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    Sheikh Hamdan’s hopeful message about the future of Dubai

    As Dubai continues to develop and embrace new technology, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai, has shared his hopes for the future of the emirate.
    Having met with Pavel Durov, founder of Telegram – a cross-platform, cloud-based instant messaging software app – to discuss its Dubai hub and the success story of the app.

    .@telegram has a $20+ billion market value, and 570+ million users within the supportive business environment that Dubai offers to its partners. @durov also shared the details of his inspiring success story, being born in the UAE. pic.twitter.com/eXbyLXr6AV
    — Hamdan bin Mohammed (@HamdanMohammed) February 6, 2021

    His Highness also reflected on how Dubai has embraced technology, especially over the last two decades, with His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and the Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, founding Dubai’s Internet City with the knowledge that technology would have a major impact on future lives.
    “This vision resulted in a global tech community coming together in Dubai,” he said. “Today it is home to more than 1,600 companies and 24,000 professionals.”

    More than 20 years ago, @HHShkMohd founded Dubai Internet City, knowing the powerful impact technology would have on our future lives. This vision resulted in a global tech community coming together in Dubai. Today it is home to more than 1,600 companies and 24,000 professionals. pic.twitter.com/ohBeudhiTf
    — Hamdan bin Mohammed (@HamdanMohammed) February 6, 2021

    Sheikh Hamdan went on to share his hopes Dubai will continue to aid in “impactful transformation” locally and globally.

    We are proud that Dubai has evolved into a springboard for those aspiring to transform their dreams into global achievements. We continue to provide our full support to creative and innovative minds to move together towards a future filled with positive, impactful transformation.
    — Hamdan bin Mohammed (@HamdanMohammed) February 6, 2021

    “We are proud that Dubai has evolved into a springboard for those aspiring to transform their dreams into global achievements,” he said. “We continue to provide our full support to creative and innovative minds to move together towards a future filled with positive, impactful transformation.”
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Sheikh Hamdan Instagram/Twitter More

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    Chrissy Teigen’s heartbreaking remorse four months after losing unborn son

    Four months ago, Chrissy Teigen and John Legend tragically lost their unborn son after Teigen’s pregnancy miscarried.
    In a heartbreaking Instagram post, Teigen shared a series of photos from when she was in Mexico for a music video shoot for Legend’s song Wild.

    At the time, she was 10 weeks pregnant and completely happy and the couple even used the video to announce they were expecting their third child.

    “I could have never imagined what would happen over the next 10 weeks,” Teigen admitted. “Not sure I’ll ever be able to watch that video again without sobbing but I hope he feels my tears and knows we miss him so.”
    In the honest post, Teigen went on to share she suffers daily remorse from not looking at her son’s face.
    “I am so full of regret that I didn’t look at his face when he was born,” Teigen said. “I was so scared of seeing him in my nightmares that I forgot about seeing him in my dreams. I hurt every day from that remorse.”
    “This month is a rough reminder and to be honest,” she continued. “I thought the worst was over but I guess life and emotions aren’t on any sort of schedule. Love you guys to pieces and am grateful for all your support and love.
    “I firmly believe energy and healing travels through the night sky and I feel it, I promise I do and I love you jack. I miss you so so much.”
    At the end of September, the 34-year-old had been admitted to hospital due to excessive bleeding – she even had a “huge clot” at one point. After receiving a few blood transfusions over multiple days and treatment in hospital, Teigen and Legend announced they had lost their unborn baby, whom they had named Jack.

    Sharing photos on Instagram, Teigen announced her miscarriage in a heartbreaking describing it as “pain we’ve never felt before”.
    – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
    Images: Chrissy Teigen Instagram More

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    Our Favorite Black-Owned Accessory Brands to Shop This Month (and Forever)

