Manhattanite. The dream of creating a career out of her love for seeing the world and keeping active was one that she could not have imagined. She began thinking about it when she tried to book a vacation a few years ago that also incorporated fitness (particularly boxing and high-intensity interval training); however, she was unable to find anything.
A few years later in 2014, she quit her job in Corporate America to travel the world for 100 days by herself. Was it scary? Yes - but it was her best decision as she was able to travel the way she wanted and to see the sights while being active through bike tours, horseback riding, jogging through neighborhoods, dropping into local gym classes, and even flying a 2-person glider plane.
Upon returning home, it clicked. There was something special about crafting a vacation that combined the perfect amount of fitness, adventure, and relaxation into one trip. It was at this point that Ketanga Fitness Retreats was born.
Ketanga Fitness Retreats organizes fitness retreats around the world! They work with top trainers, studios, and gyms to plan custom experiences that combine fitness, adventure, and relaxation.
With a mission to make wellness travel accessible, varied, and fun, they curate small group fitness adventures that feature the best-of-the-best vetted instructors, unique activities, and a relaxed yet motivating atmosphere.
This company, has many partners from around the US (and other countries) who are gym owners and independent trainers who have a vision of hosting a retreat for their clients, but don’t know where to start. Ketanga Fitness Retreats specialize in helping to bring their vision to life by handling the planning, organizing, and logistics behind a producing a fitness retreat.
They also produce local fitness events and wellness workshops in NYC, builds corporate wellness programs, and organizes private group retreats.
They offer custom retreat planning experiences, and work with private groups to create something special. Whether it is a birthday celebration, a bachelorette trip, a corporate retreat, or a girls getaway, they create experiences for clients that combine fitness, adventure, and relaxation in unique ways!
For guests who join existing retreats (vs planning a custom retreat), there are itineraries that are expertly curated and customized for each program. Guests are always welcome to opt out of a workout or activity, and there is ample free time for guests to take part in different experiences and activities, or just relax and reflect on the beach!
Ketanga organizes local events in NYC to bring the wellness community together! They host many special events including their famous Fitness Krawls (think of a pub crawl but with visiting fitness studios instead of bars!), Sunday Funday workouts, Muscles & Margaritas events, outdoor workouts, and more. These events are fun as they combine wellness and something social like a workout plus drinks or a wellness talk and brunch. It’s all about balance!
Retreats for this year includes a Colorado Adventure Retreat coming up October 20-23 which I am very excited about! We will be exploring the mountains with rock climbing and hiking, plus an amazing coach with us to lead HIIT, yoga, and mobility sessions. And, of course, we will be trying some local craft beer! We have a few spots left.
In 2018 Ketanga Fitness Retreat will announce a HUGE event to kick off the New Year in Costa Rica! Without giving away too much, it is going to have 6 different retreats over a span of 5 weeks ranging in themes from yoga and adventure to boxing to cooking and more, and people can sign up for any (or all) retreats to kick off the New Year healthfully, with amazing instruction, and like-minded people.
KETANGA FITNESS RETREAT
See upcoming retreats and follow @Ketanga_Fitness to be in the loop on upcoming announcements
Read more from the Sep Issue and see ATHLEISURE LIST | Ketanga Fitness Retreats in mag.
Sugar Beach, a Viceroy Hotel in St Lucia is the perfect place to recharge your batteries while taking in a view from a different perspective. We're thinking that jetting here for a fall getaway is the perfect way to take personal inventory. We suggest three must haves to bring with you on vacation.
| YEVO LABS Yevo 1 | CONSCIOUS COCONUT Coconut Oil | VIBRAM USA Furoshiki (wrapped sandals) in Hmong |
Read more from the Sep Issue and #TribeGoals | Recommended For Your Tribe to Eat, Work + Play in mag.
For those in NYC and in Miami, you may have noticed a number of Dr Smood's popping up. More then just an organic boutique cafe, it is a culinary destination that brings nutrient-rich super foods and beverages to a health conscious clientele. Whether you eat inside or enjoy a selection of grab-and-go sweet and savory treats, supplements or select from their coffee and juice bar in their Smood Market.
Unlike most other food conscious eateries, Dr Smood spent three years of development of their nutrient-rich foods which enhance the performance of the body, mind and soul by a team of scientists, nutritionists and doctors.
All products offered are color coded and are placed in one of 6 categories including: Immunity, Energy, Health, Beauty, Detox and Power. They are all USDA-certified organic, kosher and made without GMOs, preservatives, dairy, chemicals, HPP, pesticides or refined sugar.
"We're interested in the science behind food what's going on at a molecular level that will give our bodies what they need to feel, look and perform at their absolute best! We truly believe
that food is the best medicine and we’re willing to go the extra mile to make sure that our food is the greatest in the world,” explained founder and Danish business developer René Sindlev, who is also known as the Co-Founder of Pandora Jewelry.
If you have questions about offerings, there are nutritionists and Smood Operators on-site to help customers select products that are tailored to their needs and interests to boost their
health.
Meals include the highest nutrients such as sandwiches made from Performance Bread (which helps to stabilize blood sugar) and salads that are filled with bio-available protein and organic
superfoods.
An in-house alchemist ensures that products are crafted to not only taste good but to, "amplify nutrient absorption in the body by compounding elements to maximize nutritional value," says Dr Etti Ben-Zion, Partner in Dr Smood. "We pride ourselves on being a truly science-baced health food company."
