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      8 Things Healthy Women Do After a Long Weekend to Set Themselves up for a Successful Week

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      Picture this: It’s Monday afternoon, the tail end of a glorious long weekend, and you’re reflecting on a three-day holiday well spent. Laid out poolside while reading and sipping on rosé? Check. Had an epic GNO? Yep. Made the most of an extra weekend day in the summer? You bet. Whether you have a major case of the Monday Scaries or are ready to take on the week like a boss, what you do at the end of a long weekend can make or break the rest of your week. While a magic pill or the snap of a finger can’t promise a happy, healthy, and productive week, there are a few things you can do now to hit the “refresh” button and get ahead. Read on for eight healthy habits to adopt now to set yourself up for your best week, without sacrificing your social life and sanity. You can thank me later. 

      1. Prep your mornings for the week
      We’ve all been there: You hit snooze one too many times your first day back after a holiday weekend, and now you’re rushing to log in to work, forgoing your entire morning routine. The frenetic energy from said morning throws off the rest of your day. To avoid that nightmare, set your alarm for the week and get up when it goes off (no snooze!), program your coffee maker, pack your lunch (or set it aside in your fridge if you’re part of the WFH club), and choose your ‘fits. While you’re on a roll, prep some make-ahead breakfasts, like overnight oats or hard-boiled eggs. Sure, doing those tasks will take up some of your weekend, but you’ll be glad come Tuesday morning when you have extra time to journal, work out, or enjoy your coffee. You’ll likely notice an increase in your productivity and happiness too. How’s that for a win-win? 

      2. Hit the grocery store
      I dislike grocery shopping as much as the next girl, but there’s something satisfying about having a fully stocked, organized fridge. It means you have ready-to-go snacks and ingredients to whip up dinner within reach, taking the guesswork out of meals and saving money you’d otherwise spend on Postmates. When you’ve already navigated the aisles of Trader Joe’s and loaded up on cauliflower gnocchi and GoneBananas! (IYKYK) for the week, check out your local farmers’ market. Seeing (and sampling) the fresh seasonal produce just might spark some new meal inspo, whether you’re the next Julia Child or an amateur cook. And, if all else fails, Instacart or Amazon Fresh to the rescue. 

      3. Have something to look forward to
      When we get stuck in the mindset of living for the weekends, it should come as no surprise that we dread the week ahead. You may feel overwhelmed by your long list of to-dos for the week or bummed that your weekend self-care plans fell by the wayside. But who says you can’t get that lymphatic massage on a Tuesday or set up a matcha date with your BFF mid-week? Instead of viewing the upcoming week as a drag, try romanticizing it by sprinkling in activities or things that fill your cup: sign up for a cooking class with your SO, work from a co-working space or a coffee shop you haven’t tried, or get your nails done.  

      4. Plan out your week 
      I’m not just talking about work meetings and doctor’s appointments. Those are important but so is taking the time to prioritize whatever motivates you, excites you, and helps you live your best life. Add your workouts to your calendar, pencil in loved ones, and reserve time for self-reflection. Oh, and don’t forget to squeeze in some downtime and sexual pleasure (whether you go solo or with a partner). Because let’s be real: I’m all for spontaneity, but things get in the way (read: life). Remember that aforementioned dread? Mapping out your week will also help you bid farewell to it and its annoying friend, anxiety. 

      5. Set financial boundaries
      Before you roll your eyes and mutter “ugh” under your breath, hear me out. Knowing where you stand financially and planning your goals accordingly will not only set you up for success in the coming week but also months and years down the line. Look over your expenses with a fine-tooth comb (especially if this holiday weekend got you out of your fun budget for the week or month) and see what you can eliminate or cut down—those little charges add up quickly. The light at the end of the tunnel? Bringing home the shoes you’ve been eyeing, booking the trip to Paris, paying the down payment to your first home. And if you find that you have some extra cash in your pocket after stashing some away, consider outsourcing tasks so you can free up time for something more enjoyable like an impromptu wine tasting to spice up your week.

      6. Take a social media break
      You probably guessed this was coming. Between work, the news, and show binges, we’re on information overload. Then, there’s the comparison trap we fall into going down the IG rabbit hole. So why not give yourself (and your self-confidence) a break and go on a social media hiatus? Delete the apps for the weekend or keep them off your phone all week long. It’ll do your mental health wonders, but don’t just take my word for it. According to a 2022 study, taking a one-week break from social media improves well-being, depression, and anxiety. Once you’ve reset and you’re ready to re-enter the digital world, FOMO will be a thing of the past.