    Friends, I think I have my mother to blame for the shopaholic that I am today. I know this because when I first started getting into fashion, I wasn’t really into the accessorizing of it all. I had, somehow, resolved that the most important pieces to have in my closest were graphic tees and Baby Phat jeans. Moreover, I imagined that if I had a healthy mix of the former, I could get away with wearing my Uggs, or flip flops, and a North Face backpack with everything. Can you tell how old I was? As I outgrew my Baby Phat Jeans phase, my mom’s closet became my happy place. It was so much bigger than my own and she had so many things: purses, shoes, accessories, you name it. I figured I could get through life without having to buy my own accessories because she had so many, but that hasn’t been the case. Turns out she’s not a fan of people shopping in (or as she calls it “stealing” from) her closet. So, I’ve had to build out my own accessory collection and I’m here to help you do the same. 
    As a proud Black Woman, I don’t go a single day without thinking about the inequities and injustices that Black people in America and worldwide face everyday. It can get immensely exhausting to shoulder that burden and work to fix it while Black. However, something that I am passionate about, and hope to inspire others to become regulars at, is uplifting my community by boosting our economic power. A great way to do that is to invest in Black-owned businesses and services. Below I’ve listed some of my favorite Black-owned accessory brands you can support this month and forevermore. 
    Happy Black History Month! 

    If you want to grab a Telfar bag you’re going to have to be quick and astute! These shopping bags sell out in 10 minutes or less on every single drop. They’re cute, high-quality, and luxuriously affordable (even AOC wears one).

    Cise bags are known for their social and political demands. Written on the bags that sell out regularly, you’ll find statements like Protect Black Women and Protect Black People. Make a difference, but make it fashion. 

    You know that bag in your closet that you keep in the dustbag when it’s not being used? That’s what you’re going to want to do with your Anima Iris. These bags are truly pieces of art.

    If you’re a leather-lover, these bags are for you. Self-taught designer, artisan, and founder of the brand, Valerie Blaise, describes these pieces as, “Passionately made, wearable leather accessories.”
     

    Meet your new favorite everyday bag. Designed to be minimalistic and long-lasting, Tree Fairfax bags are heralded for their timeless designs and quality craftsmanship. 

    If you can manage to snag one of these bags, grab me one too! Brandon Blackwood mixes expert craftsmanship with trendy styles to bring us bags that make a statement and are built to last. I’ll be keeping my eyes peeled for the restock of the End Systematic Racism Trunk Bags, but until then take a look at the other art he has in stock! 

    These luxury bags from Lagos, Nigeria, are a trendy pop of color that can spice up any and all outfits.

    Voni Los Angeles bags are heralded for being affordable and innovative in style. You’ll get your money’s worth with these purses because they can be worn in so many different ways.

    Every time The Wrap Life adds a new style to their website, I’m tempted to buy. From headwraps to bandies to turbanettes, they’re my go-to for hair accessory basics that are high-quality and don’t break the bank. 

    Aṣọ Dára was started by a group of siblings that wanted to create a lifestyle brand that reflected the genius and diversity of Pan-Africanism. Fans of Aṣọ Dára love the ability to make bold statements with the headwrap prints and chokers to match!

    Oprah and I agree that these beanies are revolutionary. With silk lining to keep your hair from being tugged at, Grace Eleyae has reinvented the beanie game, ladies! 

    It’s an umbrella for your hair and your face, need I say more? 

    CocoXRobyn has so many trendy accessories it’ll be hard to just pick one. You can also shop for tops, bottoms, and stickers on their trend-forward site. 

    Who knew an accessory could heal the soul?! B.serene hand-crafts crystal jewelry to raise your vibrations, promote self love, and make wellness wearable. I’m guilty of owning about six of these necklaces, because you can never have too much self-love.  

    Layering necklaces is the easy way to take your look from drab to fab. Filosophy makes the beautiful basics you need to elevate your look today and every day. 

    Personally, I’m a gold hoops every day kind of girl, but I do recognize that there are occasions when my hoops don’t cut it. That’s when I need fashion-forward statement jewelry like that of Zuri Perle. 

    I’ve fallen in love with the Pleasure Principle anklet and I absolutely must have it for spring. Wanna twin?

    Watches

    Could it be? A watch worth retiring my Apple Watch for? The elegance and femininity of these pieces are unmatched. 

    Talley & Twine is one of those brands that you’ll blink and own five different watches from. They boast quality, style, and professionalism. 

    Dreaming of a post-COVID getaway? Manifest it with a pair of these—if not because I love them, then because of all the potential Instagram photos.

