Category Archives: LIFE + STYLE

The Only Scent Worth Wearing: The Harmonist’s New Yang Collection

October 21, 2021

Currently coveting the new Reconsidered Yang Collection, which is available to you lucky peeps on Oct. 22. Hey, if there is a scent lover in your world – this is for them. Or in my case – me, me, me!

The Harmonist is about to relaunch its Yang Collection and I could not be more excited: five radiant aromas, reconsidered in a new parfum concentration.

The five elements – wood, fire, earth, water and metal – are regarded as the building blocks of all natural phenomena. Interconnected yet opposing, they enhance and diminish each other. Wood feeds fire, but it also parts Earth.

“Golden Wood, Desired Earth, Velvet Fire, Matrix Metal, and Sacred Water are vibrant, assured aromas,” says founder Lola Tillyaeva of the Yang Collection. “Warm and radiant, they are designed to energize and nourish the wearer, much like the sun’s light. While we are immensely proud of the collection, which was conceived in collaboration with my dear friend and nose Guillaume Flavigny, The Harmonist is an ongoing conversation. Fragrances must be allowed to grow and evolve, like people.”

Using the original formulations as a starting point, the collection’s scents were reconsidered as parfums, a concentration that allows ingredients to better reveal their depth and character. The result, as always at The Harmonist, is a refined balance between the fragrance’s harmony and the individuality of each ingredient.

Fragrance Descriptions

Golden Wood

Woody · Citrus · Oriental

Golden wood is a noble aroma that comforts and consoles. Its gourmet and woody notes nourish the wearer, like the strength and vitality of a centuries-old tree.

Notes: Bergamot, Mandarin, Bitter Orange, Bees Wax, Pear Granita, Guaiac Wood, Oak Wood, Tonka Bean, Cabreuva

Desired Earth

Oriental · Spicy · Woody

Desired Earth is a majestic aroma that intrigues and inspires. Its powerful notes of spice and wood elevate the wearer, like the summit of the highest peaks.

Notes: Elemi, Cade, Immortal Flower, Red Cedar, Myrrh, Tolu Balsam, Vetiver, Iris, Vanilla

Velvet Fire

Aromatic · Woody · Oriental

Velvet Fire is a charismatic aroma that arouses and ignites. Its sensual combination of woody notes impassions and illuminates the wearer, like the sun’s caress.

Notes: Clary Sage, Cypress, Myrtle, Neroli, Saffron, Tobacco, Cistus, Tonka Bean, Oud

Matrix Metal

Woody · Metal · Musk

Matrix Metal is a powerful aroma that emboldens and strengthens. Its hot-cold accord is contrasted by metallic notes and creamy freshness, bringing clarity to the wearer, like the burnished surface of a blade. Notes: Metallic Notes, Cardamom, Nutmeg, White Tea, Cyclamen, Vetiver, Sequoia, Sandalwood, White Musk

Sacred Water

Citrus · Marine · Floral

Sacred Water is a fluid aroma that stimulates and settles. Its notes of citrus fruit, fresh spice and minerality both invigorate and soothe the wearer, like the unfolding expanse of a tranquil sea.

Notes: Citron, Mandarin, Fresh Ginger, Magnolia, Orange Blossom, Laminaria Seaweed, Amyris, Grey Amber, Cedar

Known as the Wuxing, they have been used to interpret everything from the cosmos to our internal bodies for millennia. They were also the inspiration behind our initial collection of ten signatures scents.

“Each of us possesses all five elements within us. But we are guided by a particular element, which is informed by the date, time and location of our birth, as well as our gender.”

