health and weelbeing

Subterms

    More stories

    • 175 Shares

      in health and weelbeing

      We’ve Tried It All: This Is the Best Activewear You Can Buy on Amazon

      by

      Finding activewear that you love and that truly works for you through all of the different types of workouts you do—and on the days when you’re just wearing a cute athleisure look—is a journey that can take YEARS. Finding the best Amazon workout clothes, though? A whole different ball game.
      Leggings that pill, biker shorts that are see-through, sports bras that don’t have enough support, items that look nothing like the photos, skimming thousands of reviews… it all comes with the struggle to find the best of the best. But every once in a while, you encounter a diamond in the rough: your new favorite leggings that feel just like your $100 pairs, or that perfectly fitted workout top that transitions seamlessly from the gym to a coffee run.
      Our editors have been buying and wearing Amazon workout wear for years now, always sharing our new favorite dupe or the biker shorts we can’t stop wearing with each other.  We’ve had our triumphs and our fails, and now we know: these are the best activewear pieces you can find on Amazon. A lot of these items have thousands of five-star reviews, and everything on this list is under $40 (!!!). 
      Keep scrolling to check out our favorite affordable Amazon workout clothes:

      Leggings

      Shorts

      Tops and Jackets

      Sports Bras

      Sets and Dresses

      Accessories More

    • 125 Shares

      in health and weelbeing

      Expert Advice: 14 Nutritionists Share Their Secrets for Better Digestion

      by

      So you load up on smoothies, make sure to eat your greens, and limit sugar for special occasions (yes, a Ben & Jerry’s binge on a random Tuesday night totally counts as “special”), but you still have digestive issues? I’m not surprised: 61 percent of Americans reported experiencing at least one gastrointestinal problem in the span of a week, according to a study of over 71,000 people. Whether it’s heartburn, bloating, abdominal pain, constipation, or diarrhea, digestive drama is something that often goes unexplained or untreated.
      Of course, if you experience symptoms that persist or feel abnormal, talk to your doctor about a root cause and treatment plan. But since so many of us experience a random stomach ache or some indigestion here and there, I polled nutritionists for their tips on dealing with the occasional digestive issue and how to support digestion overall. Read on for nutritionists’ secrets for optimal digestion and better gut health (bye, bye bloat!).

      “My 2 top wellness weapons for better digestion are:
      Hydration: I aim to drink 60+ ounces a day. It helps to prevent constipation and bloat, and keeps me feeling more energized. Sometimes, I drop frozen berries in my water for a little flavor (they also make great “ice cubes”)
      Taking a probiotic. Probiotics are a huge part of my wellness routine. They promote the growth of the good bacteria in the gut, which promotes motility, meaning it helps keep you regular. A women’s probiotic is specifically beneficial because it also works to help combat UTI’s and yeast infections.” — Brigitte Zeitlin, Registered Dietitian and Founder of BZ Nutrition

      “Before each meal, I do a few rounds of deep breaths (for about a minute) to trigger my parasympathetic nervous system, known as the ‘rest and digest’ nervous system, which helps us digest food properly. This also reminds me to practice mindful eating throughout the meal, which not only supports digestion, but also guides you to become more aware of what you’re eating, why you’re eating, how you’re eating, and how you feel as a result of eating. All of that information about your eating habits, beliefs, thoughts, and experiences with food helps you better understand what’s best for your unique body, so you can feel fully confident in how you’re nourishing yourself.” — McKel Kooienga, MS, RD, LDN, Author and Founder of Nutrition Stripped

      “Keep moving! Getting in steps throughout the day (instead of sitting for eight hours straight) helps food move through the body and keeps you regular. Set a reminder on your phone to get up and move every hour or so.” — Becca McVicker, MS, RD, LD, CPT

      “You are not what you eat, you are what you digest! Before most meals, I take a digestive enzyme supplement. Digestive enzymes help break down protein, fat, and carbohydrates, but they also support optimal nutrient absorption and can help reduce gas and bloating. I also aim to eat a predominantly plant-based diet rich in fibrous, whole foods, because they help build good bacteria. For example, I love adding frozen cauliflower and avocado to my morning smoothies.” — Megan Roosevelt, RDN, Founder of Healthy Grocery Girl

      “As a women’s health dietitian who counsels people with hormone-related disorders, I talk a lot about gut health, which includes supporting digestion. Optimizing gut health is one of the many keys to keeping hormones happy and healthy. An eating routine consisting of a variety of foods can help diversify your microbiota, which is wonderful for your digestion and overall health.” — Valerie Agyeman, RD, Women’s Health Dietitian, and Founder of Flourish Heights

      “The more lemon water you can drink, the better, especially first thing when you wake up. I squeeze fresh lemon in warm water because of its alkalizing effect on the body and its ability to help to neutralize toxic buildup. It’s also an Ayurvedic practice, which sets the day up for success with healthy eating. Plus, the fresh smell of lemon lifts the senses, which is a wonderful way to start the day.” — Cindy Kasindorf, Holistic Nutritionist and Founder of Remedy Organics

      “Our digestion actually begins with the smell of the food, whether it’s cooking or steaming on a plate in front of us. Our bodies start responding and preparing to digest from our livers to our stomachs, so it’s really important to eat as slowly as possible. Good digestion improves our nutrient absorption, and we don’t want to waste all the good foods we are eating. My other favorite ways to help get digestion back on track are:

      Starting my day with lemon water or diluted apple cider vinegar
      Adding a multi-strain probiotic to my plan
      Taking a few minutes before meals to be mindful (prayer and deep breathing)
      Eating five colors a day along with combining my macros” 

