Happy WELLNESS WEDNESDAY, friends!
Earlier this month, I asked you guys for content ideas and suggestions as we dive into 2026. Once again, you ladies delivered with SO MANY great ideas.
Some of your ideas were super specific and others were more broad. While I work my way through them this year, I thought today, I’d address some of the common, more broad questions which was “are you still using_ in 2026/do you still like _ in 2026, have you changed _ in 2026, is this still your favorite _ in 2026, etc”.
I’m lumping just a bunch of those into this one post so that we’re all up to speed on what I’m still using, drinking, eating and liking as we dive into another year of wellness topics.
It’s a very eclectic mix for our January Wednesday…
DO YOU STILL USE YOUR TONAL?
Yes! I use it at least four if not five days a week. I absolutely love it. This year, I even purchased two new accessories for it. I bought both the ankle straps and the Pilates band so that I can add additional movements to my workout with the machine. You can see my full TONAL REVIEW for more info too.
WHEN DO YOU EAT PROTEIN BARS AND ARE YOU STILL DRINKING…
…PROTEIN DRINKS?
I am always, always trying to get more protein into my day, and for me, a great extra boost is having one protein bar OR one protein shake each day. The timing depends on when I eat lunch. If my lunch is early, I’ll have this mid-day, but if my lunch is later, I’ll have it earlier. For instance, yesterday, I didn’t eat lunch until after 1:00 (due to calls I had scheduled with clients), so I had a protein bar at 11:00. No matter how you slice it, currently these are the only two brands of protein I use because I haven’t found anything that’s nearly as tasty. I love Barebells for my protein bars and Clean Simple Eats for my protein powder. I just grab whichever I’m in the mood for that particular day.
Don’t forget, you can see SHAY’S FAVORITE PROTEIN SMOOTHIE recipe too.
DO YOU STILL USE YOUR WALKING PAD?
I am absolutely walking into 2026 on my WALKING PAD! Yes, yes, and YES! My whole family actually enjoys my walking pad. It’s especially amazing on super cold mornings. I also love walking while I’m on the phone. I use it every single day.
DO YOU STILL LOVE YOUR WEIGHTED VEST? WHAT SIZE DO YOU WEAR?
YES! I have a WEIGHTED VEST next to my front door in McKinney and my front door on Nantucket. It’s so easy to throw on and go. I wear the 12 pound version, but I do think that this spring, I’m going to go up to the 20 pound one. Why am I waiting until spring? Because I don’t want to get extra sweaty under my coat while using a new, heavier version 😉 . If I’m working on getting my Vo2 max up, just going up hills while wearing my weighted vest really gets it going.
DO YOU STILL LOVE YOUR APPLE WATCH AND YOUR…
…OURA RING?
I could (and probably will) do an entire post on this, but yes and yes…but I’m using them differently right now. I still wear my Apple Watch every day. It’s the first thing I put on in the morning (even before I put on my slippers!), and I always have it when I work out. Most days now though, I will take it off if I’m trying to unplug (at night when my family is home) or if I’m going somewhere and want to give my full attention and not be distracted by notifications (like to dinner with friends or church or things like that). Even though I have my watch on silent and DND, it still mimics my phone and therefore, it can certainly be a distraction and take me out of the moment. So, yes, I still wear it daily…but some days, I put on an actual watch instead for the time and enjoy not having the added distraction (and after TEN YEARS of wearing one every waking minute of my life, I have found this to be LOVELY).
As far as my Oura Ring goes, I still sleep in it every night, but I am trying to wear it more during the day (I had gotten to where I was just sleeping in it). It’s more accurate/knows you better if you have it on all day, so I’ve been really trying to just wear it all day instead of taking it off.
DO YOU STILL DRINK ELECTROLYTES?
