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      in health and weelbeing

      The Amazon Products Our Editors Bought and Loved This Month

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      Me: “I need to stop buying things on Amazon.” Also me: *hits “Add To Cart” for the fourth time today* 
      What can I say… I’m a sucker for two-day shipping, having everything I could possibly need on one website, and being able to stock up on my favorite essential/not-so-essential items without having to leave the comfort of my bed. But with a quick review of my ever-growing list of great Amazon finds, I am reassured and once again question, “Why ruin a good thing?” 
      This month, I surveyed some trusted Amazon stans (my fellow coworkers) to bring you all some of the best Amazon finds that we treated ourselves to this month. From chic furry slipper slides to resistance bands that’ll help you get fit AF, we’ve got your next impulsive “Add To Cart” moment covered. 

      Water Resistant Tote
      I really wanted a medium-sized tote bag that I could bring around to all of my summer activities—whether that be a picnic, a day of running errands, a trip to the beach, or something where I might need a quick change of clothes. I scoured Amazon for far too long before landing on this one, but it has been everything I was looking for. It’s perfect for packing up a picnic blanket, book, snacks, and wine, and it’s easy to carry on my shoulder. I got it in a solid light purple color, but there are tons of cute colors and patterns available.
      — Jessica, Junior Graphic Designer

      Tub Stopper
      As someone who lives in an apartment, I don’t have the luxury of a super fancy bathtub where I can take the baths that I dream about. However, I did want to be able to take baths in general, but my tub does not have a way to stop the drain. I did a quick search on Amazon to find something that could plug the drain and found these, which have thousands of five-star reviews. They work great and are perfect for apartment-dwellers like me.
      — Jessica, Junior Graphic Designer

      Clear Shoe Organizers
      I kept my shoes on a rack in my closet for YEARS. My shoes collected dust like no one’s business, the rack always fell apart, and I was stuck in an endless cycle of organizing my shoes on the rack, getting annoyed, just tossing them in the closet, and then reorganizing. I finally decided to do something about it and got these clear shoe boxes from Amazon. They stack neatly and open from the front, so my shoes stay dust-free AND it’s super easy to keep them organized. I’m very much not exaggerating when I say these shoe boxes are my favorite quarantine purchase.
      — Garri, Managing Editor

      Laptop Lap Desk
      Listen: I love my desk. I have a small vase I put flowers in, a bunch of little knick-knacks, a sweet monitor setup, and a light I can set to any color I choose. But I probably only sit there about 60 percent of my work day. I like to migrate. I’ll sit at my dining table, in my reading chair, on my couch, wherever the wind takes me. I had been wanting a lap desk for quite some time and finally decided to just go for it. I truly don’t know why I waited so long, but this lap desk seriously makes my days so much better. I no longer have to deal with my laptop overheating on my lap and it also has a nifty holder I can put my phone in so I don’t constantly lose it between couch cushions or in the black hole that is my favorite chair.
      — Garri, Managing Editor

      Scuba Slide Sandal
      When I tell you that I did some serious damage beefing up my summer wardrobe this month, I mean it. I purged old items I didn’t want and made a list of what I wanted to replace, and one of the items on that list was poolside slides that I could wear while running errands during the summertime. I originally found these slides on DSW’s website where they didn’t have my size but luckily, Amazon pulled through and had the exact same pair in the correct size in stock. They’re wildly comfortable and will be the perfect go-to slide for short walks around town and when I’m chilling at the beach or pool.
      — Ashley, Contributing Writer

      Pasta Bowls
      Are you really an adult if you don’t have every type of bowl under the sun? Under this theory, up until a month ago, I wasn’t. My previous go-to bowls were a lot deeper but, at the same time, pretty damn small. AKA, mixing my salads in said bowl was a nightmare (picture: shreds of kale and sweet potatoes hopping out without warning) while my surface area for cheese on my pasta was little to none. I didn’t know that I needed these bowls so much until I actually started using them. They’re shallow but have a larger diameter, which makes them the perfect plate/bowl combo I didn’t even know I needed.
      — Ashley, Contributing Writer

      Workout Top
      I was inspired by our editor Ashley and my newfound appreciation for the one-piece workout top to try this, and I am loving it so far. I don’t have time to grab a sports bra AND a top before I do a workout, but I really don’t feel comfortable just wearing a sports bra (beyond the body image of it all, it’s just annoying to constantly pull down!). This solves all of those issues while looking really cute, and it just so happens I already had leggings in a few of these colors, so they look like sets!
      — Beth, Beauty Content Manager

      Rolling Laundry Cart
      I just moved to a new unit in my apartment building, which is a high-rise with a big laundry room on the top floor. In my previous apartment, I had the ratty, old hamper I’d used for years that made me never want to walk upstairs to do my laundry. And I mean it… never. So when I moved, I knew I had to opt for something that would be easy to take up and down, even if I had a hefty amount of clothes in it. Plus, my closet is totally visible, so I needed it to look somewhat presentable. I opted for this because the wheels would be easy to pull down the hallways, and I was right! I’ve done my laundry more in the last month than I did in the last six at my old place. Success.
      — Beth, Beauty Content Manager