      7. Prioritize sleep
      When I think of waking up on the right side of the bed, I equate it to the scene in Cinderella where she dances and sings “A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes” as she gets out of bed and ready for her day (while birds and mice make her bed and lay out her clothes, of course). Well, getting quality shut-eye isn’t only for fairytales. Substitute fitting all of Season 1 of The Summer I Turned Pretty into one night for a wind-down routine that doesn’t involve a lot of stimulation, like stretching or reading. And as tempting as it may be to sleep in during your three-day weekend, wake up around the same time you normally would during the week. You’ll be more likely to soak up sunlight first thing in the morning which will not only help you sleep more easily at night but also enhance your mood. Plus, you’ll be up and at ’em when that 6 a.m. alarm goes off Tuesday morning. Follow these simple sleeping hacks and Cinderella will have nothing on you (except maybe for her fairy godmother). 

      8. Put pen to paper 
      In our fast-paced culture, we constantly have countless tabs open in our heads, making it difficult to focus on or remember any given thought, idea, or to-do. Call it journaling, a brain dump, or reflection, writing down the barrage of contents in your mind will help you declutter it, just like you would tidy up and organize your home. Take a few minutes to record anything weighing on you: concerns, problems, unfinished projects, or limiting thoughts. This exercise can help you release anxiety, create space for new ideas and creativity, and establish a jumping-off point for setting goals so you’re refreshed for your week ahead instead of dreading coming back after a long weekend. And if you want to take it a step further, jot down three things you’re grateful for, because it never hurts to practice gratitude. 

      How To Get Back on Track When Feeling ‘Meh’ About Life More

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

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      If there was a cardinal rule in wellness next to “Do what works best for you,” it would be “Everything in moderation.” If you’ve been following The Everygirl, you know we’re not about restricting any foods or labeling them as “good” or “bad.” And alcohol is no exception. We’re not ones to pass up happy hour or popping champagne, but there is one caveat (sorry to be the bearer of bad news): You can have too much of a good thing. Having one too many margaritas poolside or mimosas at brunch can leave you with more than just a bad hangover—your long-term health can pay the price. But wait, there’s good news: I tapped into the expertise of health pros to get their healthy ways to drink alcohol, so we can imbibe sans guilt.  

      What is considered drinking in moderation?
      Finding a happy medium is not as hard as you may think. Jordan Dorn, a holistic nutritionist and cofounder of Zuma Nutrition, broke it down simply: “Keep track of howmuch you are drinking, know your limit, and know when to stop.” Reiterating Dorn’s sentiment, we each have our own cut-off number, which varies depending on our biological sex, age, health, and body composition. While doctors typically recommend one drink per day for us ladies, tune in to your body. Is it giving you cues that you’ve had enough after knocking back two cocktails? You know your body best and a healthy relationship to alcohol looks different for everyone after all. So instead of limiting or shaming yourself for what you do drink, practice a mindfulness-based approach to drinking. The next time you pour yourself a nightcap, try savoring it and the experience. 

      How to drink smarter:

      Eat before you start sipping
      Do yourself (and your body) a favor and build a plate of nutritious fare prior to saying “Cheers!” “Alcohol enters the bloodstream through the stomach and small intestine,” explained Dorn. “If your stomach is empty when you are drinking, the alcohol will enter into your bloodstream more quickly. So, by eating before you have your first drink, and even while you are drinking, you can reduce the amount of alcohol that absorbs into your system.” I know, nothing sounds better than washing down french fries and wings with your drink of choice, but most bar eats are laden with sodium, driving you to drink more. Instead, nourish the body with healthy fats (think: guac or hummus with veggies) while you drink, helping you stay full and satisfied. 
      Other good-for-you pairings for your go-to cocktail? “Choose healthy food options such as whole grains, protein, and fiber prior to consuming alcohol,” suggested Rebecca Reilly, DNP, FNP-C, a family medicine nurse practitioner at Tia. Dr. Lana Butner, a board-certified naturopathic doctor and licensed acupuncturist, encouraged noshing on water-rich foods, like watermelon, pineapple, peaches, citrus fruits, celery, and cucumbers. The best part? Preventing the all-too-familiar hangover the next morning. 
       
      Pace yourself with water 
      I’m going to give you the benefit of the doubt and assume drinking a healthy dose of H20 is already part of your daily routine (you’re welcome). So when you’re enjoying your mojito, keep up your water intake by ensuring a tall glass of it is within reach, and keep ’em coming. “As a diuretic, alcohol causes the body to lose water much quicker than other fluids do,” warned Dr. Butner. “Drink lots of water or eat water-rich foods before, during, and after drinking to prevent dehydration.” It doesn’t hurt to have your Hydro Flask nearby, which can help slow your roll. “To combat dehydration and limit your alcohol intake, start happy hour with a big glass of water and continue to drink plain or sparkling water in between drinks,” agreed Reilly. 
      After diving into a drink or two, you may want to stock up on some coconut water to restore lost electrolytes. “Coconut water is great for rehydration after drinking as it has alkalizing properties, meaning it helps bring your body’s pH from acidic to neutral (our body prefers a neutral pH as this is closer to homeostasis, which is what we are constantly striving for),” said Dr. Butner. If that means getting ahead of the dreaded morning after, I’m all for it. 

