Raphael Stevens

More stories

  • 150 Shares

    in lifestyle and culture

    10 Ways To Make Sure Your Daily Planner Makes It Past January

    Ah, the start of a new year. Is there anything better than sitting down and opening your brand new planner, ready to hold all of your social engagements, important work meetings, and big goals for the year? If you’re like me, you love being organized and having a system in place to keep your life together. However, if you’re also like me, you’ve probably bought a few planners over the years that never made it past the last week of January (RIP to all those good intentions).
    But in 2023, that doesn’t need to be the case. Say it with me now: I can keep my life organized with my planner! Over the years I’ve discovered SO many ways to optimize my planner so it can help me be my most productive, to the point where it now goes everywhere with me from Jan 1 to Dec 31. Let’s dive into some planner tips I’ve picked up that you can use to get the most out of your new planner.

    1. Make sure it’s visible
    The first tip is to make sure you find a home for your planner where you can see it⁠—and remember to use it⁠—regularly. This could be on your bedside table, on a spot in your entryway so you can check your schedule as you come and go throughout the day, or on your desk at your workspace. While your office might seem like the most logical spot, it can really go anywhere that fits nicely into your routine. It’ll be a lot harder to use if you can’t remember whether you put it on your coffee table…or left it in your purse…or maybe it’s in the car…

    2. Use your planner outside of work
    When people think about planners, they usually think of them in relation to work. Well, I’m here to champion the planner beyond just the office! I use my planner for everything. I record plans with my friends, date nights, gym sessions, check-ins with my boss, volunteering shifts…if I need to be somewhere or remember something, you can bet it’s in my planner. This also prevents any need to use a separate planner for work and home life, which is a recipe for disaster (and way too much work). It’s much harder to keep everything organized if you’re trying to work out of multiple different organization systems, so limit yourself to just one.
    What I really love about this tip is how it helps you see how you’re doing with balancing work and personal commitments. If your planner is nothing but work deadlines and meetings, use that as a reminder to schedule a gym sesh or plan a date or girls’ night out.

    3. Add all important dates at the beginning of the year
    Once you have your fresh new planner, the next thing to do is obviously fill it with your exciting events (what, you don’t consider your daily check-ins at work to be exciting?!). I like to break up how and when I fill in my planner into two sections: once at the beginning of the year, and then once a week (more on that below!). At the beginning of the year, I take 30 minutes and add in all the important days I know are coming for the year ahead. This includes any birthdays for family and friends, anniversaries, other people’s weddings, and vacations or travel. By adding all of this at once, you can rest assured that you won’t accidentally miss something important.

    4. Pick a time to update your planner each week
    Once all of the bigger dates are in, I usually set aside 15 minutes on Sunday evenings to plan out my week. I add in work meetings, workouts I want to do, fun evening activities, and anything I want to remember (like reminding myself to order groceries a day earlier than normal because I’m having people over on Friday). This is a great way to set up your week for success, and also gives you a good idea of your work and personal commitments for the next few days. If you know you’ll be slammed with work on Tuesday-Thursday in advance of a big presentation, you can plan to order in dinner and arrange for some down time on the weekend.

    5. Break down tasks and events to keep yourself organized
    The best part about using a planner is that it’s essentially like having a second brain. Okay, I might be exaggerating a little bit, but I can’t count the number of times my planner has saved me from disaster over the years, especially when it comes to big tasks or to-dos. Once you’ve done your yearly planning and added in important dates, you can do yourself a HUGE favor by adding in reminders leading up to these events as well. Do you always forget mom’s birthday until the day before? Well, not anymore, because now you can pencil in a reminder a week out so you don’t forget. Same thing goes with work presentations or trips you’re planning. Could you do this with your phone reminders? Yes, you could, but technology can glitch or be accidentally deleted, and my pen and paper system has yet to let me down.

    6. Make a to-do list for the next day
    One of my favorite ways to use a planner is by having a little “to-do” section at the bottom of each day where I list out things I’d like to accomplish. As I go about my day, I check them off my list. Some days it’s full of work things and sometimes it’s full of personal things (why is there always laundry to do??), but it’s a great way to help me feel like I’m accomplishing my most important tasks for the day. It’s also great because anything that doesn’t get checked off can be easily incorporated into the following day’s list without much thought or effort. By creating a short list before signing off for the day, I’m able to do a quick scan in the morning and know exactly what I need to prioritize.

    7. Make it fun
    There are people who love planners (ahem, me!) and people who swear they don’t work for them, and I think the difference is that planner people make their systems fun and personalized. Whether it’s using color-coded pens for different meetings, adding little stickers throughout, or bringing in some bullet journaling, your planner is for YOU. In order for it to work every day, you need to make sure it brings you some form of joy. For me, I love adding the little “brunch” and “gym” stickers that come with my planner, and I also LIVE for checking off each of my tasks and appointments as I go through the day. Am I that person who will add in an impromptu meeting that already happened to my planner just so I can check it off? I’ll never tell.