Dr Smood locations are meant to dine in as well as to work from the cafés. The eateries are uniquely designed by Quincoces-Dragò, that are inspired by old English Apothercaries.
If you can't make your way there you can purchase online via their website as well as local delivery services such as Grubhub, Seamless, UberEats and Amazon Fresh.
Read more from the Sep Issue and see Something You Should Know | How's Your Mood.
September's Issue begins our transition into fall with our cover from Athleisure Mag's NYFW SS18 event known as Athleisure House which debuted the launch of UG|RO Ugly Romper (a romper focused lifestyle line that is Co-Founded by our founders Kimmie Smith and Paul Farkas), we also have an interview with Michael Costello about his NYFW SS18 presentation to talk about how he got into being a designer and the importance of diversity along with a conversation with his makeup lead, Michaela Polanco. With the US Open taking place in NYC in August and September, we caught up with tennis player, Agnieszka Radwanska about her upcoming match as well as her partnership with Inglot Cosmetics. The month continues to be busy with the kickoff of Oktoberfest - and this month's The Art of the Snack shares some highlights for you to consider.
From a wellness perspective, we found out more about Dr Smood which has been popping up throughout NYC and Miami. We also share information on Wanderlust, a festival minded series of events that combine fitness, music and of course finding your ultimate tribe. As always, we have our monthly features keeping you in the loop on what you should be looking forward to in the weeks to come.
Read more from the Sept Issue here.
There are fitness centers and then there are luxurious studios that are truly an experience. The Class by Taryn Toomey, has established a permanent home in Tribeca. Before we go into the method, it's worth talking about the amenities which allow you to truly enjoy the ultimate wellness experience.
The space is a mindful oasis that has astounding crystals in various areas from crystal-embedded floors (they are scattered throughout and are mixed in with hematite, black onyx and black tourmaline as a means to draw energy out), hanging crystals and more. There are marble slabs, candles, and lighting that truly allows you to feel that you have come home to this space.
Their bathrooms are well stocked with Chanel and Onda beauty products and has had a number of notables who can attest to its effectiveness including Naomi Watts, Christy Turlington, and Jennifer Aniston. Guests can also enjoy crystal jewelry from Taryn's line,
The Airelume.
The Class is best defined as yoga meets cardio meets emotional cathartic release. It's a mind - body blend that allows people to work through what they need so that they can go about their day to day lives without having to only focus on one area of healing. Audio is essential as soundproofing and recording studio quality needed to the transformation of movement while enjoying The Class.
The Class occupies an intimate studio, wellness nook, boutique and a hideaway. Beyond the class at Tribeca, you can continue to add to your needs with The Layer, a seasonal cleanse created by Taryn. The cleanse includes manuals, nutritional plans, recipes, access to a community and more. This fall, The Immersion is an intensive class structure held in NYC which continues to build on what you have learned in The Class as it applies to your life.
Throughout the year, there are Retreatments which are destination sessions that can be taken in other locales to hone in on what you are working on in a fresh location. Upcoming trips include Whistler, Rhode Island and the Dominican Republic.
With classes in NYC, Hamptons, Nantucket, LA and Vancouver, this mind-body method is one that truly transforms your body through strengthening while putting emphasis on the mind for a truly elevated experience as well as outlook on life beyond the walls of this oasis.
TARYN TOOMEY
22 Park Place NY, NY 10007
Read more from the Aug Issue and see Athleisure List | The Class by Taryn Toomey in mag.
When it comes to wellbeing brands, we think of Exhale which focuses on mind and body through spa and fitness in its 25 properties in the US and the Caribbean. The Hyatt has acquired Exhale to connect with high-end travelers in more ways, beyond traditional hotel
stays. We're excited to see its global expansion, new free standing locations as well as its placement in Hyatt hotels. When we're traveling, we like to bring these must haves with us.
| PROPS ATHLETICS Props Freedom | BEETOLOGY Beet + Veggie | TRIGGER POINT Grid Vibe |
Read more from the Aug Issue and see #TribeGoals in mag.
Known as the "official last summer weekend," there is still plenty of summer to enjoy hanging out with friends, barbecues and beach time. Of course, we have a few musts to enjoy the upcoming Holiday Weekend.
| H&M White Overalls | COSABELLA Never Say Never Extended Sweetie ™ Bralette | WIZE MONKEY Mango Party Tea | OLIVER PEOPLES The Row Executive Suite | BKR Spiked London | LINEA PELLE Hunter Studded Hobo Bag | BUTTER LONDON Busker Eye Pencil |
This week's #AthTribe invites you to take some me time by having an overnight or staycation at the hotel of your choice. It's essential to take a moment for yourself and to give yourself the right to simply veg with your favorite layers, beverage and to bring it all in your bag of choice.
1911 ESTABLISHED | When it comes to enjoying a nice Hard Cider, we're happy to suggest the selection offered by 1911 Established. We visited their apple farm (Beak & Skiff Apple Farms) last fall in Syracuse during a press trip and enjoyed their alcohol, wine and beers that are made from - apples. Check out their full line in addition to this flavor @1911SPIRITS (IG | Twitter)
FLEUR'T INTIMATES | If you're looking for the most comfortable way to stay in, look no further than Fleur't Intimates which begs to be worn for lazy Saturdays, staycations and serene meditations. @FLEURTINTIMATES (IG | Twitter)
STELLA MCCARTNEY | The perfect bag for your overnight or weekend can be found within this luxe Stella McCartney bag which is chic as well as an easy items to bring on whatever trip you have in mind. @STELLAMCCARTNEY (IG | Twitter)
Whether you're traveling to NYC or enjoying a staycation, Kimpton Ink48 Hotel in Hell's Kitchen and the Garden District's, Kimpton Hotel Eventi provide picturesque views of the city. You can see the cityscapes for just $1!