      Opt for healthier drinks 
      PSA: Not all alcohol is created equal. There are not-so-great-for-you bevvies, and then there are the notoriously mixed drinks high in sugar that might make you feel worse than alcohol alone (looking at you, Piña Colada). But don’t worry, our experts have dished out a few drinks with their stamp of approval. “Choose mixers that aren’t high in sugar, such as club soda or sparkling water,” Reilly recommended. “Red or white wine is another good option because wine has the health benefit of antioxidants and takes longer to drink.” To top it off, Reilly green-lit some ingredients for a healthy libation: fresh lime juice, fresh lemon juice, club soda, agave, jalapeno, and ice.
      Dorn pointed out that drinking an organic red wine or beer (free of preservatives, added sugars, and pesticides) makes a big difference from drinking a sugary cocktail. “When drinking, try to go for the highest quality alcoholic beverages you can get, as they will be less damaging to your health.” Another simple hack to keep in your back pocket: Stick with clear alcohol. “Dark liquor has a higher sugar content and contains byproducts that create impurities once fermentation occurs in the GI tract,” Dr. Butner explained. “That being said, vodka and tequila are going to be better choices than rum, whiskey, and rye. These clearer alcohols may result in less severe hangover symptoms as well.” Sold. 

      Switch it up with non-alcoholic drinks 
      Don’t knock it before you try it. One quick Google search of “non-alcoholic drink,” and you’ll see that booze-free refreshments are not only all the rage, but also diverse and flavorful in their own right. “Mocktails are more popular than ever and provide an opportunity to avoid alcohol while still enjoying a healthy, interesting beverage in a social setting,” said Reilly. “Ghia, for example, has created products that do not contain alcohol, caffeine, added sugars, and artificial flavors that can be used to make delicious mocktails.”
      Whether you’re in the middle of Dry July or the forever D.D. (designated driver, ICYMI), going dry doesn’t stop at mocktails. From bubbly and spirits to non-alcoholic beer and wine, take your pick. And I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the so-called “functional beverage” category that includes brands infusing their alcohol alternatives with ingredients like adaptogens, amino acids, plants, and CBD.  The main takeaway? Saying “Bottoms up!” with booze-less varieties has never tasted better. 

      Don’t forget supplements 
      Strengthening your body with the help of some supplements when drinking is akin to loading up on Vitamin C and zinc when you feel like you’re coming down with something. “Take an activated methylated vitamin-B complex prior to drinking,” Dr. Butner suggested. “Methylated forms of vitamins are highly preferred as they are more easily absorbed and processed by the body than non-methylated forms. B vitamins are helpful to the liver’s detoxification process, so taking them before drinking can help your body better metabolize alcohol, thereby preventing any dreaded hangover symptoms. Taking B vitamins can also help prevent hang-xiety as B vitamins play a huge role in regulating the nervous system.” In the same vein, Dr. Butner also recommended adding N-acetyl cysteine, or NAC, and milk thistle to your supplement line-up before drinking, before bed, and the day after to boost the liver’s function in metabolizing alcohol.
      Another go-to to have in your pre-drinks arsenal? Activated charcoal. “Activated charcoal has been shown to help bind toxins in the stomach that have not yet entered the bloodstream and, therefore, can help flush alcohol out of the system more quickly,” said Dr. Butner. As always, before adding any new supplement to your routine, first check with your doctor or nutritionist. While there’s no cure-all or magic pill to prevent a hangover, the naturally-sourced remedy comes pretty darn close.

      Non-Alcoholic Spirits Ranked From Worst to Best More

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      9 Disturbing Signs You’re Actually Not Eating Enough Salt

