CheekyChicago

Creams, lotions, fake hair, tools, salons, studios, yoga, trainers, facials, microderms, detoxes – I’ve been around the block once or twice when it comes to trying the latest trend in health. Let’s be honest – no matter how “skinny” you are, if you have gross teeth and breath, brittle nails, dry hair, or bad skin – there is no way you can reach your prime happiness. You’ve got to feel good to look good.

I’m a far cry from Oprah, but I’ve tried (almost) it all and I’d like to present my Oprah-like list.

Here it goes…

The Cheeky Health Freak’s Favorite Things (aka guaranteed to get your sexy on!):

Favorite skin savior:

Asha Spa’s facials and microderm treatments. Fair prices, multiple locations, and expert service. Close second is Fred Gaudy at Bliss Spa.

Dermatologist Dr. Carolyn Jacob and her staff:  these ladies will have you in and out with enough time to steal lunch. Ideal if you have an unwanted “guest” on your face for a big even t- injections take less than three minutes.

La Mer face cream: I held out splurging on this $130 luxury item until my 30^th birthday – now I’d stay in on a weekend and spend the cash on this instead. My skin has never glowed so much, and as someone who’s suffered with acne issues – there is nothing like waking up in the morning and not having to spend 30 minutes in the bathroom covering blemishes.

Favorite fun ways to drop pounds fast:

‘Whipped’ at Equinox, 900 N. Michigan Ave.: This 45 minute class uses ropes, light weights, bosu balls, weighted balls, and wind sprints – all are incorporated into this 7 am class Wednesday mornings. I consider myself to be in decent shape and this class whips my booty every time.

‘Shredded’ at David Barton: Like ‘Whipped’ – this boot camp-style class is cardio-based with drills that are never the same. Class is 6-7 am Tuesday mornings and a portion is spent on the treadmill for an extra cardio blast.

Training sessions with Michael Wollpert: I’ve recently started personal training sessions again, and it’s amazing how much harder you push yourself when someone else is pushing. I had the goal of dropping a few pounds for a recent shoot and he worked with me, aiding with nutrition as well.

Favorite cold/flu busters:

Wellness Formula pills: no matter what my symptom – these powerful herbal pills cut my recovery time in half. Seriously.

E3: I haven’t shut up about this wheatgrass-like liquid for almost a year now, and I don’t plan to anytime soon. Celebs are now Tweeting about this like mad, including Joel Madden who swears that it keeps him healthy during travel.

Vitamin B complex: Forget coffee and Red Bull – pop one of these pills in the morning for a nice, natural buzz of energy that lasts all day.

Herban Essentials peppermint towelettes: I was suckered into these in the Whole Foods check-out line a month ago and now I’m obsessed. Wipe down your airplane seat, car, computer, bus, el, cab, boyfriend’s sink (kidding), and they leave behind a fresh, nice scent that claims to fight fatigue and help with nausea. Perfect for work while battling the cocktail flu.