    I’ve found your next Blue Light frames and they are fabulous. More

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    8 Acts of Foreplay to Try This Weekend

    While I never want to yuck anyone’s yum, I’ll fight it to my death that foreplay can be the best part of sex if you get creative. Penetration (or however you define sex) is great and all, but foreplay is what gets you excited for the main event in the first place. There’s no time limit, you can make it entirely catered to your own experience, and it requires you to think outside of the box. If you’re looking to spice things up in the bedroom this year (add that to your New Year’s resolutions!) and try new things, the first place to start is going to be with your foreplay game. To make this foray into foreplay (I’d love to trademark that phrase if anyone knows a lawyer) this year, we’re making it extra easy by giving you a bunch of new ideas you can seriously start this weekend. Whatever you don’t do this weekend, add it to your sex bucket list!

    1. Watch each other undress
    With sex, we often go on autopilot, and we forget to take in every moment, especially if you’ve been together for a long time. Instead, make a note to actually watch each other undress. Don’t touch each other while it’s happening either; make it all about the experience of looking at each other and getting excited just at the thought of how hot you both are. 

    2. Talk dirty
    Instead of actually touching each other, simply tell each other what you want to do. Don’t be afraid to go into detail! To make it extra sexy, don’t wait until you’re in the bedroom. Simply talking about all the dirty, sexy, crazy things you want to do to each other while you’re sitting on the couch keeps things fun and flirty.

    3. Listen to music
    If you don’t already turn up your speakers while you’re having sex, now might be the time to start. Whatever kind of music turns you both on, whether it’s R&B, country, slow songs, or even show tunes (hey, Brittany in Glee singing Britney is beyond sexy), turn it up and use the music as the rhythm of all of your moves. Dance around the kitchen and sing along. Having fun together is sexy! Making a playlist together of your favorite songs to get down to can also be a form of foreplay on its own. 

    4. Play with ice
    Ice is quite possibly the highest ROI on any sex toy. It’s entirely free and has benefits for both partners. It’s a different and unique sensation to play with temperature during sex. Some ideas for adding ice into your foreplay includes in your mouth during kissing, in your mouth during oral sex, rubbing it down your partner’s body, or on you or your partner’s nipples.  If ice is too much for you and you don’t mind getting a little messy, dripping ice cream down your partner’s body (or yours!) can do the trick (and it tastes freaking good!). Be careful of using any foods near the vagina in the penis to avoid infections. 

    5. Go somewhere that reminds you of your relationship
    Go back to your first date spot, where you got engaged, where you said “I love you” for the first time, and more. Being in those special places again can bring you back, mentally and physically, to earlier parts of your relationship. It’ll remind you how far you’ve come as a couple … and if that isn’t just a little sexy to you, I don’t know what is. 

    6. Make a bucket list together
    Sitting down together to come up with everything you want to do this year sexually is the perfect foreplay for the adventurous couple. The items can be as crazy or as tame as you want them (we recommend ideas like having a threesome, talking about sex more, using sex toys, and having multiple orgasms!). Keep this list somewhere where you can go back to it, such as your nightstand, and make it a goal to do one new thing every week. You won’t even know how to choose what to do first!

    7. Send a text
    Although our phones can make us a little less present for sex, they can also be a great tool to arouse both partners. Text your partner exactly what you want to do to them when they get home — and just like the dirty talking exercise, don’t be too afraid of details. You can send it in the morning or just before you know they’re about to come over. They’ll be on their way immediately! Other ideas include texting your partner that you want to have sex (simple, but effective!), all about your favorite sexual experience with them, or something you’re excited to try. If you’re both 18 or older, sending photos in your favorite lingerie can be a fun way to show off exactly what they’re coming home to. (Just make sure this is someone you absolutely trust!) 

