Running has surged in popularity over the past decade, evolving from a solitary pursuit into a vibrant, community-driven activity. Whether you're an avid runner or just starting out, it's impossible to ignore the benefits and the ever-growing appeal of running and run clubs. But what makes running so popular?

The Allure of Running

Running is accessible to everyone, regardless of age or fitness level. It requires minimal equipment – just a good pair of running shoes – and can be done physically anywhere. This simplicity, combined with the ability to set personal goals and see tangible progress, makes running an appealing exercise.

Moreover, running provides significant health benefits. It improves cardiovascular health, strengthens muscles, and boosts mental health by reducing stress and anxiety. For many, running becomes a form of moving meditation, offering a mental escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

The Rise of Run Clubs

The social aspect of running has given birth to run clubs, which are becoming a cornerstone of the running community. These clubs offer a sense of camaraderie and accountability, making it easier for members to stay motivated and committed. They cater to all levels of runners, providing structured training, support, and a chance to meet like-minded individuals.

Run clubs also play a crucial role in promoting sustainability. Many clubs, including our very own YAWUW Run Events, emphasize eco-friendly practices. Members are encouraged to reduce their environmental footprint by running in local parks, using reusable water bottles, and participating in plogging events – a combination of jogging and picking up litter.

Join Us on July 28th!

At YAWUW (You Are What U Wear), we believe in the power of community and sustainability.

That's why we are excited to invite you to our next run club event on July 28th! Your run playlist meets the dance floor! Come join your tribe, for our second 'RUN AND RAVE' event in partnership with Soma Coffee and The Black Market.

We will meet at the Black Market at 9am on July 28th, run 5K (or walk) up to the Pier Head and back, to be met with coffee/treats provided by Soma and the raving sounds by DJ Tara Casey! All persons under the age of 16 can attend for free but you must notify us of their attendance. Also, this is a dog friendly event.

Head to the EVENTS page above to buy tickets.

Thank you for being a part of the YAWUW family and for supporting our mission. Let’s continue to thrive together, one mindful step at a time. Stay active, stay sustainable, and stay connected!

1. Tell us a bit about yourself and your business Emma? 

• Having done ballet, as well as other forms of dance since the age of 3, I have always been obsessed with movement. I quit ballet at the age of 21 and moved to Dublin, where I began to switch up my fitness routines, trying new forms of exercise such as pilates, reformer, barre, yoga and boxing. I have been very fortunate to travel to Australia, where the world of wellness and fitness classes are on another level and I returned back to Ireland truly inspired to do something more. This brought me to where I am now, with Barre by Emma! 

2. As someone who influences others in the health and wellness space, how do you navigate the intersection between promoting fitness goals and advocating for sustainable living choices?

• Collaborating on events like YAWUW x Barre by Emma. It incorporates barre, and teaching people about living a more sustainable lifestyle and simple ways of going about that. I have many people attending my classes regularly who came today, and it is great to open the conversation with them about a more sustainable lifestyle.

3. What advice would you give to someone looking to transition to a more sustainable and health-conscious lifestyle?

• Supporting local businesses. Both Angela and I are local businesses, along with many others in Cork and around Ireland. It is great to be here today informing people about fast fashion and how to transition to a more sustainable lifestyle - from shopping in charity shops to clothes to buying long-lasting high quality clothing, and checking what materials the clothing you're buying are made of. 

4. What is your favourite part of hosting wellness events and classes?

• Seeing people face-to-face. During Covid, with everything being moved online I really missed that element of fitness. Meeting people in person is the best - and of course I absolutely love brunch!

Why practice yoga?

There are endless reasons to practise yoga. It can improve strength, flexibility, and balance. It can help you with back pain relief and can be beneficial towards good heart health. It can relax you and improve sleep quality. Yoga gives you energy and can help you manage stress. 

Why attend a sound bath?

Sound bath meditation uses various instruments to create soothing vibrations that promotes deep relaxation, stress reduction and heightened mindfulness. 

In our fast-paced world, yoga offers a sanctuary of tranquility and numerous benefits for both body and mind.

 Physical Benefits

**1. Improved Flexibility and Strength:** Regular yoga stretches and strengthens muscles, enhancing flexibility and muscle tone.

