More stories

  • in

    17 Unromantic Signs This Person Might Be ‘The One’

    Everything from the classic love affair in Pride and Prejudice to the will-they-or-won’t-they drama of Ross and Rachel teaches us that love is supposed to be extraordinary, make it impossible to sleep or eat, and always ends with a “happily ever after.” As much as rom-coms and the Twilight Saga would have us believe, romance is not actually always about flowers and love poems or grand gestures and public declarations when you find “the one.”
    In real life, the rom-com doesn’t end at the “I do” scene, but it keeps going: through paying bills and tax season, through toddlers and newborns preventing your sleep for days, and through terrifying health scares, boring daily chores, and deaths of the people you love.
    The one you choose to spend forever with is not just your personal romantic comedy—it’s the most important interview of your life. A happy life is about more than love letters and PDA, so you better make sure there’s more to your relationship too. Here are 17 signs the person you’re with might be “the one” that have absolutely nothing to do with butterflies, grand gestures, or romance.

    1. You don’t have to pretend to be interested in them or wish they would be more interested in you
    It’s likely that you and your partner will have many different interests—in fact, you should, or else dating another you would just be boring! You may not always be interested in their passion or hobbies, but you’ll want to learn more because you know how much it matters to them, and you’ll genuinely want to be able to share what they love. You also won’t have to pretend you don’t love broadway musicals as much as you actually do or feel like you can never talk about the latest fashion trends that you know your partner couldn’t care less about—they’ll want to love everything you love and talk about everything you want to talk about.

    2. Errands are kind of… fun
    Going to the grocery store, picking up prescriptions at the pharmacy, and cleaning the house are all part of the mundane routine we have to keep up with through the rest of our lives (sounds depressing, doesn’t it?). But when you do it together, there’s something inherently fun and enjoyable about the tasks that are usually mundane and tedious. Something about your partner makes even the boring feel fun and the average seem exciting.

    3. You don’t have to think twice about asking them for help
    Whether it’s to pick you up from the airport, unclog your drain, or give you advice on a problem you need their perspective on, you don’t have to think about asking your partner for help—you just do it. You trust their opinion, their advice, and their desire to care for you without having to question it for a minute.

    Source: @jessiebbernhardt

    4. They’ll pick up your slack without being asked
    Maybe you came home to your clean laundry that they just threw in with a load of theirs or they bought you a new face serum from CVS when you mentioned you ran out a couple of days ago. It’s more than just the household chores the two of you divide up—it’s the little things they don’t have to do but do just to make your life a little easier and your day a little better.

    5. You can share annoyance, anger, and doubt without worrying about their reaction
    There are absolutely no more deal breakers, and you know it—you can be in a horrible mood without feeling like they’ll think less of you or not want to be around you, and you know they’ll be supportive of your feelings before being defensive of their own if you experience any doubts along the way. You can be more honest with them than you’ve ever been because bigger than anything you’ll ever say or do, you both have a shared understanding that you’re in this life together.

    6. You both have your own thing
    Whether it’s Bachelor Mondays with the girls, painting classes, or hiking trips a couple times a year, you’re both supportive of the other pursuing their own interests and having their own time alone. Time apart doesn’t make either of you insecure, and you should feel like your partner supports you pursuing your passions over their own needs. Plus, you’ll be so excited to tell them about your time apart, whether it’s to rehash the latest gossip between your friends or what you learned in painting class (remember #1?).

    Source: Ron Lach | Pexels

    7. They’ll ask about your day every day
    Perhaps one of the most important pieces of advice I’ve ever received is to be with someone who will ask about your day every day and—wait for it—actually want to hear about it. If the first thing they do when they get home or the first thing they ask when they call is “how was your day?” every single day, you’ve found one of the good ones. Trust me.

    8. You can look at them and, for no reason at all, they make you laugh
    The best friendships are the ones that make you silly for no reason at all—where you just can’t stop laughing, right? If you’re going to spend your life with someone, it better be the best friendship you’ve ever had. If your partner brings out your silliest self and can make you laugh at nothing, you know they’re going to keep you laughing when things get hard, boring, or mundane. Life should be about enjoyment—make a lifelong commitment with someone who brings out the most fun in you.

    9. Bodily functions don’t make you blink
    You should be able to complain about your heavy flow or let out an *accidental* bodily function post-Taco Bell without it feeling like the end of the world. In fact, when you start doing gross things like shave their back or have them pop your pimples (it gets real) and you’re still just as turned on by each other as ever, that’s when you know.

    10. You can talk openly about money
    Besides just being a crucial conversation to have with the person you’re going to be spending your life with, if you’re able to talk about such a tough topic, it’s a good sign that you trust each other. While nothing is less sexy than the money talk (except maybe shaving that back hair), if you can share your financial past, goals, and current habits openly and honestly and you two share financial values similar enough that you don’t go into anaphylactic shock when you hear about theirs, you probably have a pretty strong foundation.

    Source: Ron Lach | Pexels

    11. They call you out when you need to be called out
    “The One” will be the person who is fully dedicated to helping you live your fullest, best, happiest life. This means that they will check you on your destructive habits and hold you accountable when no one else would. They’ll be honest with you—for the sake of making you better, not for the sake of putting you down. They’ll also stand by you, encourage you, and support you when you’re working through issues or going through hard times without any judgment.

    12. Your PDA is less PDA-y
    You don’t necessarily need to go make out on a park bench like you’re teenagers or feel the need to post collages on Instagram with paragraph-long captions about your oh-so-perfect relationship to celebrate every monthiversary. Instead of overt PDA, you display affection by mere accident—exchanging smirks across the room or holding hands under the table. Instead of the public make outs, fondling, or displaying your love all over social media, you publicly tease each other, brag about each other’s accomplishments, and maybe steal a kiss or hug when you don’t think anyone is looking.

    Source: @sassyredlipstick

    13. Date nights out are great, but you have the most fun at home
    When you can sneak away for a night out, of course it’s fun to dress up and go somewhere new or exciting. But if we’re being honest and if we’ve found The One, the most fun “date nights” are sitting at home with a bottle of Trader Joe’s wine, laughing at The Office, talking for hours, or playing the same card game—again. The things that would sound boring to anyone else are the things you find yourself preferring over those fancy dates.
    Anyone can get in the mood for romance when fancy clothing and candlelight are involved, but when it’s just the two of you, with sweatpants and take-out, and it’s somehow the best night ever, you know you could do it for the rest of your life.

