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Headstands and Heels

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About Me

 A wellness lifestyle blog written by Melanie Phillips

how yoga changed my life 1The Girl

Hi there, I’m Mel! A Digital Strategist turned Wellness Entrepreneur, certified yoga instructor (RYT 200), proud dog mama, and content creator who recently relocated from NYC to Denver.  I strongly believe with a little creativity and a lot of hard work, anything is possible.

A few things that make me smile include: fresh flowers, painting, smoothies, dogs, anything chocolate, wine, the perfect pair of heels, a day at the beach, a good book, an invigorating yoga flow, discovering new food, traveling to new places, and meeting new people.

about me_ the girlThe Story

I started practicing yoga in 2013 while going through an incredibly difficult time in my life. The calm and solitude of my yoga mat helped me find the self-love and mindfulness that I desperately needed… and after a few months of daily practice, I was hooked. Since then my love for yoga and fitness have continued to grow. So much so that in June 2017 I took the steps to become a certified yoga teacher.

My practice has now served as a beautiful way to relieve stress through the hustle of city life. From my desk to the studio, from a girl’s night out to a quiet morning on my mat — yoga has been the thread that has helped me find the balance needed to continue to chase my dreams. And I hope it’s something that I can share with you.

headstand with eagle legsThe Blog

As many of you know, “Headstands and Heels” started as a mesh of my two previous worlds — from days spent at a global PR firm, to the evenings sweating at NYC’s many yoga and fitness studios. Although I’m now venturing onto the path of entrepreneurship, my focus has remained the same: to help and inspire other young professionals follow their dreams and cultivate a healthy, balanced lifestyle filled with less stress and more self-love.

So let’s inspire and encourage each other, creating a beautiful place for like-minded women who are all just trying to reach our goals, one day at a time.

about me_ fitness

If you’re new to my blog the following posts may be a great place to start!

How Yoga Changed My Life

Celebrating My 1 Year Blogiversary

My Go-To Banana Matcha Smoothie

10 Ways to Find Inspiration When You’re in a Creative Rut

5 Things I Learned From Yoga Teacher Training

 


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Meet Melanie

Meet Melanie

Hi and welcome to Headstands & Heels! I’m Melanie — a Digital Strategist turned Wellness Entrepreneur, certified yoga instructor (RYT 200), dog mama, and content creator based in Denver. I hope to encourage others to follow their dreams and cultivate a healthy, balanced lifestyle filled with mindfulness and positivity. 💕 Send me a note at: mel@headstandsandheels.com

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One of the most difficult parts of being a new mom
One of the most difficult parts of being a new mom has been learning how to let go of the need to constantly be “productive”

and as a chronic overachiever, I’ve struggled a lot with tying self-worth to productivity. Which means accepting that my goals might take more of a backseat right now has been extra challenging

one thing that has helped shift my mindset was acknowledging that slowing down does NOT mean that I’m failing. In fact, days or even seasons of slowness are an important part of life and crucial for our overall physical and emotional wellbeing

Being able to reframe the classic thought pattern of “I did nothing today” to one of these more positive phrases is a helpful way to place the emphasis on self-care and acknowledge that there is joy to be found in slowing down 

if this post finds you, I hope it serves as a helpful validation that sometimes ✨rest✨ is truly the most important thing you can do for yourself 💕

#romanticizeyourlife #intentionaliving #softwellness #softgirlera #slowliving #healthylifestyle

As we enter what may feel like the busiest time of
As we enter what may feel like the busiest time of year, let this be your guide to ✨resetting your nervous system✨ so that you can help regulate stress and return to a state of calm 

GIVE YOURSELF A RELEASE
when your body just needs to let go of any pent up tension, stress or anxiety — movement and allowing yourself to FEEL all of the emotions can be the best medicine

GROUND YOURSELF IN THE PRESENT
after releasing the feelings and energy, try a few grounding practices to reorient your nervous system and come back to the present moment 