This deal is good for stays until January 31, 2018, visitors who book will receive a value of $75-$85 savings, for only $1 more. With this package, guests can upgrade their view to a Cityview King Premier Room for $1 more than a standard room. In addition to these perks, this upgrade allows guests to receive a $25 dining credit.
In addition to these selected upgrades, guests can enjoy free WiFi, $15 minibar/bar credit & Spa Benefit for those that are Karma Rewards members, complimentary nightly hosted evening wine hour, complimentary morning coffee and tea service, yoga mats are available in every room, PUBLIC bikes are complimentary and they have access to wellness perks.
For more details on Million Dollar View, visit here. Book using promo code EVIEW until December 31. 2017. @KIMPTON ( IG | Twitter )
Hydration is an ongoing need in our beauty routines. When the temperatures rise, it's even more important to give your body the TLC that it needs. This month's Athleisure Beauty has our favorite finds.
| KOPARI Coconut Melt | GARNIER WHOLE BLENDS Moroccan Argan Camellia Oils | GARNIER SKINACTIVE Moisture Bomb Essential Coil Elastics | TRILOGY Botanical Body Wash |
Read more from the July Issue and see Athleisure Beauty | Hydration in mag.
Manhattan's East meets West Spa Country Club, Premier57 reopened their doors in May of this year with Steven Chon as its CEO. Guests can enjoy a full day's access to hydrotherapy Bade pools, six unique sauna rooms, resting lounges, water lounges and baths. One of the most popular treatments offered are its Korean Body Scrubs.
Based in traditional Korean practices, the exfoliating process uses textured gloves to remove dead skin. It not only removes the dead skin to a new level, dirt, oil it also improves circulation,
tones the skin, stimulates the Lymphatic System and aids in clearing your mind. Treatment requires hot tub soaking prior to service.
In addition to this method, guests can enjoy an array of treatments that include an assortment of facials, body treatments/wraps, massages (as well as those that focus on Asian remedies),
HAMMAM and more.
In addition, there are a number of sauna rooms that you can select that are not only ornately decorated but fit various themes such as infrared, igloo, Himalayan salt rooms, Loess clay and a
gold sauna.
Guests are able to access their lockers as well as to add treatments and amenities to their day via their electronic band which allows for a seamless experience. In addition, as is tradition in
Asian bath houses the space is to be enjoyed without wearing shoes and a robe is also provided upon entrance. Although you can make reservations to enjoy Premier57, it is not required.
In between treatments, guests can also access, relaxation lounges as well as a number of options for food and beverage. Premier57 has an Aqua Bar (perfect to enjoy cocktails as you relax), Cafe Bistro (food to be enjoyed by a number of palettes) and Asian Cuisine (if you're looking to have Korean dishes - you will find them here).
Read more from the July Issue and see Athleisure List Premier57 in mag.
Bliss Spa launched in NYC with its first location in 1996 and revolutionized the industry by taking a completely different approach to spas and skincare. In addition to NYC, their locations include Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Washington D.C., Dallas, Ft. Lauderdale, Hoboken, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Scottsdale, and Miami. There are also spas in Barcelona, Doha, Hong Kong, St Petersburg, and London.
There are signature treatments that guests enjoy the Triple Oxygen Facial at Bliss Spa bliss’ classic (and most popular) all-around complexion reviver! This facial starts with a skin-type-specific peel then follows with a pre-extraction oxygen wrap, the necessary extractions, application of a Triple Oxygen cream and mask, an energizing, hydrating enzyme pack and a vitaminized oxygen spray. It's like a breath of fresh air for your face, literally. Molly Sims credits Triple Oxygen facials for her perfect skin, saying the treatment is ‘pure heaven’.
Their Oxygen Blast™ Facial At Bliss Spa Includes a quick fruit acid wash, massage with micellated vitamins, a hydrating hot-towel and enzyme pack, and a five minute oxygen spray in a customized activating solution. Great post-flight, pre-date, mid-life... The mind-unwinding full-body massages both begin with a sole-soothing warm wax foot wrap, followed by a ridiculously relaxing rubdown designed to loosen you up and target your most troubled muscles.
From monthly treatments to exclusive perks, Bliss’ new membership program is fully-loaded with beauty benefits, including: One 60-minute facial or massage each month (your choice),
10% off all additional services, 20% off bliss, elemis and remede products and 2 guest passes per year for services at membership rate.
Spa amenities vary per location, but trademark bliss touches include a cleverly compiled menu of super effective services, a retail store, sauna, showers complete with bliss products, rhythm
and blues tunes, legendary brownie buffet, and fun/upbeat tone.
can enjoy their products by shopping online. Their body butter is used in every bliss spa massage. Bliss' poetic waxing kit is a take home kit that is easy to use and of course, their best
seller is the triple oxygen instant energizing mask replaces the oxygen that pollution pulls from the skin.
Bliss strives to celebrate the uniqueness of each location and seeks to become a true part of the community.
BLISS SPA
Check Bliss' site for locations.
Read more from the July issue and to see Athleisure List Bliss Spa in mag.