      SweatBlock Deodorant Lotion
      Summer is my least favorite season for one reason, and one reason only. Once the temperature creeps above 75 degrees my entire body melts into a sweaty mess reminiscent of the 1980s classic character Swamp Thing. I’ve tried really cute solutions like body powder or deodorizing sprays to no avail. One thing that HAS shown promise is an aptly named body deodorant called Man Parts. It’s a talc-free lotion-to-powder formula that you can apply… wherever. Initial results have been strong, but I’ll have a better sense of how it performs when Manhattan returns to sweat lodge status in August. Note: Apparently they make a “Lady Parts” version, but I’ve already committed.
      — Elle, CFO/COO

      Letter Print Tee
      This oversized boxy tee is the perfect dupe for an Anine Bing tee. Anine, if you’re reading this just know I find you impossibly chic, but I have a mortgage. Bonus: this shirt feels nicer than your standard $20 tee, so it feels like a great value. As for sizing, they mean it when they call it oversized. I would say for a slightly-loose-tuck-in-your-jeans moment, go true to size. If you want an oversized-halfway-to-your-knees-TikTok-youth moment, go up a size.
      — Allyson, Editor-in-Chief

      Jolly Egg
      I saw this toy on TikTok and immediately purchased it. Like all good TikTok trends it was sold out and I had to wait a few weeks for it to come in. If you’re in the same position when you click over, let me just affirm that IT IS WORTH THE WAIT.
      So, what makes this dog toy so special? The hard plastic material and shape means that if you purchase the correct size, it’s impossible for them to pick up—but that doesn’t stop them from trying. Our 16lb dog goes nuts chasing it across the floor and we have to eventually take it away so she doesn’t collapse from exhaustion. The only downside? It’s incredibly loud. Not the kind of toy you want them playing with if you’re on a zoom call in the other room. But if a little noise doesn’t bother you, 30 minutes can equal complete exhaustion so afterwards you can watch Real Housewives in peace.
      We purchased the medium and have been over the moon with it, but I don’t know that bigger dogs (90lb Labrador size) would have the same enjoyment with this toy since they could potentially fit their mouth around it which defeats the fun of not being able to pick it up. Most of the dogs I saw loving it on TikTok were Goldendoodles, so I can confirm this is worthwhile entertainment for small to medium breeds. If you have a large dog, I’d advise reading the reviews thoroughly.
      — Allyson, Editor-in-Chief

      The Laundress Fabric Fresh
      The most simple description of this product is “bougie bitch Febreeze”. The bougie aspect comes from the scent which is a light clean laundry smell that’s not overly-chemical like other fabric refreshers. Yes, it’s a light scent but I personally think that’s what makes it fancy lady and not air freshener explosion. I like to spray it on sheets before guests arrive, on a shirt that I probably shouldn’t be rewearing for the fourth time, or on our couch when I can tell our dogs have been lounging on it.
      — Allyson, Editor-in-Chief

      Jute Beach Tote
      We are frequent beach goers in the summer, so I purchases this as an upgraded tote to take with me. It’s very cute and incredibly easy to get sand out of. I also just appreciate any item that makes me look put together when I’ve been sweating and swimming. I went with the large and it’s definitely smaller than our normal beach bag that can hold supplies for multiple people. This is very much a one human bag or a two low-maintenance human bag. Alas, I am one high-maintenance lady so I use it as more of a purse replacement than a large catchall. I would also be worried about overfilling it because the construction is on par for the under $20 price.
      — Allyson, Editor-in-Chief

      Queen Beach Cup Holder with Pocket
      Speaking of the beach, these are another favorite at my house. They may look like a simple cupholder, but the size and spot for your cellphone make these revolutionary for a day in the sand. I don’t know why Amazon insists on selling them in a six pack, but it does give you backups for when your friends inevitably swipe one because they love it as much as you.
      — Allyson, Editor-in-Chief

      Loctite Mounting Putty
      I cannot speak to the mounting quality of this putty because I use it to clean my Airpods. Yes, you read that correctly. Without getting too graphic, you warm the putty up in your hands and then roll it over the speaker part of your Airpod. It magically pulls out the dirt and earwax in those tiny spots that you can’t get with a wipe. The magic can only be compared to the Oxyclean commercials that would run at every ad break when you were home sick from school and watching daytime television. I’ve since used it to clean out my cellphone charging port and it works just as well.
      — Allyson, Editor-in-Chief

      FAVORITES FROM LAST MONTH

      Motivational Water Bottle
      Other than coffee, my Brita filter is the only beverage source I regularly keep in my fridge. My water intake has never really been a problem, exactly, but I wanted to make sure I was drinking at least two liters each day, rather than sipping on the same glass for hours at a time and forgetting to refill. Enter: one of my favorite recent purchases. I love having this bottle to help keep me accountable and, most importantly, hydrated.
      — Garri, Managing Editor

      Fabric Resistance Bands
      Fabric resistance bands have been on my “to buy” list since I hastily ran to the nearest Target at the beginning of the pandemic looking for workout equipment. I snatched up a set of rubber resistance bands and a pair of pink dumbbells, ready to adapt my workout routine for the stay-at-home order. Unfortunately, I realized almost right away the rubber booty bands weren’t going to cut it. After approximately one (1) use, I knew I simply could not deal with them constantly rolling up during my workouts. After not touching them for a year, I finally upgraded to these fabric bands and I could not be happier. The fabric prevents them from rolling up in the middle of my workouts and I love the different resistance levels. Bonus: they also come with a small case to help keep your workout-from-home setup organized.
      — Garri, Managing Editor