To find your element or to better understand the energies operating within you, click the link here: Find Your Element. (This is the fun part)

Meet the creator:

Lola Tillyaeva: Merging the art of haute perfumerie with the tradition and philosophy of Feng Shui, Lola Tillyaeva (Till) launched The Harmonist in 2016 as an expression of a desire to render balance and harmony through the power of scent. Committed to a life-long quest to understand the mysteries and wonders animating life’s fundamental questions, Lola envisioned a unique fragrance house founded on the wisdom of Feng Shui, translating its principles into perfumery. Articulating a recognition that each individual possesses his/her own distinct birth element, Lola imagined The Harmonist as a vehicle to offer clients an enhanced and personalized experience in finding balance and well-being through our unique collection. With a mission of empowering clients to strengthen their self-knowledge and well-being, Lola has emerged as a singular voice within the wellness and beauty space, continually lending new purpose and possibility to the art of perfume.

To find out more about Dr. Tillyaeva,
visit www.lolakarimova.com
www.lolatill.com

THE ART OF SCULPT(ery)

October 19, 2021

As a sucker for all things wellness and beauty it would be to no surprise that I would fall into the influence of body sculpting. Spending so much time on Instagram I began to see an increase in influencers speaking about a lymphatic drainage massage, and one in particular: @sculptery

I was already familiar with the benefits of a lymphatic draining, and how it applied to those post op. Being a gentle massage that encourages movement of lymph fluids around the body it helped the system remove toxins from the bodily tissues: aka, fix bloat, boost immunity and aid in weight loss. Additional benefits from the massage were improvement in the skin appearance – perhaps a major reason why people choose this as part of a facial.

Therefore, what was so special about Sculptery and how it applies to ‘sculpting the body’? At first, I figured it was a fad, just having multiple influencers do the usual promo shout to create buzz. But as any junkie needing their fix, you bet I made a quick appointment.

Entering the premise, I was greeted by Sarah the owner and specialist that would be conducting my session. She was perhaps one of the friendliest people I had ever come across. As we began to discuss the process she started with the usual, “are you familiar with wood and ice massages?” I smiled and said I did, feeling confident on what I knew.

That’s when I began to be blown away. She knew her stuff. Having over 10+ years in the business, and being a success story herself, she dived into explaining the treatment.

Our SCULPTERYWood Treatment is an exotic unique technique in which custom wood, metal & jade instruments are developed to contour & shape the body & face. Wood Therapy has been practiced for centuries throughout the world in Oriental & Latin Countries where Therapists used wood for therapeutic purposes.

Our technique is one of a kind. After researching the techniques of maderaterapia, we created SCULPTERYWood where each instrument has a specific use to treat an area of the face or body. SCULPTERYWood increases blood circulation, has a sculpting & toning effect on the skin, while increasing the production of collagen & elastin’s. Our unmitigated treatments will aid in cellulite reduction, enhance a lifted buttock, create a contoured waistline, and will aid in smoothing out unwanted bulges. Best part of these treatments is that they are all natural, non-invasive, with no downtime, and you are sure to see results! “

Handing me a pair of disposable skivvies and stepping out of the room, it was time to get started. She began with specific movements, explaining the reasoning behind each. First on my back, then to my side. I found it odd having a mirror right in front of me, but as she continued her process the results were visible and undeniable. I was in in complete shock at the immediate results, and she laughed stating, “I love hearing when they see it.” I kept the rotation as she did the other side and my stomach.

This wasn’t so bad. Suddenly, she reached into a freezer noting, “ok, this is about to be a love hate relationship.” Confused at first, I looked over to see what she meant, and realized she was holding a product named “snatchsicle” which immediately told me, ‘It’s about to get real cold in here.’ Trying to be brave I was taking the ice on my body like a champ, but eventually began to feel the tingles. Luckily, this was towards the end.

45 minutes later, I was standing in front of the mirror visibly seeing the difference. It was so great, that I immediately asked how soon I would be able to come back. She noted this would be possible every other day but noting that it’s not necessary for everyone as all bodies react and show results differently. As you guessed, I made the follow up and 3 days later got the same procedure done. I felt great after but wasn’t sure on how visible results would be to others, until my girlfriend saw me and said, “damn, you’ve lost a lot of weight!” – as if that was not enough, my once tight pants were loose, my skin was tighter, and I just felt good.

