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      5 Italian Girl Wellness Hacks I Learned in Italy That Improved My Life

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      If I could live out of my suitcase, I would. Trying local food, visiting new places, and meeting interesting people fills my soul with happiness. However, the late nights, heavy meals, and few too many cocktails that usually accompany vacations leave my body feeling a bit blah. So, after visiting Italy this fall, I was surprised that I came home leaner and more energized. How could eat pasta, gelato, and unrestricted amounts of cheese and actually feel…healthier? 
      It turns out this is a pretty common experience for gals who visit the Land of Romance and Wine (AKA Italy). While many popular diets demonize Italian staples like pasta and pizza, Italy is one of the world’s healthiest countries. But you don’t have to live there to reap the benefits of the Italian lifestyle. Here are five wellness hacks I picked up from women in Italy that I’ve started incorporating into my life since I got home. Trust me–they make a huge difference. 

      1. Live an active lifestyle 
      Raise your hand if you’re guilty of busting your butt at a workout class only to sit at your desk the rest of the day. While some movement is better than no movement, living an active lifestyle is far healthier than only exercising an hour a day. In Italy, I didn’t maintain my usual structured workout routine, but I walked everywhere. Many of the Tuscan towns we visited didn’t allow cars within the city, so we explored the picturesque cobblestone paths by foot. 
      Although it’s challenging to move as much as we did on vacation on a daily basis, my husband and I did bring one habit home with us: la passeggiata. La Passeggiata is the Italian ritual of going on a leisurely evening stroll. The goal of this walk isn’t to break a sweat, but rather to catch up with loved ones. We’ve found that this moment of calmness after the workday gives us a chance to reconnect and easily increase our daily movement. 

      2. Enjoy carbs in all their forms
      Before Italy, I’d fallen for the lie that carbs are the enemy, so my meals would solely revolve around veggies and protein, leaving me emotionally and physically unsatisfied. The lack of enthusiasm I had for my “healthy” meals and the level of intense restriction I put on myself set the groundwork for major carb cravings and late-night cookie binges. 
      When we got to Italy, I removed all of the restrictions I had set around food. I was determined to allow myself to fully experience all the cuisine Italy had to offer. I started my mornings with a ham and cheese croissant with a side of unlimited fruit and I ended my days with a bowl of pasta and a glass of wine. Contrary to what the diet industry says, I wasn’t left feeling sluggish and bloated. Rather, my energy improved, and allowing myself to indulge in foods I used to deem off limits eliminated the urge to binge eat. 
      Now that I’m home, I focus on cooking meals that make me feel my best physically and emotionally. For me, that means including carbs at every meal. If you’re still worried that carbs will wreck your wellness goals, you should know that dietitians have debunked the myth that carbs cause weight gain. In fact, restricting food groups in order to lose weight may actually backfire. 

      3. Eat locally-sourced foods
      The Tuscan countryside is scattered with intimate Italian getaways known as agriturismos. These little retreats tucked away in the rolling hills are working Italian farms offering visitors dining and lodging. The one we stayed at produces its own wine that we enjoyed nightly. Others we visited produce their own olive oil and serve meals using ingredients grown on their property or sourced from nearby farms. These meals often included homemade pasta with a simple sauce, local veggies, cheeses, meats, and truffles they’d hunted that morning. 
      As Americans, we don’t often stop to think about the quality of food we eat. We look for hyper palatability first and foremost, which leads to an overconsumption of salt, sugar, and unhealthy cooking oils. However, in Italy, local ingredients take center stage at every meal. Since the ingredients are so fresh, meals are delicious without the need to add filler ingredients. This leads to both a tastier and healthier diet. Since we got home, I’ve focused on purchasing as many ingredients as I can from my local farmer’s market. This has encouraged me to get more creative in the kitchen and drastically increased our fruit and veggie consumption. 

      4. Romanticize your meals 
      If you’re anything like I was, you scroll Instagram while eating breakfast, work on your computer while shoveling down lunch, and curl up to Netflix at the end of the day for dinner. While it’s tempting to multitask while you eat, it can work against your wellness goals. Research has shown that looking at screens while eating can cause overeating, plus you are just not fully mindful to allow your digestive system to relax. 
      Italians approach eating differently. You won’t find them eating in front of a laptop at lunch or staring at a TV screen during dinner. They approach meals with a reverence we’ve lost in the United States. There’s no eating on the go or while distracted. Instead, Italians have long lunches and dinners, taking the time to savor each bite and catch up with friends. I don’t always have the time to dedicate an hour of enjoyment to each meal, but I have started romanticizing my food. This means no more screens at mealtime and focusing on what I’m eating. When the weather is nice, I’ll enjoy my meals outside, and in the evenings, I may light a candle and turn on my favorite Spotify playlist to accompany my dinner. 