Our cover girl is one busy lady as Sara Eisen is the Co-Anchor of not one, but two of CNBC's shows - Worldwide Exchange and Squawk on the Street! Sara joined the network in December 2013, as a correspondent focusing on the global consumer. You can see her each day as the Co-Anchor of "Squawk on the Street" at 10AM EST, which airs from Post 9 at the New York Stock Exchange. In January of last year, she was named Co-Anchor of the network's "Worldwide Exchange," which also airs daily from 5-6AM EST from CNBC's Global Headquarters in Englewood Cliffs, N.J.
Around Athleisure Mag, we have CNBC on throughout the day at the office and loved learning more about this financial powerhouse who brings us what's going on across verticals in such an inspired way.
ATHLEISURE MAG: Tell us your background and how you got into broadcasting and ultimately to CNBC?
SARA EISEN: After college at NYU, I went to journalism school at Northwestern's Medill School. While most students do a semester in DC, I went a different direction and spent the time in Hong Kong. I got an internship at Bloomberg TV in Asia and have been doing business news ever since. Initially, I worked as a production assistant, but kept raising my hand for on-air opportunities in my spare time on TV and radio. I went on to anchor the morning show in New York, Bloomberg Surveillance, before moving over to CNBC. But truth be told, I've wanted to be on TV ever since I grew up watching Oprah and taped a mock talk show at a local public access channel studio for a school project in high school.
AM: We know that you enjoy talking about finance, what is it about this industry that makes you so passionate about it and do you have a specific topic within it that you really enjoy focusing on?
SE: My favorite topic within finance is the currency market, because it's the largest, most important market in the world. It reflects economics, politics, deal transactions, geopolitics and more. It was actually my excitement around learning about currencies during a college internship at Forextv.com that led me to pursue financial journalism. My other area of focus is global consumer companies, with a particular interest in sports apparel and shoes: Nike, Adidas, Under Armour, Lululemon. I love how they touch pop culture, fashion, sports and consumer economics simultaneously.
AM: We love that when we're watching CNBC, you really are talking about a number of industries from fashion, tech, agriculture, etc. - and you have a fresh and fun way to present it to those of varying levels of understanding - how important is it to make these topics relatable to a wide, as well as a niche audience?
SE: It's very important! Ultimately, financial markets are just a reflection of all the real life things happening around us: whether it's shifting consumption from diet soda to healthier beverages, what trends work in online retail or just the styles of leggings that resonate with consumers each season. Those stories don't just matter to CNBC, but they're the everyday trends we all live each day. Investing and finance can be much more accessible if you focus on the areas you're interested in and understand.
AM: What would you tell young women to encourage them to get into the world of finance and specifically finance broadcasting?
SE: My number one tip: become an expert, whether that's in the world of finance or journalism... or any other discipline for that matter. Having a niche is very valuable. For instance, during the financial crisis, when I was an intern at Bloomberg, I raised my hand to tell stories about the foreign exchange market at a time when currencies were fluctuating wildly. I knew that subject well and eventually, my editors and others in the newsroom turned to me when currencies were the big market story of the moment, and they still do! Be the smartest person in the room about something, no matter how small the niche.
I'd also say: don't let traditionally male-led industries dissuade you. Sometimes, there's an instinct to compete with the women around you, but being supportive, finding female mentors and passing it forward can all be empowering and rewarding.
AM: Walk us through what it is like to prepare as a Co-Anchor for Squawk on the Street and Worldwide Exchange.
SE: I have a ton of support on both shows. We have a team of producers who work with me and my co-anchors to book guests and put together a plan for the next day's shows. By the time I'm off air one day, I have to start focusing on what we're doing tomorrow: planning the questions I want to ask guests, reading about the latest stories in finance, and politics we might want to include, and always talking to my producers about what we can be doing to fine tune the show before it starts. The hardest thing about prep: as much as you can be ready for everything planned, you also have to be ready to pivot on a dime to breaking news and the unexpected.
AM: As you do two shows every day, what is your day like?
SE: Well, my alarm goes off every day at 3:30am. I'm in the car on the way to CNBC HQ soon after, before getting my hair and makeup done ahead of the 5am start to my first show, “Worldwide Exchange.” In the car and the makeup chair, I'm reading the morning's news and emailing with my producers on the show lineup, the guests we have, the stories we're covering. I get off set at 6am and then travel from CNBC in New Jersey to the New York Stock Exchange ahead of my 10am show, “Squawk on the Street.” The hardest thing is maintaining a good eating schedule. I make sure to have cereal and coffee before the 5am show and then whole wheat toast with almond butter and bananas when I get down to the NYSE. At noon, I'm off air for the day. I fill my afternoons with networking meetings. It can be hard on my schedule to make evening plans during the week. Typically, my husband and I stay home to make dinner together and watch a little TV: no financial news, more like “The Bachelor.”
AM: What's your hectic time of year in terms of covering the world of finance?
SE: The financial news calendar can be similar to the school year: quiet during the winter holidays, quiet over the summer, busy all the other times. But particularly these days, with Britain leaving the EU and the excitement around the Trump presidency, there's never a slow day. I never take more than a week off for that reason. When my husband and I got married, he had to beg me to take off more time for our honeymoon.
AM: How do you maintain balance between such a hectic schedule, being a wife and taking personal time for yourself?
SE: Multi-tasking. 24 hours just aren't enough. I'll be making dinner plans during the commercial breaks of my shows. I'll be trying to book interviews in between exercises at the gym. It helps that my husband also works in the same industry. We don't get to talk about what we're each working on, but we're understanding of the pace and scheduling challenges of each other's jobs.
