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      in beauty and fashion

      The New FabFitFun Box is the #1 Way I’m Getting Ready for Spring

      by

      Every time my friends come to my apartment, they leave with something. A sheet mask I’d like to share, a mascara I’ll never get to opening, a moisturizer made for their skin type—my personal closet has become a full-blown beauty closet that is filled to the brim with beauty products for testing and admiring. But since I don’t get to see my friends as often, they’re missing my weekly giveaways; and do you know what’s like a personal beauty closet at your door every season? My favorite beauty subscription box: FabFitFun. 

      FabFitFun is essentially a curated selection of beauty, fitness, lifestyle, decor, and more at your door four times a year, so you can test, rate, and rave about new products in the same manner as your favorite influencers and beauty editors. Let me do a quick breakdown of why I suggest FabFitFun to everyone I know: 
      #1. You can customize the products so you get what you really want. Instead of getting a box full of products you may or may not use, FabFitFun offers customization for most products in the box so you always get items you know you’ll actually use. But don’t worry: there are still a few surprises!
      #2. FabFitFun loves supporting women-owned brands and businesses, so every box is typically filled with products that support female entrepreneurs. 
      #3. Every time I get my box, it feels like I’m opening a gift! My birthday happens four extra times a year with FabFitFun because it’s filled with self-care products I can use alone or share with friends. It’s the perfect addition to any girls’ night in.
      #4. I’ve discovered so many products I now swear by and use every single day because they ended up in my FabFitFun box that I’d probably never try otherwise. 
      #5. FabFitFun is committed to sustainability, so every box is made with 100 percent recycled materials for the box and paper inside. The box is also always gorgeous, so I reuse mine as storage in my closet, making it an extra gift in itself! 

      Keep scrolling—or click here to order your box and wait for the surprise!

      GLOSS MODERNE
      Clean Luxury Hair Masque

      $55 retail value
      This hair mask contains shea butter to coat your locks in complete moisture. Plus, it smells so luxurious; like you’re at the spa!

      GROWN ALCHEMIST
      Body Cream in Mandarin & Rosemary Leaf

      $26 retail value
      Not only is this in the most gorgeous packaging I’ve ever seen on a lotion, but the springtime scent will make you excited for fresh flowers, patios, and a light breeze.

      PÜRTM COSMETICS
      Iconic Glow Illuminating Face & Body Dry Oil

      $28 retail value
      It’s almost the season of glowy everything, and this illuminator knows how to bring it. It’s lovely on the cheekbones, but I’m stoked to use it all over my shoulders and décolletage.

      Sun’s Out, Pouts Out Lip Mask

      $15 retail value
      Get your pout in kissing shape with these fun gold masks. I gave three to my friends so we could all try them together over a video call!

      Reusable Beauty Rounds (3 Pk)

      $16 retail value
      Kiss your makeup wipes goodbye and use these reusable makeup remover pads instead. Simply wet them with warm water, and they take off everything from foundation to waterproof mascara.

      EACH JEWELS
      Flower Hair Clip (2 Pk)

      $30 retail value
      Add this adorable accessory to your stash of “ways to make second-day hair look cute.”

      Ultimate Core Toning Kit

      $50 retail value
      Sick of the same-old workouts at home? These two will turn up your ab workouts a notch.

      ALICE + OLIVIA
      Daisy Print Duffel Bag

      $150 retail value
      This daisy print is the perfect pairing for all of your spring dresses—even if you’re just headed to the grocery store.

      JENNI KAYNE
      Water Hyacinth Tray with Cutout Handles

      $45 retail value
      After we’ve been home for what feels like ages, I’ll take anything to change up my space a bit. This tray will look gorgeous on a coffee table and is so practical too.

      Set of 3 Packing Cubes in Sorbet

      $40 retail value
      Regardless of how few travels you’re taking this year, these packing cubes come in handy for weekend trips, sleepovers with your best friends, and even closet storage (which is how I’m using them!).

      Lunchbox

      $35 retail value
      The makers of our favorite chic pan came out with this equally-beautiful lunch box that I can’t wait to try for meal prep.

      JOSIE MARAN
      100% Pure Argan Oil

      $39 retail value
      Argan oil has dozens of uses: skincare, haircare, cuticle care, and more; and Josie Maran knows her stuff.