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      Ah salt… The crack-cocaine of dinner parties. These health-conscious days, a raised eyebrow as you reach for the shaker is par for the “course”, given that too much salt can be detrimental to otherwise healthy bodies.
      But what if we told you that too little salt can also be bad for you? Yup: Sodium is actually a mineral that’s fairly critical for a number of your bodily functions, including fluid balance, blood pressure management and the nervous system.
      A condition called hyponatraemia results from a low level of sodium in the blood, and it’s caused by… you guessed it: Too little of this maligned condiment. In fact, head’s up Fit Fam: Hyponatraemia may be caused by drinking too much water, for example during strenuous exercise, without proper replacement of sodium, which could lead to a salt deficiency. Electrolyte drinks, on the other hand, replenish sodium stores.
      READ MORE: Will Collagen Supplements Really Make You Any Healthier?
      What Causes Low Sodium Levels?
      A string of medical conditions can lead to low sodium levels in the body: kidney failure, congestive heart failure, adrenal insufficiency, hypothyroidism and cirrhosis of the liver. Anorexia and certain meds can also cause a sodium imbalance. But it can also result when sodium is lost during prolonged sweating and severe vomiting or diarrhoea.
      For the majority of us, the only time this would be an issue is if you have a diet severely low on salt, or you’re doing some mega training accompanied by mega sweating. Drinking too much water during exercise may dilute the sodium content in your blood, and dehydration also causes your body to lose fluids and electrolytes, which may cause your sodium level to dip. So you need to get that balance right.
      READ MORE: Cold versus COVID — How To Tell The Difference
      So, What Should You Watch Out For?
      In long-term (chronic) hyponatraemia, where the blood sodium levels drop gradually over time, symptoms can be very non-specific and can include: headache, confusion or altered mental state, seizures and decreased consciousness.
      But the more subtle symptoms include: restlessness, muscle spasms or cramps, weakness, dizziness and tiredness – all of which can be accompanied by nausea and vomiting.
      How Is Salt Deficiency Diagnosed?
      The symptoms of hyponatraemia are not specific, so you’d need to pop in on your doc for a blood test to measure your sodium levels.
      READ MORE: Just How Worried Should You Be About Thyroid Disease?
      And How Is It Treated?
      Mild hyponatraemia may not require treatment other than adjustments in diet, lifestyle or meds. For severe cases, treatment often involves intravenous fluids and electrolytes.
      And If You’re Feeling Daring…
      Believe it or not, there are people out there who swear by downing pickle juice after a particularly heavy workout. This age-old remedy apparently works because pickle juice is made up mostly of water, vinegar and… salt. But, because there’s a bunch of conflicting evidence on its benefits out there, we suggest sticking to your regular electrolyte drink.

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      20 Workout Sets So Good, You’ll Actually Be Excited to Go to the Gym

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      Whether you work out at home, in a gym, or head to classes to get your sweat in, you want to look and feel good going it—and don’t want to get caught realizing your leggings are see-through two minutes into your workout. (Or have them slipping and making you uncomfortable the whole time—been there, done that too many times to count). Feeling confident in your gym clothes is essential, and in 2022, matching workout sets officially reign supreme in the activewear department.
      Take it from us: Heading out in a workout set really does make you feel like that girl (like you have your life together even if you don’t in the slightest). It’s cliché, but it’s true: Your gym clothes can give you the workout motivation you’re lacking.
      Ready to sweat it out in style? We’ve rounded up 20 of the cutest workout sets you can get your hands on right now. 

      Feeling Bored With Your Workouts? How to Create (and Maintain) a Fitness Routine You’ll Love More

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      You Don’t Need a S.O. To Take You Out: 6 Solo Date Ideas to Add to Your Calendar ASAP

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      Too many times we get caught up in scrolling for our next beau or babe on Bumble, spicing up our romantic relationships, or maintaining the platonic ones (especially over long distance). And since we’re always making space and time for our loved ones, sometimes we forget the most important person through it all: you. Ask yourself this: how many times this year have you actually thought about some solo date ideas? No, I’m not talking about a Trader Joe’s run (although it can be quite the self-care), but a real moment of dating yourself. 
      To some, this may sound absolutely outside of the box. How does a date work if it doesn’t have at least two people? This isn’t some ploy to force you to be anti-social, I promise. It’s a push to take better care of yourself, find your love language, and treat yourself accordingly. If that doesn’t convince you, remember this: If you spend your entire life waiting on other people, you’ll be waiting forever.
      You know that cute cafe you’ve been eying for months now? Grab your laptop and just go. That trip to the West Indies you’ve been pasting on your mood board for the past three years? Buy that ticket and make sure you get a window seat. Although the journey may be terrifying—introverts, I’m talking to you—there is something absolutely magical in doing things alone. All it takes is a little push and a long bucket list. 
      Here are 6 solo date ideas that’ll have you clearing your calendar for the rest of the year.

      1. Go to a Museum or Art Gallery
      Connecting with history and art is as therapeutic as it gets. Head to your local museum or art gallery and lose yourself in it all. When you’re alone, you can stare at a piece or dawdle in an exhibit for as long as you want. Nobody is there to rush or ask for your commentary.
      Use that time to think introspectively. How does the art relate to a similar experience you’ve had? Do you feel inclined to do more at-home research on a specific culture you came across? How do the brush strokes of a particular painting make you feel? Kudos if you head to a different city or state for this one.

      2. Book a Yoga or Fitness Class
      Working out with friends can be fun, but pushing yourself to do it alone can be extremely rewarding. Have you always wanted to try pilates? Maybe hot yoga? Head to your nearest studio and start sweating!
      Without being swayed by the commitment of others, you’ll be able to focus on your own goals and stay consistent, and you’ll be able to mold your regimen around your own schedule, too. Besides maximizing your flexibility, the intrinsic gratification you’ll experience will be much better than hearing a compliment from anyone else. And if you’re still wanting an accountability buddy, make friends at your gym or studio. 