      5. Prioritize leisure
      I occasionally fall into the productivity trap. Eight-hour workdays easily become twelve-hour workdays, and Saturday mornings turn into an opportunity to squeeze in a couple of hours of writing. While I love my job, overworking leaves me uninspired, tired, and depressed. But after returning home from my trip to Italy, I noticed both my energy levels and excitement for my career rise. 
      Italians have perfected the art of relaxing. Long lunches, evening strolls, and kicking back with a few friends and a glass of wine aren’t occasional treats. They’re the norm. This balanced approach to life can help reduce stress, ultimately making you happier and more productive when you need to be. I now prioritize little pockets of relaxation throughout my day, which can look like reading a good book or ditching my laptop for a snuggle session with my dog.

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      Lili Reinhart Shared Powerful Tips for Managing Anxiety—And We’re Taking Notes

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      When it comes to celebs who lay it all out there, it doesn’t get much more real or refreshing than Lili Reinhart. Reinhart isn’t afraid to speak up openly and honestly about topics like body image, diet culture, anxiety, and depression. Sure, she graces our screens and the covers of countless magazines from BAZAAR to ELLE, but she’s also a staunch activist for mental health and body positivity, frequently sharing her own personal struggles with both.
      Reinhart recently sat down with Jay Shetty for his podcast, On Purpose with Jay Shetty, and she didn’t hold back on recapping her 15-year journey with anxiety. In her candid interview, she shared five healing techniques that have transformed her relationship with anxiety. Read on for the breakdown and five key takeaways that you can try to boost your mental health too.

      Allow yourself to feel all the feels 
      Reinhart recounted suppressing her feelings as a child because the messages surrounding showing emotion was to not cry and be brave. Reinhart now proudly embraces shedding tears and breaks down the stigma that it’s a sign of weakness: “Crying is the most beautiful thing you can do… I cry all the time,” Reinhart affirmed. “I think it’s the most healthy expression of how you’re feeling. I sometimes wish I just could’ve been told, ‘You can cry. There’s no shame in that. There’s no shame in how you’re feeling. And also you don’t always need to be justifying it.’” And when she is in the midst of an uncomfortable, painful feeling, Reinhart grounds herself by acknowledging how fortunate she is to have the capacity to experience it.
      It turns out having a good cry is good for your health. Researchers have found that crying releases the feel-good chemicals oxytocin and endogenous opioids (AKA endorphins), which help release both physical and emotional pain. So go ahead and sit with your feelings, acknowledge and experience them, and allow yourself to cry without judgment and justification à la Lili. You just might find that feeling all the feels is a source of healing. 

      Learn to feel whole by yourself 
      It goes without saying that people come and go in our lives, whether it’s the cycle of relationships or losing loved ones. And when we experience a loss, we’re often told to find an external distraction to help with the grief (think: go on a hike or pick up a new hobby) rather than turning to introspection. With the revolving door of connections in her life, Reinhart said she found it hard to identify who she is by herself, outside of her circle and work. On days she had nothing scheduled, her impulse was to plan trips or reach out to friends—anything to fill her time so that she wasn’t alone. Her new goal? Trying to simply exist and sit in stillness, without feeling like she needs to fill a void. “I want to be OK by myself,” Reinhart said.  
      With the rise of toxic productivity, it’s only natural to have the urge to stay busy and pack your calendar with obligations and social interactions. Instead, we should take a cue from Reinhart and work towards discovering the value of solitude and feeling complete with or without outside influences.  

      Create a new identity 
      Reinhart told Shetty that she used to be a pessimist, which served as a defense mechanism for disappointment and getting hurt, and she struggled with parting ways with that person she’s identified with for so long. Reinhart now makes conscious decisions to rewire the “that’s what I’ve always done” autopilot mindset. Recognizing that’s no easy feat, Reinhart explained, “It takes pausing and reflecting and making an active effort to shift that behavior.”
      To take Reinhart’s advice, ask yourself, “Who do I want to be?” and reflect on who you are today while actively setting goals and choosing to build new habits to become the best version of yourself (see: future-self journaling). At the same time, let go of attachments to your old identity and any beliefs, patterns, or assumptions that may be holding you back from realizing your higher self. 

      Connect with your higher self 
      As an important step in her healing, Reinhart explored various wellness practices in search of her true self and purpose. “Two years ago the lockdown was forcing me to go through this healing journey by myself and my journey through healing was through spiritual healing,” described Reinhart. “It became an ‘I’m going to look inward’ [route].” After much experimentation, she found Reiki, sound baths, and meditation to be her standbys, crediting living in the Land of Wellness (AKA LA) and TikTok for guiding her to them. 
      Of course, what works for Reinhart (or Kendall Jenner or any other celeb, for that matter) may not resonate with you. But what we can all take away from Reinhart’s soul-searching is to keep an open mind when trying out different rituals to tune in to your higher self. You do you. Find what speaks to you, whether it’s words of affirmation, working out, or journaling, and don’t let any judgments from others deter you from it. 