    14. You’ve developed your own language no one else can understand
    If your daily conversations are laced with inside jokes or you consistently refer back to movie quotes or moments that will have you both dying with laughter, this person will certainly have you laughing the rest of your life. You share more than the same life and relationship—you share the same humor, and that can make all the difference in the length of a lifetime.

    Source: @hikarimurakami

    15. At the worst times, you want them there
    For most of your past relationships or crushes, it’s likely that they’re the last person you would’ve wanted to be present when you’re hunched over the toilet with food poisoning or crying in your room with a bad panic attack—so embarrassing! But if this partner is the right one, you’ll find yourself calling them when you’re having a panic attack or wishing they were there when you’re really sick (and not just because you know they’d clean up your vomit). Maybe you’ve even considered putting them down as your emergency contact—you know that when anything bad is happening, you’ll feel more comforted and protected with them there.

    16. You don’t question or second guess how they act when you’re not around
    When a friend’s Bachelor/Bachelorette party in Vegas comes up, you don’t feel a pit in your stomach or worry they won’t behave; you’ll just be excited to hear the funny stories when they get home. You also don’t doubt that as nice and wonderful as they are to you is exactly how they act when you’re not around too. You believe with all your heart that however they act, out in the world—whether it’s to other girls or people they don’t have to be nice to like waiters or servers—they treat all other people with the utmost respect and graciousness and will always do you proud.

    17. No matter what mistakes you make or how bad you look, you know they’ll still think of you the same
    In the end, you can be your truest self knowing that’s the you that they love the most. You can make a mistake or say something mean, and they’ll still think the world of you. You can wear second-day leggings and not wash your hair for four days and know they’ll still look at you the same as when you’re in a fancy dress with a blowout. The most romantic moments of our lives are often what happens in the most unromantic times—the bad times, the hard times, the gross times, the lazy times, and the boring times. The One will still see you in those times just as they would in the best times.
    Find the person who loves you for exactly whatever you are—good, bad, grumpy, bloated, messy, scattered, anxious, unfiltered—and to use the quote from Juno that taught me the most about love: “The right person will still think the sun shines out your ass.” Now that’s romantic.

    10 Things You Can Do To Improve Your Relationship Right Now More

  • in

    7 Wellness Podcasts That Will Help You Get Healthier

    When I first got into self-improvement, I wanted to consume all the information I could. I started following all the experts—reading their books, studying their blogs, and attending their seminars (well, the free ones at least). And then I discovered health podcasts. I was already a big fan of Serial and This American Life, but it never dawned on me that there’s literally a podcast for every topic you can imagine. Since realizing that podcasts could be used to make me healthier instead of just fulfill my true crime addiction, I’ve listened to countless episodes that have transformed my life. Whether you’re interested in food, mental health, or spirituality, read on for the holy grail podcasts that have changed my health.

    Let It Out was the first wellness podcast I listened to and it’s still one of my favorites. Each week, host Katie Dalebout shares her personal experience with trying to maintain a healthy lifestyle and talks with leading voices in the wellness space. Notable episodes include author and yoga teacher Jessamyn Stanley discussing body acceptance, spiritual entrepreneur Gabby Bernstein on mindset tips, and author and gluten-free chef Phoebe Lapine sharing her journey with Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis. 
    My favorite thing about this podcast is its focus on balance and doing what works for your individual body. Katie admits to being “overly addicted to wellness” and struggling with orthorexia in the past, so she’s learned first hand the importance of balance. Listen if you want a well-rounded view of health. 

    If you’ve already binged every episode of Let It Out like I have but still want more, tune into Spiraling. Katie Dalebout also hosts this podcast alongside author and chef Serena Wolf. The two friends share their personal stories of anxiety, from the daily angst of having a zit on a first date to the deep-seated fears and worries that keep them up at night. They don’t just vent and leave you hanging, though. The best part is that they discuss how to handle anxieties. They share their personal de-stress methods and the techniques their therapists have taught them. I come away from each episode feeling so understood and find a new way to cope with my anxiety. Listen if you want to feel like you’re getting advice from friends. 

    The TED family of podcasts is an oldie but still a goodie, especially if you’re interested in learning about health from different perspectives. TED Health covers a variety of topics, including everything from the importance of sleep to dealing with grief to preventing Alzheimer’s. I love this podcast because it covers a wide range of topics, approaches every topic from a scientific (yet approachable) angle, and serves as a reminder that health is so much more than just a number on the scale. Listen if you’re interested in the science behind health.  

    It’s no doubt Gwyneth Paltrow has carved out her corner of the wellness world, so it’s only natural she’d bring us a top health podcast as well. Much like TED Health, Gwyneth and her co-host Erica Chidi cover a variety of topics, ranging from mental and emotional health to physical and sexual health. They also feature exciting guests like authors Glennon Doyle and Robin DiAngelo and intimacy coach Amina Peterson. While goop has been controversial in the wellness world, they bring on amazing thought leaders and wellness experts that have helped me grow in every aspect of my life. If you’re looking for a place to start, some of my favorite episodes are “Ending the War on Self,” “Eating to Beat Disease,” and “Decoupling Shame from Sexuality.” Listen if you want to learn from the experts. 

    One of my favorite self-improvement authors is Andrea Owen, so you can imagine my delight when I discovered she had a podcast too. Andrea gives candid, big-sister advice on how to live your best life and focuses on topics such as perfectionism, the inner-critic, courage, and more. Make Some Noise is geared specifically toward women and breaking the negative cycles we so often partake in. I love the casual nature of this podcast and how digestible and easy her advice is. Listen if you want no-frills life coaching. 

    Expanded is a leading manifestation and spiritual podcast, and once you listen you’ll see why. Host Lacy Phillips helps her audience create their dream lives through neuroscience, psychology, epigenetics, energetics, and a little bit of spirituality. The podcast discusses techniques to open your mind and heart to the manifestation process and also highlights other manifestation experts and thought leaders. I especially love this podcast as a way to start my mornings off with an abundance mindset. It’s also a great addition to the To Be Magnetic membership program. Listen if you want to manifest your dream life. 