      Faux Fur Slippers in Crystal Pink

      $48 retail value
      I’ll never say no to a new pair of slippers—truly, never. These are fuzzy, well-padded, and in a springy pink shade.

      MAC COSMETICS
      Powder Kiss Lipstick Duo

      $42 retail value
      MAC knows lipstick better than just about any brand, and this Powder Kiss formula is the ideal matte that won’t come off in your mask. Bright springtime lips ahead!

      VERSO SKINCARE
      Super Eye Serum

      $65 retail value
      I’ve seen this brand all over Instagram, and this eye serum is exactly what I need to look more awake and bright on video calls.

      Papaya Enzyme Peel

      $45 retail value
      Elemis is an incredible high-end skincare brand that I’ve grown to love after trying so many of their products from FabFitFun. This is a light, gentle peel that will reveal brighter, dewier skin after just a few uses.

      Tropical Trio

      $28 retail value
      Step up your oral hygiene game with these coconut flosses. Not only is the packaging cute and the flavors delicious, but these really pack a punch for keeping your teeth and gums clean.

      This post was in partnership with FabFitFun, but all of the opinions within are those of The Everygirl editorial board. More

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      in beauty and fashion

      I Tested 6 of TikTok’s Most Hyped-Up Skincare Products

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      For better or worse, I became addicted to TikTok in 2020. More specifically, I became addicted to skincare TikTok. I followed beauty influencers like Skincare by Hyram and found myself buying products that actually fit into my budget: $7 “brightening” serums and $10, 16 oz. facial cleansers that barely fit on my counter because the bottles are so large. My main concerns are dryness, dull texture, and acne scarring from a six-month stint on Accutane. While the drug successfully purged my skin of all the acne I was destined to have for the rest of my life, it left me with a good bit of dark spots and an uneven tone. I was committed to improving it; and now after months of testing, I have found a lineup that has genuinely changed my skin—while simultaneously making my routine a bit more affordable in comparison to my impulse purchases from Drunk Elephant and Estée Lauder. An effective routine that doesn’t break the bank? What more could I want? Thanks to TikTok, here are the products that I now call my tried-and-trues! 

      Hydrating Facial Cleanser

      I am a Glossier addict, so I had been using Milky Jelly Cleanser for the past four years. Then on a whim at Target (after a TikTok binge), I grabbed the CeraVe Hydrating Facial Cleanser—and boy am I glad I did. This face wash has a striking resemblance to Milky Jelly, both in consistency and gentleness. The ingredient formula highlights ceramides (which can prevent wrinkles) and hyaluronic acid, which both help to lock in moisture and protect your skin—an essential in the Chicago winters. As the temperature has been dropping and the heater in my apartment has been on full blast, I’ve been extra dry and patchy on my forehead. This cleanser has been keeping that at bay. I might just go full force and purchase the giant tub of CeraVe Moisturizing Cream as well.

      The Ordinary
      AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution

      Being fully transparent, I had tried this product before. But upon downloading TikTok, I discovered I was using it completely wrong… at the risk of burning off a layer of my skin. I like to call this “the blood mask” because I always see pictures of influencers with this maroon goop layered heavily on their skin. In applying the product in such a way, you’re going to be uncomfortable, itchy, and could even be damaging your skin. Using too much of a highly-concentrated AHA can cause redness and flakiness. Not the vibe. So, I followed the rules of TikTok and added a light, almost pink-toned layer. The mask didn’t burn anymore, just had a light tingle. And after a few weeks of bearable use, I noticed the texture of my skin had evened out, my acne scars were beginning to lighten, and my face was so soft. Score! AHAs and BHAs are key for safely removing dead skin, improving dull and uneven patches, and plumping up your skin for a youthful glow. Since you only have to use a pea-sized amount, this $7 mask will last a long time.

      Ice Roller

      As an avid user of jade and rose quartz rollers, this $10 Amazon ice instrument was naturally my next purchase. Just pop the tool in the freezer, and in the morning, rub the icy goodness all over your face. As I would use my jade roller, I like to use this one after my skincare routine to allow my products to sink in better. This tool has little beads inside so the rolling ritual is like a luxury facial massage at home. Plus, if you’re anything like me and you’re trying to get used to an early-morning routine, this roller is the perfect wake-up call.