    8. Don’t force yourself to use features you don’t like
    I’ve tried a lot of planners over the years, and I’ve yet to find one that perfectly fits my needs without at least one element that I don’t use. For me, that’s the “month-at-a-glance” layouts included at the beginning of most planners. I don’t know why, but I can’t get into them⁠—I prefer using the weekly views to keep on top of upcoming events. For a while I tried to force myself to use them (especially after seeing some very aspirational layouts on Pinterest), but they just weren’t a natural part of my organization system. If you’re new to the planner world, don’t try to use every single element if something doesn’t fit easily into your life. Remember, your planner is supposed to help you, not be another thing on the to-do list!

    9. Create a “Wins List”
    If you let them, planners can be much more than just a diary of appointments. Years ago I realized that my yearly planners were essentially scrapbooks of everything I had done that year, so I started treating them as such. I created a “Wins List” on a blank page at the back of my notebook and started adding things as they happened throughout the year so I could look back on them later. Things like “finished our bathroom reno”, “meditated each day for one month”, and “planned a trip to Italy” were some of my wins last year. This is a tradition I’ve come to love and it’s helped me stick with my planners for longer than I likely would have if I just viewed them as an agenda.

    10. Don’t stress about a little mess
    Look, we all want our planners to look like the world’s most aesthetic organizational TikTok (at least I do!). Nothing is more heartbreaking than getting a drop of coffee on your pristine white cover, having to messily cross out a meeting that got pushed, or hastily writing down the name of someone to follow up with diagonally across one of your agenda pages when you can’t find another piece of paper. Trust me, I get it. But while we want our planners to look perfect, that’s just not realistic.
    Over the years I’ve come to see my planners as a little life companion, and life can get messy! My planner has gone to Europe with me, changed jobs several times, and had more than a million meetings crossed off. It definitely looks a little worse for wear sometimes, but I look back and I’m glad I used it to its fullest. So embrace a little mess, it’s bound to happen if your life is as full as mine!

    20 Productivity Hacks To Make Your Day Easier More

  • 100 Shares

    in health and weelbeing

    The 30 Greatest Life Hacks of All Time

    I live for some good hacks: my Pinterest boards and Instagram bookmarks are full of DIYs, cheats, and tips, ranging from home projects to health swaps to general advice. Because at the root of my wellness obsession is an inherent desire to make the most out of life–even in the minuscule, day-to-day changes that we call “hacks,” or anything that makes life a little healthier, happier, or better. So when I saw a New York Times opinion piece titled “The Greatest Life Hacks in the World (for Now)” go viral on TikTok, you know I was sliving for it (Paris Hilton is cool again, right?).
    Full transparency, I’ve been thinking a lot about what wellness content we truly want to cover on The Everygirl–what content actually makes people well? Maybe it’s less about the latest foods, trends, and supplements, and more about the everyday, totally free advice that changes the way you think or how you go through your daily routine, and ends up transforming your entire outlook on life. So I wanted to share with you the life hacks that I have found to be the most powerful, transformative, and profound (yes, even when they’re super simple). Consider this list to be your modern-day fairy godmother: it will help you completely change your life (glass slippers not included). Read on for what I believe to be the 30 greatest life hacks of all time.