    8. Take a shower together
    While your partner’s in the shower, feel free to hop in! Shower sex doesn’t have to be the end goal of this either. Having fun in the water and getting excited for whatever’s to happen outside of the shower is exciting all in itself. However, we’re not against trying to make shower sex work — just don’t hurt yourself!  More

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    I Tried The Viral $25 Amazon Leggings—Here Are My Thoughts

    A few weeks ago, after trying to blindly shove a pan into one of my kitchen cabinets that could not possibly actually fit one more pan, I made a move that was decidedly out of character for my unorganized self: every day of the upcoming week, I was going to organize a different room in my apartment.Considering my apartment consists of approximately four and a half rooms, this wasn’t difficult. The fifth day was dedicated to my closets (which are in a hallway, and therefore did’t fall into my “room” categories). Once I got in a groove, I was like a bat out of hell, donating the things I didn’t use and tossing the things I’d been holding onto for way too long that weren’t salvageable. Obviously, the most challenging went last: my closets.
    I already had my momentum going for me, and in an out-of-body experience that I had little recollection of after the fact, I tossed almost all of my leggings. I went from probably 20 leggings down to three pairs. Don’t get me wrong, this couldn’t have been longer overdue—the pairs I got rid of were the ones I never reached for and that slipped and slid down me every time I wore them from either being overworn or just poor quality from the start. It was like a brand new beginning—but one that I wasn’t prepared for.
    I work out around five times a week, which, as someone who does her laundry maybe every 10 days, means that I need way more leggings in my closet than three—and thus began my hunt for affordable, amazing leggings that I could add back to my collection. 
    In what felt like a direct message from the legging gods, over the weekend, I saw our cofounder, Alaina, post about a $25 Amazon pair that she was raving over. They had my size in stock, so I ordered them as fast as I could in the dusty rose shade Alaina was wearing on her Instagram.

    I was already familiar with said leggings—they’ve been everywhere for a while now with people yelling from the rooftops that they’re a dupe for Lululemon’s famous Align leggings. I personally don’t own the Lululemon ones, so I can’t speak on the comparison, but holy cow, when I took them out of the package… I got it.

    In the middle of my kitchen, I ripped my sweatpants off to try them on and truly could not believe how amazing they felt on my body. Literally, the only way to describe the material is that they felt like butter. Prior to having them, I didn’t understand what that meant, but after trying them, I couldn’t imagine wearing other leggings again. But just because they felt good didn’t mean they passed my only test: whether or not they felt good to run in.

    Basically, my criteria for workout leggings involves: A. not sliding down (I don’t even want to have to pull them up once), and B. that they don’t feel weird in the crotch area as I run (as way too many do). I took them for a spin on a four-miler and forgot to even think about judging them, which was a huge pass considering that when I have bad leggings on, that’s all I can think about my entire run. I got back inside afterward and decided I didn’t even want to search for anything better and ordered them in three more colors (which was difficult because they have so many great ones). These check the rare box of being a pair that I both want to work out and lounge in because of their unique material; they aren’t just cotton like so many lounge leggings, and they also aren’t a dry-fit material like most workout leggings—they’re truly in a league of their own. 

    I never have gotten myself to spend three figures on leggings that people swear by, but I feel like now I don’t even have to wonder—I can’t imagine anything being better than these, and I was able to order four pairs (a full closet restock!) for $100. I’ll be living in these until further notice. More

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    Having 40 Foundation Shades Doesn’t Make a Brand Inclusive—Here’s What Does

    One of the many things I do in my day-to-day as a beauty editor is source images for articles, which has me following hundreds of beauty brands, influencers, and other people in the business on Instagram. In both my personal and work-time, I’m scrolling through new releases, product reviews, announcements, roundups, and more. Over time, you start to notice trends. Some brands always get it right (read: Fenty Beauty), pandemic life has basically ended the need for lip products beyond the usual lip balm, and drugstore skincare is really on the up-and-up. But one thing is glaring, even in 2021: product images still aren’t diverse, and I’m forced to scroll endlessly to find options that showcase Black and Brown bodies.This is especially difficult for nail polishes and any photos that involve hands. One look through a mainstream brands’ feed can take 40-or-so rows to see a different skin tone be represented. What if you’re searching for how a shade looks on your skin, or how a product performs with your skin type? But it’s beyond that; it’s about representation. So, Hannah Harris, student at the Savannah College of Art and Design, started Brown Girl Hands, an Instagram account and website dedicated to showcasing and reviewing beauty products through Black hands. We talked to Hannah about why she started her business and account, her favorite beauty products she’s tried along the way, and her product photography tips.

    What made you start your Instagram account?