      Take extra care of your gut
      Reinhart is a self-proclaimed fast-food lover, and she shared how her dietary choices led to not only her unhappiness with how she looked, but also her chronic fatigue. “I spend so much time trying to better my mental health and I don’t put any of that into my physical body,” Reinhart voiced. She also pointed out that recent studies have shown depression is directly linked to the gut, which gave her the main impetus for reprogramming her old eating habits.
      While the approach to gut health is very individualized, The Everygirl has gleaned a few expert-backed, tried-and-true tips on how to show your gut some TLC: stay hydrated, incorporate more natural fiber into your daily diet (hello, fruits and veggies), reach for fermented foods (think: sauerkraut, kefir, and tempeh), drink green tea, and prioritize quality Zzzs. Pay attention to your body’s cues, and if you notice symptoms like bloating, constipation, skin irritations, sleep issues, or constant fatigue, talk to your doctor and determine the best course of action for you. You can’t go wrong with listening to your gut after all. 

      These tips are not meant to serve as treatment for anxiety or depression. If you think you may be experiencing mental health symptoms, please seek help from your doctor, a mental health professional, and/or a trusted friend or family member. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this article.

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      An Inside Look at Kat Jamieson’s Morning Routine

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      Welcome to The Everygirl Podcast. Whether you’re looking for insider secrets from successful women that have your dream job, are interested in expert advice to transform your health and feel your best, or just want to be entertained and laugh along with us on your commute, we’ve got you covered.

      We love an OG blogger, and it doesn’t get any more ~blueprint~ OG than Kat Jamieson, also known as the voice behind the lifestyle blog With Love From Kat. But Kat is so much more than just a stunning aesthetic (speaking of, check out her iconic California home tour here and her glam Manhattan apartment here). Since starting her blog in 2011, she has been on a transformative wellness journey, and this week on The Everygirl Podcast she’s spilling all of the tea (or green juice) on how she got to where she is with health and wellness. Plus, Kat shares all of the details about her first book, Blended, which incorporates cooking, entertaining, and living well holistically. Read on for Kat’s four-step morning routine, and listen to this week’s episode of The Everygirl Podcast for more tips.

      1. Sip hot water with lemon
      Kat’s caffeine of choice is a matcha with coconut milk, but before she drinks anything caffeinated, she always sips on hot water with lemon. She loves starting her morning off with this ritual because it keeps her digestion regular, wakes her up, and gives her a boost of vitamin C. Kat knows that the first thing that she puts into her body is going to set the tone for the rest of her day, so she recommends drinking hot lemon water before any caffeine to boost hydration and stabilize digestion.
       
      2. Meditate
      Kat is a huge advocate for meditation, but she knows it’s unrealistic to “clear your brain” in the way that most of us expect to when we meditate. Instead of putting pressure on herself to have a completely “clear mind,” Kat sees meditation as a strategy session. “I use it as time to go through my to-do list, or check in with how I’m feeling about a certain relationship in my life, something I’m stressed about, or something I’m excited about,” Kat said. “I get some of my best ideas and creative thoughts during that time.”
      But meditation doesn’t just offer mental benefits–Kat also credits meditation to helping heal gut symptoms and help with digestion, by helping to relax stomach muscles. She’s felt the benefits of daily meditation in her alertness, mental health, social life, and physical well-being.

      Source: @katjamieson_

      3. Drink a green juice every morning
      Kat swears by her daily green juice so much that she got her husband onto the habit too. For years, Kat tried to get her husband to drink green juice in the mornings, and she consistently received the response that he was more of an eggs-for-breakfast person. But once he finally listened and gave Kat’s advice a try, he started to feel so much better. Green juice isn’t for everyone, but Kat herself is obsessed with the digestive benefits of drinking it every morning.

      4. Get outside for natural sunlight
      Before she starts the rest of her day, Kat loves to go outside and soak up some sunlight to feel energized and awake for the rest of the day. She loves to get outside and walk her dog, and–now that she lives in the suburbs–she’ll even walk barefoot in the grass to do some grounding. “There’s something about walking barefoot in the grass or sand that kind of recalibrates and really calms you down. I notice a huge difference when I do that,” she said. More

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      8 Products That Will Help You Romanticize Your Life This Fall

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      While I could go on about the benefits of fall (the fashion, Gilmore Girls reruns, PSLs, and of course, Halloween), it also has its downsides. With less sunlight and colder weather, fall can be the start of seasonal depression, and many of us may feel a little down or just plain blah. One way to help boost your mood? Romanticize your life. 
      Romanticizing your life is the act of finding joy in the mundane, day-to-day life. It’s easy to get stuck in a routine that just involves moving from one activity to the next, but romanticizing your life allows you to slow down and find joy in the little things. Whether it’s spicing up your wellness routine, investing in your personal development, or changing your evening wind-down, the options for romanticizing your life are unlimited. To help you get started, I’ve put together a list of products to help you romanticize your life for fall.

      Sunrise Alarm Clock
      Do you know what’s not romantic? Your alarm clock. I spent years waking up to the repetitive sound of my phone alarm before investing in a sunrise alarm clock, which was a total game-changer. I fully believe that how you start your day can impact the rest of it. Having a morning routine that begins with the sunrise alarm clock not only sets the tone for my day, it also means I don’t look at my phone first thing in the morning. Instead, I journal and meditate before getting ready for the day.