    1. Have something to talk about that is not other people and your judgments of them (FYI, talking shit about other people makes you feel bad about yourself).
    2. Happiness is a skill, not a circumstance–practice it, don’t wait for it.
    3. Mute or unfollow any account on social media that doesn’t bring you joy or inspiration.
    4. Time is a commodity to invest, not spend.
    5. Unfollow your ex. No, but like seriously.
    6. If you’re unhappy about something, change the circumstance. If you can’t change the circumstance, change your mindset.
    7. When you start feeling insecure, get outside yourself: call up a friend to ask how they are, donate to an organization you care about, or read a book about someone else’s experience (I swear it diminishes the insecurity!). 
    8. Eat more whole foods from the earth (no really, that is the only nutrition hack or diet advice you’ll ever need). 
    9. Say “thank you for…” instead of “I’m sorry for…”
    10. Being with the wrong person is more lonely than being alone.
    11. Replace “I’m too busy for…” with “it is not my priority to…” It will make you question how you’re actually spending your time.
    12. “No” is a complete sentence.
    13. Keep a list on your phone of all the things that made you laugh out loud–you can read it anytime you need to laugh or be cheered up.
    14. Remember that the way you look is not an accomplishment (your best self has nothing to do with a breakout, a patch of cellulite, or gaining a few pounds).
    15. Make your bed every morning. Don’t think about it, just do it.
    16. When you feel a lack of something–whether it’s time, energy, love, or money–give more of it. You’ll realize how much you already have, and attract more of it to you.
    17. With any health goal, work on achieving balance rather than perfection.
    18. Know that what you love in others is what you love about yourself; what you hate in others is what hate in yourself.
    19. When feeling low energy, take a walk outside or get direct sunlight.
    20. Think of self-care as a mindset, not a to-do list.
    21. When feeling stressed, physically respond: release your shoulders, unclench your jaw, take deep breaths. 
    22. Make your password your favorite affirmation so you have to repeat it whenever you log in.
    23. The secret to being liked by anyone: ask other people questions more than you make statements about yourself. 
    24. Tape your mouth while you sleep. You will look weird, but you will never wake up so energized. 
    25. Eat the damn ice cream cone. Or the pastry, or the plate of pasta, or any other [insert favorite food here].  Enjoy every bite of your life, and eat with mindfulness instead of insecurity.
    26. Fall asleep thinking about all the things that went right that day.
    27. Come in contact with the earth more: walk along the beach with bare feet, swim in the ocean, literally hug a tree, or lay in the grass (it’s called earthing and it’s scientific AF, look it up). 
    28. Turn off all notifications on your phone. Getting notifications (from emails, iMessages, calls, DMs, etc.) means you’re constantly in a state of reaction; take your power back by only responding to messages or clicking on apps when you want to, not when your phone tells you to.  
    29. Feeling overwhelmed or overly busy? Taking control of how you spend the first 30 minutes of your day will make you feel in control of the rest of your day. 
    30. Learn how to be nice–really, truly nice. This is the most insanely powerful life hack, but the most overlooked.

    50 Easy Things You Can Do to Be Healthier and Happier in 2023 More

  • 175 Shares

    in health and weelbeing

    Not Into Dry January? Try These Healthy Alternatives Instead of Giving Up Alcohol Completely

    So you knocked back one too many spiked eggnogs and mulled apple ciders during all the merrymaking (AKA holidays), and when January 1 rolled around, you committed to Dry January—a popular yearly tradition alongside the common resolutions to work out more or lose weight—and swore you wouldn’t touch alcohol for the next 31 days. Sure, going cold turkey may sound like a good idea in theory, but when those post-holiday blues set in, taking a whole month off from drinking alcohol can feel unrealistic. And, IMO, any restrictive, quick-fix trend—be it a diet, detox, or cleanse—raises a red flag and sets off the alarms in my head.
    If you’ve decided to say “no” to jumping on the Dry January train and holding the booze for the entire month, you’ve come to the right place. Give these healthy approaches to drinking a shot (pun intended) this January and beyond. Whether you’re sober curious, wanting to cut back on imbibing for good, or considering taking a mindful break, read on for simple and sustainable alternatives to Dry January. 
     
    1. Try Damp January
    Consider Damp January Dry January’s more moderate, laid-back cousin. Rather than nixing alcohol completely, the idea behind Damp January is to drink in moderation and find a healthy balance throughout the month. It takes away the pressure, not to mention the feeling of being deprived, and allows you to enjoy the occasional Taco Tuesday margarita while making you less likely to engage in mindless drinking. Instead, you’re able to take a step back, reflect on what role alcohol plays in your life, and reevaluate your relationship with it. Translation: If you want a glass of wine, have it because you’re making choices based on what makes you feel good now (and later), rather than out of habit. It doesn’t have to be all or nothing.
    If Damp January is much more up your alley, the best part is you set the ground rules. That may look like keeping your daily count to one, recruiting an accountability partner, finding resources to help you reduce your alcohol intake, like a podcast or app, or changing up the way you socialize (more to come on that). However you partake in Damp January, it can help you hit “reset” on your drinking habits. 
     
    2. Set boundaries before drinking 
    Sometimes we just need to create some boundaries around a habit we want to change in order to see it through, and drinking alcohol is no exception. Before the week begins, determine the days you’ll imbibe. Perhaps you’ve decided Winesday Wednesday and Saturday-night mocktails it is. Will you set a drinking limit? No more than two nightcaps per night? Like with setting any goal, start small and be realistic, and once you achieve it, you can reach higher. And whatever you decide, commit to drinking one glass of water per alcoholic bevvie to offset its dehydrating effects. 
    You may notice only having drinks on the designated days will bring more awareness to your drinking patterns. Do you look to that cocktail to help you get through uncomfortable social engagements or that glass of Pinot to unwind after a long, stressful work day? Are you ordering that next round of drinks or topping off your glass of wine out of enjoyment or simply because it’s the thing to do? Also take note of how you feel mentally and physically after the days you drink versus when you abstain from drinking. Do you find yourself tossing and turning after a night of drinking and more clear-headed and energetic the morning after skipping the wine? Bottom line: Being more mindful when you drink and recognizing your inclination to drink will give you the upper hand in making healthier choices for you. And when you have guidelines to follow, you’ll set yourself up for success. 

