I went off of birth control in January 2022 and honestly, life was never the same. My body went a little crazy; my cycles were all over the place, my PMS turned into PMDD (premenstrual dysphoric disorder), and my mental health plummeted. 

It got better after about 8 months but then things started getting weird again this past summer. My anxiety was pretty bad again, my cycles all out of whack and my sleep was not good. After some googling and enough sponsored posts, I decided to take the plunge and buy an Oura Ring.

I've been an avid user of activity trackers for years but none of them were ever exactly what I was looking for. Eventually, I stopped using them all and thought that was it - I would never use one again. I think the thing I didn't like about any of them was the fact that they were being worn on my wrist. I love jewelry but sometimes I just don't want to wear a bracelet.

However, rings are my favorite piece of jewelry and I never get sick of them so the Oura Ring seemed like the perfect solution. I knew it was going to be more accurate than wrist trackers, and the major selling point was the cycle syncing. I thought that if I was more aware of my cycle and the different phases, I'd be able to handle it better.

Oura Ring is synced up with Natural Cycles, which is a period tracking/fertility app, that takes your temperature every morning and can predict the start of your period. It seemed to be exactly what I needed.

This post is for the ladies and it's going to be a little TMI so proceed with caution.

I went off birth control in January of this year. I had been on it for 8 years and was just ready to be done with it. I was having horrible migraines and my mental health wasn't great. I thought that maybe the birth control was contributing to that so I figured I'd try to get off it.

Well, that was a mistake, and I kind of regret it. That's an entirely different post but basically, my mood swings and PMS symptoms have been out of control and I finally feel like now, 9 months later, my body has adjusted. 

However, along with those mood swings and PMS comes a period like I haven't had since I was 15 years old. I used to get bad periods, like staying home from school, leaving school early, or, spending the day in the nurse's office bad. 

Because of this, I needed a solution that wasn't panty liners, tampons, or pads. I wanted to be comfortable and didn't feel like dealing with disposable solutions. Menstrual cups are not something I want to try so that was definitely out. I had tried period underwear (both disposable and Thinx brand) before but wasn't impressed with the fit so I was at a loss.

Face masks are IN... haven't you heard? I surely hope you have! Since the start of the pandemic when we realized we were going to have to be wearing masks, companies started selling them. At first, not a lot of places were producing them; my first masks were from a boutique in my neighborhood, Alice & Olivia, and Etsy. The ones from my neighborhood were the most comfortable at first.

Stoney Clover Lane Face Masks

Lele Sadoughi Face Masks

Masks by Jill and Ally

Pacifica Beauty Pillow Mist

Slip Sleep Mist

For the past few years, I've been on a huge wellness kick and I owe that to the wellness surge in society. I want to know everything that is going to make me feel better, look better, and be better. Whether that's helping my anxiety, improving my skin, or just giving me a better overall feeling of health and wellness.

Because of this kick, I've experimented with a few different supplements to try to find the best one(s) that make me feel good. I'm not talking about vitamins, which I need to be better about taking, but pure beauty, wellness, and health supplements.

Now, I'm not a doctor so I'm only going off of what I've tried myself and what has worked for me. I'm also someone who isn't afraid of medicine. I take more Advils that necessary and load up on allergy medicine, anxiety pills, supplements, and ibuprofen when I probably shouldn't. I know that is NOT good and I will probably develop an ulcer but it's just who I have always been, mostly because I cannot handle pain.

That being said, that's why I'm very experimental with what supplements I use. I understand that it is not for everyone but this is just my story.

Ok, now that we have that out of the way, let's get into my favorite supplements.

Juna CBD Oil

Is CBD a supplement? I consider it one because it's helping me combat a wellness issue! I just did a huge post on CBD products and how I use them and I mentioned the Juna World Nude CBD Oil. This was sent to me in PR and I am just obsessed. It has virtually no taste and one drop does the trick. I also love the aesthetic of the bottle... but that's not really important, it's the inside that counts. If you're looking to try a CBD oil, I recommend this one. You can take a drop alone or mix it into tea/coffee. It puts my mind at ease and allows me to relax a little more, giving me more clarity. It also helps to get to sleep much easier.

Hum Nutrition Big Chill Stress Management 

I've talked about HUM Nutrition before and they are really the brand that kicked off my wellness supplement obsession. The Big Chill is my favorite anti-anxiety/stress supplement. I still use Nerve Tonic on the go but Big Chill is what I use when I'm feeling super on edge and Nerve Tonic just won't do the trick. I've used two bottles of this and it was out of stock EVERYWHERE for a while but I'm pretty sure it is back in stock at most retailers. One pill does the trick for me and once I take it, I feel calmer and less stressed. I definitely think this can be used for people who get stressed easily and not just if you are anxiety ridden. If you are having a hard day at work or home and need to just have a clearer mind to be able to think, Big Chill does that.