      Silk Pajamas
      Yes, you can even romanticize your sleep routine. Splurging on a pair of silk pajamas will not only get you one step closer to feeling like a Kardashian, but it will also help you look forward to something as mundane as a nightly routine. I can vouch that switching out a pair of sweatpants and an old T-shirt for these PJs has definitely elevated my sleep game. There’s nothing more luxurious than walking around your home in something that feels as elegant as you are. As a bonus, they’re machine-washable. Available in five colors.

      Mala the Brand
      Pumpkin Latte Candle
      One of the best ways to romanticize your life during the change in seasons is to switch up your home environment, and you don’t have to break the bank to do it. Making small changes, such as adding a fall-scented candle, is a great way to refresh your home. This eco-friendly pumpkin latte one from Mala the Brand is not only seasonally on brand, but also made from coconut-soy wax and phthalate and paraben-free fragrance and essential oils. Can’t you just picture lighting this candle and sitting down with a good read?

      Monika Hibbs
      Gather at Home: Over 100 Simple Recipes, DIYs, and Inspiration for a Year of Occasions
      This coffee table book gives you a little bit of everything. “Gather at Home” is a collection of recipes and DIY crafts categorized seasonally. From making pumpkin cashew coffee creamer to Thanksgiving dinner thankful cards and pumpkin spice blend, this book has the best mix of fall DIYs. It’s the must-have guidebook for romanticizing any meal or special occasion this fall.

      Superhuman
      Guided Meditation App
      As a breathwork facilitator, I believe there’s no better way to romanticize your life than  switching up your meditation routine. I recently started using the Superhuman App, a guided meditation app, and have been blown away by the benefits. It offers a wide array of meditations you can do anytime: while getting ready in the morning for work, going for a walk, or doing the laundry. Every meditation I’ve done resets my mind and helps me look at my environment in a more positive light. To give you another reason to try out the app, they have a meditation called “Romanticize Your Life.”

      dōTERRA®
      Essential Oils
      Essential oils can have a major impact on your living space and your body. Add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to a diffuser and instantly refresh your environment. Each oil has different properties that can affect your body in different ways. For example, lavender is known to be a calming oil that can soothe the skin and aid in restful sleep. Doterra carries so many naturally-sourced oils to choose from, each with its own benefits. Some of my favorites for the fall season include frankincense, which has a warm and spicy aroma that reminds me of fall, and vetiver, which has relaxing properties and makes a great addition to a warm bath. Choose from over 30+ oils.

      Anthropologie
      Pumpkin Mug
      Part of romanticizing your life means treating yourself because you deserve it! Adding a new fall mug to your morning coffee routine is just the ticket to get you excited to wake up and start your day. Because, what’s fall without the pumpkin-spiced latte? And this pumpkin-shaped mug from Anthropologie will be your new favorite go-to for the season. After all, romanticizing your life is about adding joy to your daily routine.

      Bath Salts
      I don’t think there’s a better way to romanticize your life than a warm bath at the end of a long day. Take it up a notch and upgrade your standard bath ritual, starting with these bath salts from Maude. Made with calming salt crystals from the Dead Sea, you’ll immediately feel the detoxifying and relaxing benefits. Soak while listening to music, reading, or sipping on your favorite fall beverage. Available in three different scents. 

      This article is meant to serve as inspiration for boosting mood, not as treatment for seasonal affective disorder, anxiety, or depression. If you think you may be experiencing mental health symptoms, it’s important to reach out and get help. See your doctor, get in contact with a therapist, and/or talk to a close friend or family member.

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      We All Have a Little Witch In Us—These Wellness Rituals Will Help Bring Out Yours

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      No doubt about it–fall is magical. The leaves change into all sorts of vibrant hues, the scent of cinnamon is everywhere you go, and the chill in the air bites in a way that almost feels personal. It’s a season that feels so alive, so it’s no wonder that fall is directly tied to mysticism. So much so that one of the key images of the season is a witch (Hocus Pocus, anyone?). Of course, with that title also comes dated stereotypes of what it means to be a witch: flying broomsticks, evil cauldrons, and a desire to eat children. But the true definition of a witch isn’t so easy to nail down.
      Historically, witches, or people accused of being witches, have come in many different forms, but most of them were women, and they were far from monstrous. Rather, they were masters of wellness, specializing in herbalism, midwifery, and other healing practices. Modern women are turning these rituals more mainstream, finding deep connection to the earth and nature, and leaning into practices that enhance their quality of life. So if you really think about it, embodying your inner witch is in itself a wellness practice. Read on for some wellness rituals that witches throughout the ages have used and loved that will help amplify your health for fall and beyond.

      1. Be more intentional with essential oils
      Scent is known to trigger both emotion and memory, so you can use scent to enhance your sense of self and impact the way you relate to the world around you. Instead of just the typical diffusing lavender oil to relax or sniffing peppermint oil for energy, DIY your own potions (see what I did there?) so you can tap into the kind of energy and emotion you associate with that scent at any time. Sniff or diffuse a wide range of essential oils (eucalyptus, lemon, etc.) and either see how the scent makes you feel or you can associate an affirmation to the smell.
      To take it a step further, blend your own concoction by starting with a base like jojoba or extra virgin olive oil, and pour into a small vial with a roller ball for easier application. Add a few drops of the essential oil of your choice to the base (essential oil alone might be irritating for the skin, which is why you combine with another oil to dilute) to rub onto temples, wrists, or other pressure points when needed. Top off the vial with some flower petals or fresh herbs to enhance the smell while beautifying the blend. As with all rituals, remember that setting an intention for the practice will amplify its effects. Assign a word (like bravery, compassion, or confidence) to your potion and apply the oil to your skin whenever you need to be reminded of that intention. 