I do, I do! That being said, I do get a little “drink fatigue” from #allthethings one is “supposed” to drink. Between drinking creatine and green vitamins and electrolytes and taking supplements, some days, I just drink plain water and call it a day. LMNT is a staple at our house (Smith in particular really loves it), and we drink it now instead of sports drinks. They have a new flavor out right now called Lemonade, and it is BY FAR our favorite. We LOVE IT! I probably drink it four or five days a week…but no matter what, I always drink it after my HIIT class that’s heated. Love.
WHAT SNEAKER ARE YOU WEARING?
I just bought my third pair of THESE SNEAKERS. I wear them for everything from walking to running to the gym. I know one “could” have a different shoe for all three, but for me, I just keep it simple and wear these for all of it.
WHAT’S THE NAME OF THAT SHOE YOU’RE ALWAYS WEARING?
Haha! I was asked this question SO MANY TIMES! You guys, I couldn’t go a day without my GO WALKS! I wear these all day long. I wear them to take the dogs out, to run quick errands, to grab the mail, to water my plants, WHATEVER IT IS, I slip my feet in them and go. I have my really really old pair by the back door and my new pair by the front door. When they get gross, I throw them in the washing machine and let them air dry. So easy.
DO YOU STILL LOVE YOUR NEW SUNSCREEN?
Yes! No matter if I wear makeup or not or even go outside or not, I add ELTA MD TINTED SUNSCREEN to my face after I moisturize each morning.
WHICH FLEECE LEGGINGS TO YOU LOVE?
I love THESE! I am constantly wearing and washing these leggings because, especially right now, I want to wear them every day outside when I’m walking the dogs. I took them to Germany and Poland as well and wore them during the day. I wear the three pocket and absolutely love them.
DO YOU STILL RIDE YOUR PELOTON?
I mentioned this in the fall, but I’ve changed the way I’m riding my Peloton bike. We’ve had our bike now for 8 or 9 years and honestly, I’m just bored with spending 20 to 45 minutes listening to the instructors and their music. I think their workouts are great, but I just can’t seem to get myself pumped up to listen to them talk and play their music during my workouts…so, I’ve changed things. I started selecting my classes and then once it began, I muted my screen and listened to one of my podcasts during the ride. This way, I’m still getting their awesome workout BUT with the content I want to hear during that time (because you don’t need to hear them if you’re following along with the metrics on the screen). This was a total game changer for me. After I shared this, one of you lovely readers suggested I do the same thing but instead of taking a class, I just just select a scenic ride. I LOVE THIS! I’ve started selecting scenic rides and then pushing myself as the ride progresses (depending on what I want to work on…Vo2, Zone 2, etc). Here is the only catch with me doing this…if I’m not careful, I can make myself motion sick on one of these scenic rides. I’ve had it happen a few times. The rides really are scenic. The camera is on a biker’s helmet as he/she goes down mountains, up mountains, around curves, by rivers, etc…and well, my sensitive stomach has to look away as to not get sick. Bahaha! Sad but true.
Okay, that wraps up this little bit of WELLNESS WEDNESDAY today!
Just a few more resources for you, I still use the FIT BOD APP almost every single day. I love it and highly recommend it! If you want to see my 10 KEYS FOR GETTING “WORKOUT READY“, I have a post on that too!
Have the best day, friends! I’ll see you tomorrow. xx
Nicole says
Yay love this! Thanks for sharing!! What does a typical weekly routine look like for you right now? Are you running at all?
So basically, egg scramble with lots of protein, a bar or smoothie, and family supper? You know I always love hearing! Also how much coffee/when do you have that? Thanks Shay!! You know I love this topic and always bring the questions. 😂🤪
Mix and Match Mama says
I have not been running lately (I find it extra hard to get motivated in the winter), but I will pick it back up again in the spring. That being said, I will NEVER be the runner I once was. I just stopped seeing any benefit for me and only the potential for injury. I love it though, so I’m not quitting entirely…just taking many more “off” seasons. And YES, you nailed what I eat in a day! It’s winter, so I’m drinking at least two cups of coffee in the AM and one in the afternoon (because it’s chilly and cozy) out. Other than that, a lot of water (with maybe one Bubbly or La Croix thrown in). 🙂
Nicole says
I tend to get so overwhelmed in the wellness world with all the advice and do this, don’t do that – your approach is a so refreshing and I love learning balance from you.