    Brown Girl Hands was the culmination of many things crossing paths at the right time. My high school camera (in hindsight, I should’ve paid more attention in photography class), my unique fascination with hand photos (my Pinterest boards can vouch for me), and my love of reading (particularly, a Jessica Defino article titled Where are All the Brown Hands?). It was after reading that article that the idea for Brown Girl Hands came to be. I thought to myself, “Where are all the Brown Hands? I’m right here.” I wanted to show brands that Brown hands can be aesthetic and that they deserve to be represented.
     
    How did you start? Did you have any previous experience with reviewing products or photography?

    I took a photography class years ago in high school, but everything else I taught myself. It’s been quite a bit of trial and error, following the sun for good lighting and shooting in my driveway. Instagram was one of my biggest resources. I followed different photographers, watched their tutorials, and messaged them with questions. My approach for reviewing products is just talking like it’s a good friend [who is] asking me for a recommendation!

     
    The industry is pretty slow to show swatches and product images on Black and Brown people. How do you hope your Instagram will change this? What changes would you like to see in the beauty industry?

    I hope Brown Girl Hands’ account brings awareness to beauty brands that they need to include different skin tones in their product photography.  At Brown Girl Hands Studio, I work with beauty brands to offer more diverse product photography and have shot entire product line-ups. I would love to see different types of diversity in the beauty industry. I think we got stuck on the “40 shades!” for such a long time, but what about diversity in product photography, in age, in ability?
     
    What is your favorite aspect of your Instagram?

    The community. The Brown Girl Hands community is the reason why we exist. When women message us about how much it means to them for someone to acknowledge that you can be Black and Brown and enjoy minimalism, enjoy beauty, enjoy beautiful things—that means everything.
     
    You are also really passionate about age diversity in the beauty industry. Can you explain a little bit more about why and what you hope to see change in the future?

    I was recently a finalist for the Fashion Scholarship Fund for my project on age inclusion in haircare. This really stemmed from my mom and the lack of positive messaging I saw for her age. It was always about reversing their wrinkles but never about empowering them. So many women over 40 are our biggest inspirations: our moms, grandmothers, Michelle Obama, Brene Brown, Oprah, I could go on. Why do we continually leave them out in our advertising in a confident way? Currently at SCAD, I’m a junior in the Business of Beauty and Fragrance program where we learn the ins and outs of the industry from marketing to leadership and ethics and emerge well prepared for new opportunities. I’m excited for a few upcoming projects and positions, including interning at the Estee Lauder Companies this summer and being a part of the inaugural first-class of 20 Virgil Abloh Scholars to receive mentorship from Abloh.

     
    Now onto the fun stuff 🙂  What are your favorite beauty products you’ve featured on your Instagram?
    My top 3: Summer Fridays Lip Butter Balm, Ranavat Kansa Wand, and Lesse Ritual Serum.

    Summer Fridays
    Lip Butter Balm

    “This is, hands down, the best lip gloss and balm I’ve ever tried … It gives me the super shiny look I want with zero stickiness. I wear it to bed at night to moisturize, and I wear it during the day over my favorite lip colors. The scent/flavor is a super mild vanilla,” Hannah said in her review of the product.

    Kansa Wand Facial Massage Tool

    “This facial massage tool from Indian owned brand Ranavat has been my favorite part of my skincare routine these past few weeks. After applying my face oil, I gently massage it in in circular, upward motions. Used for centuries in Ayurveda, it slowly detoxes the skin,” Hannah said in her review of the product.

    Ritual Serum Balancing Turmeric & Sea Minerals

    “I love that I can read everything on the label … I wish it came in a body version so I could douse myself in it. So balancing, calming, moisturizing, yet simple—I truly look forward to applying this oil and giving myself a little face massage every night,” Hannah said in her review of the product.

     

    Any tips on taking good product photos?

    Sunlight is your best friend; good light can make or break a photo. For hand photos specifically, I use Glossier Futuredew to add luminance to the hands and a hint of cuticle oil.
     
    Are there any products you’re excited to feature or try in the future?