      3. Have a Mini-Photoshoot
      Ready to start your trek to 1M followers? Even if you’re not eying being the next big-time influencer, grabbing your camera and taking pictures of yourself is sure to be a confidence booster. How many times did you find the perfect background on a girls’ trip, but the pictures just weren’t turning out how you wanted? Take this time to figure out new poses, your best angles, and some of the most unbelievable locations.

      4. Take a Cooking Class
      We can all admit that ordering out always beats cooking in, but it doesn’t hurt to sharpen your skills. If you’re exhausted with your current rotation of meals, find a local (or online) class that caters to the cuisine you’re obsessed with or want to know more about. Besides being a great way to connect with family and loved ones, it’s an amazing way to constantly treat yourself. There’s no better feeling than knowing your recipe tastes just as good (if not better) than it does at your favorite restaurant.
      If you’re out of luck with chefs that inspire you, Pinterest is always a faithful option. Here are some of my favorites I’m sure you’ll fall in love with: 

      5. Get Dinner and See a Movie
      Going back to the basics is always a great idea. Although there won’t be any moves by your date getting pulled on you (bummer?), it’s a great way to show yourself that these places aren’t only reserved for twos. For dinner, proudly request your table for one, and bring along your laptop or journal if you feel uncomfortable. It’ll become easier the more you go.
      If you’re an avid moviegoer or just an occasional one, challenge yourself to see a movie you haven’t heard of. The thrill just might be the beginning of your love for a new series, actor, or director. And who knows, you might even be pulling moves on yourself by the end of the night. 

      6. Be a Tourist in Your Own Town
      For many of us, home is our happy place. The idea of going outside might seem unappetizing, but I challenge you to throw on your favorite outfit, put your cellphone on DND, and treat your city like foreign territory. Check out all of the hidden gems, try new restaurants, and support some small businesses. You never know what you’ll find. 
      If you’re really feeling up for it, walk, roller skate, or bike ride throughout your city instead of driving. Too many times we use our cars as shields to not have to really be within the city we reside in. Take a new path and put yourself completely out there. It’ll be worth it. 

      5 Things My Therapist Taught Me About Self-Love More

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      What Is Human Design, and Is It the Key to Unlocking Your Life Purpose?

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      I’ve never met a personality test, astrology reading, or Buzzfeed quiz that I didn’t like. Call it ego, curiosity, or narcissism, but if a system claims to understand my personality traits and deepest desires, I’m all in. While I’ve dabbled in zodiac signs and am a fan of the Enneagram, learning about Human Design left me in awe. No matter how much I identify with the Type 2 Enneagram and how many times friends tell me “that’s so Libra of you,” finding my Human Design type didn’t just tell me the information I already knew but gave me insight into how I’m meant to live. Let’s let the experts explain.
      According to Dana Stiles and Shayna Cornelius, Human Design experts and cofounders of Dayluna, Human Design is Astrology meets Myers-Briggs–but it’s a little more complicated than that. Created by Alan Krakower (who used the pseudonym Ra Uru Hu), Human Design is a very specific and detailed system to learn more about your emotions, energy centers, and life purpose. Dana and Shayna provide an insightful and helpful overview below that gives you the basics without being overwhelming (I learned a lot!).
      However, Human Design is incredibly detailed and can give you insight into everything from how your body digests food to what emotion you’ll feel when you’re out of alignment. If you’re interested in learning more, I recommend a book like Human Design: Discover the Person You Were Born to Be or a podcast (Dana and Shayna have a great one called DayLuna Human Design Podcast) to dive deeper. But for an overview that will help you get started on your Human Design journey, read on for insight from Dana and Shayna on what Human Design is, finding your Type, and how to use the information to live out the life of your dreams.
       

      Meet the expert
      Shayna Cornelius and Dana Stiles
      Human Design experts and cofounders of DayLuna
      Shayna Cornelius and Dana Stiles are on a mission to help others achieve personal freedom and radical authenticity. They specialize in the realm of self-purpose and conscious entrepreneurship and cover topics such as spirituality and the new paradigm on their successful podcast, the DayLuna Human Design Podcast.

      In this article

      What is Human Design?
      Human Design is also called the Science Of Differentiation, the New Astrology, or the Science of The Aura. It’s a system that combines modern science with ancient modalities including Western Astrology, The I Ching, The Chakra System, and Kabbalah The Tree of Life. Based on your birth information, Human Design tells you how your energy is unique, how your aura works, how you are designed to make decisions/follow your form of intuition, what your unique set of gifts are, what your life purpose is, and much more! Once you know your Human Design type (more on that below), your Human Design Chart shows the blueprint for your unique energetic makeup and gives you the owner’s manual on how to operate your energy correctly.
      The purpose of Human Design is to support you in experiencing personal alignment.When we are in alignment, we feel less resistance in our life and more harmony, abundance, and ease. Instead of swimming upstream, we learn how to get in alignment with the flow of energy that can support us in living our purpose, with less effort and struggle.

