January 2021 Brown Sugar Box Mini Magazine

JANUARY 2021 $142 RETAIL VALUE

Healthy Breakfast Smoothie Recipes 2021: THE YEAR OF THE

How to Compete Against Yourself and Win

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Affirmations

to Reset Your Confidence

In Love with My Body-ody

Playlist

When Fitness is a Family Affair

Inside the

FITNESS Y

ou did an amazing job in 2020! You adjusted to the new standards

of living, and you managed to keep your body healthy and strong. You’re keeping your mask on and your body in shape. It hasn’t been easy though.

You had to find new ways to workout, and you had to find new hobbies to try. Now, you’re ready to take it up a notch with a little more focus on your fitness in 2021. Understanding how to prioritize your body and make your fitness goals more holistic and fulfilling is the main goal for this new year. It can’t simply be working out; it must be more than that. Exercise must be the avenue you use to connect to your body, clear your mind, and feed your soul.

In this Fitness Edition of Brown Sugar Box Mini Mag, we want to make sure you have everything you need to make your fitness routine a full experience. We are bringing you all the tools and resources (well, maybe not all...but a few) to help you make the most of this new year. Now, we’re not encouraging you to try the old “New Year’s Resolution” method because this year is starting out like no other year we’ve experienced, but we are encouraging you to try something new, open up your heart to change, and to find the way that works best for you.

This mini mag edition will help you identify how to set fitness goals, create the perfect playlist, listen to your body, and improve your fitness numbers. In addition, you’ll get some fun ways to stay safe and get a good sweat in. So, go ahead and grab your Izzy & Liv water bottle, wireless earbuds, and gym towel to get this year started on the right foot.

“Stretch It Out” Crop Yoga Leggings, $30 (1 OF 6 PRINTS)

Unroll your mat, and stretch it out! Comfortable polyester and spandex leggings with two side pockets are exactly what you need to take a deep breath and glow up from the inside out.

Care instructions: Machine wash cold. Air dry. Do not bleach. Do not iron. Available in 6 prints: Blurred Lines, Brown Sugar Fit, Magical, Tribal Love (Pink), Tribal Love (White), and Tribal Love (Mint).

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JANUARY 2021 We Promise You: 5-6 Items at an $85 value

This month’s value:

$142

“Drop The Beat” Wireless V5.0 Earbuds, $30 (1 OF 4 DESIGNS)

Cue the jams! Get moving with these wireless earbuds. With three hour listening time and built-in charging bin, these earbuds will make your workouts feel like a party. INPODS 12/IANDROID IOS. Charging bin included. Available in 4 designs: Blurred Lines, Brown Sugar Babe, Magical, and Fearless.

“Fitness is Not a Game” Exercise Playing Cards, $15

Bring fitness to you with these Fitness Is Not a Game Exercise Cards. Oh, it’s not a game but you can turn it into the game of crushing your fitness goals and taking your body to the next level. Each deck includes 52 cards and two jokers. These are also a standard deck of playing cards to play Spades, Bid Whist, Gin and more. Instructions included.

“Unstoppable Brown Sugar Babe,” Tank $22

Watch the Brown Sugar Lounge for LIVE fitness demonstrations.

You’ve got the momentum, and you can’t be stopped! Our Can’t Stop Won’t Stop Brown Sugar Babe tank may not be seen in your gym selfie right now, but you can wear it while you crush your goals no matter where you move! 100% Cotton.

“Relax, Relate, Hydrate!” Glass Water Bottle, $30 (1 OF 4 DESIGNS)

Your fitness game won’t run dry with our “Relax, Relate, Hydrate” Glass Water Bottle with Bamboo top. Keep your hydration game up! Care instructions: Hand wash only. Do not microwave or use in dishwasher.

Do not use bleach or other harsh chemicals. Dispose of immediately if your bottle breaks or cracks. Available in 4 separate patterns: Magical Maven, Fearless Queen, Tribal Love, and Brown Sugar Babe.

towel when unfolded

“It’s Gettin’ Hot in Here” Gym Towel, $15 (1 OF 4 PRINTS)

You don’t sweat, you glisten, and our gym towel is here to keep you from dripping magic everywhere. Microfiber. 15" x 25." Care instructions: Machine wash cold, tumble dry low. Available in 4 prints: Caution Queen, Fearless Culture Queen, Tribal Love (Lavender), and Tribal Love (White).