    Everyone seems to have an opinion on the “right” way to diet these days (*insert eye roll here*), so it was refreshing to hear How to Love Your Body described as a “non-diet” podcast. Hosts Lauren McAulay and Jenna Free are self-proclaimed ex-dieters, binge eaters, and weight-obsessed women turned intuitive eaters with the goal of helping listeners “stop dieting and find wellness without obsession.” As someone who has struggled with dieting in the past, this was music to my ears.
    It’s comforting to hear someone who’s been in my shoes talk about how to create a sustainable relationship with food. Listening to this podcast has helped me shift my mindset around nutrition and embark on my intuitive eating journey. A few of my favorite episodes are “What if I DO care about how I look?,” “Intuitive Drinking Tips,” and “End Binge Eating Permanently.” Listen if you want to reframe your diet mindset. 

    The 15 Best Books for Your New Year’s Resolutions More

  • in

    What You Should Add to Your Wellness Routine, Based on Your Enneagram

    The new year is a great time to reassess your wellness routine and figure out how to best nurture your most important asset: your well-being. Whether you set resolutions or not, this time of year serves as an important reset for identifying what your mind and body actually need to be healthy—and what better way to find out than by asking your Enneagram? In other words, rather than adding everything under the sun to your self-care list (a recipe for burnout!), we’ve narrowed down what may resonate best based on your Enneagram type for further personalization.
    With this added layer of awareness, you can nourish your needs on a deeper level and give yourself the self-care you’ve been craving. As an Enneagram coach, I believe that your Type can offer a lot of insight into what your mind and body really need (because self-care should be totally personalized), so I talked with Giselle Wasfie, a doctor of acupuncture and traditional Chinese medicine, about how to incorporate these practices into your routine. Read on to find out what wellness practice you should try in 2022 based on your Enneagram. 

    Meet the expert
    Giselle Wasfie, L.Ac., Dipl. OM, MSTOM, DACM,
    Doctor of East Asian Medicine and Acupuncture
    Giselle is a nationally board-certified acupuncturist and herbalist and doctor of traditional East Asian medicine. Giselle is also the founder of REMIX Acupuncture + Integrative Health, which is based in Chicago.

    Splurge on more massages or try self-massage
    Type Ones are rational, disciplined, and hardworking. They also put a lot of pressure on themselves to do things right and to do things well. Because of their perfectionistic tendencies, they may have a hard time relaxing and can experience tight shoulders and neck muscles as a result. Wellness practices like massages or cupping are important to reduce stored tension. Cupping is an ancient therapy that can be especially beneficial for Ones. “It takes the weight off your shoulders both literally and spiritually, allowing you to let go of pressure and move through the world with more ease and lightness,” Wasfie explained. Getting regular massages not in your budget (because same)? Try a self-massage by picking your favorite essential oil and working through any tight spots on your neck and shoulders before bed or when you need a reset.

    Eat more mindfully
    Twos are caring and big-hearted, tending to push their needs aside to be there for others. Being mindful about eating habits can help Twos prioritize their own well-being and receive nourishment when they give so much. We’re all guilty of scarfing down a quick lunch when there are important things going on, and Twos might find themselves doing this quite often or might overindulge in sweets and comfort foods because they’re not giving themselves comfort in other ways. Try to eat more mindfully by looking at each meal or snack as a meditation: close the laptop, put down your phone, and spend time enjoying each bite. Also try more principles of intuitive eating like treating food as self-care or identifying engrained food rules.

    Use breathwork when you feel stressed
    Threes are ambitious and adaptable. While pursuing their many goals, they can also overwork themselves and seek approval. Taking a (literal) breather from the hustle helps this fast-paced type stay grounded and connect with themselves so they can make sure they’re pursuing what’s right for them. There are many types of breathing exercises you can do throughout the day. Before a big meeting or presentation, you might try the 4-7-8 breathing technique or alternate nostril breathing to help slow down and relax the body. Or if you’re in the midst of a stressful situation or frustrated by something, box breathing can be a good strategy to help you calm down before you react. 

    Experiment with crystal healing
    Four Types are self-aware and sensitive, and they can get lost in their own emotional world. Crystal healing not only plays to their love of aesthetics, but it also inspires peace and balance when things feel overwhelming. You can use crystals in a variety of ways, including holding them in your hand when you need support or placing them on your desk or yoga mat to draw from their many healing properties. “Crystals can be an expression of emotions and desires, so they can especially help Type Fours express their emotions or find balance,” Wasfie said. As for where to start if you’re a newbie to crystals, she recommended clear quartzes, as they don’t retain any negative energy and can help Fours see the big picture more clearly. 

    Improve your sleep-care
    Fives are curious and cerebral, but they also need lots of alone time to recharge their batteries. Because they can get “in their heads” and over-rely on facts and logic, self-care is all about recharging and relaxing, and quality sleep can help them not only feel their best but also find balance. Focus your energy on sleep-care by sticking to a consistent sleep schedule, have a go-to bedtime routine that helps you totally unwind from a busy day (a bath, yoga stretches, a lighthearted read, etc.), and check in with your doctor if you’re having trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or feeling well-rested during the day (because being an active patient is a key part of your wellness routine too!). 

    Try more confidence-boosting workouts
    Sixes are loyal and hardworking, but they tend to worry a lot about the future. To combat some of their worst-case-scenario thinking, a confidence-boosting workout can help them feel more in control. Confidence looks different to everyone, but think of a workout that pushes you while still feeling fun, like jogging an extra mile, going to a Zumba class, or trying more challenging yoga poses. Exercise is known to boost self-esteem and resilience and even promote mental clarity, and since Sixes can be quite indecisive, this can be a positive way for them to step into their power. Loyalists also love the comfort of a routine, so it’s important to pick an activity that makes you feel good that you can do consistently.

    Incorporate aromatherapy
    Sevens are optimistic and spontaneous, which also makes it harder for them to stay focused, slow down, or be present. Adding aromatherapy into their wellness routine is a great way for Sevens to reconnect with the present moment. Plus, they love to indulge themselves and can find a lot of joy in experimenting with different scents. Aromatherapy has many stress-reducing benefits and can be a great way for Sevens to check in with their emotional state. “The sense of smell is activated by inhalation, and scattered energy gets folded into a vivid emotion or a therapeutic moment, helping to ground and center,” Wasfie said. You can use a diffuser while you work or sleep or keep your favorite essential oils on hand for a quick inhale in the morning, before bed, or when you’re feeling stressed.