    I would love to try the Dyson Hair Dryer–what a dream! I’m also excited to feature all Black-owned [brands] for the month of February. More

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    How to Have Your Healthiest Year Ever

    You probably started 2018, 2019, and 2020 vowing it was going to be your healthiest year ever (LOL at the pure innocence of what we thought 2020 was going to be like). You made resolutions with the best intentions, and maybe you even invested in a gym membership or healthy cookbook. But then life gets busy and work gets stressful. Before you know it, you’ve skipped your workout three weeks in a row and are ordering takeout while your cookbook collects dust on the shelf.So why is 2021 going to be different? Read on for 12 tips that will prove this year can be your healthiest year ever, resolutions (and healthy cookbook) or not. The secret is that your healthiest self looks different than my healthiest self; we all need different things to be our best. It’s time we stop thinking there’s only one route to be healthy, and instead, listen to our bodies to achieve what “healthy” means. These tips will get you there. Whether you implement all 12 tips or just a few, by 2022, you’ll be stronger, happier, more confident, and healthier. Read on for the foolproof roadmap to becoming your best self in 2021:

    1. Make one healthy swap every week
    A clean diet doesn’t have to feel so overwhelming. In fact, if it feels hard or unenjoyable, it probably won’t stick. Instead of expecting total transformation, take baby steps and make one healthy swap every week. For example, try spaghetti squash instead of boxed spaghetti in your favorite pasta dish, and next week, swap tortilla chips with sliced jicama to eat with guacamole. Another week, swap your usual pizza with a cauliflower crust or replace half of the rice in your favorite stir-fry recipe with cauliflower rice. Not only will one swap at a time make healthy eating more manageable, but you’ll learn how to make all your favorite meals and go-to recipes with more nutritious options.

    2. Identify the #1 thing holding you back, and then fix it
    You already know to eat more plants, work out more, and decrease sugar intake; knowing how to be healthy isn’t usually the problem. So to be truly healthy, identify what’s holding you back from achieving your health goals. Is it a lack of time, energy, or cravings? Maybe it’s a lack of motivation, or maybe you don’t truly want to give up the habits you know aren’t good for you because they provide emotional comfort. Whatever the reason, identify what’s holding you back from being your healthiest self, and then make a plan to fix it.
    For example, meal prep if the problem is lack of time, or find more nutritious versions of the food you crave. If it’s lack of motivation, rethink your “why” (do you want to adopt healthier habits to feel more confident, live a longer life, or have more energy?), and if bad habits provide emotional comfort, identify the root of the emotional discomfort. Then find alternative methods to relieve stress, anxiety, or boredom in ways that will actually provide a long-term solution.

    3. Go to bed earlier
    Even if your diet fails and you don’t have time to exercise, prioritize sleep over everything because getting enough sleep can affect your overall quality of life. If you have difficulty fitting more sleep into your schedule, start by going to bed five minutes earlier every night until you’ve gained an hour of sleep. If you have difficulty falling asleep, figure out why. Talk to your doctor about improving sleep quality, try adaptogens, or drink chamomile tea and reduce screen time before bed. Going to bed earlier will not only mean more sleep, but it means you can get up earlier for a more productive or relaxing morning routine. 

    4. Prioritize gut health
    There’s a major connection between the gut and the brain, the gut and the immune system, and even the gut and the skin. In other words, prioritizing gut health will give you the biggest bang for your buck. Add fermented foods to your diet (like sauerkraut, miso, or kimchi), eat more fiber, and add prebiotics to meals. More than anything, trust your gut. Pardon the pun, but your body knows what it needs, so pay attention to your body’s reactions: avoid foods that make you feel lethargic or nauseous, and load up on foods that make you feel good. For more ways to improve gut health, click here. 

    5. Set up your environment for success
    You are what you eat, but you are where you live too. Surround yourself with motivating images, start a vision board, or post your mantra on your mirror, desk, or fridge. Whatever is a visual representation of what you want to achieve, seeing your goals as often as possible will keep you motivated. Beyond vision boards and mantras, make sure your home is setting you up for success. Keep your blender in an accessible spot, display healthier cookbooks on the shelves, leave your yoga mat out, and turn your bedroom into a relaxing oasis.