      — Cara Clark, Certified Sports & Clinical Nutritionist and Author

      “My tip for better digestion is something most people forget about doing, especially when they are extra hungry or rushing: chewing. Chewing food is so important to the digestive process. When we chew our food well (about 32 times before swallowing), it gets broken down into smaller pieces, making it easier to digest and absorb nutrients. Saliva contains certain digestive enzymes to improve the digestion of carbohydrates, and gets released when chewing.” — Mary Ellen Valverde, Licensed Nutritionist MS, CNS LDN

      “If I’m having any kind of GI issues, I tend to opt for ginger. I like having tea which helps with digestion, and sometimes I make a ‘shot’ of fresh ginger blended with orange juice. Other foods that will help are probiotics like yogurt or other fermented foods. And water! Many people forget to drink enough water during the day.” — Shana Spence, MS, RDN, CDN, Founder of The Nutrition Tea

      “While a lot of factors play a role in good gut health, one of the key factors is fiber. Papaya is loaded with fiber, as well as nutrients like lutein and vitamin C, and contain an enzyme called papain, which helps digestion and the breakdown of proteins. All of these nutrients aid with bowel regularity and help prevent constipation and bloating, making papaya an ideal food for digestive health.” — Tejal Pathak, Registered Dietitian, Clinical Practitioner, and Education Specialist

      “Practice the five F’s to healthy digestion: fully chew (digestion begins in your mouth), fiber (aim for 30g of fiber a day), fluids (we need about half our body weight in ounces per day), friendly bacteria (which help keep digestive tract healthy), and fitness (exercise helps keep you regular). Also, eat foods with ginger and peppermint. They help calm and soothe the gut for better digestion and less bloating.” — Dawn Jackson Blatner, RDN, CSSD, Author and Daily Harvest Nutritionist

      “By chewing more (and more mindfully) you’re likely to swallow less air which can contribute to bloating and burping during meals. Also, you might have heard that eating adequate fiber (25-30 grams per day) helps support healthy digestion, but just a reminder, when you increase your fiber consumption, you also need to increase your water intake. If you’re not used to consuming high-fiber foods, take it slow and work your way up to avoid overloading on fiber. While supplements are not the direct answer to GI or digestion issues, they’re good for temporary relief. When it comes to bloating and excess gas, I’m a big fan of Hilma’s Gas Relief blend made from ingredients like caraway seeds, fennel, and peppermint leaves.” — May Zhu, RDN, LDN, Founder of Nutrition Happens

      “Digestive bitters have been used for hundreds of years to help prepare the body to digest and assimilate food. Taking bitters can be the difference between feeling content and feeling bloated after meals. For years, I watched my patients and loved ones struggle with digestion, so I formulated a bitters tincture that combines full-spectrum hemp extract with organic botanicals (like dandelion root, bitter fennel, ginger, etc.) to decrease bloating and support the digestive tract.” — Dr. Kristi Wrightson, ND, Registered Dietician and Naturopathic Doctor

      “A few of my tips for improving digestion are:
      Eat high-fiber foods: among many other health benefits, fiber can help support digestive health and regularity. Try beans, lentils, nuts, oatmeal, whole grain products, fruit, and vegetables with the skin.
      Stay hydrated: adequate hydration helps support digestion as your body breaks down the food that you have eaten. It’s also especially important to focus on getting enough fluids in as you increase fiber in your diet to make sure your digestion stays regular.
      Add fermented products to your diet: fermented foods (also referred to as cultured foods) contain healthy bacterial strains that can support and promote a healthy gut and digestive tract. A few of my favorite cultured products to include in my own diet are kefir and greek yogurt with live and active cultures.
      Get active: a sedentary lifestyle can cause digestion disruption, so an easy way to support healthy digestion is by staying active.” — Lauren Twigge MCN, RDN, LD

      Please consult a doctor before beginning any treatments or routines. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical or mental health condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this article. More

    • 113 Shares

      in health and weelbeing

      Cute Workout Clothes You Can Wear 24/7 This Summer

      by

      Lacking motivation to work out? The fix might be as simple as a wardrobe upgrade with some new cute workout clothes. When you feel like your best self, you’ll be more likely to treat your body better. Plus, squeezing in some exercise feels more fun and less like a chore during summertime (goodbye boring indoor workouts, and hello bike rides and outdoor jogs!), so our exercise outfits should be more fun too. Whether you’re looking for motivation to get sweaty or you plan on living in activewear all season long (same), we’ve rounded up the cutest activewear that summer 2021 has to offer (because you deserve to look as good as a workout makes you feel). Between it-colors (give me all the neon and pastel shades), fabrics made for warmer weather, and trendy new details, your activewear is about to be the chicest section of your wardrobe (watch your back, nap dresses!). 

      Sports Bras

      Tops

      Bottoms

      Shoes More

    • 125 Shares

      in health and weelbeing

      The Obé Fitness Classes Our Team Can’t Get Enough Of

      by

      When you find a good workout, you want to scream it from the rooftops. One that not only makes you feel strong and powerful but makes you feel accomplished and excited—it’s the gold standard of workouts. For some, it’s a long run. Others, it’s pilates. And for you, it might be dancing around your apartment to your favorite early 2010s hits (me). With Obé Fitness, our team’s #1 streaming fitness app, you don’t have to choose just one! You can try every workout under the sun and create an arsenal of your favorites. Our team has been using Obé for years, so we’re sharing our favorite classes. Whether it’s a one-hour full class or a guided stretch for after a run, we’ve got a whole host of favorites.

      I’ve been taking this class every week for the last few months, and I’ve noticed the biggest difference in my strength and endurance than I have with any workout. Kat pushes me to work hard, but I don’t feel like I’m being screamed at by a trainer either. The moves are easy to modify to fit my needs, and I love that we start with lighter weights and go heavier throughout the class. If you take any Obé class recommendation, make it this—I am absolutely obsessed. 

      Obé is great for adding an extra 10-minute class here and there to your other workouts, and this is one I’ve been including lately when I want to add a class that won’t make me drip in sweat but will leave me sore AF. It is hard, but so worth it. 