      What sets Human Design apart from personality tests?
      Like Human Design, personality tests like Enneagram and Myers-Briggs are tools that can offer insight into how you may be different from others. While we can find great meaning and support in systems like Enneagram and Myers-Briggs, they are self-assessments, whereas Human Design is not. In personality type systems, you are answering questions about yourself to see what type you fall into, whereas Human Design is based on a calculation from your birth date, time, and place. It is similar to Western Astrology since it is based on the information of your birth, but Human Design also uses specific energy systems (chakras) in addition to astrology at your time of birth.
      Human Design is the inherent qualities that you were born with and will have your entire life. This difference between self-assessment systems and Human Design is important because, from a very young age, we learn and adapt to take on qualities that will make us be loved and accepted. It can be easy to define who we are based on who we think we should be instead of who we really are, without even having the conscious awareness that we’re doing it. Your Human Design shows you with great specificity what your soul inherently is, not who you have been conditioned to be.

      What’s my Type?
      You can generate your chart online for free using your birth date, time, and place.Look for the written category “Type” to see which Type you are. Every person falls into one of five different energy types: Manifestor, Generator, Manifesting Generator, Projector, and Reflector. These energy types describe how your energetic body (aura) is designed to function and the key role you are meant to play.
      Manifestors are here to impact and inspire others to make a change or start something new.
      Generators are here to use their ample creative energy to create, work on, or build what they love.
      Manifesting Generators are here to inspire others as they use their ample creative energy to create, work on, or build what they love in a diverse and varied fashion.
      Projectors are here to guide the energy use of others toward more efficiency and authenticity.
      Reflectors are here to empathetically feel the people around them to gauge the overall well-being of their environment.

      I know my Type…now what?
      Once you’ve discovered your Type, you will see that you have a corresponding “strategy,” or method to start putting your purpose into practice. By experimenting with applying this strategy to your daily life, you naturally start to use your aura correctly. Practicing this one aspect of Human Design is by far the most powerful place to start.
      Manifestors: Your strategy is to inform. This means communicating how you are really feeling and what you’re thinking of doing next with the world around you.
      Generators: Your strategy is to respond. This means focusing on being more present and tuning in your body’s positive energetic response to guide how you should use your energy in each moment.
      Manifesting Generators: Your strategy is to respond and then inform. This means focusing on being more present and tuning in your body’s energetic response to guide you about how you should use your energy in each moment and also keeping people in the loop as you go.
      Projectors: Your strategy is to wait for the invitation. This means not sharing your gifts, advice, or insight with others until they seem to be genuinely inviting you to do so.
      Reflectors: Your strategy is to wait for a 28 Day Lunar Cycle. This means giving yourself an entire 28 days to feel things out and find clarity before making any big shifts.

      How can I use my Human Design to live out my life purpose?
      Human Design supports you in building the confidence to navigate anynew circumstance as the most authentic and aligned version of yourself. Fully understanding who you are and how your energy operates will lead to you naturally livingout your life purpose. We often think of our purpose as one thing we came here to do, but really, our purpose is the energy we came here to be in all of the things that we do. When you dive in deeper, Human Design will show you many different facets of your purpose (beyond just your Type), but the amazing thing about Human Design is that even without knowing the deeper layers of your design, you can begin to naturally align with your purpose by starting with the given strategy and putting into practice the other insights Human Design can offer. 

      The Everygirl’s Guide to Manifestation
      …and achieving your best life More

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      Sydney Sweeney Swears By These 5 Wellness Habits

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      To say Sydney Sweeney is a rising star is an understatement. Her on-screen resume reads like a must-watch TV ad: Euphoria, The White Lotus, The Handmaid’s Tale, and Sharp Objects—just to name a few. And she made her first debut at fashion’s biggest night out (AKA the Met Gala) this year, proving she can add fashion “It Girl” to her experience. It’s not all fame and fashion for the Idaho native though—she restores cars, sweats it out in the MMA cage, spoils her rescue pup, and prioritizes her mental health (a far cry from her Cassie and Olivia characters). I turned to my trusted celebrity sources to get the details on how Sydney finds balance. Read on for five ways Sydney looks after her mental well-being. Celeb or not, we can learn a thing or two from her. 