AM: What has been your favorite story to cover to date?
SE: When Japan suffered the devastation of the 2011 earthquake and ensuing tsunami, I traveled there to cover the aftermath of the disaster. Very quickly, the focus turned to the developing crisis at the Fukushima nuclear plant. I would spend the days reporting and the nights doing live segments for daytime programs in the U.S. It was scary, exhausting, but also an amazing opportunity to be part of an unfolding, uncertain story that the world was watching.
AM: Who have been some of your favorite guests that you chatted with on air?
SE: Steph Curry, for sure. I've spent a lot of time with him, talking about the brand he's helping to build at UnderArmour. He's incredibly thoughtful and down-to-earth for someone living an insane level of success and fame. I also love interviewing Christine Lagarde, the Managing Director of the IMF. She's smart, poised and an incredible example for women everywhere.
AM: When you're not on air, what can we find you doing?
SE: New York City will always be my favorite activity. I love to explore the city's restaurants, bars, shops and walk the streets as much as I can.
AM: What's your personal style on air and how does that differ when you're out and about with girlfriends or date night with your husband?
SE: Early on, I found it was easier for me to stick with dresses rather than piecing together shirts, tops and pants. I like bright colors, interesting necklines, usually knee length... and always pair them with (very) high heels. There's a great wardrobe team at CNBC that helps me pull it together.
Outside of work, I'm much more laid-back. Leggings and t-shirts on the weekends, with my favorite Yeezy sneakers. My husband is a bit of a sneakerhead, so he makes sure I'm always current on the latest trends. For going out on weekends to dinner with friends, I still try to keep it pretty casual: usually Rag & Bone jeans and Rebecca Taylor tops are my go-tos.
AM: What fitness studios do you enjoy going to?
SE: I belong to Equinox and try to get in to see my trainer as many times each week as I can. It can be hard to squeeze into my schedule. But the good news about waking up at 3:30am each day is that Equinox is relatively quiet at 2pm!
AM: What are three must-have beauty products that you swear by that keep your skin looking so great?
SE: Because I use so many products for my job on-air, I've recently been transitioning to more natural and chemical-free cosmetics. My favorite facial moisturizer is Belif Moisturizing Bomb. After scrubbing off a day's worth of camera makeup, this product leaves my skin feeling refreshed and moisturized, but not greasy. Speaking of scrubbing off a day's worth of camera makeup, Tarte Fresh Eyes makeup remover wipes are invaluable. Anyone who knows me knows my favorite beauty product is bronzer. Jane Iredale bronzing powder gives me a natural look.
AM: What's currently on your playlist for your summer soundtrack?
SE: I'm constantly listening to the new Kendrick Lamar album... especially some of the slower songs like “Love and Loyalty.” Then again, my summer playlist features many of my favorites from recent years like Robyn, Charli XCX and Kesha.
AM: Do you have charities or organizations that you support that you would like for us to know more about?
SE: Yes, I support the Simon Wiesenthal Center, an incredible organization that teaches the lessons of the Holocaust and confronts both anti-semitism and hate of all kinds. I have a personal connection as my grandparents were survivors of the Holocaust.
I also am involved with Room to Read, a remarkable charity that promotes girls' education and children's literacy in underserved communities in the developing world.
AM: If you weren't working in your current field, what occupation would you consider working in?
SE: If I wasn't covering finance and economics, I'd want to be working in finance and economics They're what I love. My ultimate dream would be to serve as a central banker. They're the most powerful people in the world!
Our shoot of Sara Eisen took place at 1185 Park Ave at Penthouse A. Currently on the market, we sat down with Louise Phillips Forbes to find out more about this property!
ATHLEISURE MAG: There are so many great aspects to this apartment from its layout to the INCREDIBLE views from the penthouse – what can you tell us about this property?
LOUISE PHILLIPS FORBES: What’s not to envy in this exceptional home?! Breathtaking panoramic skyline views as far south as the Empire State Building and the Freedom Tower, and stunning sunsets over Central Park, provide the backdrop to this expansive penthouse with 4-bedrooms, 1-staff room, and 4.5-bathrooms, plus a beautifully landscaped, private wrap-around terrace and large picture windows providing terrace views from every room. With more than 1,700 square feet of outdoor space alone, it's simply paradise. Sun-drenched, bright and cheerful, this one-of-a-kind home has an extensive floor plan with grand, open rooms for entertaining complemented by ceiling heights over 11-feet.
The bedroom wing offers a private escape with very spacious rooms. I’m especially enamored with the master bedroom suite! It’s really rare to find one as big as this one. The peaceful retreat in the corner of the home provides double exposures and is lined with elegant Venetian plastered walls. It contains two substantial walk-in closets and a private entrance to the terrace. The luxurious spa-like en-suite bathroom features gorgeous natural stone tiles, a custom vanity, free-standing deep soaking tub with Jacuzzi jets, and a glass rain shower. It’s what I call heaven on earth and the perfect escape!
AM: What amenities are offered in this building for residents (common areas, services, etc.)?
LPF: Located in a prestigious residential area, 1185 Park Avenue was designed in 1929 by the renowned architectural firm of Schwartz & Gross, boasting an impressive Gothic triple-arch entrance with a circular driveway. Today, this New York treasure is recognized as one of the few grand courtyard buildings left in Manhattan. The friendly and professional full-time staff provide an unparalleled level of white-glove service and the amenities, include 24-hour doormen and staff, concierge, state-of-the-art fitness center, children's playroom, courtyard garden, bike room, private storage, and a pet-friendly attitude.