      Ana is one of my favorite Obé instructors, and I’ve been loving her strength classes. She always does a full-body class, so I walk away feeling like I got a really good workout in only 28 minutes. I also love that she’s all about strength but adds a little cardio here and there to get my heart rate up. I like to take a strength class once or twice a week, and her energy has encouraged me to keep going.

      I took one Pilates class in college and vowed to never do it again. Pilates is hard, y’all. But I love Obé because I can try a class once, and if I don’t like it, I’m not indebted to some package for the next month. I’m so glad I gave it another shot because I’ve been loving Mary’s Pilates class every week (I do them live on Mondays, and they’re the perfect way to start my week). It’s making me feel strong in places I never thought I would (ahem, core), and I can feel myself getting better at every move as time goes on. This class uses the barre ball, and it’s somehow so challenging and so fun.

      I have a really hard time doing dance classes that aren’t to music I already know the words to, so I typically love to do them live because the instructors pick such good music. Peter is the exception. He makes every class so fun. I would take his class to elevator music and be joyful as hell. He has an energy that is unmatched, he always makes me laugh, and I leave his class extremely sweaty. 

      I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: I would die for Peter T. He makes every workout so fun, it barely feels like working out (I hate when people say that, but with Peter, it’s true!). Laugh through 45 minutes of super fun choreography mixed with sculpting moves so you feel like you’re busting a move but also working those muscles. PS, the playlist is *fire sign emoji*. 

      When I’m in the mood for (or have time for) a longer workout, I never want to do a sweaty cardio sesh. 45 minutes of sweat and heavy breathing? No thank you. The sculpt classes are always my go-to because it just feels good to work each muscle group. They feel doable and enjoyable, but they still leave me feeling sore the next day. I love this class in particular because ankle weights are my jam and you work every single muscle in this 47-minute class. 

      For days where I only feel like doing a little something or want to add in extra abs, Pilates Abs is my absolute favorite. The targeted and specific workouts get to every layer of the core, and I swear I feel like I have a six-pack after 10 minutes (even if it doesn’t look that way, as long as it feels like it, right?). Plus, I bought one of these nifty little barre balls just for these classes and it was worth every penny (just ask my abs). 

      Listen, I love all of the yoga classes on Obé, but this one made it into my top five favorites because it got me to do something I never thought I would: boxing. The combo classes can help push you out of your comfort zone because it’s just something you know well (yoga sculpt) combined with a little bit of something you haven’t tried before (cardio boxing). Spoiler alert: I felt like a major badass. Take this class if you’ve always been curious about boxing but are not ready to go all in. 

      If you’re like me and would way rather be at a club with your friends than on your living room floor working out (but like, who wouldn’t?), this is the class for you. Thanks to fun movements and hype music, this class makes you feel like you’re having fun with your friends (ah, remember going out?) instead of fitting in a workout on your lunch break. Just be warned: you will break a sweat.

      Confession time: I do not stretch. Ever. I will complain about my hamstrings and calves until the sun starts setting in the East, but I will not actually do anything about it. I know, I know, stretching is SO important, so I’m making a conscious effort to work more stretching into my routine. The Sculpt + Stretch classes have come to my muscles’ rescue. While the class incorporates sculpt moves, the focus is really on lengthening, mobility, and flexibility. So it’s a workout that feels almost like a rest day—which is honestly just perfect.

      Obé’s Sculpt classes are a must-have in my weekly regimen. These 28-minute classes are incredibly challenging without taking too much time from the rest of my day. I have never been a person who looks forward to spending hours at the gym, but I can’t deny what a good workout can do for both my mind and body. I do these classes on days where my schedule is a bit more packed than usual or if I find myself with some restless energy on an off day. It’s amazing how much of a sweat I can work up after less than 30 minutes of work! 

      Sure, I could do some upper body weight lifting on my own, but beyond bicep curls and shoulder presses I would be at a loss for moves. I love to mix up the types of workouts I do throughout the week, and Obé’s Upper Body Strength classes focus on a part of my body I would otherwise neglect. I’m all about the abs, legs, and cardio workouts, so when I feel I need to give my arms and back a little love, I turn to this class.

      I love incorporating weights into my workouts for a bit of extra challenge. However, I’m in no way an expert. Instead, I rely on classes to help me get the most out of my weight training. This Obé Strength class is only 28 minutes long and targets the full body; it’s much easier to psych myself up for a workout that will be over before I even realize it’s started. This class is deceptively difficult. I’m always sore the next day—a definitive sign my fast and easy workout was also effective.

      Pilates is that sneaky workout that feels fine for the first half of the class and then in the final stretch, you can barely hold yourself up anymore. While I love using weights in my workouts, sometimes I just want something no-fuss. That’s where Pilates comes in. Though it may not look super challenging, don’t be fooled. The Obé Pilates classes are some of the most difficult classes in my routine. By the time the 27 minutes are up, I’m left sweating almost as much as I am after an intense cardio session.

      When something has “mood booster” in the name, I’m absolutely sold. I work out to take care of my body, of course—but the effects on my mind are what I actually crave. This class (along with the rest of the Mood Booster program!) is a really fun way to break a sweat and also crack a big smile. (As Josie always says, Peter T. is the BEST!)

      I’m a big fan of reformer pilates, and this class is the perfect at-home way to get a fix of that muscle-burning, ultra-toning feeling. I’m a huge fan of Katherine, who makes me feel confident and comfortable. I like to add a class like this on days when I want a tough workout but don’t want to max out my lung capacity.

      I love a yoga class that makes me feel both energized AND relaxed—and I often think a full 50-60 minute-class is my favorite way to allow my body to do both. Additionally, this class’s cooldown segment focuses heavily on opening up the hips—which is great for fellow runners!