    Try acupressure
    Eights are confident and assertive. They want to move quickly on their goals and ideas but can become controlling and defensive when stressed. A self-care ritual like acupressure can help Eights feel more balanced and clear any emotional blockages that may manifest as anger. “If anger festers in the body, it generates heat and inflammation, which only makes a Type Eight more on edge,” Wasfie explained. “Among many other benefits, acupuncture helps the body relax to release the need for control or defensiveness.” Ask your doctor for a local acupuncturist near you, or try a practice like ear seeding for acupressure you can do from the comfort of your own home. And if you’re looking for a totally free wellness practice, you can still tap into the powers of acupressure. Apply gentle pressure to specific areas for a wide range of stress-relief and health benefits.

    Set structured goals
    Nines are peaceful and adaptive, wanting to avoid conflict or anything that might cause disruption in their environment. Therefore, they can fall into habits where they get too comfortable, letting their goals and priorities fall to the wayside. It’s important for Nines to stay “alert” to themselves and identify what they really want so they can take action on the things they want. While setting wellness goals isn’t always beneficial for everyone, clear intentions and structured timelines can help Nines avoid getting too comfortable and foregoing self-care. For some goal-setting inspo, check out this list of 60 resolutions to help you reach your healthiest body and happiest mind.

    What Your Resolution Should Be This Year
    Based on Your Enneagram More

  • in

    Everything You Need To Actually Reach Your New Year’s Resolutions This Year

    Not to totally ruin your blissful new year high (from either the hope of a fresh start or all that champagne), but new year’s resolutions don’t historically last very long. In fact, one study found that Americans are most likely to ghost their resolutions by Jan. 17, meaning it only takes a couple of weeks for all your 2022 hopes and dreams to end up in the trash with the holiday leftovers. Sure, that’s pretty dark, but here’s the good news: In the past couple of years, we’ve learned a lot, changed a lot, and grew a lot, which also means we can break out of the endless New Year’s cycle and make resolutions that will actually last a lifetime. Maybe every year you say “new year, new me,” but in 2022, it may actually be true. And if you need help getting there, here are 10 products that will make keeping resolutions and sticking to goals easy.

    Blue Apron
    Meal Subscription
    Is your goal to save money this year? One of the best ways to improve your financial health is to save money (and food waste!) on groceries and order less takeout. Blue Apron sends only the exact proportions you need, so you won’t have to spend money on a bunch of ingredients in order to try a new recipe (especially ingredients you’ll never use again). Also, the meals are so delicious and easy, you’ll never be tempted to order takeout (even after stressful workdays). Consider it an investment in your physical health that can help save you money. Sign up now to get $110 off across your first 4 boxes.

    Sunrise Alarm Clock
    If your resolution is to wake up earlier or get better sleep, the Hatch is an obvious choice. But no matter what your goals are this year, having more energy throughout the day or waking up easier will undoubtedly help you get there. This is more than an alarm clock—it’s a personalized sleep and wakeup routine, including meditations and a sunrise light. This time of year is especially hard because the sun rises later, so it’s pretty dark and gloomy in the morning. This alarm clock will mimic the sunrise to bring you optimal energy whenever you wake up to get that workout or morning meditation in and then give you energy to achieve your goals all day.

    The Sport Duffle
    One of our favorite hacks to work out more is to prepare ahead of time so that you don’t have an option not to. Plus, picking out an outfit or pre-workout snacks are just more items on your to-do list that can make it easier to make excuses for why you shouldn’t work out. Gym bags are an essential must-have to keeping health goals because they make it easier for you to get to the gym (or to your yoga mat, to barre class, or on a run). Packing a gym bag the night before will keep you motivated and make exercise a “must” instead of a “maybe.” This one is our favorite for the most organized, roomy, and chic option you’ll actually want to show off at the gym, office, or while traveling.

    Joy Wellness Journal
    Consider this journal your personal accountability buddy that will always be there for you. No matter what your wellness goals are this year, keeping track and checking in on your goals and how your body feels are crucial for keeping resolutions through 2023. With daily pages for you to list intentions, monitor your sleep, plan meals for the day, schedule time for self-care, track your mood, journal gratitude, and check in with how you feel mentally and physically, this is quite literally your one-stop shop for every wellness resolution so you can keep up with all your personal health goals.

    Motivational Water Bottle
    It’s so easy to forget to stay hydrated (especially when you have so many other things on your mind), so drinking more is always a resolution for us. This bottle with time stamps will help you keep track of your water intake and also keep you accountable to drink more. Need even more motivation to add “drink more water” to your list of resolutions? The body needs optimal hydration to stay energized, so if you achieve the hydration goal, you can get more motivation to achieve other goals too. This water bottle will help you get there.

    Mid Rise Pocket Leggings
    Yes, it’s crucial to start off the new year on the right foot, but it’s also always freezing cold, AKA you could have all the best intentions to work on fitness resolutions when the new year comes, but all you’ll want to do during the winter months is crawl into bed and hide under the covers. If you want to train for a marathon or jog an extra mile in 2022 but can’t even go for a brisk walk on Jan. 2 because it’s way too cold, I got you. This breathable fleece fabric will keep you warm until spring but won’t make you sweat on those random warmer days.

    Glass Storage Set
    The key to any healthy eating goal is preparation—when you have healthy options already chopped, prepped, and stocked up in your fridge, it’s way easier to throw together meals and you’ll be less tempted to order UberEats (even after long workdays). Use these chic glass containers to store chopped veggies, washed berries, cooked grains, or even mismatched meals like a stew, roasted veggies, or sauces you can repurpose throughout the whole week. Another bonus hack: When you do cook meals, always make extra to store for leftovers so you can have an easy lunch or dinner the following day without having to cook more.

    Make Your Matcha Kit
    If your goal is to kick your coffee addiction once and for all, matcha is the wellness world’s favorite alternative. Matcha has been used for thousands of years for sustained energy in the body and as a ceremony meant to remind us all to slow down (two things we all need way more of in 2022!), so it’s the perfect addition to your wellness routine. This kit from one of our go-to supplement brands has everything you need to DIY a frothy, delicious, quality cup of matcha. Make it the traditional way with hot water or froth some milk of your choice if you’re a latte fan.

    Compendium
    Weekly Reflections Card Set
    So your resolution is just to be happier this year? Or maybe you haven’t had time (or interest) in setting specific resolutions and are way more interested in continuing to grow and be healthier in the new year? Pick a card (any card!) from this deck of weekly reflections and get a one-sentence affirmation and a lot of inspiration for the week ahead. Not only will reading the card to yourself instantly make you feel good, but you can also repeat the quote throughout the week for a happy reminder anytime you need one. Each card serves as an instant mood boost or motivation to keep improving yourself, AKA it’s the perfect item to make 2022 be your best year yet.