    3. Stick to certain types of alcohol
    It goes without saying that not all alcohol is created equal. There are less-than-healthy libations, and then there are the notoriously mixed drinks high in sugar that leave you with much to be desired (hello, sugar-induced coma, crappy sleep, and hangover). Instead, reach for a single, clear alcohol, like vodka and tequila, as opposed to dark liquor (think: rum, whiskey, and rye), which has a higher sugar content and will likely lead to more dehydration and worst hangover symptoms. Mix with kombucha for its probiotics perks or sparkling water upgraded with fruits and herbs in a nice glass (because everything seems to taste better and feel fancier in one). 
    Another tried-and-true alternative to sugar-laden cocktails? Opt for organic red wine that’s free of preservatives, added sugars, and pesticides. Not only does it promote moderate drinking because you’re more likely to take your time enjoying it, but it also contains heart-healthy antioxidants. You can also try DIYing wine spritzers (mixing wine with sparkling water) and mulled wines. Wine spritzers deliver a one-two punch by lowering the alcohol content while adding the hydration factor, and mulled wines serve up additional health benefits with its spices. 
     
    4. Occasionally switch to non-alcoholic alternatives 
    Thanks to a major shift in drinking culture in which booze-free refreshments reign supreme and can be found at practically any food or beverage establishment, there’s a non-alcoholic substitute for whatever your drink of choice may be. From bubbly and spirits to beer and wine, take your pick of alcohol-free drinks that pack in flavor sans the dreaded hangover, not to mention the other undesirable side effects of alcohol, added sugars, and artificial flavors (you know, sleep disruption, mood swings, hangxiety…). If you still want some alcohol, but only care to keep drinking for the taste or experience, try one alcoholic drink and then switch to a booze-free alternative.
    Mixed drinks meant to mimic the presentation and taste of craft cocktails without the alcohol are having a moment, and for good reason. They’re as sophisticated and tasty as the next adult bevvie with endless recipes that you can enjoy at home (time to restock the bar cart!) or in any social setting. Trust me—you won’t even miss the alcohol. Going dry doesn’t stop there. If you’re into superfoods and supplements, you might want to check out functional beverages that infuse non-alcoholic alternatives with ingredients like adaptogens, amino acids, plants, and CBD.  The main takeaway? Saying “Bottoms up!” with booze-less varieties has never felt or tasted better. 

    5. Plan more alcohol-free activities
    It goes without saying that there are certain pastimes that are centered around booze and where you’re more likely to let your hair down than others. Case in point: happy hour, sporting events, parties. So when your BFFs want to hit up The Tipsy Cow or have a GNO, try suggesting an alternative activity that doesn’t involve drinking alcohol, such as a spa day, going for a hike, or acting like tourists and checking out the local attractions.
    Additionally, remember that glass of wine you lean on to relax after a rough day? Find other ways to take a breather. Whether that looks like sweating it out in a Pilates class, picking up a new hobby, or finally diving into that book you’ve been meaning to get to, choose a form of recreation that’ll occupy your time and take your mind off of sipping on an alcoholic beverage. You’d be surprised how much easier it is to stick with your new healthy drinking habits when you swap out the vino for another activity you consider a treat. Bonus points? You may end up saving some cash while you’re at it. 
     
    While this article addresses emotional dependencies and behaviors related to alcohol, it is not meant to help treat addiction. If you are struggling with substance abuse, call the SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357 for assistance.

    A Health Expert’s Guide to the Healthiest Ways to Drink Alcohol More

  • 163 Shares

    in health and weelbeing

    This Celebrity Nutritionist Shares Her Tips on How To Kickstart Healthy Eating Habits

    So it’s been a stressful week (or weeks–looking at you, holiday season) and your regular eating habits are thrown off-kilter. You’ve been making food choices that aren’t aligned with your bodies’ needs and cues. The result? Brain fog, low energy, painful bloat, weakened immune system, or just an overall feeling of blah. First of all, take a deep breath. It’s OK–we’re cyclical beings and our food habits are naturally cyclical too. But you don’t have to let a couple of takeout meals or a holiday season of eggnog and cookies spiral into an extended period of eating foods that don’t make your body feel its very best. 
    While there’s no one-size-fits-all definition of “healthy,” there are simple and sustainable ways to build a good-for-you diet (without actually going on a diet). I asked Kimberly Snyder, nutritionist, spiritual and meditation teacher, and author of You Are More Than You Think You Are, to let us in on her secrets on how to feel and look your best. With a clientele that reads like an A-list party invite (Reese Witherspoon, Drew Barrymore, and Channing Tatum, if we’re going to name-drop), consider her Hollywood’s go-to nutritionist—and now yours. Read on for the healthy eating tips she lives by.