      Marble Foam Roller
      One of my most fatal flaws in life is that, despite knowing the benefits of foam rolling, I avoid it like the plague. Part of the reason that I dislike it is that, after an hour or more at the gym, I don’t necessarily want to stick around for an extra 20 minutes to get the job done. Before this purchase, I didn’t have one for myself and, naturally, I sustained a minor injury to my right hip that kept me from my gym routine for a few days. And what did my physical therapist urge me to do? Rest, foam roll, and let my body heal. So, I opened my Amazon app, pulled the trigger on this cute, apartment-friendly, marble-colored foam roller, and am vowing to make foam rolling a priority in my future routine.
      — Ashley, Contributing Writer

      No Slip Claw Clip
      I finally hopped on the rebirth of these claw clips and, let me tell you: These ones boast the perfect size, color assortment, and grip. I almost always have one in my hair and it’s the quickest way to pull myself together before any Zoom meeting or Trader Joe’s run.
      — Ashley, Contributing Writer

      Rectangle Retro Sunglasses
      Spring is finally here and after a few months of gloomy skies, I’m looking forward to sunny days ahead. This season, I’m opting for these super trendy sunnies that are impressively affordable. If there’s one lesson that I’ve learned after about 15 times of making the same mistake, it’s that designer sunnies and I just don’t mix. Cue me sitting directly on my Ray-Bans, hearing a devastating crunch, and stating, “This is why we can’t have nice things.” If any damage is done to these Amazon ones, I won’t feel as much shame because 1) they come in a pack of two and 2) they are inexpensive AF.
      — Ashley, Contributing Writer

      Athletic Running Shorts
      I have never been a huge fan of shorts and that dislike also applied to exercise shorts until I ordered these. Not only do they not pinch me anywhere but they truly do not ride up! The longer layer compression piece stays put while the outer layer is a bit flowier so you don’t feel hugged in any of the wrong places. I was extra excited to see that the tech pocket in the compression shorts held my phone in place without any discomfort. Win-win in my book and 5 stars for these shorts.
      — Ally, Chief of Sales and Marketing

      Straw Visor
      With warm weather upon us and the damaging effects of my teen years spent in a tanning bed rearing its ugly head, this visor checks all of the boxes for me in my quest to achieve sun safety this season. I love the packable feature (it rolls in the tiniest crease-free ball), the wide brim that fully covers my entire face, and the sweet bow detail at the back makes it feel more grand millennial vs. plain granny. If you are looking to keep the sun off of your face without the consequence of hat head this visor is for you!
      — Ally, Chief of Sales and Marketing

      Facial Massage Ice Roller
      I’ve always been obsessed with ice rolling the face for a variety of benefits. After a good ice rolling, my skin immediately looks glowier, less puffy, and I swear my pores seem smaller (oh, and any breakouts seem less noticeable too). Plus, I love using a roller on my neck and shoulders to relieve any neck tension and help with headaches. Sure I already had an ice roller, but when I saw this one that was way cuter (and super affordable) I knew it was time for an upgrade. Plus, the hinges don’t freeze like with other ice rollers I have, so even if you keep it in the freezer 24/7, it will still roll easily.
      — Josie, Wellness Content Manager

      Furry Slipper Slides
      Full disclosure: I have very few shoes that slip on. My closet is full of booties, sneakers, or even lace-up sandals, but I have never owned many slip-on shoes. As soon as slides became cool again, I knew I had to invest in a pair, both for fashion and my own convenience. There is no shoe better for running errands or taking the dog outside (AKA grabbing the leash and running when you know it’s an emergency). I stumbled upon these of-the-moment trendy slides with fur and I knew I had to have them. They are now officially my go-to pair of shoes for any OOTD or occasion, and they’re under $20, which means I got them in multiple colors.
      — Josie, Wellness Content Manager

      Neoprene Dumbbell
      I first purchased these weights in the 10 lb. variation in the middle of a workout when I realized I would absolutely perish if I didn’t get a new set of weights, and these were practically the only 10 lb. weights available on the Internet. Then a few weeks later, I ordered the 2 lb. set to use in pilates, barre, and yoga sculpt classes. I can’t say too much about these because they are simply weights, but they’re hella affordable and actually available to ship for the first time in one full year.
      — Beth, Beauty Content Manager

      16-Piece Cookware Set
      When I moved into my first apartment, I was all about budget. I bought the absolute cheapest version of every single thing someone might need because I was in college and had approximately $76 to my name at all times. Well, this past January, I realized I somehow was still using the cheapest pots and pans known to man, three years later. I found these on Amazon (admittedly because I was looking for pink pots and pans), and I love them. They were still quite budget-friendly for how many pieces it comes with, but the quality is eons better than what I was using before. I also love the colorful look—it gives me an excuse to leave pots and pans on my stove at all times in the name of ~aesthetics~ instead of pure laziness.
      — Beth, Beauty Content Manager

      Dishwasher Magnet
      For some reason, we’ve all just accepted that if you live with another human then you’ll constantly find yourself asking (or being asked) if the dishes in the dishwasher are clean or dirty. I spotted this $7 find at a friend’s house, and even after pressing purchase I had a pang of guilt that this wasn’t really needed. Well, five months later and I am ready to shout my love for this little gadget from the rooftops. It comes in black or silver so it blends seamlessly in with your appliances which helps it look more expensive than it is.
      — Allyson, Editor-in-Chief