    Author: James Clear
    Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones
    No matter your 2022 resolutions, Atomic Habits offers a proven framework for changing your life by forming good habits, breaking bad ones, and mastering small behaviors that lead to massive transformation. Learn how to overcome a lack of motivation or willpower, get back on track when you fall off course, and design your schedule for success. It’s an especially helpful read if your New Year’s resolutions typically don’t last past January (guilty!).

    12 Hacks to Hold Yourself Accountable with Your Resolutions

    This post contains a sponsored inclusion of Blue Apron, but all of the opinions within are those of The Everygirl editorial board. More

  • in

    How to Upgrade Your Wellness Routine for Winter

    So you’ve swapped your favorite crop top and sandals for cozy outerwear and chunky boots (or, if you’re like me, a weekly rotation of various sweatsuits). That’s right: Winter is officially here. Just like our wardrobes, our wellness routines—from skincare to self-care to nutrition and exercise—should look different come winter. Our bodies need different things every season; the food, workouts, and self-care your body craves in winter is going to be different from what it needs in the summer. So it’s time to switch up your wellness routine to support what your body needs during colder months and shorter days. Read on for ways to help “winterize” your daily regimen for a healthy, stress-free season. 
     
    Self-Care

    Prioritize sleep
    Now that we’re experiencing shorter days and less vitamin D than we grew accustomed to during the summer, it’s natural to feel some winter blues, AKA you may feel a little more lethargic and tired this time of year. Because there are fewer hours of daylight, the body produces more melatonin (a sleep hormone) this time of year, and chances are, your sleep habits have been affected by the time change. Instead of fighting the fatigue, think of this season as a time for rest and recovery, and adapt your self-care routine accordingly. Personally, I love winding down with a hot, candlelit bath, but if baths aren’t your cup of tea, you can also treat yourself to a fresh set of luxurious sheets, perfect your nighttime routine, or just get to bed earlier. 

    Focus on relationships
    Yes, even caring for yourself includes tending to relationships. Connection is an important part of a wellness routine because fulfilling relationships help improve our happiness and overall satisfaction in life. Winter is the perfect time to prioritize connection because of the holiday season, but your social calendar can extend well beyond New Year’s Eve. Make extra plans throughout every week to catch up with your mom on the phone or have a movie night in with your best friend. If cabin fever is getting the best of you, grab your sister to go for a drive or test your skating skills at an ice rink with your friend group (which also counts as exercise!). Whatever your self-care routine looks like, it should spark joy and help you reset so you can show up as your best for yourself and also for the people you surround yourself with. 
     

     
    Nutrition

    Ditch the raw foods and cold meals
    During the summer, nothing hits the spot for me like biting into a juicy piece of watermelon, noshing on a crisp salad, or sipping on a refreshing smoothie. But when the temperature drops and we’re in the thick of winter, you may notice a change in your appetite and your body craving warm, grounding meals like soup, pasta, and warm figgy pudding. Sound familiar? With dreary weather and less exposure to sun, it should come as no surprise that we find ourselves reaching for heartier, comforting foods to boost our mood and warm up our bodies. Remember that salads and smoothies aren’t the only healthy foods. Get creative with nourishing stews, soups, and roasted veggies instead. 
     
    Incorporate seasonal produce
    If you don’t already know, eating in-season is so important. Luckily, winter offers many delicious, flavorful produce. For fruit, try apples, pomegranates, oranges, persimmons, and pears. As for vegetables, load up on butternut squash, sweet potatoes, kale, Brussels sprouts, turnips, and beets, just to name a few. Listen, if you can’t live without your avocado toast or love eating mangos year-round, it doesn’t mean you should ditch produce that is in season during spring or summer. The most important thing is to eat your fruits and veggies, no matter what they are (and you should always enjoy the food you eat!). Instead of replacing, think of adding winter produce. For example, top your avocado toast with pomegranate seeds or make a side dish of roasted winter veggies that will make any meal more delicious. 
     
    Honor your sweet tooth
    I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention all the goodies that are synonymous with this time of year: cookies, apple pie, eggnog, Starbucks holiday drinks. Instead of depriving yourself of sweet potato casserole and worrying about how many calories you’re consuming from holiday leftovers, take the time to enjoy the flavors of the foods you love and focus on connecting and celebrating with loved ones. Bottom line: If you’re craving sweets more during this time of year, don’t panic. Reach for antioxidant-rich dark chocolate or naturally sweet foods like bananas and raw honey. But also indulge in your mom’s famous cookies or a cup of hot chocolate when you want to, totally guilt-free. As with any time of the year, being mindful is key, so check in consistently with how your body feels.
     

     
    Exercise

    Know that resting is just as good for you as movement
    Whether you’re busy with work deadlines and social plans or the aforementioned winter blues have left you feeling tired all the time, workouts can easily fall by the wayside come colder weather. The thought of leaving your warm, cozy bed can deter even the most hardcore workout enthusiast, and guess what? That’s OK. If your body isn’t feeling like going on a three-mile jog or doing a HIIT class, don’t force it. Instead, move your body in ways that feel natural and nourishing, like going for a walk to get some fresh air, doing a yoga flow, or stretching before bed. Also, remember that rest is just as good for the body as exercise, so make relaxation a key part of your exercise routine if that’s what you’re craving. Your body knows what it needs; you just have to listen to it.

    Adjust your favorite workouts for the weather (but get outside when you can)
    Are you typically a runner who loves to hit the pavement? You don’t need to forego workouts altogether when the weather drops. Instead, try these tips to make the outdoors more bearable or hit the gym for some sprints on a treadmill. If you’re more into yoga, nothing feels better in the winter than moving your body in a heated room, so opt for some hot yoga (turning up the heat in your apartment or placing a space heater near your yoga mat counts too). Since it’s important to always enjoy the type of workouts you’re doing, adjust what you love best to be indoors while still getting outside for walks or jogs to enjoy the fresh air when you can.
     
    Try hacks to stay motivated 
    And if it’s lack of motivation or the continuous rotation of Hallmark Christmas movies playing that’s keeping you from breaking a sweat (same), use small tricks and tips to stay motivated to move your body regularly enough to feel healthy. For example, fit in multiple movement sessions of five minutes or less throughout the day (it adds up!), multitask like doing bicep curls while on conference calls, and don’t underestimate what a cute, new fitspo outfit can do to get you motivated to move. 