ACTIVATE THE RELAXATION RESPONSE
slow down and help your body transition to the parasympathetic nervous system (otherwise known as the “rest & digest” state) with activities like breathwork, yoga, or even a long hug 

GET SUPPORT FROM LOVED ONES
intentionally surround yourself with people who help you regulate your stress vs add to it. The feeling of being safe and supported can’t ever be underestimated 

PRIORITIZE DEEP REST 
at the end of the day, practicing good sleep hygiene and prioritizing rest can be the best thing you do for your mind and body. These restorative moments allow for your nervous system to truly reset and recover 

Be sure to SAVE this post for whenever you may need it this holiday season and share it if you feel like it would be helpful to anyone you know! 💕

#mindfulmoments #cozyvibes #healthyliving #cozyrituals #joyfulliving #hygge #selfcaretips

My little beanie babies ❤️

I know this post i
My little beanie babies ❤️

I know this post is coming a bit late buuuut I loved this quick DIY costume so much and figured it deserved a spot on the feed! 

#babiesfirsthalloween #dogsandbabies #lovemylittlefamily #newmomlife #romanticizeyourlife #fallphotodump #familyhalloween


What my weekend is currently looking like 🥰

#
What my weekend is currently looking like 🥰 

#countdowntochristmas🎄 #christmasdecor #tistheseason #romanticizeyourlife #holidayseason


It’s the beginning of the most wonderful time of
It’s the beginning of the most wonderful time of year and my absolute favorite holiday🎄❤️

I know Nov 1st may seem a little early to start celebrating the Christmas season for some but I always feel like this time of year flies by too fast. So decorating our home early and starting all the fun Christmas baking, crafts and festive activities feels like a special way to make the most of the holidays ❤️

Who else will be spending the weekend decorating? 

#romanticizeyourlife #holidayseason #christmastimeishere #smalljoys

The person who sent you this wants to have a spook
The person who sent you this wants to have a spooky date night in to celebrate Halloween 🎃

Halloween isn’t my fav holiday but I do love a themed cozy evening with my favorite person… and it feels even more special these days as new parents. So we decided to have a SPOOKY date complete with homemade pizzas (with ghost shaped mozzarella), blackberry smash cocktails, a candle painting craft, pumpkin ice cream, and a rewatch of “Haunting of Bly Manor” 🖤 

PS: I’m not a big horror movie fan but this show is such a well done metaphor of how grief can haunt you and the tone feels much more gothic romance than classic jump scares 

Anywaaay, after tomorrow I’m looking forward to decorating our home for Christmas and you can expect lots of cozy, whimsical ideas to savor and celebrate the holiday season coming soon ☺️

#datenightin #cozyseason #halloweenishere #romanticizeyourlife #datenightideas

Is it just me, or is fall flying by? 🧡

Here a
Is it just me, or is fall flying by? 🧡 

Here are a few of my #fallfavorites from the archives featuring lots of leaf peeping, spooky treats, and fun moments with family and friends.

#lifelately #autumnarchives #fallgirl #cozygirlfall #cozyseason #babiesfirstfall #romanticizelife #simplejoys #newmomlife #fallphotodump


Bringing you behind the scenes of the Halloween Ri
Bringing you behind the scenes of the Halloween Ride & Haunted Happy Hour I hosted for my @denverfitfriends community this past weekend! 👻 🎶 

The gals showed up in costume and @ritual_indoorcycling led us through such a fun 45 min ride with all the best spooky vibes 🖤 

A big thank you to our vendors @alythactive, @truvani and @drinkparch for making this an extra special experience! 

I have one last DenFit event planned for November to wrap up the year so if you’re in the Denver area stay tuned for details coming sooooon ✨☺️

#denverfitfriends #denfit #denverfitnesscommunity #denverfitness #dayinmylife #halloweenevent #wellnessgirl

“When we are together darling, every night is Ha
“When we are together darling, every night is Halloween.” 🖤

Lily was invited to her first Halloween party yesterday so we obviously had to dress up as one of the most iconic, creepy + kooky families ever! And I know I’m so biased but I don’t think I’ve seen a cuter Wednesday Addams 🥹

Such a fun way to celebrate spooky season (and a pretty easy family costume if you’re in need of something last minute!) 