      2. Update your bath routine
      Baths have been important for both hygiene and ritual for centuries. Water has often been used not only to cleanse the body, but also your mind and energy. And when you’re intentional about supplementing your bath water with herbs, flowers, or crystals, you can amplify its healing properties. Forget boring bubble bath–there are countless combinations you can create when devising your bath ritual. I like basil or eucalyptus plants to relax muscles, lavender or chamomile to relax the mind, rose petals and basil for skin glow, or crystals like Rose quartz and Amethyst to clear out anxious energy and invite peace into your space. 
      I believe that if you’re drawn to a particular plant or crystal, your intuition is guiding you to use it for your benefit. But if you’re a researcher like me, feel free to hit the books (like here or here) for all the healing properties that plants and stones have to offer. Go wild and apply whatever calls to you. Once again, bath rituals are sealed by the intentions you set for them, so think about what you’re cleansing, renewing, healing, or inviting in.

      3. Light some incense to reset energy in your space
      Many different cultures throughout history have burned herbs and incense as a way to clear stale energy from a space to make it feel vibrant and fresh. With the rise in palo santo and sage becoming more mainstream, it’s important to honor and remember where they come from, so do your research and honor the ritual. For incense, Frankincense and Myrrh are two options that have withstood the test of time and are still known for their healing properties. When it comes to lighting herbs and incense, do your research and find a type that calls to you to clear out space in. your home. 
      And remember, intention has to be at the core of any ritual. If it’s not, the practice is just fluff. Set the intention to clear stuck energy and invite fresh, loving vibes into your home. As the scent lingers, visualize the space being utilized in a way that feels good to you. This is a great ritual to do consistently, especially when you’re using your space as a work-from-home set-up. This ritual can help you meet specific goals at work, or ease out of work mode into relaxation. 

      4. Future journal to become the person you want to be
      You didn’t think I’d write a witchy post without at least one nod to spell-casting, did you? Journaling is a powerful way to cast daily “spells” because you are quite literally alchemizing your thoughts into tangible words on a page. Journaling in itself is a little bit magical. When you journal your intentions for how you want to feel, what you want to be doing, or how you want to be acting in the future, you’re better able to visualize yourself in that future role. This makes it easier to embody yourself in that role now, which is one of the fastest ways to manifest the life you want.
      So go ahead and write about the higher version of yourself. Then focus on all the elements I just laid out: how you want to feel, how you want to act, and what you’d like to be doing in the future. Take a few moments to embody who it is you’ve just written about, and notice how your energy shifts. If that’s not magic, I don’t know what is.

      5. Choose a single-word affirmation for each day
      If journaling feels like too lengthy an endeavor, another quick alchemizing trick is to choose a word or phrase that you want to embody on any given day. For example, if you have a big meeting you’re a little nervous about, “capable” might be your word of choice. Visualize yourself completely personifying this word and feel free to write it down somewhere that will be visible to you all day long, like on a post-it note by your desk. It can be just as powerful to embody a single word as it is to envision an entire future for yourself, so long as you set the intention to make it stick.

      6. Connect with nature on a regular basis
      Science has proven that electrons on the earth’s surface can transfer energy from the ground to our bodies, calming our nervous systems. We know that nature is healing. But guess what? Cultures, tribes, and world religions have known that for thousands of years (including witches). Anyone with a keen sensitivity to shifting energy will argue that the effects of this particular ritual are undeniable. Try earthing or grounding, which involves walking barefoot outside, or forest bathing, which means being in nature (a trail, forest, park, etc.) to reap more benefits.
      Take a moment to feel your bare feet on the ground in whatever way feels comfortable. Visualize any energy that does not serve you being pulled into the ground, feel gratitude for the oxygen that trees and plants supply, and check in with yourself if there are any insights that come up for you. You might be surprised what comes through. This is an especially good ritual for those of us with busy minds because it encourages us to slow down and reconnect to our inner voice of wisdom. Trust me when I say, your nervous system will thank you.

      How Make the Most of Cozy Girl Fall More

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      10 Nighttime Routine Essentials That’ll Make You Look Forward to Bedtime

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      If you ask me, there are few things as satisfying as a solid’s night rest. You wake up bright-eyed and bushy-tailed, refreshed and ready to take on the day feeling like a boss. Plus, those dark under-eye circles that no amount of concealer can hide are nowhere in sight. While there isn’t a one-size-fits-all nighttime routine that’ll magically guarantee quality shut-eye, there are some tried-and-true staples to provide the calmness we all need for a good ol’ wind-down. And as someone who will do just about anything to get her beauty rest (because self-care), you better believe I’ve vetted them all. Below are the ten nighttime routines that passed the test with flying colors—from a tasty sleep aid to trusty gizmos. 