    Skincare

    Add more layers
    Let’s face it (pun intended), our sun-kissed and supple complexions are now dry and lacking that fresh-from-a-facial look we had going for us during the summer. So what better time to hit refresh on your skincare lineup? Like any fashionista would advise when it comes to dressing for the cold, layering is your friend. And the same goes for your skincare regimen during the winter months. Add a cleansing oil into your routine, pat on an additional hydrating serum, use a thicker moisturizer, and top with a hydrating oil to seal it all in. Even if you don’t want to totally change your skincare routine season to season, a couple added basics can make all the difference. 

    Try a humidifier
    Many of us are experiencing dryness and irritation from all the time spent indoors this time of year. Consider buying a humidifier for your bedroom, especially if you heavily rely on central air conditioning and heating to manipulate the environment of your home or live in a dry climate—it’ll be your new best friend (goodbye, dryness!). A humidifier can help add a little extra moisture in the air while you’re sleeping and hopefully add a little extra hydration and plumpness to your skin. 

    Focus on skincare from within too
    While you’re at it, load your plate with healthy fats (think: avocado, wild salmon, walnuts), which can help regulate your skin’s oil production and soothe dry skin. Achieving radiant, J.Lo-like skin (talk about a major glow) is not just about what you put on it after all. It’s also about adding nutrient-rich foods to your diet.

    7 Ways to Stay Your Healthiest Through Winter
    According to Ayurveda More

  • in

    5 Tips To Get You Through the Gloomiest Season of the Year

    Growing up, I never really felt the effects of daylight savings time and shorter, colder days. As a kid, my bedtime was always the same whether the sun had finished setting or not, and in college, I was always down to go out regardless of how cold it was (oh, to be young and fun again!). Now, as an almost 30-year-old with a full-time job, less energy, and more responsibilities, I’m beginning to feel the negative effects of shorter days. Since I spend most of each day in an office and don’t leave until 5 p.m., I only get a short period of sun in the mornings (that is if it’s not cloudy).
    In the summer, I take advantage of the extra daylight by grabbing a rooftop drink after work, but in the winter, all I can think of doing is heading home and crawling right into bed. If you also live in parts of the world that get cold, cloudy, and dark this time of year, you could probably use a few tips to get you through to spring. Read on for the five ways I pick myself up when the winter blues are getting me down. 

    1. Start a new hobby
    In years past, I’ve spent the winter months becoming one with my couch, binging Netflix, and rationing the last of the Christmas cookies. Don’t get me wrong, this is still my idea of a perfect Friday night, but this year, I’ve decided to be a bit more intentional about how I spend my down time. Instead of mindlessly scrolling through my phone while lounging on the couch, I decided to pick up cross-stitching. It was one of my favorite hobbies as a kid and it’s pretty simple once you get the hang of it, making it the perfect activity to do while watching TV. Since I started a few weeks ago, I’ve been looking forward to coming home at night to work on my current project. If cross-stitching isn’t calling your name, you could also try adult coloring books, baking, reading, or a hobby for your enneagram. Feeling stuck inside isn’t so bad when you have a something to look forward to at home. 

    2. Make your home cozy
    Hygge is my love language, so I pride myself on having a cozy home during cold, winter months. The state of my physical surroundings can have a big impact on my mental health (for better or worse), so having a space where I enjoy spending time is helpful when cold weather is bumming me out. I focus on keeping my home tidy, lighting my favorite candles, and having plenty of blankets to snuggle up with. Even if you’re not a homebody like me, set up your home to have all your favorite things in one place and turn your living space into your own personal sanctuary. It makes another night at home much more enjoyable and you might even look forward to the sun setting at 4 p.m.

    3. Wake up earlier
    OK, hear me out. I know getting up at 6 a.m. isn’t easy—especially when it’s cold and the sun has barely risen—but I’ve found that starting my day earlier and getting to bed earlier helps me feel my best through the daylight savings changes. Since it’s dark by the time I leave the office, I like to work out, run errands, or just sit and read by the window in the morning so I can spend as much time as possible soaking up the sunlight. Getting more light might even help with symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder, so if you work in an office or have limited windows until the sun sets, wake up a little earlier to fit in sunlight whenever you can.

    4. Stay active
    If you’re anything like me, your favorite place to be when it’s cold outside (or let’s be honest, any time) is in bed. The desire to be tucked under the covers at all times combined with indulging in less-than-nutritious holiday treats often leaves me feeling lethargic and in the mood to hibernate all winter. While resting and recovering are important parts of self-care and the body needs different things during different seasons (AKA if you’re feeling more lethargic this time of year, that’s OK), I know that staying active makes my mind and body feel best. Exercise is an instant mood booster and stress reducer, which we can all use when we’re feeling down during this time of year. If you’re really not feeling like getting off your couch, don’t force yourself into a five-mile jog or intense HIIT class. Instead, bundle up and go on a walk if it’s not too cold outside, do relaxing yoga in your living room, or dance around your kitchen while baking (yes, that counts as exercise too).

    5. Create a Routine
    It’s the middle of winter, which means the holidays are over but spring still feels so far from our reach. All the days start to feel the exact same (cold and monotonous), and it’s easy to fall into a mental health slump. When I start to feel bored, sluggish, and overall blah, I revert to my favorite morning and evening routines to keep me feeling motivated and calm. As a Virgo moon, sticking to a routine comes easily to me, but if your daily routine feels too, well, routine, try to add different practices to make your mornings, evenings, and self-care feel more enjoyable. Having a go-to routine can help decrease stress, improve your mood, and improve sleep, which are results we all want this time of year.

    8 Indoor Hobbies To Get You Through the Winter More

  • in

    How to Set Resolutions You’ll Actually Keep

    Even though I know I don’t have to wait for the new year to start a new habit, new beginnings leave me wanting to feel like a new(er) version of myself and make resolutions to get there. But whatever resolutions I decide to make, I know that I’m going to do it out of self-love, not self-hate. For example, if your resolution is to work out more, do it because exercise helps you manage stress or because exercise makes your body feel good and your body deserves it, not because you want to change your body as it is or punish your body for the food you ate over the holidays. When you make resolutions rooted in fear or self-hate, you’re more likely to abandon the goal altogether by March (trust me). Because you deserve to feel accomplished, confident, and happier by 2023, here’s how to set resolutions you’ll actually keep.