Hum Nutrition Beauty Zzz

This is the first supplement I ever tried. With my anxiety and before I started medication, I was having trouble sleeping. I didn't want to take melatonin because I was afraid of being groggy the next day... also, I just wanted to try something fancy and not straight up melatonin from the drugstore *I always have to be the slightest bit extra* $10 from Sephora? There's nothing better than this. Beauty Zzz puts me right to sleep in the best way possible; just a little drowsy and then I sink into a beautifully restful sleep and don't feel gross the next day. I hate Nyquil and any medicine that makes me sleepy because I wake up feeling like a truck hit me. When I know I need a good nights sleep or just feel super restless, these babies save the day.

Love Wellness Co Bye Bye Bloat

Love Wellness Co is another supplement brand that has made it big recently. It was started by Lo Bosworth of Laguna Beach & The Hills fame so obviously, I was intrigued (Lo was always my FAV). While I've been aware of the company for a while it wasn't until recently that I found a supplement that I was searching for. The weeks leading up to my period, I get insanely bloated... just like every other woman in the world. However, it was so incredibly uncomfortable, to the point that I felt uncomfortable in LEGGINGS and it nearly drives me to tears. Finally, I was on Revolve and saw the Bye, Bye Bloat pills and didn't even think twice about purchasing it. I've taken the pills a few times now (the first time I got really nauseous but I didn't eat before when it clearly says to have with food on the bottle). The day after taking these pills (I take them at night after a bloated day) I feel instantly better. I feel at least 5 pounds lighter and the gross feeling is completely gone. They have been a lifesaver these past few months.

Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides

If you follow me on Instagram (@bribrilukes) you know that I bought these a few months ago and have not turned back. Vital Proteins Collagen has been something I've been eyeing for close to a year after hearing one of my favorite YouTubers, Allie Sevdalis, talk about them incessantly on her channel. I wasn't really feeling them... I was scared to mix them in with coffee/tea/etc and I didn't think I needed collagen. My hair grows like a weed and my nails are pretty strong but I was still curious. While running errands one day I ran into GNC and saw that they had a sampler pack of the collagen peptides and for $12, I couldn't just leave it in the store. After trying them for a week, I bought a full size on Sephora.com. I was blown away! These are NO TASTE, like not even a hint of a taste which is so important to me. Then, throughout the day, I just felt better. I wasn't as moody and felt a little more clear. I googled to see if collagen had an effect on mood because that was something I really noticed, and in fact, it does! I haven't noticed a huge difference in my hair but my nails have been stronger and don't break as easily, especially my toenails (gross). There is rarely a day I don't mix these into my coffee and I could not recommend enough. *I use the regular old peptides in the blue packaging but the coffee creamer ones are so delicious*.

What are your favorite wellness supplements? Suggestions are always welcome ;) 

What has been your experience with supplements? Are you on board? Let's talk in the comments!
xoxo
B

CBD is everywhere right now, including here on Royally Pink. I blogged about my favorite CBD beauty products a few weeks ago but now I'm ready to discuss how I use it for my mental health.

CBD Oil

CBD Gummies

CBD Pen

Sleeping is not something I ever really struggled with but as I've gotten older and my anxiety has gotten worse, my sleeping patterns haven't been that great. It takes me forever to fall asleep and then I'm up at all hours of the night and exhausted the next day.

I've been very into wellness lately and reading up more on sleep so it's become more important to me than ever. There have been a few different products and techniques that have not only been helping me get more sleep but more peaceful sleep and better wellness all around.

Taking a few minutes to do these things each night and have helped me calm down a lot before heading to bed each night.

For some of the things mentioned, I'm going to do separate posts on where I review them in detail and give me thoughts.

Side note, I know I did a post on this last year but these are a few different techniques that have been helping me recently. Oil diffusing, reading, and a sleep mask still help greatly!

Skincare Routine

This sounds so weird but I promise, it's been helping. Every night I've been taking some time for myself to decompress before bed. That consists of deep cleaning my face, applying oils and moisturizers and using a Jade Roller. Those few minutes to myself, to take care of myself are essential to winding down and calming me for a good rest.

Meditation

I cannot wait to give you a full review on my meditation habits but for the past few months I've been using Headspace and it's almost the only way I could fall asleep. It has been so helpful in helping my fall asleep and stays asleep. I pair it with my airpods and it helps me fall into a really deep sleep.

CBD 

Self-care was a buzzword last year and it has continued well into 2018. To me, the definition of self-care is simple: it's doing what you need to do to care for yourself, to make sure you're in the best mental state.

Self-care could be saying no to going out on Saturday night, it could be going to the gym to clear your head, or simply having a cup of tea and reading a book. Self-care is taking care of yourself first, whether that is mental, physical, or emotion.

Self-care can be defined differently for everyone based on your interests and what eases you. When I'm in need of self-care, I light a few candles, stay off the computer, do a face mask and watch my favorite TV show.