      As a former Broadway star, Spencer J. is the master of dance cardio—and his infectious energy makes the time go SO fast. I love Spencer’s sculpt classes too, but there’s just something about dancing around my bedroom that makes me feel happy after a long day at my computer.

      I like barre classes in theory—but I so often get bored when I’m not doing intense cardio. Barre cardio is a great way to combine important muscle conditioning with the fast-paced fun of cardio (any other cardio lovers out there!?). Also, 45 minutes is my ideal workout time–it’s the perfect length to get me to forget my day and get in the zone!

      My primary workout is running, but in order to really succeed on runs, you have to incorporate strength training into your routine. Like many runners, I used to dread the days I did strength, but since I found this class I actually look forward to it. It’s tough and always makes me sore the next day, but Dorian makes the entirety of the class super fun and enjoyable.

      I am arguably the least flexible person I have ever met in my entire life, and coupled with running, I have horribly tight hamstrings and my body suffers for it constantly. One of my resolutions this year was to take more time to stretch after my workouts, but I love doing this at night before I get ready for bed. It’s made a world of difference in how my body feels the next morning, and I’ve seen a huge difference in my flexibility since.

      A couple of months ago on a rainy Sunday, I was feeling some cabin fever and just needed a way to move my body. I stumbled upon this class and it truly was some of the most fun I’ve had working out—ever. Dancing is not my strong suit by a long shot, so I laughed my way through it and got in a killer workout in the meantime. 10/10 mood booster.

      In my aforementioned efforts to take better care of my body post-workout, I bought a foam roller earlier in the year, but found myself just rolling my back out and not knowing what else to do. I nearly fainted when I discovered Obé has a whole section full of foam rolling tutorials, and of all of the ones I’ve tried, this class completely changes how my legs feel in under 10 minutes. I make it a priority to do this a couple of times a week and it’s completely changed the game for me. 

      I’ve never been one to meditate, but after a few weeks of struggling to fall asleep this year, I started dabbling in Obé’s meditation section to see if the classes would help me wind down and dose off faster. This class is short enough for me to handle at only 12 minutes, but helps me to completely reset myself, forget about my day, and get ready for a good night’s sleep.

      Use code TEG50 for a 7-day free trial + 50% off your first month of Obé!

      This post is sponsored by obé, but all of the opinions within are those of The Everygirl editorial board. More

    • 88 Shares

      in health and weelbeing

      20 Warm-Weather Hobbies You Can Start Today

      by

      I don’t want to jinx it and scare away warm Chicago temps but summer is almost upon us which means that it’s the perfect time to finally adopt that summer hobby you’ve always wanted to try. 
      If there’s one thing that I’ve learned about adulthood, it’s that finding a hobby is more difficult than meets the eye. It can take a bit of trial and a whole lot of error to find what exactly lights your fire, but once you do, life just gets so much better. Whether you’re in it to fill a void, get away from your tech screens, work your creative muscles, or experience new ventures, we’ve got you covered. These 20 summer hobbies are here to help you have your most fulfilling season yet:

      1. Take up photography
      Remember that one time when you bought that one DSLR camera and swore you’d use it, then refrained from bringing it anywhere because it’s just too chunky for casual use? Fair enough, but hear us out: Summer is the perfect time to pick photography back up and to learn how to use your fancy camera beyond “auto” mode. Whether you’re documenting your favorite summer sights or learning how to get the perfect golden hour pics, there is no better time to learn the groundwork of photography than when you can comfortably be in natural, outside light without freezing your ass off.
      DSLR or not, learning the basics of photography can make any pictures (yes, even the ones you take with your iPhone) exponentially better. Watching YouTube videos to learn about photography basics (aperture, exposure, shutter speed, and ISO),  tips/tricks, and mistakes to avoid can help you understand the camera you already have or inspire you to invest in one. Read This If You Want To Take Great Photographs by Henry Carroll has great reviews on Amazon and is another great place to start.

      2. Develop your green thumb
      Maybe you’re already a trusty plant mom or maybe you’re like me who can’t get within 10 feet of a plant without it passing away. Regardless of your previous skill level, gardening can be a nice, rewarding hobby to take up in the summertime. Starting a garden can be an intimidating task but thankfully, there are plenty of resources out there to help you get your green thumb on. Whether you prefer to read about how to plan, sow, plant, and maintain your garden or watch a YouTube series on how to get started, there are plenty of ways to learn and to get going and growing.

      3. Take a hike
      Grab your hiking boots, ladies, we’re trailblazing this summer. If you’ve been hiking before, you know that it’s one of the best ways to reconnect with yourself and the world around you. Hit up a local trail in your area or road trip to a place with great heights and terrain—the world is truly your playground! Get lost in thought, get those endorphins pumping, soak up some vitamin D, and let the good times roll. If you’re a beginner, invest in some good hiking gear, stay hydrated, bring a good SPF, and check out these hiking tips to ensure that you have a safe and fun experience.

      4. Make your own jewelry
      Arts and crafts have always been at the tip-top of popular summer hobbies but have you tried making your own jewelry yet? Capture your own design aesthetic in wearable pieces that you can make from the comfort of your own home. Make them for yourself, gift them to a friend, sell them on Etsy… the possibilities are endless. There are some awesome kits, books, and Youtube videos (essential techniques, supplies to purchase, and of course, hacks) that will make getting started a whole lot easier.

      5. Repurpose old fabrics
      Here at TEG, we’re all about spring cleaning, bingeing our closets when they’re busting at the seams, and donating or selling pieces that either don’t fit, aren’t our style, or remind us of darker days. But one thing we haven’t quite explored? Upcycling our fabrics into cool new pieces that you just can’t buy on any online shop or any storefront.
      Grab your scissors and your sewing kits (sewing machines, if you’re fancy) and prepare to transform your dusty old pieces into something fresh, trendy, and wearable. If you’re not into sewing (yet), start with these 11 no-sew upcycle clothing projects and then move on to some more advanced techniques when you’re ready to completely transform an item you’d otherwise get rid of. Whether you want to flip thrifted pieces, try out a new trend, or completely transform your wardrobe, upcycling your old clothes is a fun way to enter a creative flow, express yourself, and be a bit kinder to the environment. That’s what we like to call a win-win situation and we’re here for it.