      Adhesive Mount Cabinet Storage Organizer
      You can also file this purchase under “lame things that make me incredibly happy”. My husband and I live in a historic home with approximately one closet, no pantry, and limited cabinets. This means we have to get incredibly creative with our storage solutions. Even though I’ve already done the full Home Edit treatment on most of our house, these little containers are a new touch of happiness for me. They have adhesive strips so you can add them to almost any cabinet or door. I added one under the sink for dishwasher pods and the second close to where we keep our vacuum cleaner so I could easily access the charging cord and attachments. After only a week with them, I got back on Amazon and bought three more sets.
      — Allyson, Editor-in-Chief

      Mini Dress with Ruffle Sleeves
      I live in the south so summer is absolutely BRUTAL. Until November 1, you just accept that you’ll be covered in sweat anytime you leave the comfort of air conditioning. When I saw this dress on Jacey Duprie’s instagram a few weeks ago, I immediately added it to my cart. It hits my most important qualifications for summer clothing: light fabric, loose fit, hides sweat, and looks like you’re dressed up but with maximum comfort. I’m a size 8, so I ordered a medium (the size range listed for medium was 8-10) and I found it to fit perfectly loose. If you’re more on the small/medium size (like a 6-8), I would suggest sizing down as the dress has little to no shape. Some of the reviews note that it can be a bit short, so if you’re taller than 5ft 6 in, diligently check the dimensions before purchasing. Let’s be real: this is a $27 potato sack dress from Amazon. I’m not here to tell you it’s high quality by any means. But it’s easy to throw on with a pair of sandals and I’ll likely purchase this in a few more colors.
      — Allyson, Editor-in-Chief More

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      in lifestyle and culture

      June’s – ‘The Beauty Issue’ with Hourglass Cosmetics & Minwa Al Hamed

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      June’s – ‘The Beauty Issue’ – Download NowCreative Direction: Amy SessionsPhotography: Greg AdamskiHair & Makeup: Melanie Meyer at MMG artistsProduction: Olivia MorrisFashion Assistant: Sarah JosephVideographer: Joachim GuayWelcome to The Beauty Issue.In this issue, we look at beauty in all forms, not simply skin-deep. The overarching theme when we asked a wealth of incredible women we know what beauty means to them was feeling comfortable in your own skin – no matter what shade or size that is.One word that also arose was integrity, a word I personally hold as vital in both how you operate and those you surround yourself or partner with.I’m grateful to have a team who work with integrity towards a brand we have built, which only champions those who work in the same way. Integrity is beautiful.For our cover shoot, we partnered with global beauty powerhouse Hourglass in A Brave New Beauty. Our cover star is Minwa Al Hamed – muse to Her Highness Sheikha Sana Al Maktoum and her namesake fine jewellery brand which is going from strength to strength.Between Hourglass and Al Hamed, we champion the incredible beauty of Middle Eastern heritage and its global relevance. Both Hourglass and Al Hamed are not only exceptional in terms of aesthetics but also values as you will read in their interviews.We also have exclusive interviews with Anastasia Beverly Hills in Golden Ratio, Dr Barbara Sturm in The Science of Beauty, Founder of Gisou, Negin Mirsalehi in Liquid Gold and Founder & Lead Researcher at Harklinikken Dr Lars Skjøth in The Miracle Formula.Global industry experts Newby Hands, Global Beauty Director at Net-A-Porter and world-renowned makeup artist Lisa Eldridge let us into their beauty private routines.In The Beauty Hero, weʼve also compiled some of the best investments you can make in terms of beauty products that really deliver.If you’re results driven, this is the issue for you.June’s – ‘The Beauty Issue’ – Download Now– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Supplied More

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      in health and weelbeing

      Your Search for the Perfect Pair of Leggings Is Over—These Are the Ones Our Editors Swear By

      by

      I have exactly two motivators to work out. The first: the instant mood boost I feel afterward. And second: a really good pair of leggings. Sometimes all it takes to get me out of a workout slump or a lazy mood is to throw on my favorite pair of leggings that make me feel confident, comfortable, and ready to take on the world. Whether you prefer cropped, ankle-length, or printed, there’s no denying that a good pair of leggings is more than just dressing to impress; the right pair can help you be more active and feel more confident (you know the pair because you’ll be more inclined to check out your derrière in the mirror). However, finding that right pair is almost as difficult as finding a pair of jeans that fit like a glove, so we did all the work for you. Shop on for every pair of leggings our editors swear by (and we’ve tried a lot) to find the fit, style, fabric, and price point that’s perfect for you. Your downward dog has never looked better!

      High Waist Power Flex Leggings
      Best for: that pair you’ll want to buy multiple times and wear 24/7.
      This Amazon classic with a cult following is a staple in the wardrobes of multiple Everygirl editors. You might even say this pair rivals much more expensive brands thanks to the comfy fit, fitted fabric, and convenient pockets.
      10+ colors available

      American Eagle
      Real Me High Waisted Legging
      Best for: barre or pilates.
      Jr. Graphic Designer Jess has three different colors of this pair because when you got a good thing, you don’t mess with it. With buttery smooth material, a lightweight feel, and a fit that moves with you, these leggings feel like you’re wearing nothing (IDK about you, but that’s as close to nude yoga as I’ll ever get).
      5 colors available and 25% off!