      Super Glow Serum

      My biggest skin concern is scarring and texture; so, whenever I see a new product claiming to fix those things, I run to the store (or my computer) for a bit of retail therapy. So naturally after several TikTok recommendations, I went to my favorite brand Glossier to test out their vitamin C. Turns out, it’s true: The ingredient will gradually fade scars and smooth out texture. It also has anti-aging benefits. I’m only 22, but best to start early, right?

      Faded Gel

      I’ve been using this product for only about a week, but I am already a huge fan. After four uses, I swear my scars have significantly lightened and my skin looks brighter. My chin was covered in little spots due to my new enemy “maskne,” and thanks to this product, the dots are barely noticeable now. The formula features exfoliating acids and niacinamide, ingredients that are proven to fade scars. It’s also dye-free, fragrance-free, and vegan, making it super gentle. No burning here! Whether you have acne scars, dark spots, or hyperpigmentation, this product is sure to come to your rescue.

      Lash Lift Kit & Brow Lamination Kit

      I have dark, thick eyebrows with several patchy spots, and I’d also like to note they are completely different shapes. I swear the hairs on my left eyebrow grow straight up while the hairs on my right grow to the side—and I think one might even be slightly higher than the other. But I digress. My makeup routine consists of layering multiple brow products to get the effortless, bushy look à la Lily Collins. With this regimen, my life and brow routine are way easier. The lamination kit allows you to shape your brows semi-permanently. After cleansing the area for product and oil, you add the gel, shape your brows, cover with cling wrap, and leave on for eight minutes. And there you have it: beautiful, bold brows! This kit can also be used for eyelash lifting.

      By using all of these products, my skin concerns have become, well, less of a concern. And my bank account is happy, all thanks to TikTok. More

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      in beauty and fashion

      Should You Stop Using Makeup Wipes Once and for All? We Asked the Experts

      by

      Let’s be real: at the end of a long day, nothing is more tempting (or easier) than taking a disposable makeup wipe to your face, rubbing off-hours worth of product buildup, and calling it a night. I know I’m more than guilty of purchasing bulk packs of wipes month after month because hey, convenience is key, right?  Plus, in pre-pandemic times, the packs were super easy to toss in a weekender bag without any concerns about spills or TSA regulations, and who didn’t appreciate the simplicity of quickly wiping their face down after a sweaty night of bar hopping? Well, it turns out that using disposable wipes is actually a less than optimal practice (oops). I spoke with experts to find out why. “Between using makeup wipes or not washing your face at all, makeup wipes are the better option, although this is far from ideal,” said Dr. Marie Hayag, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of 5th Avenue Aesthetics. “Makeup wipes don’t remove makeup completely and can leave residue on your face. Additionally, because they contain a high concentration of surfactants, they can be irritating and drying.” 

      There’s also the potential for skin breakage, explained Savannah St. Jean, owner of Savannah Rae Beauty. “Often, makeup wipes contain high levels of alcohol and harmful chemicals which can cause dryness and irritation and disrupt the PH balance of your skin,” she noted. “When you combine that with the texture of the wipes, you open yourself up to the risk of micro-tears. This can cause signs of premature aging over time.” 
      And in addition to these aesthetic issues, disposable wipes pose environmental concerns too. “These are really popular, but they are not good for you or the planet,” said Julie Levin, founder of Leaf People. “Unfortunately most makeup wipes aren’t biodegradable, which can be a cause for concern,” said Heather Nicole, a celebrity master esthetician and founder of Heather Nicole Advanced Integrative Skincare. As an alternative, she suggested coating cotton pads with an oil-based remover or simply using a microfiber face cloth. 

      If you’re like me and don’t have in-unit laundry, the idea of using the same cloth day after day may sound a bit challenging… but you can work around this! “It’s just as easy to buy a pack of 10 inexpensive, 100 percent cotton washcloths, use a fresh one each day, and wash them each week,” Levin said. “If you are using them on-the-go, you can purchase a reusable silicone bag to keep the washcloths wet or dry.” Protecting your precious face and doing good for Mother Earth? I don’t know about you, but I’m in.  More

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      in lifestyle and culture

      We’ve found the most relaxing spa package for a steal at this luxe Dubai hotel

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      Whether you’re in search of a mid-week treatment without breaking the bank or looking to unwind over the weekend, this luxurious spa deal at Sofitel, The Palm is not one to miss out on.
      With state-of-the-art interiors, the Spa at Sofitel highlights French-Polynesian traditions with highly trained therapists in a tranquil setting to ensure you have a therapeutic experience.