      6. Explore new places in your town
      If there’s one thing that we took for granted pre-pandemic, it was appreciating the beauty, the nooks, and the crannies of our own hometowns. As small businesses, farmers’ markets, and attractions begin to reopen with masking and social distancing restrictions, it’s once again becoming safe to rediscover the beauty of your own city. Challenge yourself to visit one to two new places a week to safely broaden your horizons and to appreciate all that your city has to offer.

      7. Hit the tennis court
      Channel your inner Serena Williams because tennis is a phenomenal way to get outside, get your heart rate up, and get your sweat on. Do I personally know one thing about tennis other than the mandatory grunt that comes with serving? No. But do I enjoy the satisfying “plunk” that occasionally occurs when a tennis ball bounces perfectly off of the center of my racket? You bet. If you want to get official, you can hit up some YouTube tutorials like this one so that you can get a match going with a friend.

      8. Read in the sunshine
      Name a better feeling than curling up with a book while basking in the sunlight. We’ll wait. The slow moments of summer serve as the perfect opportunity to finally tackle that ever-growing “to-read list.” And whether you’re looking for books that keep you on the edge of your seat, give you a sense of wanderlust, give you all of the Bridgerton vibes, or inspire you to be better, we’ve got some page-turning recommendations for you. 

      9. Dabble in mixology
      If whipping up classic, daring, or snazzy cocktails has been a feat on your to-try list, we’re declaring that this summer is the one that you make it happen. Try taking a virtual mixology class from the comfort of your backyard, check out a cocktail recipe book (that doubles as a coffee table book, of course), invest in some cocktail accessories, and toast to trying new things.

      10. Practice journaling
      Journaling is a great way to get in touch with your inner-self, explore new ideas, and express what is weighing on your heart. Whether you view journaling as a way to record a stream of thoughts or as an outlet to discover your purpose (like with these awesome journaling prompts), getting started can be a therapeutic addition to your “me time” that you can take just about anywhere (early, sunny morning on the Chicago lakefront, anyone?).

      11. Hit a hole in one
      OK, maybe a hole in one is a little ambitious for those of us who may have never hit the links before but golfing is a summer hobby that you can stick with for (pretty much) ever. There are so many components to golf that you can spend time mastering (putting, chipping, driving, driving the golf cart while looking cute in golf attire, etc.). While investing in a set of clubs can be a bit expensive, a good set can last you forever and can be a great social activity to partake in once the world opens back up. 

      12. Switch up your form of transportation
      Yesterday, I saw this video of a gal effortlessly gliding on and off of a longboard, barefoot, and looking cool as hell. It seemed so liberating and the vibes were absolutely immaculate. I briefly thought to myself, “I want to do that!” before coming back to reality and remembering my super average athletic abilities and impressive lack of balance. Though I’ll likely never zippity-do-da on a longboard like the aforementioned graceful woman, there’s something about biking, rollerblading, and scootering that reminds me of summer nights in my hometown as a kid and leaves me nostalgic AF. And who knows, maybe you’ll spot me gliding on a longboard down Michigan Avenue one of these days.

      13. Update old furniture (or start from scratch):
      There’s a big learning curve when it comes to tackling anything handy—especially if you’re like me—but after watching stunning home improvement projects on TikTok for a few hours, I suddenly feel like I am Joanna Gaines herself and start looking at my old furniture thinking, “oh, I for sure can sand and stain that!” Entering the world of home improvement is no joke but the payoff is wildly great. Not only will you feel a sense of “holy shit, I did that” accomplishment, but it can also result in some really great pieces that save you a ton of money in the long run. 

      14. Brew some beer
      Nothing screams “it’s summer” quite like cracking a cold beer but, as with all things, food and drink tend to taste better when you put time into making it yourself. I’ll admit, until our Editor in Chief mentioned that her husband dabbled in beer making last summer, I hadn’t even considered the possibility of brewing my own. I am picturing myself in a garage, singing the wrong words to country music, brewing some beer, and enjoying the fruits of my labor and I declare—this could the most unexpected summer hobby yet.

      15. Foster an animal
      If you’ve fostered an animal before, you know that fostering is one of the most rewarding and mutually beneficial relationships in the game. Not only may it result in cuddles, kisses, and overall cuteness overload, but it’ll help prepare the animal for future adoption and free up room in the shelter, allowing the shelter to take new animals in. It’s a great way to experience puppy or kitty love without long-term commitment and is a great way to help out a furry friend in need (and your community). Reach out to shelters in your area to find fostering opportunities near you and thank me later! More

    • 125 Shares

      in health and weelbeing

      What “Libido” Really Is—and How You Can Tap Into Yours

      by

      The question heard in gynecologists’ offices and typed into Google all over the world: what is libido, and how, oh how, can I improve it!? It seems like “libido” is the word on everyone’s mind, and many women are feeling like theirs just don’t measure up: according to a 2013 study, up to 43 percent of women claim to experience low libido. But what does libido really mean? (Hint: it’s not just about sex drive.)
      If you feel like your sex drive has gone MIA, you might just be focusing on the wrong things. Take back your power, claim your right to experience pleasure, and tap into the libido that you already have within of you. Here’s how:

      What really is libido?
      We often use the word “libido” as synonymous for sex drive, or how often (and how strongly) we want to have sex. But the term was actually coined by Sigmund Freud, the founder of psychoanalysis, to define an energy driven from an individual’s sexual and survival instincts. In other words, libido is so much more than having regular sex. “Libido is part of an individual’s unconscious, primal energy that encompasses not only sexual energy but also psychic energy. Libido is the force behind all of our instincts, actions, and motivations,” explained Dainis Graveris, a certified sex educator and relationship expert at SexualAlpha.
      Think of libido as an energy that helps you feel pleasurable, alive, and tapped into your body. It encompasses anything and everything that just genuinely feels good for your truest self. Yes, sex is a major part of that, but it’s only one piece of the puzzle. Instead of thinking of libido as a tool to have more sex, think of sex as a tool to have more libido. When we have full access to our libidos, we have access to more inspiration, creativity, connections, and, most importantly, understanding of our deepest desires (both in and out of the bedroom). “Libido is a life force,” agreed Dr. Caroline Madden MFT, Ph.D., a licensed marriage and family therapist. “It connects you with yourself and the parts of you that you are most proud of.”
      We can also think of libido as a vital sign. Just like we feel hungry when we need to eat and thirsty when we need to drink water, libido is another way our bodies tell us that they need something. However, because it’s not “socially discussed” like hunger or thirst (and might have even been suppressed), many of us lose the ability to fully tap into it. But when we can tap into our libidos, we not only feel more pleasure in our sex lives, but have access to a powerful tool that will help keep our bodies as healthy and fulfilled as possible.

      So how do you tap into your libido?

      Reassess other areas your mental and physical health
      News flash: libido is equally mental and physical. Knowing that the brain and body are intrinsically connected will help you tap into your libido. “To increase libido, you need to see the body and mind as a whole unit,” explained Tatyana Dyachenko, a sex and relationship therapist. “Improving one piece in your life or body will affect other pieces.” Since libido encompasses so much more than just our sex lives, improvements to any area (whether it’s a health change for the body or a change in routine for our mental health) can simultaneously help us tap into libido. 
      For example, Dyachenko suggests that even a minor change in diet (like eating more leafy greens or trying plant-based meals) will not only make your body feel better but will also increase energy levels and confidence. And when you feel good about yourself and feel energized? Hello, libido! Likewise, if you’re feeling rundown and exhausted from too much work, your libido will feel rundown and exhausted, too (more on that below). The libido affects every part of your life and vice versa. “People have a habit of compartmentalizing when, in reality, everything is connected. If you want to tap into your libido more, take a look at other factors of your lifestyle,” Dyachenko suggested.

      Exercise regularly
      I know, I know: not another reason to add regular exercise to your routine! “Engaging in regular exercise increases testosterone levels, thereby increasing libido levels. Plus, you get a good confidence boost when you sweat it out and attain your fitness goals,” Graveris explained. Exercise has many amazing benefits for the body, but exercise is also important for your libido because it allows you a chance to tap into your body.
      Think about it: you’re probably in your head all day long, whether it’s writing proposals, taking calls, or leading meetings. Even after work, you’re making to-do lists or thinking about the next day, and in your free time, you’re reading or binging Netflix. All of your energy is constantly going to the mind. Exercise is a chance to bring energy and focus to the body when following the movements or noticing how your muscles feel. To make your workouts really work for your libido, find the type that feels most pleasurable: do you feel sensual after a hot yoga flow or powerful post-heavy lifting?

      Indulge in your sweet tooth
      It turns out your sweet tooth might actually be good for you. “Throughout history, chocolate has been a symbol of desire. Not just because of its delicious taste, but because of its power to improve sexual pleasure,” explained Dr. Mike Anderson, Ph.D., a sex and relationship expert. “According to one study, chocolate promotes the release of phenylethylamine and serotonin, which can both produce aphrodisiac and mood-lifting effects.” *Immediately orders dark chocolate in bulk.*
      While chocolate may affect the physical body to help you feel more turned on, the important part is pleasure. Indulging in a couple of rich, decadent squares of dark chocolate after dinner might feel like an incredibly luxurious and pleasurable moment of your day, but if it’s not, find and indulge in other moments of pleasure, whether it’s a cup of coffee in the morning or a glass of wine at night. Start making everything you eat and smell more pleasurable by taking a moment to stop and enjoy it.

      Have a stress management plan
      Stress gets a bad rap for many reasons, but it’s also notorious for being a major party pooper when it comes to libido. “Stress disrupts normal hormone levels and blood flow, which affects your overall well-being, including your sexual desire,” Graveris explained. Since sex drive is often the first thing to take a hit when work is crazy busy or the kids are driving you nuts, have a plan to manage stress as much as possible in advance. Try deep breathing exercises when you feel your body start to move into fight-or-flight mode and practice regular meditation whenever you can fit it in to lower your overall stress threshold.
      Also, when you know you’re going into an extra stressful time like an important board meeting or a hectic week, schedule extra self-care in advance, whether it’s a luxurious bath, a workout class you love, or just some alone time to read first thing in the morning. Prioritizing your wellbeing will not only improve the way you react during stressful situations but will help you use your libido as a powerful tool, rather than ignoring it when you’re at your busiest or most stressed. 

      Practice mindfulness
      “In today’s always-connected world, it is hard to stay focused on one task for very long–including sex,” explained Dr. Leah Millheiser, a board-certified OB-GYN and Senior Vice President of Medical Affairs at Hims & Hers. When you practice mindfulness more regularly, you can start tapping into more pleasure. For example, when you close your laptop and sit down for a long lunch, you’ll be able to taste and smell how delicious your lunch is instead of wolfing it down while working.
      Pleasure is simply a state of being in the moment, so bringing yourself into the moment more often will translate into more pleasure in your life and greater access to your libido. When it comes to staying mindful during sex itself, “focus on what you’re feeling, how you’re breathing, or a spot on the wall: anything that keeps you from thinking about work, kids, grocery lists, the laundry, etc.,” Dr. Millheiser recommended. “Mindfulness during sex is important for sexual satisfaction and intimacy (whether it’s with a partner or by yourself).”