    Meet the expert

    Celebrity Nutritionist
    Kimberly Snyder is a three-time New York Times bestselling author, spiritual and meditation teacher, nutritionist, and wellness expert. She is also the founder of Solluna®, a holistic lifestyle brand, and the host of the top-rated Feel Good Podcast. Snyder has been featured by many national media outlets, including Good Morning America, The Today Show, and The New York Times.

    1. Start the day with hot water with lemon
    The Ayurvedic practice of drinking hot water with lemon in the morning has long been touted for its health benefits (think: get things moving), and for good reason. “This simple practice helps to get you hydrated in the morning, supports great digestion, and can support your liver, your main detoxifying organ–it’s like drinking from the sun!” Snyder remarked. “Full of vitamin C, it’s a great way to support glowing skin as well.”  So before you reach for your morning cup of joe or bite into your breakfast, wake up and hydrate your body with the citrus-spiked beverage. Bonus points: You’ll get a leg up on hitting your hydration goal for the day and be more mindful of staying hydrated throughout the day by drinking the concoction first thing in the AM. It’s a simple addition to your morning routine that your digestive and immune systems will thank you for. You just might notice a glow-up in your skin too. 

    2. Stick with plant-forward eating
    We all know that a whole, nutritious diet includes piling on the greens. But rather than focusing on cutting out your favorite foods, Snyder encouraged setting your sights on munching on more plants. What would you find in Snyder’s fridge? Kale, spinach, microgreens, sprouts, apples, carrots, bananas, and nuts. “My mornings always include a Glowing Green Smoothie, made with three cups of leafy green vegetables, celery, banana, pear, apple, and lemon juice,” Snyder described. “This smoothie has 9-11 grams of fiber, which is key for stabilizing blood sugar and preventing the body from craving sugary foods later. This, along with giving ourselves incredible amounts of minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants, all work together and leads to being more in tune with nature and making better decisions all day.”
    Not a fan of a cold refreshment in the morning? Drink Snyder’s signature drink at room temperature or simply make sure you’re checking off produce at every meal. They’ll not only load you up with fiber and micronutrients, but also keep your body satiated and your blood sugar levels stable (read: a boost in energy and mood). 

    3. Meditate consistently
    Fueling our bodies physically through nutrition and movement is important, but the other piece of the wellness puzzle is giving our mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being some much-needed TLC. Enter: meditation. “This is the most important practice of all, in my opinion, which has radically transformed my health, clarity, inner peace, intuition and abundance,” Snyder stated. “When we connect to our True Self, we stay more centered throughout the day and are able to be more clear and energized. You will know when you are truly hungry and will be better equipped to deal with emotions rather than give in to food cravings.” In other words, by connecting with yourself through meditation, you’ll bring awareness to the present, feel more calm, and be more in tune with your bodies’ signals.
    Let go of any perception that you have to meditate for an extended amount of time to reap the benefits. Even a one-minute meditation can flip on the well-being switch. Lean on Snyder’s guided meditations, download a meditation app that speaks to you, or take up focused breathing. 

    4. Take the right kind of probiotics
    If I were to pick the wellness buzzword as of late, it would be gut health. It’s the key to your physical and mental health after all. And that glow from the inside out we all crave? You can thank (or blame) your gut microbiome. Of course, the holy grail to keeping your gut health in check is eating a healthy diet, but adding high-quality probiotics to your regimen can also do wonders to heal your gut or keep it happy.
    According to Snyder, the word “probiotic” combines two Greek words: “pro,” which means promotion of, and “biotic,” which means life. The name says it all! “Probiotics have been shown to strengthen your immune system, improve digestion, promote weight loss, and even protect you from certain ailments and diseases,” Snyder emphasized. What’s more, according to Harvard Health Publishing, probiotics can help restore the balance when the gut becomes unbalanced with unhealthy levels of certain bacteria, thanks to unhealthy eating, stress, poor sleep, etc.
    When researching the best probiotic for you, consider the types of bacterial strains used, which strains and/or brand names have been studied for their effectiveness, and how the probiotics need to be stored. As a general rule of thumb, Snyder recommended looking for a formula containing soil-based organism (SBO) strains, such as her Solluna Feel Good SBO Probiotics+. “What does not make a formula effective or not is culture count,” Snyder conveyed. “Many brands can add billions of cultures into a formula for marketing, but they are destroyed before they get into your gut and they are not in proper ratios or the composition you need for a healthy, balanced microbiome. It’s not about numbers, it’s about efficacy.” When in doubt, pack on probiotic-rich foods like kefir, kombucha, sauerkraut, pickles, miso, tempeh, kimchi, and sourdough bread.