    1. Get clear on what you want and why
    Stop and reflect on the last year and how you want to feel in the new year. What does that look like for you? Think about what it would look and feel like when you meet your resolution, and get specific (and I mean really specific). One of my resolutions is to hit the treadmill for at least 30 minutes whenever the day has me stressed because I feel less stressed when I am able to move. Maybe for you, it’s leaving for work 20 minutes early because you want to feel more relaxed and not rushing in the morning helps (or you feel your most productive when you have time to pick up an oat milk brown sugar shaken espresso from Starbucks). Tune out other expectations and visualize all the details around how you want to feel, and then set action goals around that feeling.

    2. Make the resolution realistic and manageable 
    We often set resolutions that we think are manageable but are actually impossible, and it’s the unrealistic resolutions that’ll have you tripping. For starters, try not to make too many changes at once. I want you to dream big sis, but I also want you to understand the assignment. Break down larger goals into smaller ones to position yourself to celebrate and be motivated by small wins. If your resolution is to get a certification in your career field, break that resolution into tasks, like getting the study materials or registering for the exam, to figure out your targeted completion date. Proclaiming that you’ll study six hours every day when you can realistically only study two hours a day might leave you feeling discouraged or overwhelmed and eventually ghosting your resolution. 

    3. Plan ahead
    Give your resolutions a fighting chance by setting yourself up for success. Try attaching your resolutions to any established habits you already have that you do regularly without thinking about it. If your resolution is to read eight books this year, and you’ve made more it manageable by breaking it down to read for at least 10 minutes everyday, make getting into bed your “trigger habit” to get cozy with a good book. Check if any of your resolutions pair well together. For example, your resolution to level up your skincare routine would go great with your bedtime reading resolution. Plan ahead by having your skincare items within reach and pick out a book ahead of time for your nightstand. The key is to find maintainable steps you can proactively take that support your resolution and work for you and your lifestyle.

    4. Switch up your routine
    One of my favorite quotes is “The definition of insanity is to do the same things and expect different results.” If your resolution is to change jobs, what do you intend to do differently this year to get to that resolution? More specifically, what habits do you have now that are holding you back from that resolution? Maybe you tend to lose two to three hours each night watching TV or scrolling on social media that could be spent fluffing up your resume or making connections on LinkedIn. Reassess your current routines and how you’re spending your time to block out time that would be better used to learn a professional skill, check job listings, or network with professionals in your industry. What we water grows, so realistically update your routine to reflect your new priorities.
     
    5. Schedule checkpoints
    Stay on track throughout the year by scheduling checkpoints. Depending on the length of your resolution, these dates can be weekly, monthly, or quarterly. Because you’ve thought about what it looks and feels like to meet your resolution, you’ll have the metrics needed to be able to tell how it’s going. For example, if your resolution is to save $5,000 for a vacation at the end of 2022, try checking your progress monthly. Have you been depositing $417 each month into your savings? Do you need to make any changes to your budget to help you stay on track? The pre-scheduled checkpoints give you a chance to reward yourself if you’ve met your smaller goals or adjust as necessary if you’ve been struggling. Having a schedule in place will increase the likelihood that you’ll hit your resolution by Dec. 31. 

    6. Get an accountability buddy
    I love checking in with my sister on the progress we’re both making with our goals. We encourage each other to stay focused on the big picture. Even though our resolutions aren’t exactly the same, our check-ins with each other are reminders not only to keep going but also that we’re not alone in successes or challenges. Your accountability buddy can also be someone in your virtual Weight Watchers group or book club. Having someone to bounce ideas off of, vent to, or be encouraged by makes a huge difference. It’s not about someone holding you accountable because you don’t have the ability to hold yourself accountable (hint: you should enjoy and feel motivated by your goals so much that it’s not hard to hold yourself accountable). Instead, having a “buddy” is about built-in support (it takes a village to reach a resolution!). 
     
    7. Stay inspired
    In order to stay motivated to reach your resolution, immerse yourself in foods, activities, content, and music that inspire you. If you’ve decided to learn French this year, make a French cuisine dinner with your friends to eat while you watch a French film and see how many words you were able to recognize. If your resolution is to run a marathon in the fall, listen to training techniques via YouTube or listen to podcasts with trainers and marathon winners that will keep you inspired and excited. There’s so much content out there to motivate you as you go after your resolution, so immerse yourself in whatever way will keep you inspired. 

    8. Remember your “why”
    Whenever I get distracted from my resolutions, I go back to why I started in the first place and remember that initial intention and how I want to feel. When you’re clear on what you want and why you want it, it’s easier to stay focused—especially when your “why” is rooted in something that matters to you like confidence, happiness, or a longer life. The pride that you feel from learning how to create a healthy and nutritious dish that gives you energy without sacrificing flavor or the idea of spending a longer life with the people you love will motivate you more than the desire to have a six-pack ever could. 

    9. Be kind to yourself
    Show yourself compassion if (and when) you fall short of your expectations. Talk to yourself as you would a friend (and we both know that friends don’t let friends trash talk themselves!). Journal or document your progress and also how you’ve been feeling while taking steps toward your resolution. Making progress toward your resolution is more important than being “perfect” or hitting your exact goals because you’re still getting closer to how you want to feel and the intention that matters to you. If you put yourself down or feel bad for not hitting certain expectations, your chances of ghosting said resolution will go up, so be kind to yourself, talk to yourself like you would a friend, and know that sometimes, resolutions are meant to be a starting point to become our best selves, not a final destination.
     

    The 15 Best Books for Your New Year’s Resolutions

      More

  • in

    Subscriptions to Gift the Wellness Lover in Your Life This Holiday

    If you’re looking for a gift they’ll actually use or need something last minute that still looks like you put a lot of thought into it, I have the solution for you: wellness subscriptions. If you’re anything like me, you spend most of the holiday season searching for the perfect gift that will make your loved one’s eyes light up when they open it. I love gifting items that my friends and family wouldn’t have thought to buy themselves, and I take great pride in finding unique pieces I know they’ll cherish or use every day. But there are times when someone on my list already has everything they need, so a trinket doesn’t seem like the right answer (looking at you, Dad). That’s when I resort to giving the gift of a membership or subscription. 
    And we’re not talking about the sample size boxes of the past. Subscriptions have come a long way and offer everything from meals to activities to products. Plus, a subscription that will help them eat healthier, exercise more, practice their spiritual health, or boost their mental health will not only be a favorite present during the holidays but will also help them reach their healthiest self in 2022—it’s quite literally the gift that keeps on giving. Read on for wellness boxes and memberships they’ll be sure to enjoy for months to come.