But what do you guys think? Is it creepy or cute? 👇🏼

#addamsfamily #familyhalloweencostumes #halloweenparty #wednesdayaddams #familyhalloween #theaddamsfamily #babiesfirsthalloween

Welcome to my “Cozy Corner” 🧡 a new series
Welcome to my “Cozy Corner” 🧡 a new series where I’ll share some of my favorite things each month that can help you slow down and savor the season

I have so many things I want to chat with you all about and can’t wait to dive into more of these! You can expect lots of cozy hobby ideas, self care tips, book recommendations, gift guides, fitness/wellness favs, recipes I’m loving, and more — just let me know if you have any requests! 

I’m kicking things off with 3 of my favorite fall crafts that I’ve been loving for both solo cozy nights in or for hosting friends ✨. You can find tutorials and video examples of all three in my recent reels

I hope you guys enjoy our cozy chat 💬 

#cozyhobbies #cozycrafts #fallgirl #selfcaretips #comfortcreator #wellbeing #wellnessjourney #softwellness #hobbiesareimportant #romanticizeyourlife #cozycorner #joyfulliving

You all know I love a mindful morning routine, but
You all know I love a mindful morning routine, but in this season of life, cozy evening rituals have been everything for me ✨💕

If you’re looking for quick and simple ways to add a little more hygge into your evenings, these are some of my personal favorites to: 

Restore your Body
✨just a few minutes of intentional movement or nourishing self care can help your body relax, unwind and prepare for a good night’s sleep 

Clear your Mind
✨ stop the scroll and opt for more positive ways to reduce the mental clutter. Taking a few minutes to reflect and reset your thoughts can help you fall asleep with a clear mind 

Soothe your Soul
✨the quiet moments of the evening provide the perfect opportunity to choose activities that make you happy. Whether it’s reading a book, trying a new cozy hobby or even as simple as stepping outside to look at the moon & stars… choose to end your day with warmth and ease 

If you’d like to receive my free printable Autumn Reflections guided journal, just comment JOURNAL and I’ll send it straight to your inbox. It’s the perfect thing to add to your cozy evening (or morning) routine 🧡

#mindfulmoments #cozyvibes #cozyseason #joyfulliving #happyandhealthy #hygge #intentionalliving #cozyrituals #healthyliving

Move over PSL because this viral iced salted maple
Move over PSL because this viral iced salted maple latte is the new “it girl” of fall drinks! 🍁 All you need are 4 ingredients to whip this up at home 

Recipe:

✨ 1-2 tsp Trader Joe’s maple butter 
✨ pinch of salt
✨ 2 shots espresso 
✨ milk of choice 

Let me know if you’ll be trying this! 🧡 

#fallvibes #fallgirl #fallrecipe #coffeeathome #morningsips #coffeemorning #maplelatte #softgirlera #comfortcreator #cozyseason #cozyathome #pinterestaesthetıc #cozyvibesonly


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Currently Pinning

  • Ashley on TikTok
  • You’ll love how quick and filling this Easy Roasted Butternut Squash with Ground Turkey is! It’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or meal prep when you need something hearty and healthy.
  • Elegant autumn outfit flatlay with a black turtleneck sweater paired with a plaid skirt. Perfect minimal and cozy fall style.