    5. Check in with your body’s response to dairy 
    According to Snyder, many people are intolerant or sensitive to dairy, but undiagnosed; a whopping 65% of the human population is lactose intolerant. “Even for those who aren’t entirely ‘intolerant’ to lactose, dairy can still be a major trigger for irritable bowel syndrome among other digestive conditions, such as chronic constipation,” she explained. If you’re part of the 65% and have a lactose intolerance, your body is unable to fully digest the lactose in milk, leading to symptoms ranging from gas and bloating to abdominal pain and diarrhea after consuming dairy products. 
    Snyder suggested reaching for plant-based sources of calcium such as green leafy vegetables, tahini, and sesame seeds and eating more vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts, and seeds to fill in the gaps in your diet where dairy played a role. Thanks to the many plant-based alternatives to milk, cheese, yogurt, ice cream, you name it, at our disposal, going dairy-free has never been easier (or tastier). 

    Healthier Swaps for All Your Favorite Snacks (That Still Taste Amazing) More

  • 175 Shares

    in health and weelbeing

    Everything You Need To Know About “Lucky Girl Syndrome,” the Internet’s Favorite Manifestation Method

    “I’m so lucky; everything works out for me.” If you haven’t heard that viral affirmation yet, you must be living under a rock–or maybe you’re just doing something more productive than scrolling on your phone. Either way, you’re missing out on the latest manifestation trend that everyone on TikTok is using to achieve their dream life: Lucky Girl Syndrome. Content creators Laura Galebe (AKA the CEO of the “Memoir Technique”) and Sammy K (AKA the college girl with a flip phone) helped popularize the trend by sharing their personal experiences trying it out. Both share in their videos about how the manifestation technique completely changed their lives and helped them attract unbelievable outcomes and opportunities. If this sounds like the kind of energy you’re trying to manifest this year, read on to learn more about Lucky Girl Syndrome and how you can apply it to your everyday life. 

    What is Lucky Girl Syndrome? 
    Before we had Lucky Girl Syndrome, we had the Law of Assumption. In his book The Law of Assumption: An Essential Lesson, Neville Goddard explained the principle, saying that whatever we assume to be true will eventually become true, for better or worse. This is the same thinking as Lucky Girl Syndrome. Do you know someone who always seems to have things go wrong for them? Think: They get a parking ticket, are summoned for jury duty, and spill their coffee all in the same day. Maybe these bad things always happen to them because they assume bad things will always happen to them. The same can be said for lucky people who find money in their pockets or get an unexpected promotion. Things always seem to work out for them because they assume they will. 
    The Law of Assumption also places importance on the power of imagination, saying that everything that exists came from someone’s imagination and was then brought into reality. If we can imagine something and assume it will happen, it will become our truth. If you can visualize being lucky and assume everything will work out for you, you’re on your way to becoming a lucky girl.

    @lauragalebe
    The secret is to assume and believe it before the concrete proof shows up. BE DELUSIONAL. #bedelusional #luckygirlsyndrome #affirmations #lawofassumption #manifestationtiktok #manifestingtok #lawofassumptiontok #manifestation
    ♬ original sound – Laura Galebe

    How to practice it 

    Listen to an affirmation playlist
    On a recent episode of The Everygirl Podcast, self-development coach, manifestation expert, and best-selling author Roxie Nafousi shared that listening to affirmation playlists helped kickstart her manifestation journey. She recommended listening to affirmations as you fall asleep because it’s one of the few times of the day the self-conscious is most susceptible to reprogramming beliefs. “A belief is just a thought that’s repeated so many times that it becomes so,” Nafousi said. Search for affirmation playlists on YouTube, listen to the meditations and positive affirmations Roxie offers on her website, or try recording your own with customized lucky girl statements, like “I am so lucky” or “I don’t chase, I attract. What belongs to me will simply find me.” 

    Say your affirmations out loud
    Nafousi and Galebe both believe that saying affirmations out loud is key to making practices like manifestation and Lucky Girl Syndrome work for you. Like Nafousi explained, “The sub-conscious can’t differentiate a truth from a lie, so it will believe whatever you tell it. So, if you say a mantra or an affirmation, even if you don’t consciously feel it’s true, it doesn’t matter. Your sub-conscious will take it as truth.” Say your affirmations out loud in the morning to set the tone for a positive mindset, and prepare to have a lucky day.  

    @coachrachelleindra
    Lucky girl syndrome is something that science has proven. This is why setting morning I tensions is so important. #luckygirl #luckygirlsyndrome #manifesting #manifestingmethods #milennials #eldermillenial #boomer
    ♬ original sound – Life Coach

    Set reminders  
    No matter how hard we try, it can be tough for some of us (*raises hand*) to remember to say affirmations every day. The solution? Try leaving affirmation notes around your house (think: a Post-it Note on your bathroom mirror) or making your affirmations your lock screen on your phone as a reminder that you are lucky and everything goes your way. Then when you stumble upon them throughout the day, take time to read them to yourself and say them out loud. Even lazy girls can be lucky girls. 