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THE YEAR OF

By Saeeda Ruffin

B

ye and good riddance to that atrocity that we will simply refer to as “last year”. Whew! The world went through some stuff. Almost everyone is running toward 2021 with arms wide open. Can you blame them? Why not bring a new attitude into the brand-new year? Yes, fresh perspectives and positive vibes need to flow. It’s a New Year, Y’all! Therefore, in recognition of making it through, 2021 shall henceforth and forevermore be known to all as “The Year of The Breakthrough”. Yes, Yes, and Yes!

→ RECOMMIT TO YOURSELF Let’s make this year the most amazing year ever! It starts with a renewed commitment to your own well-being.

Isn’t YOUR breakthrough supposed to be about YOU? Why of course it is. So, don’t hesitate to make a wholehearted commitment to yourself. Your inner happiness, your inner strength, and your peace should be the focus as we move into 2021. So, break out of that old mindset and take care of you. It’s about time!

→ BE A VILLAGE BUILDER After the many challenges of the past year, sisters all over the map realize the need to build our village and nurture our people. In 2021, be a village builder.

We NEED sisters who are dedicated to working to uplift, unite, and support “us”. From mentoring to volunteering, the care that you give will be invaluable.

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Last year we learned, yet again, that NOBODY cares for our families the way they deserve to be cared for except us.

Black women. We each have work to do and our village needs all the love we can give it. Step out of your comfort zone and reach out.

→ YOU GON LEARN TODAY How long have you put off learning that skill, getting that degree, or creating that new stream of income? If you’re like most, the answer is likely “too long”. Now is the time to do it. Don’t do it because others think it’s time. Do it because you know your life will be so much better and far more satisfying. Change can be scary, but deep in your heart, you know it’s time. So, let go of whatever’s been holding you back. Make that change and get your learning on. Your next chapter starts now. You deserve the chance to be the BEST YOU EVER!

JANUARY 2021

→ FORGET FEAR Fear can keep us from doing so many things. It can be the greatest source of our stress, making us feel trapped and lacking in control. As a grown woman, you know that you cannot control everything that happens in life — and that’s totally okay. Learn to be fine with that. In 2021, break free from fear.

Be FEARLESS! If it’s a situation that you need to change, change it. If it’s a dream that you want to pursue, pursue it. If it’s dealing with obstacles (and haters, cause you know they’re gonna hate) with grace, then, deal with them.

But, Sis, LET THAT FEAR GO!

→ OWN YOUR RIGHTS Last year, black people were treated with utter disrespect. That’s right.

Despite a historic victory with the election of the first black woman Vice President of the United States, Vice

President-Elect Kamala Harris, we still had to deal with too much negativity. In 2021, know your rights and be prepared to do whatever you need to do to preserve those rights.

From voting in local government elections to being more vocal about infringements on your rights and educating others about theirs, let’s pledge to do your part for the safety and sanctity of our communities. Break the cycle of voter suppression and fight against any system that works to diminish your freedom and take your power away. It’s 2021 and letting all of the craziness proliferate is no longer an option. Be over that nonsense and do your part to make a positive difference.

This ain’t “last year” Sis.

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NO COMPETITION!

How to Compete Against Yourself and Win.

By Jarius Edens

Y

ou have no competition!

Beating your own score is the only thing you have to worry about in the upcoming year. If 2020 taught us any lessons, it taught us to learn how to crush our goals regardless of what life throws our way. In 2021, it’s going to be important to create your own measuring tool for growth to avoid the comparison trap.

The comparison trap keeps us from winning, and all we do is win, win, win. Whether you are working out at home or working to build your home business, it’s imperative to understand how to compete against yourself and WIN!

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1

Beat your own time. Focus on doing more than you did the last time. You may not be able to hit the gym or the leader board, but you can definitely use your last time as a baseline for your new goal.

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Button up your jeans. Using your favorite pair of jeans as a non-scale marker for reaching your goals is one of the best options without obsessing over the numbers. You can also use a shirt or skirt to measure your success.

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Choose an online crew. Find a fun support group to cheer you on versus competing with you. When you have an encouraging group of friends, you can keep pushing yourself to WIN.

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Create a personal leader chart. Draw a chart for your own goals. When you reach them, mark them off. When you earn five marks in a row, reward yourself.

JANUARY 2021

Healthy Breakfast Smoothie Recipes

By Girl Tyler

R

un the day or the day will run you.

There are plenty of unread emails in your inbox and a lengthy to-do list eagerly awaiting your attention. Before you dive into the a.m. madness, get a head start on your mornings by preparing a filling breakfast in under five minutes. Smoothies are proven to help boost metabolism, reduce cravings, and increase energy. Try out these four smoothie recipes packed with nutrients and antioxidants to instantly fuel you for the day. Place into your blender and blend thoroughly into a creamy smoothie. Pour into a glass and serve.