      Equilibria
      Rapid Sleep Melts
      A melt-in-your-mouth “treat” that puts you to sleep may sound too good to be true, but this sleep aid checks all the boxes. Consider it the turndown service at your beck and call. The best part? It’s fast-acting. (It has “rapid” in its name for a reason.) We’re talking about falling asleep in as little as ten minutes. Did I mention it’s not only tasty but also sugar-free? It’s made of all-natural ingredients, so you can rest assured it’s doing your body good as soon as your head hits the pillow. Don’t snooze on this find.
      Use code theeverygirl for 20% off your first order at Equilibria!

      Hooga Health
      Red Light Therapy Device
      Forgo the hefty price tag of red light therapy at a spa or trendy health clinic, and instead, go with a DIY device to soak up the regenerative benefits of it in the comfort of your own home. Studies show that RLT can improve sleep quality and duration as well as enhance skin complexion. I’d call that a win-win.

      Primally Pure
      Warm Citrus Spice Room Spray
      Cardamom, wild orange, cinnamon bark, and other wildcrafted botanicals come together to create the warmth and comfort of fall in a (recyclable) bottle. With purifying, antibacterial properties that help to create a peaceful mindset and vibe, minimize stress, and promote relaxation, this spray will take you straight to dreamland. 

      Luxury Sheet Set
      Sleep experts say the optimal room temperature for a healthy snooze is between 65°F and 72°F. Enter: this sustainably-made cooling sheet set that’s thermal-regulating (read: helps maintain just the right body temp), breathable, and ridiculously soft. You’ll fall fast asleep in record time. Available in ten colors.

      Sleep Tea
      Forget warm milk. This soothing herbal tea blend packs a punch with calming and grounding effects on the nervous system, and we’re here for it. The ingredients speak for themselves: Valerian is a natural sedative that may help you fall asleep faster, while catnip can ease restlessness. The main takeaway? No counting sheep needed. 

      2-in-1 Humidifier & Diffuser
      An all-in-one humidifier and diffuser (with a sleek design, might I add), this gadget is a godsend for blissful sleep. Say goodbye to dryness and hello to breathing easy and deep relaxation. The lulling scents of sleep-inducing essential oils, like lavender, chamomile, and ylang-ylang, don’t hurt either. Available in two colors.

      Cushion Lab
      Deep Sleep Pillow
      PSA: Not all pillows are created equal. Do yourself a favor and stop tossing and turning, trying to get comfortable on the pillow you can’t remember when you last replaced. Instead, treat yourself to this heavenly stack. It’s the perfect balance of soft, zero-pressure cushioning and contouring support. And it will undoubtedly have you sleeping like a baby, no matter your preferred sleep position. Added perk: It comes with a no-skin-creases-and-hair-frizz pillowcase.

      MATE the Label
      Tencel Sleep Tee Dress
      If you’ve been catching your Zzzs in the same old T-shirt that’s seen better days, it’s time for an upgrade. This dreamy, ultra-comfy sleep tee dress only gets better with wear. Thanks to its luxuriously soft blend of TENCEL™ and organic cotton fabric (hello, sustainability), getting out of bed will be that much harder. Available in six colors.

      Kindle Paperwhite
      Sometimes, you just need a good book to put you to sleep. In fact, according to a study, it only takes six minutes of reading to reduce stress and increase relaxation. With the Kindle, you’ll have thousands of titles at your fingertips to doze off to Snoozeville with. And although it’s a little pricey, it’ll pay for itself in restful nights of sleep.

      Naturally Serious
      C Your Glow Vitamin C Radiance Oil
      Kill two birds with one stone by giving your sleep and face a mini makeover with this hydrating Vitamin C oil. It combines plant-based 2% THD Ascorbate Vitamin C with a concentrated blend of natural oils and extracts. And the result? The reduced appearance of dryness, fine lines, and wrinkles for brighter, more radiant skin (a major glow-up). While the product may not help you sleep through the night, its formula will work its magic while you snooze. 

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      in health and weelbeing

      Kendall Jenner’s Tips for Living As Her Highest Self Are Pretty Genius

      by

      Whether you watch The Kardashians or you’re one of her 260 million IG followers, you know Kendall Jenner is no stranger to the spotlight but also to the wellness scene. IV therapy, cold plunges, meditation sound bowls, and journaling are a few wellness practices she religiously stands by. If that doesn’t convince you of her self-proclaimed health obsession, her state-of-the-art room dedicated to all things wellness will. Complete with a hyperbaric chamber, red light therapy bed, and oxygen therapy machine, it’s every wellness girl’s dream (major envy). Gadgets and gizmos aside, Kendall has open dialogues with the media and on social media about her mental health and struggles with anxiety.
      Thanks to her recent interview with Jay Shetty on his podcast, On Purpose with Jay Shetty, I got the 411 on her self-work and steadfast wellness rituals. Read on for how she stays in tune with her highest self. Spoiler alert: They’re practices you won’t find on Hulu or Instagram, and we can all benefit from them.  