**2. Better Posture:** Yoga promotes proper alignment, reducing back and neck pain.

**3. Enhanced Breathing:** Yoga's breath control improves lung capacity and energy levels.

 Mental Benefits

**1. Stress Reduction:** Yoga lowers cortisol levels, promoting relaxation.

**2. Increased Mindfulness:** Yoga fosters awareness of thoughts and emotions, leading to better decision-making.

**3. Improved Focus:** Yoga enhances concentration and mental clarity.

Emotional and Spiritual Benefits

**1. Emotional Stability:** Yoga provides tools for managing emotions and building resilience.

**2. Self-Awareness:** Yoga encourages self-compassion and a deeper understanding of oneself.

**3. Spiritual Growth:** Yoga offers a path to inner peace and connection to a higher purpose.

Yoga's benefits go beyond the mat, improving physical health, mental clarity, emotional stability, and spiritual growth. Embrace yoga to transform your life and enhance your overall well-being.

Experience these benefits first hand at our first yoga and sound bath event on June 8th 2024 with Mary Kelly. We will have coffee/tea and the chats afterwards! Buy a ticket via our Events section.

World Climate Day, observed annually on May 15th, serves as a poignant reminder of the critical challenges posed by climate change. From rising temperatures and extreme weather events to melting ice caps and biodiversity loss, the impacts of climate change are becoming increasingly evident around the globe. This day provides an opportunity for individuals, communities, and organisations to unite in their efforts to combat climate change and promote sustainable practices.

Our Sustainable Mission at YAWUW starts from sourcing eco-friendly materials to reducing waste and carbon emissions, we're committed to leading by example and inspiring positive change within the fashion industry.

On World Climate Day and every day, we're proud to take tangible actions to protect the planet and support global climate action. Here are some of the ways we're making a difference:

1. Sustainable Materials: We prioritise the use of sustainable materials like organic, recycled or deadstock fabrics. By choosing these materials, we reduce the environmental impact of our products and support responsible manufacturing practices.
2. Circular Fashion: We're committed to embracing a circular fashion model that extends the lifespan of our garments and minimises waste. Through initiatives like using recycled wool, and creating timeless pieces that you can wear again and again, we're striving to create a more sustainable and circular economy within the fashion industry.
3. High Quality Materials: Quality is our number one priority - we want your YAWUW clothes to live on for generations. 
4. Community Engagement: We actively engage with our community to raise awareness about environmental issues and inspire positive change. In my brand’s ethos, I want to empower our customers to make informed choices and take action for a greener future.

This World Climate Day, we invite you to join us in our commitment to a greener, more sustainable future. Together, we have the power to create positive change and protect the planet for generations to come. Whether it's supporting sustainable brands like YAWUW, advocating for climate policies, or making eco-conscious choices in your daily life, every action counts. If you're looking for easy eco-conscious choices, check out our ‘Earth Day’ blog.

Happy World Climate Day!

Angela O’Donnell

As we celebrate Earth Day, it's a poignant reminder of our collective responsibility to protect the planet for future generations.

At YAWUW, sustainability is ingrained in everything we do, from design to production. In honor of Earth Day, we're sharing our top five tips to help you live a more sustainable lifestyle.

1. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: This timeless mantra still holds true today. Reduce your consumption by buying only what you need, reuse items whenever possible, and recycle materials to give them a new life. By embracing the three Rs, you can minimise waste and lessen your environmental impact.

2. Choose Ethical and Sustainable Brands: Support companies that prioritize ethical practices and sustainable materials. Look for certifications like Fair Trade and organic labels when shopping for clothing, and opt for products made from recycled or renewable materials. Your purchasing decisions have the power to shape the future of fashion and beyond.

3. Embrace Plant-Based Eating: The food we consume has a significant environmental footprint. By incorporating more plant-based meals into your diet, you can reduce greenhouse gas emissions, conserve water, and minimize habitat destruction. Plus, plant-based foods are not only good for the planet but also for your health.

4. Conserve Energy and Water: Simple changes in your daily routine can make a big difference. Turn off lights when not in use, unplug electronics, and use energy-efficient appliances. Similarly, be mindful of water usage by fixing leaks, taking shorter showers, and collecting rainwater for watering plants. Conserving energy and water helps lower your carbon footprint and preserves precious resources.

5. Invest in Sustainable Fashion: Clothing plays a significant role in our lives, but its production often comes at a high environmental cost. Choose clothing made from ethically sourced and sustainable materials, like those at YAWUW.

By supporting brands committed to eco-friendly practices, you can look good while minimizing your ecological impact.