Strawberry Oatmeal • • • • • •

1 cup soy milk ½ cup rolled oats 1 banana, broken into chunks 2 cups of frozen strawberries ½ teaspoon vanilla extract 1 ½ teaspoons white sugar

Chocolate Banana

Spicy Paradise

• • • •

• • • • • • •

6 ice cubes 1 cup of milk 2 ripe bananas 1 1/2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder • 1 tablespoon peanut butter • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

½ cup coconut water 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice ½ ripe avocado 1 scoop vanilla whey protein powder ¼ teaspoon cayenne 2" knob of fresh ginger 1 cup frozen mango

Berry Kale • • • • • •

½ cup orange juice 1 banana, cut into chunks ½ cup mixed frozen berries ½ cup shredded kale ½ cup water 2 tablespoons plain yogurt

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21 Affirmations

to Reset Your Confidence

By Girl Tyler

Did your confidence take a few blows due to the unexpected challenges and obstacles of 2020? If so, it’s time to maneuver into a space where you are at total peace with who you are, inside and out. A new year is the perfect time to reset bad habits and check negativity at the door. Reclaim your power by shifting your thoughts and language. Put less emphasis on your shortcomings and focus on your positive traits.

Confidence is an inside job. The next time nerves kick in right before a big speech or when you’re faced with making a major decision, meditate on these affirmations. Write them down and post them at home or in your work space.

Read them daily and speak life over your circumstances.

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JANUARY 2021

1. No matter what happens today, everything is working out in my favor.

2. I am releasing any and everything that no longer serves me.

3. Today, I will not stress or obsess over things I cannot control.

4. Success is defined by me, not the world.

5. One bad day will not dictate my future.

6. I will not compare myself to my peers online.

Social media doesn’t tell the whole story.

7. I am beautifully growing and evolving into the woman who I was created to be.

8. Giving up is easy, but I will press on.

9. I will leave behind the worries of yesterday and lean into the promises of today.

10. I am healing more and more every day.

11. Take your time. Perfectionism is a myth.

12. I am responsible for the energy that I consume and the energy that I release.

13. Negativity does not have a home here.

14. Faith it until you make it.

15. My talents are a gift to the world and I will boldly share them each day.

16. There is no room on my journey for toxic people.

17. My work is meaningful and rewarding.

18. I will not believe false narratives that others have created about me. I AM THE TRUTH. 19. Self-esteem is a true measure of beauty.

20. I will implement healthy boundaries with each person who enters my space.

21. As long as I do my best, the universe will take care of the rest.

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When Fitness is a Family Affair

By Saeeda Ruffin

T

ogether is an amazing place to be when you’re with the ones you love. That’s especially true when you make a commitment for the betterment of your health and your family. If you truly make a commitment, the time you spend with your family can become more meaningful and every moment has the potential to make a real difference in your lives. There’s something magical about making fitness a family affair.

One of the most important factors in a family becoming fit together is to make sure the activities are fun and easy to tackle. Translation: nobody wants to be stressed out when they’re trying to get their body and health in check. Plus, kids tend to have short attention spans, so activities that are too complex can quickly veer into boring territory. So, remember to keep the vibe light and ENJOY! Here are 4 activities you can do as a crew to help kick your fitness regimen into high gear:

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1. Don’t Stop. Get It! Get It! Dance Party Get your family fitness regimen started right with an activity that’s amazingly simple, super energizing, and, best of all, it won’t cost you a thing. Can you say, Dance Party?! Yes, Family! A onetime kick off or a weekly jam session, it doesn’t matter which you choose as long as you are getting it in. Keep things jumping by letting the youngest members of the family choose the music or get everybody involved by taking turns being the DJ.

2. Make A Date With The Weights Plan visits to a local, kid-friendly, gym or consider creating your own family fitness space. Having a dedicated workout space helps the entire family really focus on fitness goals. Whether you decide to make it uber fancy or just to keep it functional by adding in a few pieces of equipment, your family will relish the space. Check local ads for used and kidfriendly equipment and JUMP TO IT!!

JANUARY 2021

3. Get Hyped About That Bike Bike riding is a tried-and-true family activity, but did you know that it’s also an extremely great exercise? If bike riding is a new activity for your family, buying new bikes can be a fantastic start and motivator. If you don’t have your own bikes, no problem, many cities and parks offer affordable bike rentals. So, hit the trail together or simply ride around your neighborhood. If it’s been a few minutes since your last bike ride, don’t worry, there’s a reason they say, “It’s like riding a bike.” It’ll come back to you. You may have some “interesting” moments in the beginning, but you’ll be fine Sis, and it’ll be even more memorable. Don’t forget your helmets.