AM: Tell us about the neighborhood that is directly around this building (Whole Foods, workout studios, eateries, etc.) and what neighborhood is this considered?
LFP: A premier residence nestled in the heart of Carnegie Hill, this elegant gem is conveniently located near Central Park and Museum Mile with easy access to world-class exhibits at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Guggenheim Museum, the Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum, and the Jewish Museum, among others. Fifth Avenue and Madison Avenue beckon with high-end boutique shopping and fine art galleries, plus there is an abundance of distinguished restaurants, charming cafes, gourmet grocers, supermarkets, Equinox Fitness Club, the 92nd Street Y, and many popular retail destinations.
AM: For those that are interested in purchasing this unit, how can they find out more information?
LFP: It would be very easy to call this stunning apartment home given the grandeur of the rooms, an abundance of private outdoor space, and views throughout. To schedule an appointment, people can contact me directly and I will be happy to give them a private tour and discuss the purchasing details. I can be reached via email at lphillips@halstead.com or at 212-381-3329.
AM: Where can readers find out about additional properties that you represent?
LFP: Visit my website at and click on the tab for “My Listings”. You can view pictures, 3D floor plans, and videos along with detailed descriptions of each property I’m working with from downtown to uptown.
Read more from the July Issue and see Market Maker | Sara Eisen in mag.
We all spend so much time frequenting our favorite manicure and pedicure salons, but it is important to have the appropriate nail care tips in between our next appointment, as well as to allow the nail to breathe. This can be done at home or even on your vacation as we find this to be a relaxing way to enjoy self-care.
We got the scoop on tips of how to maintain our nails from Skyy Hadley, owner of As U Wish Salon. She shared with us how to allow our manicure to last longer during the heat wave that we're all enjoying.
TRANSITION FROM REMOVING YOUR POLISH TO APPLYING A NEW HUE
• Remove your polish and let your nails breathe for a good few days. If nails look discolored, squeeze some lemon into your lotion or rub a lemon wedge directly onto the nail to brighten nails.
• Apply a shea butter lotion or non-greasy cream to lock in moisture.
• Begin painting! Apply a cuticle oil such as Sally Hansen Color Therapy Nail & Cuticle Oil to the base of your nails (or even when they are already polished), focusing around the cuticle area to hydrate and bring moisture into the skin, helping the polish last longer. This restores radiance to nails and cuticles and promotes strong nails.
SHADES THAT WORK BEST ON FAIR, MEDIUM AND DARK COMPLEXIONS
• Fair skin, use white and blue undertones
• Medium skin, use pink undertones
• Dark skin, almost use transparent tones
IS IT SAFE TO CUT CUTICLES
• Trimming or cutting cuticles dur ing a manicure is purely cosmetic and sometimes doesn’t benefit the nail in any way. The cuticle is the barrier to protect the surrounding skin and help develop the nail free from infections. (Bacteria)
HOW CAN ONE TREAT YELLOW/WHITE NAILS?
• The most common suggestion would be to stop using so much dark nail polish. Of course we all love using dark colors, but this may cause your nails to become discolored. Secondly, always use a base coat. By using a base coat, you’re adding in a protective layer between your nails and the polish. This will also help to prevent staining and can actually help keep your nails healthier.
HOW TO TREAT INGROWN TOENAILS
• Ingrown toenails can be painful and can easily become infected. Try soaking your foot in warm salt bath water for 15 minutes a couple of times every day. This will help relieve pain and swelling. The other thing you could try is gently pulling the skin away from the nail using a small nail file or other blunt device that won’t cut or hurt the toe.
WHAT IS THIS SUMMER'S NAIL POLISH COLOR
• Baby blue, with pink undertone, as well as all nude colors.
BEST WAY TO CUT NAILS
• The best way to cut your nails is to make sure you clean under the nail otherwise bacteria could form. Use fingernail clippers for your fingers, and use toenail clippers for your toes. If you are unsure of what shape your nails should have, just look at your cuticles. The U-shape of the cuticle should be reflected (upside down) by the top of your nail. The primary goal is to mirror the shape.
Read more from the July issue and see Something You Should Know in mag.
Sometimes the universe calls for a change of plans. Katie Doyle heeds this call and leaves the West Coast cross country to the Hamptons. This move is embracing the possibility of summer
employment, new friends for her son and the opportunity to enjoy a love affair with an investor
named George.
Upon arrival she witnesses the interplay between those of the 1 percent that co-exist with the locals of the island that have been there for generations. Somehow Southampton isn't what it appears to be on its surace which makes her nervous to mingle with her boyfriend's Elite Circle.
She realizes that regardless of the circle that one runs in, regardless of the socio-economic
position, everyone is maneuvering and looking for ways to stay afloat in their community.
The summer continues with Katie learning more about the town and the shifting alliances that take place within the groups of people. From betrayals, sexual predators and a missing person
- Katie learns that things are not what they seem. It's a meeting with Luke, a marine biologist
and teacher where she has to confront the only truth that matters - what is it that you really
want as opposed to simply existing in the Hamptons' playland that changes from one moment
to the next.
Sara DiVello's journey is one that many can relate to. At some point, we have gone through the motions of our jobs, relationships etc only to realize that it's not what we want. At the same
time, it takes a catalyst to really get us out from the place we're stuck in.