      Foster your higher goddess
      In Kendall’s work with her therapist, she focuses on living in her higher goddess, AKA her higher self. What does that look like? Words of affirmation, reassuring yourself of who you are, and recognizing everything else is just noise. “Sometimes it feels weird to say good things about yourself, but I’ve also learned a lot about talking to myself and a lot about looking in the mirror and being like, ‘You’re great. You’re gorgeous. You’re amazing. You’re loyal. You’re positive.’” 
      Admittedly, Kendall falls victim to false narratives. Like us all, she has moments she struggles to stay true to who she is and her purpose. “If your happiness depends on the actions of others, you’re at [the] mercy of things that you can’t control,” she stated. Kendall emphasized holding your own happiness and not letting anyone else affect it. If you know yourself and the people important in your life know your true self, nothing else should matter. When Shetty asked Kendall, “What’s something you used to value but you don’t value anymore?” Her answer? Validation. 

      Set aside alone time
      It’s no secret that Kendall is surrounded by a large family and famous friends (hey, Hailey Bieber) in addition to her entourage. But she told Shetty that since she was a kid, the Scorpio in her enjoyed being by herself. “I went through a phase where I felt like I had to be around people,” shared Kendall. “I think I live a very social life, and my job is very social, so I was kind of conditioned to want to be around people a lot. And then, as the pandemic came around, you’re not around as many people anymore. Now I’m just re-enjoying being by myself, which is really cool.”
      At the end of the day, Kendall craves a simple routine. Her perfect day consists of riding her horses, taking a cold plunge, laying out, and journaling. Taking a cue from Kendall, give yourself space and step away when needed. Additionally, be comfortable in your own company. Sometimes the best remedy for a bad day is journaling (yes, it bears repeating), taking a solo walk outside, meditating, or picking up a new hobby.

      Set boundaries at work 
      Let’s face it: We all experience burnout, celeb or not. Kendall expressed there was a long period of time she was overworked, felt overwhelmed, and said “yes” to every opportunity—to the point where she was unhappy. (Can anyone else relate?) Eventually, she learned to prioritize herself. She realized her well-being was necessary to show up better in her personal and professional life. So, she took a step back in her career to reconnect with her higher self: “I got to that point, and I just knew I had to do it…” Kendall explained. “It was just such an unbelievable sensation that I had where I knew that if I do this, I’m gonna be better for everyone. And I’m gonna be better for myself, which means I’m gonna be better for the people around me.”
      Learn to recognize the signs of burnout (think: fatigue, feeling apathetic with your work, changes to your sleep patterns). Then, enforce work-life boundaries to care for your mental health and restore a healthy balance. Maybe that means being upfront and clearly communicating with your boss. Perhaps, it means taking time off. Or, maybe, it’s just saying “no” to taking on more projects or a meeting invite scheduled during your lunch break. Ultimately, your mental and physical health should be your number one priority. (I know that’s sometimes easier said than done.)

      Stay grounded in your relationships 
      When it comes to her family and friends, Kendall told Shetty that honesty and communication are her core values in maintaining healthy relationships. “I find it really important to not feel like you’re on top of each other when you have your family around or your friends around,” she said. “It’s OK to sometimes, even if you’re at a family dinner, run to the bathroom and just being like, ‘Let me just take a couple breaths because this is getting overwhelming.’” 
      Kendall shared that she’s prone to anxiety and can take things too seriously. When she feels inundated with family circumstances or stress, she recognizes her feelings: “I’m allowed to feel this way; it’s valid. I’m just going to take a deep breath, and I’m not going to react, and then I’m going to go back out there, and I’m going to be fine.” Try being in Kendall’s shoes (wouldn’t that be fun?) and pause whenever you feel overwhelmed. Give yourself a safe space to express your feelings. Do this through journaling, speaking to a mental health professional, or practicing deep breathing.  

      Nurture your inner child
      After a viral TikTok trend encouraging viewers to stop negative self-talk by picturing their younger selves, Kendall’s therapist suggested she put a spin on it: Find a photo of herself as a child to put on her bathroom mirror. Take a glance at her Instagram, and you’ll see the Polaroid of young Kendall. It serves as a daily reminder that anything negative that she says about herself, she’s saying to that beaming, hair bow-wearing younger version of herself. “If I’m ever looking in the mirror and being negative toward myself, I always look right over to her, and I’m like, ‘She’s dope, and I love her,’” Kendall laughed.
      Bottom line: Practice self-love and find tactics that work for you. Perhaps it’s by exercising mindfulness or putting yourself and your needs first. Maybe it’s simply making yourself a healthy meal. Regardless of your method, keep being kind to yourself, just as you would your 5-year-old self or BFF

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      It’s Time for a Life Edit—Here’s a Step-by-Step Guide

      by

      Like many, I spent a good part of the pandemic feeling out of control. With my work hours cut, my rental house being put up for sale, and the consistent state of languishing, I was overwhelmed by the unfamiliar chaos of my life. I held on to whatever predictability I could depend on. But with perfectly aligned timing, manifestation found its way into my life. I first learned about the concept from my social media feeds. Alongside influencers and the wellness elite, I saw posts from friends sharing the magic of manifestation.
      As I dove into the practice, I found myself wanting a little more support in designing the life of my dreams. An annual life edit helped me create clarity and carve out space to attract what I really wanted. Read on–the results are worth it! 