      Fits Everybody Legging
      Best for: loungewear that fits like a glove.
      We stan a pair of leggings that promise to look and fit well on every body, but they rarely follow through. That is, until this pair from SKIMS that literally “fits everybody.” The stretchy material is designed to mold to every body so you won’t have to worry about those awkward gapes, tight areas, or sags.
      8 colors available

      Align Pant
      Best for: yoga flows, sun saluations, and maximum comfort.
      Dubbed “the greatest leggings in the entire world” by Social Media Editor, Abigail, the Align Pants from Lululemon really pull through. This breathable pair was designed for yoga because it will bend and move with you. That’s right: a pair of leggings that are finally as flexible as you are.
      10+ colors available

      Black Cheetah Foil UpLift Leggings
      Best for: standing out in adorable prints.
      If you haven’t heard of NYC-based Terez, you’re missing out. Founded to spread joy and positivity, their leggings stick to the mission thanks to the confidence-boosting fit and patterns that make you smile whenever you put them on.
      2 colors available

      Abercrombie & Fitch
      Contour Full-Length Leggings
      Best for: showing off that derrière.
      So you already know about contouring for your face (we love a good bronzer), but did you know about contouring for your body? Abercrombie’s contour leggings promise to do exactly that with sculpting technology and stretchy fabric that flatters every curve. Bonus: there’s also a small pocket to fit keys, headphones, or other necessities.
      10+ colors available

      Seamless Leggings
      Best for: high quality on a budget.
      I’ve tried dozens of altheticwear brands, and I’ll be honest: Target’s JoyLab feels as luxurious (if not even better) as the more expensive brands. You’re going to geek out over the fit, quality, and fabric of these seamless leggings in pretty colors.
      6 colors available

      High-Rise Crop Leggings
      Best for: sweaty workouts.
      Editor-in-Chief Allyson claims this classic pair is her go-to for workouts: they dry crazy fast (no more sitting around in sweaty clothes!), don’t pill between the thighs if your thighs rub together, and the deep side pockets are ideal for joggers.
      10 colors available

      High-Waisted PowerHold Leggings
      Best for: when you want a pair in multiple colors (because it’s that good).
      Thanks to a secret power mesh lining, these leggings streamline your shape while wicking away sweat to keep you fresh after the hottest of hot yoga classes.
      10+ colors available

      Faux Leather Leggings
      Best for: OOTDs.
      There was a time in pre-pandemic life when you could walk into the Everygirl office and have a good change that at least a few of us were wearing these leggings. They’re just as sculpting, contouring, and flattering as the SPANX you know and love, but the faux leather fabric makes it the perfect high-fashion piece to pair with an oversized sweater or cute booties.

      Airlift High Waist 7/8 Leggings
      Best for: going from barre class to brunch. 4 colors available.
      There’s something about this fabric that feels different than any other. It’s the kind of fabric that comfortably molds to your body but you want to live in (plus, the fabric is meant to prevent chafing so you’ll always feel good). Whether it’s for a workout, lounging, or running errands, you’re going to want to wear these all day long.
      4 colors available

      American Eagle
      Lightweight Everything Crossover 7/8 Legging
      Best for: a flattering waist that doesn’t slide.
      Managing Editor Garri counts these leggings as one of her ride-or-dies. They’re lightweight, comfortable, and conform to your body no matter how intense the workout. The best part: the wide waistband is so good, you might not want to wear another pair of leggings again.
      4 colors available and 25% off! More

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      in health and weelbeing

      14 Realistic Fitness Goals To Set This Year (And Exactly How to Accomplish Them)

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      You know how it goes: we all start out the year with aspirations to get fit, get healthy, and be our best selves. But when those fitness goals are based on long-term ideas of how we want to look (“lose 10 pounds,” “go down a pants size,” “get abs,”) rather than short-term goals on how we want to feel, those goals fall through in a matter of months or even weeks, and you feel let down, disappointed, and like a failure.
      Instead of the endless cycle of weight-focused fitness goals, and make goals based on what’s actually good for you, and goals that you’ll actually be able to stick to. When you focus on what your body can do, rather than how your body looks, you’ll start to appreciate it so much more, and want to give it more of what it needs to be its healthiest. Replace your fitness goals that are focused on the way you look or the way your pants fit with these 14 goals that will make you *actually* stronger, healthier, and better:

      1. Try one new workout every month
      Having a fitness routine is important, but always having the same fitness routine? Not great. For one reason, your body gets used to the same movements, miles, or weights, and in order to keep getting stronger, you should always be challenging yourself. More importantly, if you stick to the same exact workout routine every day, you’ll get bored. Being bored will make you less likely to want to work out, and the key to consistent exercise is not willpower, it’s enjoyment. News flash: exercise should be fun. 

      How to Accomplish It:

      Look for new opportunities to work out. Check out the classes your gym offers, say yes if your work friend invites you along on her run after work, or if you see a $10 first-class deal at a yoga studio, do it.

      Go for the opposite workout than what you’re used to. If you’re a gym rat who prefers weight training, try a dance class, or if you’re a diehard yogi, try an HIIT workout. Changing up the routine will not only help your body get stronger, but will help you enjoy the process, too.