    Look for proof
    If you find that affirmations alone aren’t doing the trick, try this tip from brain training specialist and hypnosis practitioner Emilie Leyes. According to Leyes, our brains learn better from experiences than from words. In other words, pairing affirmations with real life examples will help us believe them. “Set an intention to start noticing the moments when things do go your way even if it’s the smallest thing,” Leyes said. “All of a sudden your brain is learning from these experiences and you’re going to subconsciously believe by default that things do go your way.” 

    The Everygirl’s Guide to Manifestation and Achieving Your Best Life More

  • 175 Shares

    in lifestyle and culture

    In pics: Take a sneak peek inside the ultra-luxe Atlantis The Royal in Dubai

    News

    by Sarah Joseph
    54 mins ago

    Dubai is all about luxurious cityscapes and with that the highly anticipated Atlantis The Royal is gearing up for its public opening and VIP event this weekend.
    This expansive property features 795 rooms, suites and a penthouse with a series of record-breaking experiences including the largest jellyfish aquarium in the world, the first-ever Nobu by the Beach, meditation with the dolphins, unique fire and water fountains and other one-of-a-kind experiences.

    The standard rooms start at a price of Dhs4,066 per night and a sky pool villa with a private infinity pool is priced at Dhs19,000 per night. Designed with vertical gardens, an expensive sky bridge and other dramatic features to promise the ultimate mega-resort experience.
    The extravagant property will unveil a host of must-visit restaurants and facilities including Estiatorio Milos, Jaleo, La Mar, Ling Ling, Nobu by the Beach and Cloud 22.
    Those keen to book can opt for the Three Bedroom Sky Terrace Suite complemented by 24-hour butler service, access to the Daily Royal Club, daily breakfast at all-day dining restaurants across Atlantis Dubai, complimentary entry to Atlantis Explorers Club, daily entry to Aquaventure Waterpark, Skyblaze Fountain, The Lost Chambers Aquarium, AWAKEN Fitness which includes thermal facilities and an outdoor lap pool at a starting price of Dhs17,417.
    With dates officially moved to February 10 onwards, the bookings have now been moved back a month from its initial launch of March 2023.
    The resort is set to host a grand invite-only weekend event open to special VIP guests this month from January 20 to January 22, 2023, with leading celebrities such as Beyoncé performing at an exclusive concert.
    Swipe to see a first-hand look inside the property:

    So, if you’re planning ahead for Valentine’s Day you know exactly where to book next month.
    For a chance to be one of the first to stay at Atlantis the Royal, book your stay for 2023 on atlantis.com
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Instagram @atlantistheroyal More

  • 138 Shares

    in lifestyle and culture

    Celebrate the second anniversary of this luxe beach club in Dubai

    Lifestyle

    by Team Emirates Woman
    3 hours ago

    IN PARTNERSHIP: Experience the ultimate Côte D’azur at Twiggy by La Cantine’s soon-approaching second anniversary.
    Designed with a hint of nostalgia, this pristine venue is set to celebrate in style on Tuesday, February 21, 2023, with impressive views and a memorable live performance by an acclaimed electronic music DJ.
    Known for his legendary live performances in party hotspots Mykonos and Ibiza, the world-renowned DJ Pablo Fierro, will be spinning to his popular hits at this French Riveria-inspired venue for an unforgettable day.

    With uninterrupted views of the Dubai skyline, this space is the perfect place to unwind, complemented by some of the best cuisines you’ll find in the emirate. As sunshine and the good life are put on the horizon at this whimsical venue, everyone can savour undeniably sumptuous dishes in this 360-degree dining experience.
    At this hotspot, you’re truly able to escape to the shores of the South of France not only from the delectable cuisine but also with the Provence-inspired décor.
    The prices start at Dhs350 per bed and for bigger groups up to six guests, visitors can opt for the lounge packages priced at Dhs6,000. Set to the backdrop of Dubai’s favorite beach club, Twiggy by La Cantine will open its doors from 9am, with the restaurant opening at 12pm. But you’ll need to book in fast as spots are filling up!

    With that said, see you at Twiggy very soon, where it’s all about dancing, laughing and having fun.
    For more information visit Twiggy.ae
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Supplied More

  • 125 Shares

    in health and weelbeing

    Astrologists Share the Journal Prompts That Can Transform Your 2023

    While a clean, blank slate (read: the new year) brings with it an air of excitement, it also comes with added pressure, leaving you wondering where to even begin (and–if you’re like me–anxiety-ridden that I’m already somehow behind). The good news: Journaling can be just what you need as a jumping-off point to make sh*t happen. If the 4.4 billion views #journaling has on TikTok or the benefits journaling has on your mental health and well-being haven’t already convinced you to put pen to paper (or fingertips to keyboard), consider this your sign to get writing.
    I tapped into the expertise of astrologists to kick us off, because writer’s block is real and 2023 is all about doing the most. We’re not talking the “Dear Diary” of the past or cliche prompts, but rather deep self-reflection to (actually) achieve your best life. Remember that there is no right or wrong answers when it comes to journaling, and you won’t get dinged for improper syntax, spelling, or grammatical errors. Translation: Your journal—whether notebook or app—is a safe, judgment-free zone. Ahead, astrologists share the practices they swear by to reach your goals in 2023. 