      The deal includes a choice of two 30-minute treatments from options which are back, neck and shoulder massage, full body scrub, express facial and foot massage, or a choice of one 60-minute treatment from a full body scrub and body wrap, full body massage and a facial treatment.

      After the rejuvenating spa experience, guests will have complimentary access to all the indoor wellness facilities which include a sauna, steam room, the spa’s ice fountain and a soothing pool inside with refreshments to keep you relaxed throughout your spa journey.
      Guests can also experience the resort’s pools including the outdoor infinity pool with access to the private beach area for just Dhs380 per person.
      Also read: The most luxurious spa treatments around the world
      Located at The Palm, it’s open from Sunday to Thursday, 11am to 8pm and Friday and Saturday from 9am to 9pm.
      For more information regarding the package visit Sofitel-dubai-thepalm.com
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Feature image: Instagram @sofitel More

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      in beauty and fashion

      5 Easy Zoom-Ready Hairstyles for Black Women

      by

      Don’t get me wrong: work from home life has been great. Working in my pajamas or sweats, eating all day long, and best of all, no bra! Yes, I’ll throw one on for a Zoom meeting here or there along with a work-approved top, but the outfit isn’t the only thing that has to be camera-ready. Let’s be honest: if I’m not leaving the house, my bonnet usually doesn’t leave my head. Sure, a lot of women just throw their hair up in a ponytail and keep it moving, but for Black women, it’s a whole process that requires proper planning. If my hair is natural, am I going to do a whole wash and go for a 30-minute meeting? Do I need to have my frontal baby hairs laid to the gods every day? 
      One of the most significant benefits of this quarantine is that my hair has grown so much due to the low-maintenance styles I’ve been rocking, and just because I have a Zoom meeting doesn’t mean I’m going to mess that up. Here’s how:

      1. Braids/Twists/Faux Locs

      Let’s start with the obvious. The OG protective styles: braids, twists, faux locs, etc. The first few months of quarantine, I kept my hair in knotless box braids because with all the stress of dealing with a pandemic, the last thing I wanted to do was my hair. I loved the ease of being camera-ready in literal seconds with no daily styling needed. 

      2. Wigs

      Yes, wigs can be high maintenance, but hear me out. Make or buy a good quality human hair closure or frontal wig that will last. Style it and keep it on a wig head ready to go. Braid or flat twist your natural hair and rock that when bumming it on the couch. Zoom call in 5 minutes? No problem—grab that wig, slap it on, and boom, you’re ready to go. 

      3. Individual Twists

      Taking the time to do neat individual twists after washing your hair will pay off in the long run. Twists are no longer a style that is only meant to be taken out. From chunky twists to tiny twists, the style is super cute, protective, and lasts at least a week until wash day. Bonus: consider this a two-in-one style if you choose to wear it as a twist out near the end of the week. 

      4. Flat Twist Updo

      Part down the middle for two twists pinned up or do a side part with a couple on each side. The options are endless when it comes to this easy hairstyle. I love that this style is easy and good for your hair while also looking somewhat elegant because it’s an updo. Pair with baby hairs, cute earrings, and Fenty Gloss Bomb lip gloss for the finishing touch. 

      5. Classic Puff 

      I can’t make a list of easy hairstyles without including the classic go-to: The Puff. I usually like to do this style the day after a lazy wash day where all I did was let my curls air dry without any styling. My curls are already defined, so I just grab my spray bottle and favorite gel and slick them up (or back, depending on my mood). Don’t forget to tie your edges with a scarf to really slay this look. *chef’s kiss* More