      What is a life edit?
      I learned about the concept from one of my favorite podcasts, Almost 30. In Ep. 296, co-host Krista Williams shares how a life edit gave her more clarity and mental peace. As a key step in manifesting your dream life, a thorough edit is intended to help you see every part of your life in its current state. Take a deep dive into all facets of your life: digital, home, finance, wellness, mental health, and social. By doing this, you give yourself the opportunity to spend significant time sifting through the “clutter” and clearing space for what you want to manifest.
      For me, a life edit was the missing piece that helped me lean into manifestation. While manifesting is about turning your thoughts into reality, the reality you want doesn’t simply come about by wishing for it. Instead, manifestation is a matter of intentional alignment. Essentially, you’re learning to shift your actions, beliefs, and habits to support the life you want for yourself. But of course, you can’t change what you’re not yet aware of. And that, dear readers, is where a life edit comes in.
      Think of a life edit as a re-evaluation. It’s an opportunity to take stock and get a pulse on where your life is right now. The best way to clean a space is to (painstakingly) take everything out and only put back what you really want. That’s exactly what we’re doing with a life edit, but it isn’t just your physical stuff. By slowing down and observing our lives, we can see what to let go of and what we ultimately want to welcome in. The space between our dreams and reality becomes so much closer. Let’s go through the six areas you’ll focus on, plus tips and tricks to ensure you’re getting the most from your life edit.

      How to do a life edit
      Step 1: Reflect
      While I’m one to jump into things before I know how to succeed, I’m trying to break that habit by taking intentional pauses. So, while a life edit sounds exciting (spoiler: it is), the best way to ensure you get what you need is to get quiet and spend some time with your journal. Not a fan of journaling? Think of it this way: Putting our thoughts into words gives them permanency that keeping beliefs in our heads can’t. It’s a bit like creating a roadmap for yourself, and people who swear by their morning pages can attest: It’s one of the best ways to find a little much-needed clarity. 
      In your journal, designate six different sections where you can reflect on the following areas of your life: Digital, home, financial, wellness, mental health, and social life. From there, respond to the following questions:

      What do I want more of in this area of my life?
      What feels overwhelming?
      Do I feel any blocks keeping me from achieving my goals?
      What do I want to introduce more of? 
      What can I release?
      How would it look to feel a greater sense of peace?

      Step 2: Accept that this will be a challenging process
      Before diving in, I want you to know that this part of your life edit can take a while. There’s no set timeline, but you want to be sure not to rush the process. Be patient and give yourself grace. We often don’t give ourselves enough credit for how challenging it can be to let go of objects or say goodbye to relationships that no longer serve us. And coming face to face with the reality of our financial lives can be a hard pill to swallow.
      Initially, these truths kept me from acting on what I’d written in my journal. I wanted to start saving more money but seeing my spending habits brought on a whole bout of shame. And while I no longer wanted to feel obligated to pour effort into a relationship, my fear of conflict kept me from standing up for myself. The best thing you can do is move forward. It will be difficult and uncomfortable, but nothing is more challenging than staying stuck.

       
      Step 3: Take action
      Once you’ve spent enough time reflecting and journaling, identify the area of your life you want to focus on first. (Pro tip: Start with what feels like will be the easiest and build momentum from there.) With your journal responses as guidance, take the time to sift and sort through everything that relates to this part of your life. So if you’re starting with your digital life, focus on your devices and online presence. Spend time with your phone and computer to delete old texts, re-evaluate contacts, and clear your inbox. Unsubscribe from emails that cause you stress, and make sure you’re not signed up for subscriptions you no longer use. Do you want to spend less time on social media? Do you need to let go of a few profiles that leave you feeling drained? Consider the steps that will help you reach your goals. 
      Personally, I had the most fun Marie Kondo-ing my apartment. It gave me the opportunity to separate my things into keep, donate, and trash piles. (The closet purge was the most satisfying part.) Remember: No life edit looks the same. This will be a deeply personal and emotional process that might cause you stress in certain areas where others will feel completely calm. That’s perfectly fine! One thing that’s consistent across all life edits? You’ll feel more aligned and confident about where you’re giving your focus, attention, and energy as you step into this next season of life.

      I finished. Now what?
      While I like to do a life edit on a yearly basis, there’s nothing stopping you from doing one as often as you’d like. The purpose is to notice when you’re feeling overwhelmed and to lean into a life edit to bring you greater clarity. And yes, it feels amazing to make your way through the process. However, it’s important to remember that it’s an ongoing journey. The ever-elusive concept of balance isn’t something we’re meant to achieve and maintain at all times. We meet new people, embrace new goals, and welcome new objects into our lives every day. By viewing a life edit as a perennial practice, you can trust you have what you need to create the life that you want.

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