At YAWUW, we're dedicated to leaving a positive impact on our environment, helping you lead a sustainable lifestyle, and look good doing it. Join us in our mission by visiting our website and exploring our collection of handcrafted clothing made from 100% ethically sourced materials.

Together, we can make a difference, one conscious choice at a time and create a healthier planet for future generations. 

Let's make every day Earth Day by incorporating these sustainable lifestyle tips into our lives.

You Are What U Wear.

The Importance of Organic Cotton in Clothing

YAWUW is passionate about making a positive impact on the world while keeping you stylish. Today, let's delve into the world of organic cotton and why it's a game-changer for sustainable fashion.

What is Organic Cotton?

Organic cotton is grown using methods and materials that have a low impact on the environment. Unlike conventional cotton farming, which relies heavily on synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, organic cotton cultivation promotes biodiversity and healthy ecosystems. Farmers utilize natural methods like crop rotation, composting, and biological pest control to nurture the soil and protect their crops.

Why Choose Organic Cotton?

1. Environmental Benefits: Conventional cotton farming is notorious for its heavy use of toxic chemicals, which pollute soil, waterways, and harm wildlife. Organic farming reduces water consumption, conserves soil fertility, and minimizes carbon emissions, contributing to a healthier planet.

2. Healthier for Farmers and Communities: Conventional cotton farming exposes farmers and their communities to hazardous chemicals, leading to health issues and environmental degradation. Organic cotton cultivation prioritizes the well-being of farmers by eliminating exposure to toxic pesticides and promoting safer working conditions. Additionally, organic farming practices often empower local communities through fair trade initiatives and social welfare programs.

3. High-Quality, Chemical-Free Clothing: When you choose organic cotton apparel, you're investing in high-quality garments that are free from harmful chemicals. Organic cotton fibers are softer, more breathable, and less likely to trigger skin allergies or irritations. 

4. Supporting Sustainable Fashion: As conscientious consumers, we have the power to shape the fashion industry towards greater sustainability. By demanding organic cotton products, we're sending a message to brands and manufacturers that environmental and social responsibility matter. Embracing organic cotton is a step towards a more ethical and eco-conscious fashion industry.

Join the Movement

At YAWUW, we're proud to champion organic cotton as a cornerstone of sustainable fashion. Our commitment to ethical sourcing and eco-friendly practices ensures that every piece in our collection is not only stylish but also environmentally responsible. By choosing YAWUW, you're not just buying clothing – you're joining a movement towards a greener, more sustainable future.

Welcome to YAWUW, where we believe that wellness is more than just a trend – it's a lifestyle. In today's fast-paced world, it's essential to carve out time for self-care and prioritise your well-being.

Here are five simple ways to incorporate wellness into your daily routine, YAWUW style:

1. Barre: Unroll your mat and dive into the transformative practice of barre. Whether you're a beginner or intermediate, barre offers a myriad of physical, mental, and emotional benefits. From improving flexibility and strength to reducing stress and anxiety, yoga is a holistic approach to wellness. With YAWUW's comfortable and eco-friendly activewear (launching soon..), you'll feel supported and stylish as you embark on your barre journey. Join us on May 25th to try it out: BARRE WITH EMMA
2. Swim + Sauna: Step into the sauna and let the heat melt away your worries. Saunas have been used for centuries to promote relaxation, detoxification, and overall well-being. As you sweat out toxins and tension, you'll emerge feeling refreshed and revitalised after a dip in the sea. There are mobile saunas on beaches throughout Ireland - at great value too. Definitely the activity of the summer!
3. Cosy Up with Movie Nights: Indulge in the simple pleasure of a cosy movie night at home. Whether you're snuggled up solo or sharing the experience with loved ones, movie nights are the perfect way to unwind and recharge. Dim the lights, grab some popcorn, your favourite YAWUW loungewear or throw, and settle in for a cinematic escape.
4. Nurturing Nature Walks: Step outside and immerse yourself in the beauty of the natural world while going on a walk. Explore local parks, forests, or botanical gardens, and let the sights, sounds, and scents of nature envelop you. Whether it's by yourself or with family or friends, getting out for a walk can not only provide physical exercise but also promote creativity, and clear the head!

At YAWUW, we're committed to helping you prioritise wellness in all aspects of your life. From barre and sauna sessions to beach swimming and cosy movie nights, self-care is essential for a happy, healthy, and balanced lifestyle. So go ahead, take a moment for yourself, and embrace the power of wellness with YAWUW. 

Stay well, stay stylish!

Founder - Angela O’Donnell