      Make time for self-care
      Carving out me-time has never been more embraced than it is now, but I’d argue that we could all still use a little nudge every now and then. Sydney backs me up on that. She reminds us that self-care is individualized and can shift depending on the day or season in your life. “You can be OK one day and it’s totally OK if you’re not the next because I think you have to start every day new, and you have to start every day trying to appreciate and love yourself, which can be difficult sometimes,” she said. Sydney’s form of self-care? Using her nifty ice roller, getting lost in HGTV, setting relaxing vibes with candles, and chilling with her dog.
      Deciding what you need to take care of you can be a challenge (let alone finding the time to squeeze it in). But self-care can make a world of difference between feeling burned out and empowered. So whether it’s building your sense of self-worth, working on catching more Zzzs, or moving your body, prioritize your mental wellness. 

      Stretch your budget
      You probably don’t think of your finances when it comes to boosting your mental health, but Sydney encourages thinking twice about how you spend your hard-earned cash. “My family has always ingrained value in stretching a budget and the importance of money to my mind,” she told Yahoo Life. “When you don’t save correctly and you don’t spend your money on important things where it’s supposed to be spent, [I saw] what the damage can be.” Sydney was taught the value of a dollar at a young age, and that has translated into her spending habits to this day. 
      Start by creating a budget, and start tracking your expenses to see where you can save (yes, there are apps for that.) If you’re ahead of the game (kudos to you!), there are other simple money-saving tricks of the trade: Give yourself 24 hours before checking out for any impulse and gotta-have-it-now buys, use coupon sites like RetailMeNot and Honey for necessary purchases, and unplug any unused electronics (looking at you, TV). The silver lining? Save a la Sydney, and you won’t cramp your hot girl summer style. 

      Practice self-love and body acceptance
      I know, easier said than done, but take comfort in knowing this: Even celebs get self-conscious and need to be reminded to practice self-love. Sydney told Glamour that she gets nervous before every red carpet appearance because she has to put her IRL self out there, instead of a character she’s playing. In her interview with Yahoo Life, she said self-confidence is a daily process. “Some days I will feel great and some days I don’t want to get out of bed, and I think that it’s OK if you feel both ways… And sometimes I’m not happy with myself or something just doesn’t feel right. I think it’s important for everyone to know that everyone has feelings, and it’s OK if you don’t feel confident one day, but just know that you’re beautiful, no matter what.” Our bodies do so much for us, and they’re the ones we’ll have for the rest of our lives. Bottom line: Do yourself a favor and take care of your body. 
      If “I love my body,” feels out of reach, that’s OK. Take a page out of Sydney’s book and start with honing in on all that your body is capable of doing, rather than what it looks like. There’s so much more to us than physical bodies after all. Try to take judgment out of the equation, and accept that self-love is a journey (with twists and turns, U-turns, and detours), not a race.   
       
      Sweat it out
      Sydney isn’t just a badass on screen: BTS, she’s killing it in her workouts. From practicing mixed martial arts (AKA MMA) to two-a-day walks with her dog, Tank, it’s no wonder she has rock-hard abs to go with her crop top and red carpet looks. Admitting she’s not a fan of the treadmill, she takes to her neighborhood or the beach for quick runs to clear her mind. And if she has more time for a workout, she gets her heart pumping with a workout video. (Is anyone else wondering if she needs a workout buddy? Same.) To make the most of your exercise routine, mix it up like Sydney. Try a new workout you may be intimidated by, or head outdoors for a stroll, hike, or run. It’s the perfect way to switch up your current routine if you find yourself in a fitness rut. 

      Learn a new skill
      As if her acting resume isn’t impressive enough, Sydney channeled her love of academia into business school classes while filming The Handmaid’s Tale. “I want to be able to read my contracts and know what the hell they say, so I’m not getting f*ed over,” she told Cosmopolitan. In 2020, she even launched her own production company, Fifty-Fifty Films, to support first-time female authors, nascent directors, and promising screenwriters. Could she be any more lovable?
      If you’re having car troubles or find yourself stranded on the side of the road, Sydney is your girl. Taking ride-or-die to another level, she told PureWow that she has always been interested in cars. And that’s no joke—she took apart and rebuilt a Ford Bronco. Whether it’s the Virgo in her or not, she’s doing her mental health a lot of good by continuously cultivating new experiences. In fact, research shows that learning new skills improves your mental well-being by helping you raise self-esteem and build a sense of purpose. So if you’ve been contemplating picking up a new hobby (think: journaling, reading, cooking), take this as a sign to get at it. 

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      7 Hacks I Learned From ‘Atomic Habits’ That Changed My Life—and Will Change Yours Too

      by

      You may have come across Atomic Habits while scrolling through #BookTok or browsing Barnes & Noble looking for your next self-help read. After all, it’s been a consistent bestseller since its release in 2018. And as a book lover with a passion for books that cater to bettering oneself, I had to give this one a go. I am happy to say it lived up to the hype–I walked away with tangible tools to create better habits that I now stick with while letting go of old ones holding me back.
      Habits make up our everyday life, some as simple as brushing your teeth each morning or setting an alarm before you go to bed each night. These habits require little thought or energy and are ingrained into our routines. Starting a new habit is not always easy as keeping up with old ones, so it’s important to have the motivation and a good system in place to be able to stick with it. Atomic Habits breaks down a foolproof way to not only make sure you stick to your habits but also choose the right ones, and it even reverses theories to help break the bad ones too. So if you’re looking to build better habits, read on for the hacks that changed my life.