      Not sure where to begin when trying something new? Make online workouts your BFF. Search a workout you’ve never tried before on Youtube video (Beyoncé cardio workout? Yes please!), look up your favorite trainers’ Instagram pages and search their IGTVs or Reels for shorter workouts, or opt for an online fitness platform with a variety of options (if you haven’t heard, we’re partial to Obé Fitness).

      2. Stretch more
      Stretching is one of the #1 things we can do to help strengthen our muscles, avoid injuries, and even relieve tension (both physically and mentally!), but most of us aren’t stretching enough. Especially combined with a sedentary lifestyle and intense workouts, not stretching enough can cause injuries and muscle strain. Not only is a warm-up and post-exercise stretch crucial for those muscles you’re working, but stretching throughout the day can improve the overall health of your body. 

      How to Accomplish It:

      Never work out without some form of a dynamic warmup before and stretching the worked muscles afterward. Danyele Wilson, a NASM certified trainer, HIIT master trainer, Tone & Sculpt coach recommended at least five minutes of active stretching to warm up the body. Post-workout, focus on isolated stretches: stretch and hold for 20-30 seconds to target the muscle groups that you used during your workout.

      Make stretching a part of your routine. Take a few minutes in the morning to do a few morning stretches to wake you up, and a few minutes at night to help you wind down. Also, turn specific breaks throughout your day into “stretch breaks,” whether that’s doing a few yoga poses once every hour during the workday or stretching tight muscles during commercial breaks when Real Housewives is on.

      3. Perfect your form
      You could be working out every day or doing hundreds of reps, but if you don’t have the right form, you might not be strengthening as much as you think (or worse: you could actually be causing injuries and longterm damage). Proper form helps you maximize a workout by using your energy for the extra push, meaning that no movement goes to waste. If you have improper form, you might be targeting unintended muscles and setting yourself up for injury. Plus, good form means you can run faster, jump higher, and push harder (yes, you will feel like Superman). Knowing exactly how to perfect your form (no matter what type of workout it is) is crucial for properly protecting your body, strengthening your muscles, and keeping your body healthy. 

      How to Accomplish It:

      If you have the option, utilize a free personal training session at your gym to have a trainer give you one-on-one attention for perfecting your form, or look up the proper form of your most common movements on Youtube (like squats) to learn the best way to perform the move. It might feel tedious, but the education and practice will be worth it in the long run. 

      If you’re a fan of fitness classes, utilize the instructor. Don’t be afraid to call over the instructor if it’s a class like barre or pilates where the instructors are there to help you to check in about your form, or hang back after class to discuss the movements you’re not sure about and if any movement feels painful in a negative way.

      Don’t go up in weight or reps until you know that your form won’t be compromised, and focus on form even more so when your body is feeling tired (AKA when we typically begin to forget about form). 

      4. Get a workout buddy
      Do you have a friend, significant other, roommate, or work wife who also wants to stick to their resolutions? Make them your accountability buddy and motivate each other by exchanging healthy recipes, sending motivational quotes, and checking in to see how the other is feeling or keeping up with their goal. You don’t have to have the same resolutions to motivate each other, but it certainly helps if you plan to hop on a Zoom yoga class with a friend or set up weekly meetings with your work wife to see how your career resolutions are coming along. You’ll be much more motivated feeling like you’re in this together.

      How to Accomplish It:

      Team up with a coworker to work out before the workday starts (meet for an early morning run or text each other to make sure you’re up for individual online workout classes), make friends with people at your gym, or simply tell a friend you trust your fitness goals and ask for help staying accountable.

      Instead of your usual coffee date or happy hour drinks to catch up with friends, suggest a barre class or going for a walk. 

      5. Do something active every week that makes you feel calm
      Fitness should not be all about working as hard as you can, as much as you can. You have to be just as serious about your rest days as you are about your workout days and focus on the mental benefits of fitness just as much as the physical. Instead of sticking to intense, heart-pumping, sweat-dripping workouts, add in an activity every week that makes you feel calm. Now that’s a fitness goal that you can stick to (and will make a major difference in your wellbeing).

      How to Accomplish It:

      Instead of a fifth day at the gym or the same HIIT class you do every day, opt for a calming yoga class at the end of the week, or do your own flow at home (bonus: focus on Savasana more than you focus on the tricep push-ups).

      If it’s nice outside or you need some fresh air, don’t force yourself into a gym or on the yoga mat in your living room: take a walk instead. Listen to a podcast, put on your comfy shoes, and take some time for yourself while you’re moving your body.

      Incorporate meditation. It’ll quiet your mind while your body rests, too. I love meditating right after working out (it feels extra good when your body is tired), but if you need some additional help, check out meditation apps or another kind of meditation.

      6. Walk instead of drive whenever you can
      You might’ve heard that a healthy person gets 10,000 steps a day (curse you, Fitbit!). While I’m not personally a fan of defining our health based on numbers (our wellbeing is much more subjective than that), walking is undeniably good for our health. The body is meant to be consistently active throughout the day, but most of us are sitting basically 24/7 (at your desk, in the car, or on the couch for a Netflix binge). 

      How to Accomplish It:

      Closeout the Uber app or put away the car keys and make the most of the warmer weather by walking. Make sure you plan ahead to allow for a longer commute time, wear comfortable shoes (no more blisters, please!), and cue up a good podcast or playlist to make the time go quickly. 

      If you’re going somewhere too far to walk, get off the train a couple of stops early, park in a farther garage, or have your Uber drop you off a few blocks away.

