At two years old, my mother introduced me to roller-skating and it has been something special that we share together ever since. Growing up, our ritual was to go skating every Friday night at "The Rink" on 87th on Chicago's South Side.
I'm considered a JB skater, which is a Chicago-style of skating. The term originates from the Godfather of Soul James Brown. Growing up, I roller-skated to James Brown music, JB tracks (also known as skate remixes), hip-hop, rock & roll, funk, house and R&B. Throughout college, I started traveling for roller-skating events which is the highlight of my skate-life. I get to wear dope outfits with my friends, thrive off of the crowd's energy, and skate all night until my legs are sore. Even though I've done so many great things with roller-skating, like class projects, performances, and videos, there is still nothing like going back home to Chicago and skating to a combination of old-school and new school music.
What some people might not realize is that roller-skating is a great workout and is partially a huge reason why I've been able to maintain my weight. It keeps my energy flowing and it's my magical getaway. The roller-skating rink not only serves as a space where you can get a full body workout but you can also become a part of a community as well. I can't go in depth about all aspects of roller-skating but here are a few reasons you should consider picking up some skates yourself.
It's a vibe year-round.
Whether you're looking for a fun way to soak up some sun, a girls' night out, date night or quality time with family, there is always a skate session available. Roller-skating is affordable and could be your next cool idea to switch-up the scenery and your routine. You can roller-skate indoors at your local rink or in the park during the summer. If you are looking for a recreational sport that allows you to clear your mind, listen to good music, and fitness, skating is for you. You can plan your next girls' trip by visiting the skategroove.com website for more details for upcoming roller-skating events.
It's a full body workout.
Courtesy of writer Sydney Blaylock
Not only is roller-skating a fun activity but it is also a good full body workout. Roller-skating helps with the reduction of body fat and calories. Skating can improve your balance, coordination and strengthen your leg muscles. It's one of the many sports that works out your entire body from head to toe. Skating helps with your heart rate which is a good method for getting healthy. If you're a beginner, there are skate lessons and workout sessions that you can attend. Skating overall is just a cute and fun way to stay in shape internally and externally. Let's strengthen your core and have a good time while doing it!
It pours back into the community.
One of the best parts about being a part of the roller-skating culture is the community outreach. The black skating community celebrates together and supports each other in many ways. There have been roller-skating events that have derived from supporting causes such as breast cancer, autism, fighting against police brutality, and keeping skating rinks open in black urban areas. Unfortunately, roller-skating rinks are closing around the world and the black urban communities are suffering from the lack of recreational sports. So support your local skating rink, get yourself a full body workout and rejuvenate your soul through music.
It's a stress-reliever.
Courtesy of writer Sydney Blaylock
Once you enter the skating rink, you leave all comparisons, expectations, and judgments at the door. It is a space for you to have fun, challenge yourself, and let things go. There are no age, sex, or body limitations.The social dynamics within the rink is also good for your mood and mental health. Skating makes you happy while helping you reduce your stress levels. Tune into your inner balance and get ya' roll on!
Featured image by Tenor
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I've always had a love-hate relationship with wigs. Sometimes, I struggle to get them to lay flat and don't get me started with the bonding glue process. So when it comes to wearing wigs, I like to keep it nice and breezy around this b--- (word to Katt Williams), especially in the summertime.
That's why I jumped at the chance to try these three versatile wigs from Luvme Hair. Each one offers a unique look and is surprisingly low maintenance, which aligns perfectly with my philosophy that wearing wigs should make life easier. Let’s dive into the three styles below.
Headband Wig
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This was the first wig I tried on, and I instantly fell in love with it. So much so that it took me weeks to even consider trying the other two. I’m partial to colored hair, especially blonds, browns, and reds, so I was skeptical about the jet black hair. However, I think the color, combined with the curl pattern, worked surprisingly well for me.
One of the things I really liked about this wig was that I didn’t have to braid my hair down first. I could simply throw it over a low ponytail, which is the epitome of a low-maintenance style. The headband has combs inside and velcro on the ends, ensuring a secure fit.
Half Wig
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I had never worn a half wig before, so I faced some challenges. I cornrowed the bottom half of my hair where the wig would sit, but I believe this made it more difficult to use the combs. It might just be me though. I straightened the top part of my hair to blend it with the wig, which looked cute for about five minutes.
Firstly, I have a brown/blonde color mix on the ends of my hair, and the half wig is black. So, I had to hide some of the color (I didn’t have time to dye the wig). Secondly, straightening my hair myself is always a hassle because it never lasts long. Add to that the summer humidity, and you get a hot mess. Despite all this, I managed to get some cute pictures before things got out of control, and that’s all that matters, right?
Would I consider this a low-maintenance hair style? Yes and no. I think it’s unrealistic for me during the summer, especially since I enjoy summer activities. However, when the weather cools down, I’ll definitely rock it, dyed, of course.
Bob
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Now, this is the wig I was nervous about. I never had a bob and I didn't think I would like it. But once I put bobiana on, my mind instantly changed. I finally understood why the gworls rave about the bob so much. It was giving boss. It was giving grown woman. It was giving the bob means business. Iykyk. It was the ultimate statement.
I will say when I first put it on, one side of my wig just would not lay flat. It took some trial and error, but I finally managed to get it to look good. With the bob, I highly recommend braiding your hair down first as small as you can so it can lay as flat as possible. I really liked the ash blonde color, which is perfect for summer. The length also makes it a great low-maintenance style for the season, so you don't have to worry about the hair making your neck sweaty.
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