Moral of the story? If you are looking for a jumpstart for any weight loss goals, do not hesitate, and make your appointment TODAY! They are local in Beverly Hills, and you will be thanking us later.

Wondering on the downside of the procedure? Well, you mustpee a lot – and the non-invasive procedure will run you up $250+ per session. But hey, isn’t it time you invested in yourself?

Sculptery Boiler Plate

Did you find yourself out of shape post quarantine? Are you looking to shed the excess baggage? 2021 is the year of change. One way to feel better in your own skin is to get back to your ideal size and shape – no tedious diets, exercise or surgery necessary. How, you ask? There is a self made boss babe who can get you feeling like a brand new you!

Cue Sarah Elizaz, the self proclaimed Madam Snatched. Sarah owns and runs Sculptery, unmitigated body sculpting here in Los Angeles. It is a safe, needleless approach that is gaining attention from everyday people and celebrities alike!

Sarah became well versed in the art of body sculpting through her own tough journey after gaining 70 pounds. She researched non-invasive beauty treatments that would help with weight loss and came across wood therapy. After one treatment, Sarah was underwhelmed. Convinced there had to be a better method, she started training in several body sculpting methods. NOW, with over fifteen certifications dedicated to her craft from master trainers with medical experience in locations like Colombia, Brazil, Thailand and more, she is proving herself to be an unstoppable force. Sarah’s motto: “You can’t beat the person who refuses to give up.”

Sarah drew inspiration from her parents. Sarah’s late mother worked in the beauty industry and introduced her at a young age to what would later become a passion, allowing her to collect over 18 years of experience in the beauty world. Sarah’s father is a renowned, retired plastic surgeon who helped her further understand the human body and how the skin reacts, fat cells, cellulite, etc. Sarah took this knowledge, alongside her bachelors in international business at San Francisco State University and created what we now know as the Sculptery technique.

Sarah is currently three times certified in radio frequency, cavitation, vacuum therapy, laser liposuction. Some of Sarah’s specifically recommended services include:

  •  Masters of Wood & Ice body Sculpting
  • Needleless Fat Dissolving Injections
  • Self sculpting at home kits

Which treatment intrigues you? Sign up today and get that much closer to becoming a better you


Maya Apothecary

October 13, 2021

Maya Apothecary is a luxury, organic skincare company that is revolutionizing self-care. Created by Alyeria Faith, Maya Apothecary is 100% natural and organic and is infused with elevated sound & healing frequencies to help unlock every woman’s true power and potential. The brand recently held its EXCLUSIVE launch party, which was backed by brands that also support the mission of ‘self-love’ and wellness: Child of WildSlipMagic of IArt of TeaThe Moon Deck, and more.

Alyeria is on a soul-lead path building her own vision, and inspiring women to take empowered action in her wake. Through her relentless obsession with personal growth and an unwavering commitment to living life on her own terms, Alyeria found her way into the beauty industry with a vision to awaken the collective feminine through elevated skincare, which introduced Maya Apothecary.

Maya Apothecary and the VYB skincare line are really an expression of my soul. The mission behind the business is to give women the keys to step into their power and manifest the life of their wildest desires with more pleasure and ease than ever before,” Alyeria shares. “Through ritual skincare products, infused with elevating and healing frequencies, we offer women a new way to slow down, get intimate with themselves and return to their true essence.”

The entire brand delivers transformational skincare that bridges ancient natural healing wisdom and modern science by utilizing both in its unique formulations. Grounded in sustainability, with a strong commitment to caring for people and the planet, we use only natural and organic, fair-trade ingredients, delivering the very best products with as little environmental impact as possible. It’s a way to slow down, get intimate with themselves, and return to their true essence.

“All of our skincare lines, developed by leading skincare scientists, in collaboration with renowned alchemists, are infused with specific frequencies that activate the cellular memory of the bodies natural healing wisdom, to connect you to the true nature of your being,” Alyeria shared.