4. Play Ball...Or Whatever Sport You Want Everybody knows playing sports encourages teamwork and fitness. Join a local sports team or just learn and play some fun sports together. The key to incorporating sports into your family fitness regimen is to be consistent and supportive of each other. The time you invest in playing together will be time well spent, and you just may end up being fantastically fit! Now that’s a WIN-WIN!

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beauties Izzy & Liv customers truly are THE BEST! We LOVE seeing your social media posts sharing your boxes each month. Here are a few highlights from November 2020.

Congratulations to last month’s WINNER! Danielle C. was randomly selected from sharing Brown Sugar love on social media to WIN her free box.

Thank you to everyone who shared! Stay in it to win it and don’t forget to share this box using hashtags #brownsugarbox #izzyandliv for your chance to win next month’s giveaway.

BONUS: Join our Facebook Group: The Brown Sugar Lounge, for a SECOND CHANCE to win a free box.

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In Love with My Body-ody Playlist

By Girl Tyler

F

luffy, curvy, thin, short, tall, flaws and all, we’re starting 2021 with a deep appreciation for our bodies. No more comparing your looks to the unrealistic body types clogging up the feed on Insta. Your size is the only one that matters. Strip down, look in the mirror, and gaze at the beauty of your physique while listening to the In Love with My Body-ody Playlist.

These songs will motivate you to love on your body a little louder this year. No more hiding behind frumpy clothes or only taking pics from the neck up. Confidently show off your beautiful shape. We love to see it!

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Snack by Ms Banks ft. Kida Kudz Booty by Erykah Badu Body by Summer Walker Ass Like That by Victoria Monét Four Women by Nina Simone Lingerie by Lizzo Body Party by Ciara Skin by Rihanna Big Bad Mama by Foxy Brown ft. Dru Hill Filters by VanJess Check on It by Beyonce Touch My Body by Mariah Carey My Humps by Black Eyed Peas I’m Really Hot by Missy Elliott The Body That Loves You by Janet Jackson Good Good by Ashanti Bum Bum by Yemi Alade Body by Megan Thee Stallion

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JANUARY 2021

Frequently asked questions

1

Can I change my size preference for future boxes?

Yes, you can do so inside your Brown Sugar Box account on izzyandliv. com, or you can email us at support@izzyandliv.com to update your preferences for you.

2

When will I be billed for next month’s box?

You will be rebilled on the 1st of the month for the next box. You will not be billed for the next box until after the box from the current month has been shipped/ delivered.

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What is your cancellation policy?

Your subscription can be cancelled at any time in your Brown Sugar Box Account Settings at izzyandliv.com. If you’ve already been billed for the next box (1st of the month), your cancellation will take affect the next billing cycle.

To cancel your subscription, login to your account and click on the Subscription tab, then click “edit” next to your subscription. You can also email us to request that we cancel for you.

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Can I exchange or return items in my box?

We cannot accept returns at this time for Brown Sugar Box items, but we welcome your feedback to improve.

Email us at support@ izzyandliv.com to share your thoughts. We value your feedback and our mission is to make every Brown Sugar Box more than worth your while! Your feedback will help us to make sure we make this box amazing and valuable as it can be.

As far as the item(s), you can always gift them to a friend, coworker, or family member- these items make GREAT gifts!

Can I skip a month without cancelling?

Yes, you can skip a future month delivery and not be billed for it, without having to cancel your entire subscription. Once logged into your Brown Sugar Box account at izzyandliv. com, you will need to open the “Delivery Schedule” tab. There you will see all upcoming deliveries for your subscription. To skip a delivery you just need to click “Skip” to the right of each relevant delivery.

This will only skip that one delivery. To skip multiple deliveries you will need to click “Skip” next to each relevant one. Alternatively, you can email to have us skip deliveries for you.

How can I share photos or unboxing videos with you?

Yes! We live for customer feedback & reviews! Just post your pics or video on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Youtube etc. and hashtag #brownsugarbox, #izzyandliv and @izzyandliv. You can also leave a photo review on the Brown Sugar Subscription page! If you make a blog post email us with the link. If your social media is private we will not be able to see your post, so feel free to email us to let us know where to check it out!

Something went wrong with my order/ delivery what should I do?

Should you have an issue with your box items (damage, received wrong size, etc) you must notify us at support@izzyandliv. com, with photo(s), within 7 days of receipt of your package. After 7 days, we will not be able to process requests related to this month’s box. If your box was returned due to consumer error, please reach out to customer service for reshipment at an additional cost.

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I have feedback or questions, who do I contact?

We can be reached at support@izzyandliv.com

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