      Make easy swaps in your routine to up your step count. For example: use the furthest bathroom instead of the closest, treat yourself to a latte at a walkable coffee stop instead of making your own, or go to the grocery store more often (because walking down food aisles count too!). 

      7. Remind yourself of your “why” every day
      New Year’s resolutions often fail (or are forgotten by February) because we forget the “why.”  The first step to holding yourself accountable is to put meaning behind the goals you set. For example, “going to the gym every day” is a fine goal, but you need to look at the bigger picture goal as well. Why do you want to go to the gym every day? Is it to be stronger, feel more confident, or live longer? If you’re not looking at the reason, the goal will never feel motivating enough to actually achieve. 

      How to Accomplish It:

      Instead of thinking you’re supposed to go on a run, attend a workout class, or get up early for exercise before work, remind yourself why you want to do something. Tell yourself you want to work out before work because it makes you feel better during the day, or you want to lift some weights because feeling stronger helps you feel more confident.

      Take some time to reflect or journal about why accomplishing this goal is important to you and how it will make a difference in your life.

      Tape affirmations or your “why” reason somewhere you’d see it every day like on your fridge, mirror, or laptop. 

      8. Drink more water
      Staying hydrated is a tale as old as time, but there’s a reason just about every expert on the planet recommends it. Your body uses water to maintain the functions of cells, organs, tissues, etc. No surprise that water is not only an overall health goal, but also crucial for you to achieve your strongest, fittest self. As with everything else, the amount of water the body needs for optimal health varies from person to person because of factors like lifestyle, activity level, and bio-individuality, but it’s a good rule of thumb to be drinking half of your body weight in ounces a day, or just as much as possible.

      How to Accomplish It:

      Find the type of water bottle you like the best and buy multiple. This sounds so simple, and yet it’s the easiest way to trick yourself into drinking more. Do you prefer tumblers with straws, glass bottles, or steel canisters? Figure it out!

      Set smaller daily goals for yourself that are easy to follow, like “drink three water bottles full of water before lunch” or “after dinner, I’m going to drink two cups before going to bed.”

      Add fresh ingredients to your water like lemons, mint, cucumbers, ginger, or fruit. Not only will it boost the nutrients, but it will boost the taste too (and feel bougie AF!).

      Drink a glass of water every single morning before you have a cup of coffee or a bite of food.

      9. Get 7-9 hours of sleep
      Say it with me now: Sleep. Is. Crucial. For. Your. Fitness. Sleep gives your body time to recover and rebuild muscles, as well as conserve enough energy for you to exert at your next workout. Getting your beauty rest is critical for both your body’s health and the success of your workouts, so tracking how many hours of sleep you’re really getting can help determine if your sleep is restoring or if you could use a little improvement. Aim for 8-9 hours (sounds good, right?), but get no less than seven.

      How to Accomplish It:

      Go to bed just five minutes earlier every night. You won’t even notice the difference but in just a couple of weeks (or less), you’ll be sleeping one hour more than you used to.

      Try an app like SleepCycle that will not only track how many hours you’re sleeping, but will also identify sleep quality; even if you’re getting nine hours but your sleep cycles are poor quality, you won’t feel well-rested.

      Perfect a nighttime routine that helps you wind you down. Read for 15 minutes, do a meditation, or have a multi-step skincare routine. You’re less likely to break a routine you enjoy the next time you’re tempted to binge Grey’s Anatomy until late at night.

      10. Live less sedentary
      Forget designated workout times or using a “rest day” as an excuse to not get off of the couch all day. The most important “fitness goal” you could make for yourself is not a longer or more intense workout, but just to live less sedentary overall. That means more non-workout movement and prioritizing your body outside of gym sessions or workout classes. Movement throughout your entire day can help boost consistent energy and help everything from posture to chronic pain. 

      How to Accomplish It:

      Walk to work or your evening plans instead of drive, or take a walk around the block on your lunch break (see point #6). 

      Turn on music and dance whenever you’re cooking or getting ready (bonus: it makes mundane activities way more fun!)

      Set reminders to get up every hour on the hour throughout your workday for some movement: stretch, do 10 squats, or go through a quick yoga flow. 

      11. Schedule workouts in your calendar
      When appointments, meetings, or tasks are on your calendar, you know they’re going to get done. And you’ll probably show up on time, be fully prepared, and never skip. Just because a workout is not a work meeting does not mean you shouldn’t prioritize it as such. Honor your fitness goals like you would any other appointment on your schedule. For example, either sign up for an online workout class in advance or put “going on a jog” in your calendar.

      How to Accomplish It:

      Schedule workouts in your calendar at the beginning of each week instead of planning to get to a workout “sometime.”

      Sign up for workout classes (either virtual or in-person) in advance. The cancellation fee itself will be enough to ensure you show up, and the strict start time will make sure you’re not late or push it off.

      Honor the workout as you would a business meeting (since both belong in your calendar!). Show up on time, plan ahead, and be prepared.

      12. Always take the stairs if you can
      About that sneaking in more movement into our daily lives instead of just intensifying workouts, every set of stairs is an opportunity for a mini glute workout (no, really!). While escalators and elevators are functional, convenient, and important, they also might be one of those sneaky reasons our step goals seem impossible to reach. If you are able to, take the stairs whenever possible to engage muscles, increase step count, and get your heart rate up (and if you have a walk-up apartment, enjoy it instead of cursing it). 