A couple questions…there’s so much talk about fasted workouts for women, what is your take? Has it changed?
Next is alcohol! It also seems to be everywhere too! What do you notice, what’s your take? Thanks!!! I hope my questions are not too personal! I just love hearing what you do! It inspires me!
Mix and Match Mama says
I always love your questions! Okay, I only workout fasted because I workout so early in the morning. It’s not “strategic”. If I worked out later in the day, I would certainly not do it on digestive rest. This morning, I was in the gym at 5:45, and I just don’t want to eat that early. I really enjoy alcohol with certain foods, in certain settings, as a part of my overall meal experience at times. I realize it’s not doing anything positive for me health-wise, but at this time, I feel like it’s working with my lifestyle, so I’m not adding or decreasing it. There’s always a balance between routine and rigidity that I try to keep in check.
Diane Moore says
Do you do any exercise without shoes to get the small muscles of your feet and ankles engaged?
Have you looked into barefoot shoes?
I have foot problems and did need to start doing some things barefoot to work my foot muscles naturally.
Mix and Match Mama says
I have looked at the barefoot shoes. I’ve almost purchased them a few times, but I haven’t taken the plunge. Maybe I should? People swear by them!
Nova says
I’ve been using barefoot shoes for 9 years now and will never look back! My husband and kids do, too. We use toe socks too! I use Xero shoes for every day wear, and they have a trainer pair I use to lift weights when it’s not squat day.
I honestly can’t wear heels anymore, they are so hurtful to my body.
If you haven’t tried it before, I’d recommend giving it a go. Dedicate to it, give your feet and body time to adjust, and during your trial try not to wear any other shoes except barefoot.
Mix and Match Mama says
Really?! I am so fascinated! Thank YOU for the feedback. I’ve only heard wonderful things.
Elspeth Mizner says
I love your fitness and wellness posts!! Thanks for sharing!
http://www.elspethsdaybyday.com
Kelly Sites says
I use my walking pad every single day. Sometimes I’ll just hop on for a quick mile walk. I always walk on it when I’m on a phone call (or I pace in my house). I love it so much. I also don’t do “programs” on my Peloton. I actually do manual mode and increase my incline and resistance and put my lap top on my handle bars and watch something or listen to something on my phone (podcast or music). I love it. It calms me. 🙂
K.K. says
Thanks for the peek into your routine. It can seem overwhelming when you think of all you could do, but I try to move and eat whole food/real food (lots of protein) and heavy weights. Maybe this year I’ll incorporate something else! Lots of ideas here.
Ashley D says
Happy Wellness Wednesday! One of my favorite wellness items for 2026 is my vibration plate! My husband got it for me for Christmas, and I absolutely love it! It’s great for lymphatic drainage which plays a huge role in our detoxification and overall health. I use it for 10 minutes a day and feel so good!
Jeanne Cobianchi says
Try Lanebreak on Peloton. Music with no instructor. So fun and a good workout.
Mix and Match Mama says
I’ve never heard of this one! Thank YOU!
Bren says
Hi Shay – you’ve probably mentioned this before and excuse me being forgetful: Have you tried the “Relief band” you wear on your wrist (looks kind of like a watch)? Just curious because I just ordered one to try for some upcoming plans we have. I never used to get motion sick but last summer – WHAM – it hit me like a ton of bricks and I was down and out until things settled down (we were on the water). I’m going to give one a try and see what I think. It’s a lot of $$ to give a try, but with some coupon codes I finally decided to give in and try it. Thanks so much!
Mix and Match Mama says
I have a post on motion sickness! I have tried bands and patches and pills and for me, having a full stomach is almost always the best fix. https://mixandmatchmama.com/2025/04/shays-ways-motion-sickness/
Amy Scott says
I just discovered LMNT! Try the citrus salt with sparking water and you will literally think you are drinking a marg.