Partnering with these brands for the launch was a no-brainer. Each of these brands align with the theme of ‘self-love’ and honoring ‘me-time.’ Needless to say, it’s a little something that we need more of.

Who Misses Hand Soap?

October 5, 2021

Who misses a good ol’ fashioned bar of soap?

Yes, the omnipresent liquid, anti-bacterial soaps are imperative – I get it!  How wild is it that a classic bar of hand soap can feel reminiscent of pre-Covid times? I am craving the nostalgia of everything pre-Covid. Who would have thought that hand soap would give me so many warm fuzzies of simpler times?

This is why I keep a bar of my favorite Caswell-Massey bar soap next to every sink in my house.

I already have holiday gifting on the brain and this time I’m conjuring fun ideas of all things pre-Covid. The Caswell-Massey’s Master Collection Year of Soap keeps coming to mind. There is nothing like opening a stunning blue box of these beauties.

This gorgeous box allows you to try the most iconic soaps: sweet Almond, fresh Lavender, citrusy Verbena, invigorating Cucumber, comforting Oatmeal, warm Sandalwood, marine-inspired Newport, dapper Tricorn, rugged Greenbriar, refined Number Six, sophisticated Jockey Club, and spicy Woodgrain Sandalwood.

It’s $98 and you can grab it now right here:

A little history:

Caswell-Massey is America’s Original Apothecary and Perfumery, with historic, bespoke formulations enjoyed for nearly 300 years. Today, Caswell-Massey produces both new and archival recipes with modern, clean and sustainable ingredients and manufacturing methods to offer some of the finest American-made personal care products available.

Meet Kemtai, The Fitness App That Corrects Your Form

October 1, 2021

After spending over a year avoiding crowds and likely also the workout studio and weight room, you might have already leapt at the recent opportunity to return to your gym. But also, maybe not? Working out from home really wasn’t so bad once we started to find our flow, and you don’t need us to tell you about the abundance of at-home workout products, apps, and service out there. (Instagram’s got that covered.) Also, reluctant as we are to say it, Covid isn’t over over yet.

That said, there is one thing that home workouts definitely lack: Feedback. Whether you typically work out with a trainer or even just a friend, it’s always nice to know there’s somebody there to (hopefully) call out your less-than-textbook form when you start slacking.

Well, it looks like there might be a way to finally get that experience from home, too—and it doesn’t require you to add yet another fitness app to your phone’s home screen, or heap any more bulky fitness equipment onto the unruly pile of miscellaneous workout gear in the corner of your living room.

Kemtai is a new web-based fitness platform that turns your laptop or desktop computer into an advanced, motion-tracking digital personal trainer, complete with real-time personalized feedback and guidance. 

Technically speaking, it leverages computer vision technology and artificial intelligence to analyze motion and provide real-time training feedback. Humanly speaking, it tells you when you’re dragging ass—or potentially setting yourself up for injury. 

Unlike, say, Tempo, which offers some motion tracking functionality but requires you to spend thousands of dollars on 100-plus pounds of bulky equipment, Kemtai provides you with personalized, real-time training feedback and guidance during workouts right from your web browser. And it works on virtually any computer with a camera.

Behind the lens, Kemtai captures and tracks 44 different data points on your body—more than any other motion-tracking fitness product available, apparently. In addition to real-time training feedback and guidance during workouts, one of the best perks is being able to see quantitative results from one workout to the next, and even from rep to rep.

The service costs $19 per month, which will give you access to diverse workouts and series from a range of different trainers and workout styles ranging from HIIT and strength training to yoga and Pilates, but you can actually access Kemtai’s coolest feature for free here. Kemtai Now is the platform’s AI-based custom workout builder, and it is definitely one of the quickest and simplest ways we’ve found to get a sweat on when there isn’t a ton of time and we don’t feel like searching around for the perfect workout. The feature is capable of assembling endless unique workout combinations based on your preferences,