Sara shares her story and process of getting to a place where she ultimately wants to go. She leaves her PR job at a major financial services company and transitions to pursuing yoga-teacher training.
Her frank depiction of navigating chaotic corporate culture to the catty, but slow-paced world of yoga showcases the complexities of interrelationships in both worlds as she finds her place.
The world of records has always been one of constant change. Prior to the 1940s, they were sold in plain, uniform jackets. Post the war, musicians and record companies discovered that
graphically designed record covers had the potential to boost sales! By the 1960s contemporary artists began to create record jackets that became an inspiration for others due to their radical, groundbreaking designs. Many of them have become symbols recognized not only by fans but by the wider public, symbols of an era where artistic freedom, experimentation, and innovation were encouraged.
This coffee table book is the first-ever comprehensive collection for vinyl lovers. These covers are taken from the extensive archive of Dutch designer Jan van Toorn, one of the most active
collectors and leading experts in the field. Enthusiasts will enjoy covers by famous pop artists such as Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein, Robert Rauschenberg and Jean-Michel Basquiat.
Read more from the June Issue and see Bingely Books in mag.
This month's cover is one of our faves - actress, producer, activist and SAG Award winner - Alysia Reiner. She has been in a number of TV shows and films and we have thoroughly enjoyed seeing her each season of Netflix's Orange is the New Black as the dynamic force Natalie "Fig" Figueroa.
In addition to our cover shoot in Tribeca, we sat down to find out more about what drew her to acting, upcoming roles that she will be in, the importance of staying connected to your significant other and family no matter your schedule and her role as an activist.
ATHLEISURE MAG: We had such an amazing time shooting with you for our June cover as we've been fans of yours for years! Tell us about your background and how you got into acting.
ALYSIA REINER: AWWW Shucks! I am a native Manhattan girl and had a hard time deciding if I wanted to be a scientist or an artist - I still love both, studying human behavior and why we are who we are - I'm just curious, I guess. I love to discover, to wonder, to research, it's the joyful part of acting, the discovery.
AM: You've had a number of roles in TV and in movies, but one of our favorites is Orange is the New Black. We binged the latest season, and as fans, tell us what the process was like in trying out for the part and what process you go through to take on the character of Natalie "Fig" Figueroa.
AR: I auditioned for Alex, then Polly, then they offered me Fig and I was over the moon. It was 3 lines and I just said yes. To take on Fig, I visited prisons, spoke to wardens, spoke to other prison officials and spoke to previously incarcerated women. I also watched a ton of documentaries about prisons.
AM: What are similarities and differences between you and your OITNB character?
AR: SIMILARITES: NONE!
DIFFERENCES: The list is endless - I am happily married, a momma, an artist, an activist...
AM: You play bad women really well - what role or person would you like to play that you have yet to do?
AR: The possibilities are endless!!!!!! Doing our photo shoot for this cover I picked up that book about style and had the hit that I want to do a biopic about DIANE VREELAND! I so want to play her, she's my style hero. Also, I want Lena Dunham to direct.
AM: This past year you not only starred in, but produced the film "EQUITY," which went to Sundance and got sold to Sony Pictures Classics. How does this role as a producer challenge you, and what are you looking to achieve?
AR: I was just reading Jill Soloway's essay in LENNY LETTER "Downtime Makes Me Anxious," and I'm the same way: I just love creating. I love producing because it challenges me and works different muscles than acting does. Just like parenting - or trapezing ( yes I have - check my Instagram) - I love trying new things and challenging myself. That’s why I went on Celebrity CHOPPED recently. I love telling stories, I love hiring more women and I love changing the
appalling statistics every time I do.
AM: Positive female role models is something that we are extremely focused on at Athleisure Mag - who were your role models that assisted you in being who you are today?
AR: I find new ones every day. I was about to give you a list of actresses, producers, amazing women I love and know, but really it's the people you don't know. Like my friend Allison's mom who had the coolest arts and crafts cabinet growing up. The woman on the subway who defended another woman when she was being sexually accosted. The every day strangers who stand up for what they believe in and are courageous and unique and amazing and inspire us.
They deserve so much love and admiration, they are my role models.
AM: Activism seems like a major cornerstone of your work (in the midst of everything else) - what organizations/platforms are you associated with and have any of them been because of roles that you have taken as an actor?
AR: I lost my dad to cancer and got very active with the Cancer Support Community - I love them so much. They provide free emotional, social, and psychological support for people with cancer and their friends and family. And yes I said FREE. I was so honored that they gave me and my husband this year's Founders Award For Support.
The Women's Prison Association became my "Fig's karma charity." I love working with them, have been volunteering with them for 5 years now, made a piece of jewelry with 100 of proceeds to them, working on a new idea with them now about employing formerly incarcerated women, and they gave me the Sarah Huntington Powell award. What the Geena Davis Institute does for women in the media is soooo crucial and I love supporting them every way I can. And there are so many others!!! This could be an entirely new article! ;)
AM: During the shoot, we loved incorporating a meditation shot into the cover story, how important is this practice to you and how did you get into it?
AR: I LOVE MEDITATION. ADMISSION: I did a lot more before I had a kid. But now, I do it with my daughter, I do it at home, on the subway, I have a meditation room at home. I listen to a meditation as I wind down from the day, floss my teeth etc. I always feel like I don't have time, but somehow if you make the time, time bends and gives you more, magically.