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      in beauty and fashion

      I’ve Always Struggled With My Skin Until These Products Stepped In

      by

      Like most adolescents, acne hit me hard starting during the blissfully awkward middle school years. Looking back, my acne really wasn’t as bad as it seemed. It was never cystic and only amounted to a few spots at a time (unless you count the body acne—I still shudder at the memory—but at least that was coverable with a strategically cut shirt).No, the acne wasn’t the real problem. It still isn’t. I don’t mind the occasional hormonally-induced pimple, that’s just life. What has frustrated me the most over the years is what happens after a breakout. To this day, no matter how carefully I treat a pimple—no picking happening here—I end up with stubborn hyperpigmentation that can take years to fade. 
      I’ve tried countless serums that claim to send dark spots packing, professional peels that shed-off layers of skin, and have even sipped on not-so-great tasting teas that promise glowing skin. I thought I would never crack the code. But to my very happy surprise, in the past year or so, the puzzle pieces have fallen into place! I finally landed on a skincare routine that actually helps me avoid breakouts in the first place and makes hyperpigmentation heal faster. Is my skin perfect? Of course not, but these products are keeping it in a really good and glowy place. 

      As much as I love the immediately smoothing effects of a physical exfoliant, I know they can be a bit damaging if not used carefully. I’ve found that using a chemical exfoliant on a regular basis gives me more sustainable results. Products designed for acne dry my skin out and never seem to actually make acne go away. So, now I avoid any products specifically targeted at drying out acne and reach for a chemical exfoliant instead. This combination of PHA, AHA, and BHA really does it all. I experience fewer breakouts, smoother skin, and my dark spots fade quicker when using this clarifying liquid. Win, win, and win. 

       

      I’ve seen good results with retinol in the past, but you’re not supposed to combine retinol with acids. So, I take a day off from acids once or twice a week and use this super hydrating sleep mask that contains retinol. I find if my skin is feeling sensitive or needs a bit of extra moisture after a breakout, this mask is the way to go. There is also a non-retinol version of this mask available, which I liked, but I appreciate the extra benefits I get from the retinol version. 

       

      This is where things get fun. While there’s no denying that professional microneedling sessions can do wonders, I wasn’t willing to drop major bucks on a problem that was going to keep popping up again. After years of wanting to try microneedling, I took matters into my own hands with this home device. It’s so easy to use, and when I use it regularly, my skin tone is much more even. Products absorb better post-microneedling, so I’ve found that overall my skin is more moisturized, smoother, and brighter the morning after use. Not to mention, the process is very cathartic after a long day. 

       

      As I mentioned, I’ve tried a lot of serums with not a whole lot of brightening success. Still, I kept up the search, and I’m glad I did. This very gentle combination of acids and niacinamide is pretty darn effective on new breakouts. It doesn’t irritate my skin, and I’ve been able to use it in conjunction with stronger acids and retinol. Fair warning, my skin isn’t super sensitive, so you may want to check with your dermatologist before combining products. At the very least, do a test on a less sensitive spot of your body first.

       

      Anyone who struggles with hyperpigmentation knows that wearing sunscreen every day is a key step towards not letting those dark spots get deeper, darker, and more permanent. I’ve bounced from sunscreen to sunscreen and found the perfect formula. Moisturizing, solid SPF protection, and the prettiest lightweight tint—all in one product. Most days, I simply pair this sunscreen with my favorite concealer (read my review here!) and have enough coverage and glow to hop on any last-minute Zoom calls. 

       

      When a major breakout does happen, I seem to be stuck with a rather unpleasant healing process—think scabs and flaky skin (sorry for that visual). When my skin really needs a little extra TLC, I reach for this super clean facial oil. It is soothing and healing and just makes my skin feel great. Not to mention, it’s a great oil for locking in moisture and nourishing my skin.

       

      I have a bit of a confession to make: I hate using makeup remover. I have sensitive eyes and removing eye makeup often leads to tears. Luckily, this cleanser removes makeup effortlessly and doesn’t irritate my eyes. My skin obviously looks way better when extra makeup doesn’t get left behind by a bad wash!