    Nutrition

    Healthy Surprise
    Snack Boxes
    Have a friend who’s recently gone vegan or has food sensitivities? By gifting a subscription to Healthy Surprise’s snack box, you can help keep their pantry stocked with dairy-free, gluten-free, soy-free, corn-free, wheat-free, and non-GMO goodies. Whether you select the Classic Box with 15 snacks, the Paleo box with 17 snacks, or the Big Box with 21 snacks, each box will feature a mix of bars, fruits and veggies, drinks, chips, candy, and nuts. Healthy Surprise offers 30, 60, or 90-day delivery frequencies and one, three, six, or 12-month subscription plans.

    Healthy Snack Boxes
    This subscription box is perfect for the health-conscious fitness lovers in your life. Each month, they’ll receive a mix of chips, jerky, drinks, snack bars, and granola, all of which are GMO-free, high in protein, low in sugar, gluten-free, organic, raw, vegan, and all natural. As a nice bonus, Fit Snack also includes nutritional tips, workouts, recipes, and mindfulness exercises with their subscriptions. Share this box with your fit friends for one, three, six or 12 months.

    Blue Apron
    Meal Subscription
    Give your loved one the gift of never having to decide what’s for dinner with a subscription to Blue Apron’s meal kits. The meals are also a great option for the person on your list who hates meal prepping or finding recipes (it’s me, I’m that person). Menu options span from vegetarian to WW-approved options, making this a foolproof gift to share with any friend, regardless of dietary preferences or health goals.

    Daily Harvest
    Meal Delivery Service
    For the loved one who loves to eat healthy but hates to cook, Daily Harvest has dozens of plant-based options, ranging from nutrient-rich smoothies to delicious bowls to vegan and gluten-free flatbreads that arrive freshly frozen for you to heat up whenever you need a meal on demand. Don’t sleep on their lattes, plant-based milks, and ice cream.

    Fitness

    Studio Bloom
    Online Pregnancy/Postpartum Studio Classes
    If you have a new mom on your Christmas list this year, a Studio Bloom membership is a great option if you know they’re working on their pregnancy or postpartum fitness journey. Studio Bloom by The Bloom Method is an on-demand fitness studio with over 300 exercise videos for every stage of pregnancy and motherhood. A subscription also gives access to an online community of like-minded mamas, free consultations with pelvic floor specialists, meditations, and recipes. Memberships are available monthly for $29 or annually for $240.

    Treadthrill
    Intensity Interval Training Subscription
    For the cardio lover in your life, Treadthrill is the ideal gift to keep them running through winter months. Think of it like your personal coach or trainer, with workouts designed for maximum results using choreographed high intensity interval training.

    American Ballet Theatre Zoom Classes
    Does your bestie dream of being on Dancing With The Stars or loves ballet? Look no further for the perfect gift than classes from the American Ballet Theatre. You can take classes from professional ballerinas and choreographers from the comfort of your own home so your loved one can live out their ballet dreams, whether they’re a seasoned dancer or newbie.

    obé Fitness
    Fitness Subscription
    Obé Fitness is basically a boutique fitness studio in your pocket. Filled with dozens of different kinds of workouts from barre to HIIT cardio to kickboxing to yoga, there’s something for everyone. They have an entire library of “express” workouts for 10 minutes and under as well as classes ranging from 30 to 60 minutes. (Trust us, the express classes are legit—you’ll be done with your workout in less time than it takes to make breakfast, but you’ll feel sore for days). Use code “TEG50” for 50% off your first month of Obé in addition to the seven-day free trial. 

    Spiritual Health

    Chakra Balance Shop
    Chakra Box Subscription
    Send good vibes to your spiritual Secret Santa with a Chakra Box Subscription by Chakra Balance Shop. They’ll receive a total of nine boxes with vegan and cruelty-free products, hand selected to assist in aligning a different chakra every month. Subscribers can expect to see a mix of nine to 12 items in each box, including essential oils, teas, crystals, affirmations, and meditations. Each box is $28.50.

    Mindfulness Membership
    We’ve tried the Headspace app before at The Everygirl and recommend anyone with anxiety to give it a try. If you have a friend who’s always stressed, has a hard time sleeping, or is just interested in practicing more general mindfulness, a Headspace membership may be just the thing for them. For $69.99/year or $12.99/month, your loved ones can use Headspace to meditate, exercise, and improve sleep and focus.

    To Be Magnetic
    Manifestation Program
    For the friend who is always working on their vision board, the Pathway Membership by Lacy Phillips is a thoughtful gift that will change their lives. Members will learn to unblock subconscious limiting beliefs and begin manifesting their best lives. The program offers a few pricing options: 12 monthly payments of $27, one annual payment of $324, or $1,500 for a lifetime membership.

    Mental Health

    Self-Care Subscription Box
    Give the gift of self-love and happiness this holiday season. TheraBox is touted as the #1 self-care subscription box with six to eight full-sized products curated by therapists every month. Subscribers will receive mindful activities and journals to process their thoughts and emotions as well as beauty and wellness products to #TreatYoSelf. There are a variety of subscription options, such as monthly for $34.99, three months for $99.99, six months for $191.94, or 12 months for $371.88.

    CoachCrate
    Personal Development Subscription Box
    If someone on your gifting list loves all things personal development and growth, they’ll love a CoachCrate subscription this year (trust me, I’d know. It’s on my wish list). Not one but two boxes are mailed out quarterly and include goodies like personal growth books, coaching plans, custom journals, and two to four self-care or wellness products. Because CoachCrate is so committed to the development of their subscribers, they also offer live Zoom workshops, quarterly challenges, and an online community. Payment options start at $94 for the year or $99 per quarter.

    Silk + Sonder
    Wellness Subscription Box
    For the wellness lover in your life whose favorite section of Target is the stationery aisle, give the gift of a Silk + Sonder subscription. Each month, members will receive a themed planner with writing prompts and exercises for self-reflection. These specially curated planners provide reflection, guidance, planning tools, and accountability. Access to daily audio rituals, a members-only community, and thoughtfully curated content are also included in a Silk + Sonder membership. Subscriptions are available monthly for $19.95, quarterly for $18/month, and annually for $14.90/month.

    25 Edible Gifts To Send to Your Friends This Holiday Season More