      How to Accomplish It:

      This one’s pretty simple: opt for the stairs over an escalator or elevator whenever possible.

      13. Aim for balance
      Working out way too hard and way too constantly without proper time to rest and recuperate could lead to burnout, injuries, and overall exhaustion. Instead of making goals based on how “intense” you can go or how long you want to work out, aim for balance. After all, the goal of health is balance, not perfection. Prioritizing rest as much as you prioritize exercise will help you be as healthy as possible, both physically and mentally. Bottom line: listen to your body more often than you listen to your workout plan or fitness routine.

      How to Accomplish It:

      Do something every single day that you count as “self-care,” whether it’s getting to bed early, reading for 30 minutes, or watching Real Housewives reruns (we won’t judge).

      Make sure you’re enjoying your health routine. If you’re feeling bored with your workouts, switch it up. If you feel exhausted, take a break and try yoga. Cook inventive and interesting food instead of just bland protein and veggies for every meal, and master healthy cooking.

      Listen to your body: become a master at knowing if you’re feeling lethargic and need to exercise to get your energy up, or if you’ve been running yourself too thin and you need a day to rest.

      14. Give yourself a compliment or gratitude every day.
      By now I don’t need to tell you the importance of self-love and body positivity when it comes to achieving your goals. The more you believe in yourself and love yourself, the more likely you are to achieve your goals—because you’ll be achieving them for the right reasons. Putting yourself down or feeling like you’re not reaching goals fast enough will make you already failed instead of motivating you to work harder. The secret to achieving any goal is to realize you already have what it takes to be your best right now. In fact, the only thing keeping you from being the strongest, healthiest version of yourself is your own belief that you’re not already there. 

      How to Accomplish It:

      Start a gratitude journal. Write what you’re grateful for about your body: how your thighs are so strong, how you can run so fast, or even just that you’re healthy and alive.

      Stare in the mirror and give yourself a compliment. Look for the good in yourself, and tell yourself you’re beautiful for a million other reasons besides the way you look. Eventually, you’ll start to believe it.

      After every workout, make it a habit to silently say “thank you” to your body for working so hard and getting you through the workout. More

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      in health and weelbeing

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

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      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:

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      Cute Workout Clothes You Can Wear 24/7 This Summer

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      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!). 

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      in lifestyle and culture

      Bella Hadid shares unseen photos with her sister Gigi to mark her birthday

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      Supermodel sister duo Gigi and Bella Hadid are both forces to be reckoned with.Having both dominated the fashion industry for the past few years, modelling for some of the most coveted luxury brands including Versace, Burberry, Givenchy, Chanel, Valentino, Chloé and more.The pair are often seen on the catwalk and in campaigns together, but are both equally household names in their own rights.The elder of the two sisters, Gigi, was the first to begin modelling as a baby and Bella eventually followed in her big sister’s footsteps starting her modelling career when she was a teenager.As part of her birthday tribute to her elder sister, Bella thanked Gigi for being a teacher to her, whilst also sharing a series of unseen photos of the pair from their childhood and from backstage at various fashion shows and events.“I wouldn’t be able to do this life without you Gigi,” Bella said on Instagram to mark her sister’s 26th birthday. “Thank you for all that you have taught me and for always supporting me the way you do.“Happy Birthday bestie. I love you so much.”Yolanda Hadid, Gigi and Bella’s mother, also shared a heartfelt post to mark her “extraordinary” daughter’s birthday.“I have always been so very proud of the young woman you grew up to be every step of your lifetime but watching you give birth and become a mother yourself has given ‘proud’ a whole other meaning,” she said.Yolanda also reflected on losing her own mother, Ans van den Herik, two years ago, but stated that her first grandchild, Khai, “awoke a part in my heart I never knew existed”.Meanwhile, Mohamed Hadid decided to share some unknown facts about his daughter to mark her birthday.Taking to Instagram, the property tycoon shared a photo side-by-side of his daughter posing for the Burberry AW21 show and of baby Khai.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramImages: Bella Hadid Instagram More

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      Mohamed Hadid shares unknown facts about Gigi Hadid to mark her birthday

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      This weekend supermodel Gigi Hadid celebrated her 26th birthday.Of course, she received many birthday wishes across the globe including from her sister Bella Hadid and her boyfriend Zayn Malik.But it was her father, Mohamed Hadid, who decided to share some unknown facts about his daughter to mark her birthday.Taking to Instagram, the property tycoon shared a photo side-by-side of his daughter posing for the Burberry AW21 show and of baby Khai.He captioned the photo stating he’d be sharing “20 things that you did not know about Gigi Hadid”.The father-of-five began by saying the Palestinian-Dutch model was “self-made [and] never took a single dollar from her parents”.Mohamed also shared when her career first began, when she was in a Baby Guess campaign at the age her own daughter is now, around seven months.She was also a junior Olympic volleyball contender and an “accomplished equestrian junior Olympic contender and hundreds of first place and national championships”.“She was [accepted into] New York University’s forensic criminal psychology after high school,” he added.The proud father also highlighted she has the highest number of Vogue covers globally, which sits at around 50.The model is also the Unicef USA ambassador to Africa, Middle East and Southeast Asia.While that’s only seven facts so far, we’re sure the proud father will be sharing more.– For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and InstagramFeature image: Supplied More