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One of the most difficult parts of being a new mom One of the most difficult parts of being a new mom has been learning how to let go of the need to constantly be “productive”

and as a chronic overachiever, I’ve struggled a lot with tying self-worth to productivity. Which means accepting that my goals might take more of a backseat right now has been extra challenging

one thing that has helped shift my mindset was acknowledging that slowing down does NOT mean that I’m failing. In fact, days or even seasons of slowness are an important part of life and crucial for our overall physical and emotional wellbeing

Being able to reframe the classic thought pattern of “I did nothing today” to one of these more positive phrases is a helpful way to place the emphasis on self-care and acknowledge that there is joy to be found in slowing down 

if this post finds you, I hope it serves as a helpful validation that sometimes ✨rest✨ is truly the most important thing you can do for yourself 💕

#romanticizeyourlife #intentionaliving #softwellness #softgirlera #slowliving #healthylifestyle
As we enter what may feel like the busiest time of As we enter what may feel like the busiest time of year, let this be your guide to ✨resetting your nervous system✨ so that you can help regulate stress and return to a state of calm 

GIVE YOURSELF A RELEASE
when your body just needs to let go of any pent up tension, stress or anxiety — movement and allowing yourself to FEEL all of the emotions can be the best medicine

GROUND YOURSELF IN THE PRESENT
after releasing the feelings and energy, try a few grounding practices to reorient your nervous system and come back to the present moment 

ACTIVATE THE RELAXATION RESPONSE
slow down and help your body transition to the parasympathetic nervous system (otherwise known as the “rest & digest” state) with activities like breathwork, yoga, or even a long hug 

GET SUPPORT FROM LOVED ONES
intentionally surround yourself with people who help you regulate your stress vs add to it. The feeling of being safe and supported can’t ever be underestimated 

PRIORITIZE DEEP REST 
at the end of the day, practicing good sleep hygiene and prioritizing rest can be the best thing you do for your mind and body. These restorative moments allow for your nervous system to truly reset and recover 

Be sure to SAVE this post for whenever you may need it this holiday season and share it if you feel like it would be helpful to anyone you know! 💕

#mindfulmoments #cozyvibes #healthyliving #cozyrituals #joyfulliving #hygge #selfcaretips
My little beanie babies ❤️ I know this post i My little beanie babies ❤️

I know this post is coming a bit late buuuut I loved this quick DIY costume so much and figured it deserved a spot on the feed! 

#babiesfirsthalloween #dogsandbabies #lovemylittlefamily #newmomlife #romanticizeyourlife #fallphotodump #familyhalloween
What my weekend is currently looking like 🥰 # What my weekend is currently looking like 🥰 

#countdowntochristmas🎄 #christmasdecor #tistheseason #romanticizeyourlife #holidayseason
It’s the beginning of the most wonderful time of It’s the beginning of the most wonderful time of year and my absolute favorite holiday🎄❤️

I know Nov 1st may seem a little early to start celebrating the Christmas season for some but I always feel like this time of year flies by too fast. So decorating our home early and starting all the fun Christmas baking, crafts and festive activities feels like a special way to make the most of the holidays ❤️

Who else will be spending the weekend decorating? 

#romanticizeyourlife #holidayseason #christmastimeishere #smalljoys
The person who sent you this wants to have a spook The person who sent you this wants to have a spooky date night in to celebrate Halloween 🎃

Halloween isn’t my fav holiday but I do love a themed cozy evening with my favorite person… and it feels even more special these days as new parents. So we decided to have a SPOOKY date complete with homemade pizzas (with ghost shaped mozzarella), blackberry smash cocktails, a candle painting craft, pumpkin ice cream, and a rewatch of “Haunting of Bly Manor” 🖤 

PS: I’m not a big horror movie fan but this show is such a well done metaphor of how grief can haunt you and the tone feels much more gothic romance than classic jump scares 

Anywaaay, after tomorrow I’m looking forward to decorating our home for Christmas and you can expect lots of cozy, whimsical ideas to savor and celebrate the holiday season coming soon ☺️

#datenightin #cozyseason #halloweenishere #romanticizeyourlife #datenightideas
Is it just me, or is fall flying by? 🧡 Here a Is it just me, or is fall flying by? 🧡 

Here are a few of my #fallfavorites from the archives featuring lots of leaf peeping, spooky treats, and fun moments with family and friends.