        More

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      in health and weelbeing

      6 Energizing Rituals I Tried to Upgrade My Morning Routine

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      My morning routine has always been one of my favorite times of the day. An easy, breezy, care-free time to sip on a cup of joe, listen to St. Lucia, and primp for the day. Although, with lots of big changes in the past year, it made me think: what changes can I make to my morning routine that could bring more balance to my beauty goals? Essentially, I wanted to add a side of healing health habits that I could easily do at home.With radical self-care being the talk of the town, there are no shortage of articles to do my research. Whilst looking into healing habits that might fit my morning routine, I happened upon a little quote that pointed me in the right direction: “Caring for myself is not self-indulgence; it is self-preservation, and that is an act of political warfare,” said Audre Lorde, writer, civil rights activist, and inventor of self-care. The word “self-preservation” echoed in my head, and I again asked myself these questions. What am I doing other than my skincare routine and a K-beauty facial mask here and there to preserve not only my skin, but body, mind, and spirit?
      My new motto: this morning is the perfect morning to take on some habits that I am able to keep up with. Below are some habits that I chose for myself and tried for two weeks:

      1. Drinking hot lemon water
      This is a simple morning step that, if nothing else, aids in hydration. This was an extra step in my routine, so I definitely had to allot for it timewise, but it was worth it. This simple morning ritual set my mind in motion for a day of good habits, and I got to use my oh-so coveted Bodum Bistro Gooseneck Water Kettle. This new ritual was fresher than coffee, warmed me up, and felt like a less acidic base for my tummy than coffee. 

       

      2. Practicing intermittent fasting
      Breakfast is the most important meal of the day… or so I thought. I know you have heard of intermittent fasting. I wasn’t sure about it, but the more I looked into this, the more I was convinced that it would help me in my beauty goals, inside and out.
      Reading further into it, I learned that snacking all day long could be taxing my digestive system and not allowing me to absorb our food and its nutrients well. Fewer nutrients could mean essential vitamins not getting to our organs but also missing our hair, nails, and skin. Trying this for a few weeks was an adjustment to say the least, especially when Netflix and binge-eating came into play. I had to be super intentional about what and when I was eating. I substituted random late-night snacks with tea and water, which you are able to drink during the fasting period. Let’s just say you will be the most hydrated person you know, which will make your skin uber happy.

      Source: Rawpixel

      3. Drinking juice and smoothies
      This was top of the list for me in the new year, so much so that I asked for a Breville Cold Pressed Juicer for the holidays. I have always been an avid smoothie drinker and was looking for natural ways to boost my immunity daily. Let me just tell you: my energy levels were through the roof, my thinking was clearer, and might I say, my stress levels were a little lower. I was drinking 32 oz. of juice every day around 11 a.m. My go-to juice concoction included cucumber, celery, lemon, ginger, and apple.

       

      4. Taking cool showers
      This, by far, was the most difficult one to do, especially in chilly Chicago this time of year. The potential was very motivating though: decreased inflammation, increased circulation, strengthened immunity, increased energy, and more hydrated skin. I definitely felt more energized, and my skin was less inflamed in areas where I suffer from the most dryness. I felt as if I was breathing a little deeper too, which helped my body process the cooler water. I used The Nues Forest Lungs for aromatherapy in the shower. It is inspired by the art of forest bathing, and it offers aromatherapeutic benefits to promote calm. 

       

      5. Doing a gentle workout
      I have never felt energized or less stressed coming out of a rigorous workout. (I even read in my horoscope once that my spirit does not like lofty workouts!) I spent much of my life as a yogi, dabbling in pilates and meditation. Then, I found Melissa Wood Health. Her method is to provide a series of precise, low-impact movements that create long, lean lines. MWH focuses on building a stronger relationship with yourself through workout videos that are about 20 minutes long. She also provides a stretch series at the end of most of her videos. Many of her videos include meditation and the option for strength training via ankle and arm weights (I own the Bala one-pound weights) and resistance bands. Virtual workouts are not going anywhere, and I suggest that if you are like me and want low-intensity workouts that leave you feeling more connected to yourself and ready to take on the day, try MWH. 

       

      Source: Colorjoy Stock

      6. Writing down ideas
      To make it easy on myself, I limited this to 3-5 ideas a day that I jotted down in my yearly agenda. Some of my thoughts I wrote down ranged from creative ideas, small changes I would like to make, and even things I was grateful for. What I noticed in myself once I started writing these little tidbits down provided a little stress relief. It boosted my creativity and made me more aware of what is going on in my brain. Overall, this is a sweet little something that is easy to keep up with and put me at ease, knowing that the ideas were down on paper and not swirling around in my head.