      James Clear
      Atomic Habits
      An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones

      1. Improve by 1 percent every day
      Let’s say you want to lose weight. Your goal is to go to the gym every day and eat a healthier diet. At first, that may seem daunting, which is why the best way to start is to start small. Maybe it’s as simple as putting on your running shoes and walking outside for 10 minutes (it may not seem like much, but over time it adds up!) or adding leafy greens to one meal per day. Eventually, you can work up to 30 minutes or a workout at the gym and eat delicious, healthy foods for every meal, but focusing on the end goal will be overwhelming instead of helpful. “Breakthrough moments are often the result of many previous actions, which build up the potential required to unleash a major change,” James Clear explains in the book. Oftentimes, we look at athletes or successful business leaders and wonder how they got to where they are and how they accomplished so much. The answer is that they started small and never stopped. 

      2. Start habit stacking
      The easiest way to introduce a new habit into your daily routine is to implement it with other habits you already have. Habit stacking is a formula for ensuring that your new habits don’t fall to the wayside. For example, if you want to create the habit of meditating each morning but find yourself forgetting or not having the time, the best way to fix this is by inserting it with another habit. If your morning routine consists of waking up, brushing your teeth, and pouring a cup of coffee, insert “meditate for five minutes” before you have your coffee. Set the intention, say it aloud, and then insert the new habit into your routine. Sometimes when and where you choose to execute a habit can make a big difference. 

      3. Be aware of your environment
      We are both victims and architects of our environments—AKA the home we live in and where we go to work and exercise. All of these different spaces can affect our habits for better or worse. If every night before you go to sleep you lie in bed and watch TV, over time your bed will be associated as a place where you watch TV. Working from the comfort of your bed may sound nice but can be much more difficult if your bed is already associated with a place of rest. Once we understand the relationships we have with the spaces we occupy, we can use that knowledge to help form better habits and break unproductive ones. As Clear said, “It is easier to associate a new habit with a new context than to build a new habit in the face of competing cues.” It’s no wonder working from home can be more difficult if you don’t have a designated space to do so.

      4. Use the “Two-Minute Rule”
      Clear’s two-minute rule states that when you start a new habit, it shouldn’t take longer than two minutes to complete. The idea is to scale down a habit so that it is more attractive and you are more likely to continue repeating the habit. If the goal is to write a book, start by writing one sentence each day. If you want to read more before bed each night, start by reading one page. If you want to work out more, start with jumping jacks for two minutes, or if you want to have a meditation practice, set the timer for two minutes–you get the idea. The more the process is ritualized, the easier it will be to continue. You have to start small before you move on to bigger and better habits.

      5. Try a commitment device or accountability partner
      We all start off with the best of intentions when we decide to form a new habit, but then life gets in the way and it becomes easy to forget why we wanted to start the habit in the first place. This is where a commitment device or accountability partner comes in. A commitment device is a choice made in the present to help control your actions in the future. For example, if you want to stop buying coffee every day, you can decide to leave your wallet at home to reduce temptation. Another version of this is an accountability buddy: someone who can help keep you accountable for your actions, understands your commitment, and can check in on you (read: a friend, partner, family member, coworker, coach, etc.). We value the opinions of those around us, which is exactly why an accountability partner can work to help build better habits.

      6. Make the habit satisfying
      It’s a cardinal rule in life that we repeat actions that are satisfying: eating ice cream on a hot summer day, consistently working out and releasing endorphins, or online shopping and receiving a package in the mail. We return to these actions over and over again because we remember how satisfying they were. The same tactic is effective when forming a new habit. There’s a reason why you book your next workout class right after you finish one and then a couple of days later debate whether to go. Providing immediate reinforcement tells the brain to keep going back to an activity, whereas delayed satisfaction is not as effective. In other words, when you’re starting a new habit, make sure it’s enjoyable so it will last.

      7. Reflect on your habits and progress
      Habits are great tools to help us accomplish our goals, but as we evolve and complete certain goals or set new ones, it’s important to look back and assess our habits and progress. If you set out to write a book and haven’t finished one chapter, maybe the habits you set are not working and need to be changed. Our habits should be our motivators and keep us engaged in our goals. They should be something we look forward to doing. Taking the time to reflect on our habits (both the good and bad) is a great way to make sure we are constantly challenging ourselves to do better.

      James Clear
      Atomic Habits
      An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones

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