      Self-pleasure
      If you’re still viewing sex only as a part of a relationship or something you do with someone else, you’re missing out on a key piece of the puzzle. “If you have yet to embrace self-pleasure, reframe it as another tool for self-care (because it is),” suggested Mia Sabat, a sex therapist at Emjoy. “Taking care of yourself means attending to your needs and enjoying your body without feeling guilt or remorse. Respect and self-knowledge are the basics of self-care–is there anything more important than knowing what we want and how we want it?”
      This crucial piece of the libido puzzle also expands way beyond your favorite vibrator or a regular ménage-à-moi. Practice radical confidence, self-love, and self-acceptance in everything you do: stop making decisions based on what you should or shouldn’t do and start making decisions based on what will feel best to you. Once you start using self-pleasure as a compass for your entire life (rather than a guilty pleasure we hide in a bedside table drawer), you’ll be able to step into your greatest power. 

      Stop thinking your libido needs to change
      IDK who needs to hear this, but your libido is perfect, just as it is. While we often talk about “boosting” or “improving” libido, it’s a powerful life force we already have inside of ourselves. When talking about your libido, it’s not about changing it, but about finding it. How do you find it? Start trusting your body to know best. “A ‘lacking’ libido is considered a problem that needs to be fixed,” explained Katrina Marie, a sex educator and sexual empowerment coach. “If we have ‘low libido,’ we’re told to keep up, get with it, or to ‘fake it ’til you make it,’ but this messaging just teaches us to doubt our inner knowing.”
      The truth is that there’s no “healthy” definition of libido, and your partner or a headline in a magazine doesn’t know what libido looks like to you. As life changes, desires, energy, and preferences change. If you find yourself craving bubble baths and quality talks over wine instead of spontaneous sex as you (or your relationship) get older, there’s nothing wrong with you. This just means that you’re experiencing pleasure in different ways. You are your own erotic self, so tap into the life force you already have access to, rather than thinking it needs to be changed. “What if there is nothing wrong with your libido?” Marie said. “Maybe you just haven’t found what this current version of yourself wants. Get creative, be willing to try new things, and trust your body.” More

    • 50 Shares

      in health and weelbeing

      Washboard Abs After 40!

      by

      If you are over 40, at some point or another, you may have had the awesome post-baby, middle age kangaroo pouch! (I know I did!) While lipo or a tummy tuck seems like a great solution, I say, NO WAY! I am a 43-year old mother of two with a six-pack. Want to know how I got mine? Some good ole fashioned healthy eating, intense ab workouts and defying all the myths associated with getting a flat tummy!
      MYTH BUSTER #1: CRAZY CRUNCHES
      Tons of crunches don’t lead to tight, sculpted abs. The truth is that everyone has abdominal muscles, they just stay hidden underneath a thick layer of fat on the stomach. If you want a toned look, you need to focus on burning the layer of fat that may be covering your belly. The key is to train your abs sufficiently a few times a week while focusing on burning fat by following a good diet and performing total body strength and conditioning work.
      MYTH BUSTER #2: STARVIN MARVIN
      In attempt to burn fat, you may be tempted to follow one of those crazy low calorie diets to do so. Don’t do it! Your body needs fuel. No food means no fuel. No fuel means NO MUSCLES! You may reduce your caloric intake in order to burn more body fat SAFELY, but never starve yourself with a very low calorie diet (less than 1200 calories a day). These types of diets generally do not provide you with the necessary nutrients that your body needs to survive and carry out normal functions. They can also impact on your energy levels and leave you too tired to carry out normal daily activities—let alone working out trying to get that flat tummy! Here are some great nutrition tips to follow to tighten up your midsection:
      TONED, TIGHT ABS NUTRITION TIPS
      JAIME BAIRD’S 12 TIGHT TUMMY TIPS
      MYTH BUSTER #3: DUPED BY DIET PILLS
      Many diet pills promise a flat stomach in a short time; however, no supplement will magically transform your midsection. Some supplements like Omega 3 fatty acids can help, but they won’t do a thing if you aren’t following a quality diet and working out regularly.
      The bottom line is this: Good Nutrition + Consistent Exercise + Proper Core Training = Toned, Tight, Flat Tummy!
      TONED, TIGHT TUMMY TRAINING
      Here are a few of my favorite exercises for the core. I work abs a minimum of 3 times per week. I generally perform 3 sets of 20-25 reps per abdominal exercise. I tend to choose about 3 different exercises that hit the tummy from top to bottom and also add in some planks, which target the back as well as the core!
      90 DEGREE WEIGHTED CRUNCHESFirst of all, always keep your back firm to the mat. Bring the legs up to a 90-degree angle, knees in line with the hips and the ankles slightly lower then the knees. Place the dumbbell close to your forehead and keep those elbows tucked in. Using your abdominals—not your neck—curl the upper body up, lifting the shoulder blades off the ground and then lower back down. It’s a very small movement but very effective when done for 3 sets of 25 reps.
      RUSSIAN TWISTSWith your knees bent and upper body leaning back at an angle, this exercise hits the front and sides (obliques) of your abs. Holding a dumbbells and keeping your elbows tucked in tightly and core stabilized, you are going to twist from side to side. Now don’t be cheating and just use the arms—really twist the torso and squeeze. Complete 3 sets of 20. More advanced? Lift your feet off the ground. OUCH!
      POWERFUL PLANKSThere are so many variations to the plank. The plank is a great core strengthening exercise all the way around, from your back to your tummy. It’s very important to watch your form with this exercise. Keep your body in one straight line, elbows under your shoulders and hands open and flat to the floor. Make sure your butt is not popping up in the air, or I will find you and smack it back down. Keep it in line with your back, but don’t allow your hips or belly to dip towards the floor either. Start with 3 sets of 30-second holds, and increase by 10 – 20 seconds every week. Once you get stronger, you can then work on the side plank pictured below.
      IMPORTANT TO THE CORERemember as we age and become less active, core strength is often one of the first things to suffer. Poor core strength can lead to a domino effect of other physical aches and pains due to poor body mechanics and poor alignment. Sore backs, hips, knees and necks can often be traced back to poor core strength. The core muscles include more than just the abs, so it’s important to consistently perform a balanced core strength workout. Do the quick core workout (above) 3-4 times each week to maintain your core strength and stability.
      Other great ways to maintain your core muscles are to perform simple body weight exercises that force the core to contract as you stabilize your body. A strong core is central to a strong body…PERIOD! More