        More

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      in beauty and fashion

      The Ultimate Valentine’s Day Self-Love Routine

      by

      Remember February 14th as a child? It was a joyous holiday where you got to express your creativity through crafting a cool box and picking out themed cards from your favorite television show or movie. This was a day where you celebrated love: love for your friends, love for your teachers, and love for your family. There was something about giving love (passing out your Valentines) and receiving love (dumping out your box and reading each one) that made you feel warm and fuzzy inside. You always looked forward to it (and all the candy that came along with it). At some point, the meaning of this date changed. It transitioned from pure platonic love and bliss to fragile romantic love. To be honest, as we’ve got older, we’ve made the concept of this day much more complicated than it needs to be. 
      Valentine’s Day is still the same beautiful holiday it was when you were a child, and its meaning is chosen by you. You can choose to have this holiday represent loneliness, or you can reclaim this as a day of gratitude for all the love you have in your life. Regardless of if you have a romantic love interest, you have people in your life that you can show love to: family, friends, coworkers, and yes, yourself. After all, there is no one in this world who will ever love you more than you love yourself. 
      What better way to spend Valentine’s Day in quarantine other than indulging in an easy, budget-friendly yet gratifying self-care routine?   

      Light a candle (or two)
      Candles bring a feeling of closeness and warmth into your home. Try floral notes like rose or jasmine, or go more sweet and sultry with notes of vanilla and amber. 

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      Diffuse some essential oils 
      Aromatherapy is essential to setting the right mood for any pamper day. Lavender, bergamot, and rose are associated with feelings of relaxation, balance, and harmony. If you’re in the mood for something more sensual, try a mix of sandalwood, patchouli, and ylang ylang. 

      Play some background noise 
      To make the day special, find a new playlist with sing-a-longs from your favorite era. If you’re not in the mood for songs, check out Spotify’s “Love Stories” section for podcasts filled with heartwarming stories about love and friendship. 

      Take a long bath or shower
      Show your body lots of love with a bath bomb infused luxurious bath or taking an extra-long steamy shower. Exfoliate with a dry brush before stepping in or use a body scrub once you’re in the water. After you’re done, lather up with a softly scented body oil for extreme softness. 

      Do an extensive skincare routine
      Use this day as an excuse to give your face all the tender love and care it deserves. After cleansing and exfoliating, apply your favorite nourishing serums followed by a hydrating mask. Start with a gel or cream mask and then use a sheet mask afterward. Need something to do while your masks work their magic? Why not take time to unplug by reading a book instead of mindlessly scrolling your phone. When you’re done, finish off with a beloved moisturizer and facial oil for a quick little facial massage.
      P.S. Don’t forget to give your lips some attention too.  

      Put on comfortable clothes or PJs
      Once you’re done pampering yourself, get dressed in a special comfy matching set or satin nightie. No outfit is complete without a spritz of perfume and a pair of fuzzy socks or slippers; these are essential for the occasion.   

      Order or cook something special
      Valentine’s Day is absolutely an excuse to step away from your regimented meal plan. Order in from your favorite restaurant (make sure you arrange this early as takeout demand will probably be high) or cook a really nice dinner. Brush up on your quarantine baking skills by making a fun Valentine’s Day dessert too. Don’t forget to crack open a nice bottle of wine. You have overcome a lot since last Valentine’s Day, and that is something worth celebrating!

      Paint your nails and watch a movie
      No self-care routine is complete without a mani-pedi in front of a movie. Fortunately, the romance genre is full of many different approaches, so you can always find a flick that’s right for every mood. If you’re craving passion and drama, try Netflix’s new Malcolm & Marie. Feel like crying? That’s OK too, A Walk to Remember and The Fault in Our Stars usually get the job done. For stories of love and friendship that will keep you laughing watch Sex and the City: The Movie. And if you’re just looking for a series that is both modern and relatable, try To All the Boys. 

      Get to bed early
      When you are ready to wind down, it’s time to choose the mindfulness practice of your choice. Whether that is meditation, journaling, or prayer, chose something that helps center your thoughts and inner emotions. Give gratitude for all your loved ones and think of little ways you can improve on showing love to others. Finally reflect on how you can continue to cultivate a loving, healthy, long-lasting relationship with yourself. Because no matter where life takes you, you’ll need it.  More