Maybe if I'm feeling anxious, I'll go to the gym, come home and read a book. The possibilities are truly endless with self-care.

Since self-care and wellness have become their own industry, other industries have been cashing in on the buzz as well. That includes the beauty industry...

While I don't think these are marketed as self-care beauty items, I definitely classify them as that. I use them when I need a pick me up, or just need to better myself.



1. Ole Henriksen Cold Plunge Mask: I have been intrigued by this mask since it came on the scene and I bought it last week. I've used it about 3 times since then and I'm in love. To me, it's the definition of a self-care mask because it's tingly, a gorgeous blue color, and it shows results -- my pores looked tighter after use and my skin looked more fresh & clear. Last week I was having an off day so I decided to take time with my skincare routine and apply this mask. Adding a few extra minutes of relaxation time was key and this mask was a huge factor in it. It also leaves a minty feeling on your skin afterward which I love!

2. AERIN Rose Lip Conditioner: Ever want to pamper yourself or just give yourself an extra luxurious feeling? That's when I use the AERIN Rose Lip Conditioner. Something about the packaging mixed with the rose scent and the balmy texture of this product makes me feel like a million bucks.

3. Jade Roller: Jade rolling is all the rage nowadays and I've had mine for a few months. However, I didn't spend $40+ on it; I bought the Jade Roller from Amazon for around $8 and it works just as well. It's naturally cool so when you roll it on your face, you get that icy feeling which contributes to the depuffing that Jade Rolling does. There's also something very relaxing about giving yourself a little face massage when you're feeling stressed.

4. Clean and Clear Night Relaxing Jelly Eye Sheet Mask: When I received this product for PR a few months back I wasn't expecting to fall in love with it. The point of this mask is pure relaxation; it covers the upper half of your face and eyes where stress and sleepiness show the most. It also has seaweed extract to help replenish and nourish the skin. Whenever I need some help falling asleep or just need to really relax and recharge, I throw this mask on, close my bedroom door, light a candle and diffuse some oil and just close my eyes. It is so refreshing and probably the most relaxing beauty product I have in my collection. I simply cannot get enough and highly recommend for everyone!

5. Josie Maran Argan Oil: Whenever I want to take my time with my skincare routine to give myself an extra boost of self-care, I reach for an oil -- specifically the OG Argan Oil. It seeps into the skin immediately, feels incredible when applying it and leaves your face glowing. I'm obsessed and want to slather this all over my body (which I sometimes do!)

6. LUSH Sleepy Lotion: Whenever I need to really relax, get a good nights sleep or even just wind down, this lavender scented lotion is my go-to. It's super moisturizing, very relaxing, and the scent is just divine. I highly recommend to everyone!!

What are your self-care beauty items?
xoxo
B

Trader Joes Hashbrowns; 2 egg muffins

Since I was a little girl I loved being alone. My mom tells me stories of how I would sit in my room for hours, on the floor, playing with my 'people'. She would call out to me "Briana, come sit with Mommy" and as a 2-3 year old girl I'd shout back "I'm playing with my people!"

As I got older, my room was always a safe haven. I could entertain myself for hours reading books, writing stories, watching TV or just relaxing. I don't need a lot to keep myself occupied and I'm perfectly fine entertaining myself.

Maybe it has to do with the fact that I was first born so for 3 years, I did have to occupy myself and maybe it has to do with the fact that my sister and I are very different so we never really liked the same things... so I always had to occupy myself.

However, I'm just someone who is content being alone. I can do things on my own time without having to worry aboout other people, and can really do whatever I want when I'm alone.

If I'm shopping alone I can go to whatever store I want; I can go to eat wherever I want, and I can leave the mall whenever I want. If I'm out with my friends, I usually always bring my own car so I know I can leave whenever I want too.

Maybe I just don't like relying on other people (as I'm writing this I'm having a deep psychological revealation) but I think it's just that I don't mind being alone.

When I went to college, it was a really big adjustment because I was NEVER EVER alone. I'd cherish the mornings when I would wake up and all 9 of my roommates were still asleep, or if I was the first one to get back to the room after a long weekend. It was just nice to escape and be by myself. It was a very overwhelming experience to constantly being surrounded by people 24.7.

 Within a year, I got really used to it and by senior year, I never wanted to be alone. I craved people's company and always wanted to be doing something. It was a culture shock when I came back home and I was alone all the time again. I no longer enjoyed being alone and I think that's why I became so depressed.



I've since found a good balance and I think I realize why alone time is important. Below are a few reasons why I think being alone is a good thing... (at times)

• You learn more about yourself and what makes you happy. 
• You get away from the hustle and bustle of the world and can really think things through
• Relax! Being alone means you can rest and relax with anyone bothering you. Recharge those batteries!
• Hobbies; when you're alone you have time to do the things you like. For me it's writing and reading, for you it may be drawing or crafting!
• Pampering: I love to pamper myself when I'm chilling alone. Face masks and hair masks galore!