#lifelately #autumnarchives #fallgirl #cozygirlfall #cozyseason #babiesfirstfall #romanticizelife #simplejoys #newmomlife #fallphotodump
Bringing you behind the scenes of the Halloween Ri Bringing you behind the scenes of the Halloween Ride & Haunted Happy Hour I hosted for my @denverfitfriends community this past weekend! 👻 🎶 

The gals showed up in costume and @ritual_indoorcycling led us through such a fun 45 min ride with all the best spooky vibes 🖤 

A big thank you to our vendors @alythactive, @truvani and @drinkparch for making this an extra special experience! 

I have one last DenFit event planned for November to wrap up the year so if you’re in the Denver area stay tuned for details coming sooooon ✨☺️

#denverfitfriends #denfit #denverfitnesscommunity #denverfitness #dayinmylife #halloweenevent #wellnessgirl
“When we are together darling, every night is Ha “When we are together darling, every night is Halloween.” 🖤

Lily was invited to her first Halloween party yesterday so we obviously had to dress up as one of the most iconic, creepy + kooky families ever! And I know I’m so biased but I don’t think I’ve seen a cuter Wednesday Addams 🥹

Such a fun way to celebrate spooky season (and a pretty easy family costume if you’re in need of something last minute!) 

But what do you guys think? Is it creepy or cute? 👇🏼

#addamsfamily #familyhalloweencostumes #halloweenparty #wednesdayaddams #familyhalloween #theaddamsfamily #babiesfirsthalloween
Welcome to my “Cozy Corner” 🧡 a new series Welcome to my “Cozy Corner” 🧡 a new series where I’ll share some of my favorite things each month that can help you slow down and savor the season

I have so many things I want to chat with you all about and can’t wait to dive into more of these! You can expect lots of cozy hobby ideas, self care tips, book recommendations, gift guides, fitness/wellness favs, recipes I’m loving, and more — just let me know if you have any requests! 

I’m kicking things off with 3 of my favorite fall crafts that I’ve been loving for both solo cozy nights in or for hosting friends ✨. You can find tutorials and video examples of all three in my recent reels

I hope you guys enjoy our cozy chat 💬 

#cozyhobbies #cozycrafts #fallgirl #selfcaretips #comfortcreator #wellbeing #wellnessjourney #softwellness #hobbiesareimportant #romanticizeyourlife #cozycorner #joyfulliving
You all know I love a mindful morning routine, but You all know I love a mindful morning routine, but in this season of life, cozy evening rituals have been everything for me ✨💕

If you’re looking for quick and simple ways to add a little more hygge into your evenings, these are some of my personal favorites to: 

Restore your Body
✨just a few minutes of intentional movement or nourishing self care can help your body relax, unwind and prepare for a good night’s sleep 

Clear your Mind
✨ stop the scroll and opt for more positive ways to reduce the mental clutter. Taking a few minutes to reflect and reset your thoughts can help you fall asleep with a clear mind 

Soothe your Soul
✨the quiet moments of the evening provide the perfect opportunity to choose activities that make you happy. Whether it’s reading a book, trying a new cozy hobby or even as simple as stepping outside to look at the moon & stars… choose to end your day with warmth and ease 

If you’d like to receive my free printable Autumn Reflections guided journal, just comment JOURNAL and I’ll send it straight to your inbox. It’s the perfect thing to add to your cozy evening (or morning) routine 🧡

#mindfulmoments #cozyvibes #cozyseason #joyfulliving #happyandhealthy #hygge #intentionalliving #cozyrituals #healthyliving
Move over PSL because this viral iced salted maple Move over PSL because this viral iced salted maple latte is the new “it girl” of fall drinks! 🍁 All you need are 4 ingredients to whip this up at home 

Recipe:

✨ 1-2 tsp Trader Joe’s maple butter 
✨ pinch of salt
✨ 2 shots espresso 
✨ milk of choice 

Let me know if you’ll be trying this! 🧡 

#fallvibes #fallgirl #fallrecipe #coffeeathome #morningsips #coffeemorning #maplelatte #softgirlera #comfortcreator #cozyseason #cozyathome #pinterestaesthetıc #cozyvibesonly
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