AM: What's your personal style when you're going to set, when you're going to dinner with your family and then hitting the red carpet for an event?
AR: I have no idea - you are the stylist - help!
AM: Who are your style icons?
AR: Diana Vreeland, DVF, Valentino, Vivianne Westwood, Jenna Lyons, Stacey from Alice & Olivia, Tilda Swinton, Cate Blanchett, Emma Watson, Livia Firth, Chloe Sevigny, Natasha Lyonne, I could go on.....
AM: What are 3 exercises or methods that you do to stay so fit?
AR: 30-60-90 by Kristi Molinaro, Soulcycle and INTENSATI TABATA
AM: When you're having a busy day running around in the city, what are 3 places in NYC that we may see you pop into for lunch?
AR: Ha! I never have time to go out to lunch!
AM: After hanging out with you, you have such a mindful nature about you that seems to permeate the way you approach life as well as living within it - how important is this to you from a mental, wellness, culinary and related lifestyle aspects?
AR: When we can incorporate mindfulness into everything, it just makes every moment sweeter. Everything is more beautiful - you even see art in a garbage pile. Rats become cute. And then, of course, people think you're crazy. I don’t care.
AM: A number of our readers either work with their significant others and/or are in the same field with them. What advice would you give to those readers to assist them in having couple time?
AR: MAKE DATE NIGHTS AND STICK TO THEM!
Appreciate each other. Write love notes. Talk about the relationship. Seek outside help before you need it.
AM: How do you take time for yourself as a wife and mother, actress, producer, activist etc?
AR: Ummm….I need to work on that. I really do. :)
AM: What projects can you share with us that are coming up that we may not know about?
AR: We just wrapped season 2 of BETTER THINGS - so excited! And I did guest stars on BROAD CITY, YOUNGER and ODD MOM OUT! I am headed to Chicago in a few weeks to shoot The Pages - a political thriller, and then shooting EGG in which I star with Christina Hendricks
and Anna Camp, and I could not be more excited! #LIFEISGOOD
Our shoot with Alysia Reiner of Orange is the New Black, took place in Tribeca in a historic building. We chatted with Louise Phillips Forbes, Licensed Senior Associate Real Estate Broker at Halstead Real Estate to find out more about this property, 119 Chambers St #2.
ATHLEISURE MAG: The layout of this apartment, as well as having an elevator that opens into the home, was definitely a great feature and made it fun to shoot our June celebrity cover - what can you tell us about this property?
LOUISE PHILLIPS FORBES: What’s not to love?! It’s the quintessential downtown New York apartment as depicted in TV and movies. A split-level loft boasting 2,240 square feet with 3 large bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, and soaring 14-foot wood beamed ceilings that take your breath away. Not to mention the awesome floor-to-ceiling windows facing south and the old-world exposed brick walls in the expansive great room that also has a wood-burning fireplace.
The open, contemporary kitchen is perfect for entertaining given the large marble-top breakfast bar, but it also features custom cabinetry and high-end, stainless steel appliances. A peaceful retreat, the master bedroom suite boasts a very large walk-in custom closet and serene spa-like bathroom with a double-sink vanity, deep soaking tub, and glass-enclosed shower. Stunning hardwood floors, recently purchased LG washer & dryer, ADT alarm system, and separate thermostats in each room
AM: What makes the building special and does it offer amenities for residents?
LPF: Built in 1858, the cast-iron building at 119 Chambers Street was fully renovated using high-end materials and finishes and converted to a condominium in 2008. It’s a boutique building with just 5 units total so privacy is assured. Each apartment has a substantial room-size
storage unit and there is a fitness room downstairs.
AM: Tell us about the neighborhood that is directly around this building.
LPF: Tribeca is a very diverse and friendly neighborhood where the big city feels more like a small town, and Chambers Street is in the heart of it all. Very walkable and also bike-friendly, this area is filled with charming cafes and fine dining options, boutique shops and luxury
retailers, galleries, fitness clubs, and several local parks. There’s even a Whole Foods just a few blocks away, and Starbucks is on the corner of the block. Plus public transportation is very convenient with many local and express subways nearby, and you have easy access to the
West Side Highway enabling you to get just about anywhere in the city efficiently. It’s an ideal location for New Yorkers.
AM: Tell us about who represents this property.
LPF: I am very honored to be the broker representing this exclusive listing. I have been working in residential real estate for more than 28 years and currently hang my hat at Halstead Real Estate’s Park Avenue office, where I’m proud to lead the firm’s #1 team. My portfolio of clients includes buyers, sellers, and luxury developers all over NYC, and my career sales are in excess of $3 Billion. I consider myself more of an educator, than a sales person, and it’s a privilege to be a part of this process with people, after all, your home is the base upon which the rest of your life is built.
AM: For those that are interested in purchasing this unit, how can they find out more information?
LPF: It would be very easy to call this lovely apartment home given that it’s move-in ready. Simply bring your toothbrush! To schedule an appointment, people can contact me directly and I will be happy to give them a private tour and discuss the purchasing details. I can be reached via email at lphillips@halstead.com or at 212-381-3329.
AM: Where can readers find out about additional properties that you represent?
LPF: Visit my website and click on the tab for “My Listings”. You can view pictures, 3D floor plans, and videos along with detailed descriptions of each property I’m working with from
downtown to uptown.
Read more from June Issue and see Our Fempire in mag with Alysia Reiner of Orange is the New Black.