    • 250 Shares

      in health and weelbeing

      5 Things I’ve Learned About Working Out at Home That Make Me Never Want to Go Back to the Gym

      by

      While I’ve never really been a fan of working out at home, of all my relationships in life, my relationship with the gym has (mostly) been one that’s happy and thriving. We’ve had our ups and downs, but honestly, I’ve never had much to complain about.
      That is, until the pandemic hit.
      I was an athlete in high school, then got into a good groove with exercise in college and packed my schedule with group fitness classes that I looked forward to every day to blow off steam. After graduation, I became what the Dance Moms moms would have labeled as a “studio hopper.” I tried out memberships at just about every fitness class you can think of, from yoga to barre to Orange Theory. I always was consistent about supplementing the classes I took with running, but never realized how much I relied on the atmosphere of a class to push me until it was taken away from me, and I was left with a corner of my apartment, my yoga mat, and a brain scrambling to find a crumb of motivation.
      Over the past 15 months, I’ve tried everything I could think of to get into habits that gave me a consistent, fun workout routine, and with a little trial and a lot of error, I can honestly say I’m so happy with my routine that I don’t see myself going back to classes or the gym any time soon. Here’s what I learned, and why it’s changed my mind about working out at home:

      1. I came up with a schedule that works best for me
      Much to my dismay, I am very much a person who works out best in the morning, which is the opposite of what I want as I am very much not a morning person. But over the past year, I’ve found that waking up and moving before I start work completely changes my day, and for that, it’s worth getting out of bed a couple of hours earlier than I’d prefer.
      When you’re taking classes, you’re bound to a schedule that the studio you go to creates. There are usually one or two morning classes at the crack of dawn, and if they’re filled up, you’re pretty much out of luck. Quickly into the pandemic, I realized how nice it was to have my workouts completely on my own schedule. I didn’t need to be up as early as some studios’ schedules forced me to be and I figured out a time that works best for me. The best part? If I oversleep, I don’t get fined for not showing up to class and can work out on my lunch break instead.

      2. I took care of my body in new ways
      My primary workout is running, but for me, that’s always come with a lot of aches and pains. With nothing else to do this year, I vowed that I’d prioritize stretching and taking care of my body to get it in in a place where pain was no longer a factor. 
      Equilibria’s Relief Balm has been a long-time favorite of our editors, as it’s loaded with CBD that helps target achy joints, cramps, and soreness (our wellness editor swears by it to help her period cramps). After some particularly painful runs in the shin department, I put the creams from my knees down to my ankles, and worked it in by massaging my calves with my gua sha. The next day, I felt like I had teleported out of my body and into a new, fresh one of someone with the pain-free shins of a 10-year-old. It made such a world of difference that it’s now a part of my weekly routine, and two nights of my week are dedicated to my Relief Balm and gua sha duo. 
      If you’re new to the Relief Balm, you can use it anywhere you’re feeling discomfort, be it from soreness from a tough workout or aches from pushing yourself a little too hard. While I mainly use it on my shins, I also slather it on my knees after a particularly tough run, and then rub it onto any places that feel tired and in need of a little TLC.

      Equilibria
      Relief Balm
      use code theeverygirl for 20% off your first order!

      3. I got outside
      Sure, it isn’t always possible to get outside, especially considering that I live in finicky Chicago, but any time it’s even remotely possible, I do. When the alternative was my living room in the five feet between my couch and dining table, I bundled up and got outside to exercise in ways I never would have in ordinary times.
      If exercising makes me feel twice as good, exercising outside makes me feel double even that. The fresh air and joys of being outside for my workouts made me never want to enter the alternative of a sweat-filled, humid gym again for the rest of my days.

      4. I found extra guidance
      If there’s one thing that fitness classes offer, it’s a dose of motivation that you might not be able to find without a room filled with other people and an instructor telling you exactly what to do. 
      Last summer, I stumbled upon guided runs on Spotify, and when I say that my life has done a 180 since, I mean it. I’ve always been a music-blasting-the-entirety-of-my-workout girl, but being coached through my runs through my headphones left me feeling a calm and peace afterward that I didn’t even know I could, not to mention that it gave me accountability and motivation that’s hard to find when it’s just you trying to run. Rather than messing with my music the entirety of my runs, I found myself easing into them in a way that felt almost like meditation. Be it on Spotify or through fitness apps, guided runs are, in my opinion, the key to becoming a runner in adulthood and they give me all of the encouragement that classes used to.

      5. I found joys in the solidarity
      After I initially mourned the loss of my beloved boutique fitness classes, I learned that there were a lot of benefits of working out alone that I didn’t realize before. 
      When you’re in a class, trying a new move that you know is going to take a few tries to master can feel intimidating; at home, I found myself doing things that I would have thought twice about before, like yoga poses I knew I didn’t have down just yet and would have modified if I was in a studio. 
      As someone whose brain never takes a second to breathe, my solo workouts have turned into a time that’s just me and my body, where my thoughts take the back seat to what I’m doing physically. I’ve found such a comfort in being able to do workouts that are on my own, and it’s made me come to terms with—and even enjoy—not doing them around other people. 

      This post is sponsored by Equilibria, but all of the opinions within are those of The Everygirl editorial board. More