    6. Do something every day that you’re passionate about
    I have a theory (nay, proof!) that afternoon slumps or overall low energy might mean you’re not doing enough that lights a fire in you. To increase your energy and general zest for life (a crucial part of wellness), do more things you’re passionate about. If your job doesn’t get you excited, read a fascinating book on your lunch break, fit in a motivating workout, or spend weekends fighting for a worthy cause. If you’re unsure what you’re passionate about, make a list of events that you look forward to or your greatest talents. What would you invest your time in, even if you weren’t getting paid? What were your favorite hobbies as a little kid? Find ways to fit in those things more consistently. Your energy levels, happiness, and excitement for life will thank you.

    7. Live less sedentarily 
    So you know you need to work out to be healthier, but the healthiest people are active even outside of designated gym time. In addition to your online yoga class or morning jog, focus on living less sedentarily overall by adding more non-exercise movement in your life. For example, walk your dog more often, stand while working, try gardening if you have a yard, clean your house more often, walk everywhere you can, dance while cooking or getting ready, stretch while watching TV, and get outside to take conference calls. For more ways to fit in movement throughout your day (no matter how busy you are), click here. 

    8. Experiment with something new every week
    The secret to achieving your healthiest self might be as simple as making healthy habits feel new. Whether it’s trying a veggie that you’ve never cooked with, taking an online HIIT class when you’re more of a yoga girl, or experimenting with various wellness trends, regularly trying something new can help you become your healthiest self. The purpose is not to fit in every single self-care trend circulating on Instagram (that’s just FOMO disguised as wellness). Instead, the point of experimenting with new things is to find foods, exercises, and products that could really make a difference for you. Plus, trying new things can increase confidence and motivation. 

    9. Put your needs first 
    Do you ever say “yes” when you really want to say “no?” Are you a chronic people-pleaser, or do you waste mental real estate worrying how other people think of you? How often are you disappointing yourself to avoid disappointing other people? To truly be healthy, you have to be OK letting other people down if it means staying true to yourself. Putting your needs first, setting (and keeping) boundaries, and listening to your gut over other people’s advice are some of the most crucial ways to be healthy, but often the most overlooked. Your new 2021 resolution should be to do what you want to do and stay true to who you are. Your healthiest self will follow.

    10. Go on at least one walk every day (or just get outside)
    A simple health goal that could change your life? Go for a walk every single day. Not only is getting your steps up good for your health (your Fitbit will be so proud!) but getting fresh air and sunshine will boost your mood. If you don’t have time to go on a walk, do whatever you can to get fresh air throughout the day: take your laptop out on the balcony or patio for work, make conference calls while walking around the block, or eat your lunch outside (just don’t forget SPF). If it’s too cold to even think about spending time outdoors, open your window for a few minutes of fresh air.

    11. Eat the rainbow (every day)
    No, I’m not talking about Skittles. Plants get their colors from antioxidants, so it only makes sense to eat all the colors to provide your body with all the antioxidants, right? Incorporating reds (tomatoes, apples, red pepper), blues (blueberries, blackberries, blue potatoes), oranges (sweet potato, butternut squash, tangerines), greens (leafy greens, Brussels sprouts, zucchini), yellows (spaghetti squash, bananas, corn) and purples (purple cabbage, eggplant, grapes) is the easiest (and prettiest) way to ensure you’re getting an abundance of phytonutrients and the full spectrum of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. As an easy hack, try to add at least three different colors to each meal or plan grocery lists to include each color of the rainbow.

    12. If you’re not enjoying it, reevaluate
    Maybe you’re in the mindset that getting healthy is supposed to be hard. After all, we’ve been bombarded with restrictive diets and intensive workouts so often, we might confuse exhaustion or deprivation with health. Maybe you’ve even heard the phrase, “nothing worth having comes easy.” But I’d like to offer you a new idea of health: it doesn’t have to be (and shouldn’t be) difficult to achieve any health goal. When we’re eating nourishing foods and moving our bodies in ways we crave, healthier habits are much more sustainable. It’s also a sign that we’re in tune with what our bodies really need.
    You don’t have to make drastic changes or set strict rules to achieve your healthiest self. Instead, it’s about unlearning what you think you “should” or “shouldn’t” do, and listening to what your body is trying to tell you instead. It might take some time to get there, but listening to your body and giving it what makes it feel best should not only be easy, but enjoyable.

    How are you getting your healthiest this year? More