A friend told me to try raspberry salt with Fresca so I have done that for my “Damp January”!
Mix and Match Mama says
Brilliant!!
Robin Lewis says
Thanks, as always, for this update and info. I’m guessing I am not the only one who has asked but will you or are you planning on posting anything about what you are doing to improve your VO2 max? This really on my radar lately. Thanks, again! Happy Wednesday!
Mix and Match Mama says
I feel like that and “zone 2” are the hot topics right now. I can certainly do a post about that!
Kay says
Love this post! As a little side to ‘winter wellness,’ I just discovered Fiona Ferris has the cutest winter book-“How to be Chic in the Winter.” It’s very short but pairs so well with the book you recommended (that I LOVE) ‘Evergreen”. I think you would enjoy it as she embraces your philosophy of actually enjoying winter. As someone who struggles with winter blues-your posts have helped me tremendously this winter :).
Mix and Match Mama says
I love that book, Kay! It’s literally on my ottoman right now! Thank YOU for the kind words. xx
Priscilla says
I love all of this Shay!
I have also been meaning to tell you about a movie I recently watched that I think you’d really like. It’s called “Soul on Fire” and should be available on Netflix. It’s a very inspiring true story that’s at times tough to watch but so worth it for the way it makes you think and the message of it.
How cool is it that I feel like I have a blogger friend to make movie recommendations to? I hope you watch and love it as much as I think you will 🙂
Have a great rest of your week!!!
Mix and Match Mama says
I am so excited about a new rec! I think we will be iced in this weekend, so I will need something new to watch. THANK YOU for being a part of this community with me. xx
Carley says
I have wanted to purchase a walking pad and am going to take the plunge. Is your pad a sperax?
Mix and Match Mama says
it is!
Lauren says
Love this post! Always inspired by all that you do. Thanks to you, I have been working on upping my protein. A friend recently recommended the Slate Ultra Protein drinks, and I think they are pretty tasty!
Mix and Match Mama says
I’m unfamiliar with this brand. I’ll look them up right now. Thank YOU!
Tish says
Oh, how I LOVE a good wellness post! Shay, can you share your current sleep schedule now that football is over? Are you still up at 4:30am and going to sleep around 9:30pm?
Mix and Match Mama says
We have fallen in love with going to sleep early. Ha! We are asleep almost every night by 9:30. Once or twice a week, I get up at 4:00 to attend a few workout classes I love, but the other days, I’m up closer to 4:45 or even 5:00!
Alexie says
I swear by my Barebell bars and Clean Simple Eats shakes! Currently obsessed with the key lime bars and the snickerdoodle shake (and I add half a frozen banana to it). The best brands for sure!!
Susan Fitzpatrick says
I love Barebells and always pick mine up at Trader Joe’s. Just wondering if you watch your sugar intake? I was having sleeping issues and always thought it was related to caffeine intake but it turns out sugar is not my friend 😂 I sleep much better on days that I have very minimal sugar.
Mix and Match Mama says
I do pay attention to my sugar intake! I don’t know that it’s affecting my sleep in any way, but I am most certainly mindful of it.
Heidi says
I’m just curious about the benefits of the LMNT or other electrolyte mixes. I’m “googling” it now, but I would love to hear what benefits you or anyone else has personally experience. 🙂
Mix and Match Mama says
Also make sure you go to LMNT’s website. They have a lot of really good information on there about the research they’ve done to create their product. I did an entire blog post about why I started using it and the reasons are the same. It absolutely helps with my hydration. You can see it here: https://mixandmatchmama.com/2024/01/hydration/
Tiffany says
I have a question for you! Do you find that the Pegasus runs narrow? The link is to the wide and I was just curious if you found the wide to be more comfy! Thank you bunches!
Mix and Match Mama says
I don’t know why it linked there, I wear the “regular” size! Not wide. Thank YOU for catching that!