    Why 2023 is an important year to start a journaling practice
    So you set an intention to take up journaling this year, but your new notebook has been sitting pretty on your desk collecting dust since January 1. Sound familiar? Well, if there was ever a year to channel your inner Sylvia Plath, it’s 2023. “We have lucky Jupiter in Aries this year, so it’s all about being bold and brave, creating opportunities for yourself, and pushing the limits,” said Iva Naskova, a western astrologer at Nebula. “2023 gives all of us a chance to take control and adjust our life the way we see fit and think it’s best. So self-reflection and writing about your future can help you manifest happiness, abundance, good health, and success.”
    Whether we care to admit it or not, we are often our own worst enemies—you know, the harsh inner critic, the overanalyzing, not trusting your gut. All the more reason to jot down your thoughts and create the life you want. “This is a year of understanding what is really going to be there for you, and where you need to become more self-reliant and anti-fragile,” conveyed Jill Loftis, an astrologer and Founder of Nuit Astrology. “It’s time to take responsibility for who you are and where you are going. It is up to you to decide if you are successful; if you are happy. And typically, there is one person standing in your way—you. That should become abundantly clear this year, and instead of scattering your energies, take the momentum of the beginning of this year to get clear and take charge.”
     
    Journal prompts to start the year off

    What makes you thrive and excites you? How can you make your everyday experiences richer and more endearing? 
    What aspects of your life have always stayed the same and why? What can help you make a change and move forward? 
    How can your life experiences help you expand and grow, and in which direction?
    What one self-defeating habit or pattern do I need to eliminate and how can I focus all of my energy and resources to healing that destructive habit?

    Why you should journal with the phases of the moon
    If you’ve ever noticed yourself in your feels during a full moon, that was no coincidence. In astrology, the moon represents your emotions—your feelings, hopes, fears, moods, relationships. And your journaling practice should vary with it. “Consistent action through the ebbing cycles of life is so key for living your best and astrology echoes that with its monthly moon cycles,” affirmed Julien Elizabeth, astrologer and yoga teacher. “My best tip for staying aligned is reflection and journaling with the phases of the moon. Life is always shifting and so too can our perspective to it.” Elizabeth suggests beginning with the new moon (January 21) to initiate a new cycle, and then staying steady with these weekly (or daily!) prompts to witness your growth.
    Liz Simmons, an astrologer and tarot reader, agreed: “Astrological journal prompts are best used during new moons, full moons, and when a planet enters a new zodiac sign. Depending on the astrological period, we can use the journal prompt to plan, set goals, or reflect. For example, new moons can be the perfect time to journal about new opportunities, manifestations, resolutions, and more. Full moons are more of a reflective period, so this is the time to journal about what has unfolded during this past lunar cycle and what you have gone through.”

    Journal prompts for each moon cycle

    New Moon: great energy for setting intention and orienting yourself for the cycle ahead.

    What dream or vision do you want to stay aligned to this month?
    What negative or unhelpful habits are you ready to transform?
    What actions or practices can you commit to integrate your vision and build upon your intentions?
    Where do you see yourself in six months? What are your top three goals or resolutions that you want to pursue during these next six months? What will inspire you to move forward during these next six months?

    Waxing Crescent Moon: a phase of small actions and building confidence, great for getting organized.

    What do you need to feel confident, energized, and engaged with your life right now?
    What strengths are needed to work towards your intention?

    Quarter Moon: great energy to come back to your “why” and check in with yourself, your actions, and how you’re feeling.

    What hurdles are you experiencing in your vision? 
    Where do you feel yourself out of alignment?
    Where is their pressure or intensity building in your life? How can you lean into the pressure that feels productive and helpful? Where can you lean away from any intensity that feels limiting or distracting?

    Full Moon: a powerful time to release what isn’t working and celebrate progress made.

    What are you learning most about yourself and your circumstances this month?
    What behaviors or patterns can you identify as blocking my progress?
    How can you honor these unhelpful patterns and release them to create more space for growth? (Creating a ritual or ceremony is great!)
    What have you learned or experienced over the last six months? What are three high points and three low points that stand out to you from this lunar period? What can you take away from this lunar cycle?”

    Last Quarter Moon: This is a time to get grounded back into the self and reflect on how you’re showing up this month.

    What are you celebrating about yourself this lunar cycle?
    What routines or rituals ground you and help you feel well cared for?

    Waning Crescent Moon: The days leading up to the next new moon are for reflection.

    Free write on what you feel grateful for and how you feel about the month’s cycle.

    Here’s What Astrologists Say To Add to Your Wellness Routine RN More