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      Consider This Manifestation Expert’s 7 Steps Your 2023 Roadmap

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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.

      Let’s get corny for a second. When manifestation first started to go viral, I didn’t exactly buy into it. I misperceived it as repeating constant affirmations or strictly visualization, and was under the impression that my journaling techniques for goal-setting were far more effective. Then, a year and a half ago, I landed an internship interview at The Everygirl, and realized that I had been thinking about working here every single day since I was 15 years old without ever once writing down a goal about it. I literally thought my dream first job into existence, almost unintentionally. Turns out, I have manifestation to thank for having the opportunity to do something I love every day.
      Whether you’ve yet to be convinced or consider yourself a manifestation convert like yours truly, this week’s episode of The Everygirl Podcast has something for you. In this episode, Josie sits down with queen of manifestation Roxie Nafousi to break down misconceptions about manifestation (hint: my old journaling techniques? Yeah, those were kinda manifestation too), unpack some of the science behind manifestation, and walk through Roxie’s manifestation routine. Read on for Roxie’s 7-step manifestation practice (check out her book Manifest: 7 Steps to Living Your Best Life for more details), and listen this week’s episode of The Everygirl Podcast for more tips from Roxie.

      1. Be clear in your vision
      Let’s say you want to manifest something specific in 2023, like landing your dream job. According to Roxie, the first step is all about really honing in on a specific goal, asking yourself questions about what you do and do not want to attract as you work towards that vision. Thinking about who you want to be and how you want to feel while you manifest will allow you to be as clear as possible in your vision. To help out with this step, Roxie recommends creating vision boards and using visualization techniques.
       
      2. Remove fear and doubt
      In order to succeed in your manifestation, you need to believe that you are worthy of receiving the things that you are manifesting. This step is absolutely crucial for building your self-confidence so that you are capable of going out and achieving all of your dreams. As Roxie says, this means doing lots of inner work and introspection, and can often be the hardest (but most worthwhile) part of the manifestation process. One helpful tip that Roxie recommends on The Everygirl Podcast for moving forward with this step? Whenever you receive a compliment, instead of negating it, respond with a simple “Thank you.”

      3. Align your behavior
      A common misconception about manifestation is that it’s all happening in your head or on a vision board. According to Roxie, that couldn’t be further from the truth, because step three happens in the real world. Aligning your behavior means stepping out of your comfort zone and implementing habits that will launch you to where you want to be. “This is really about stepping into the character of your future self. It’s about taking action, taking risks,” Roxie says. “It’s about being the change that you want to create.” Take a look at the habits and actions you are taking in your life, especially those that you repeat frequently like a morning and night routine, and live according to your goals.

      4. Overcome tests from the universe
      According to Roxie, there are two sides to this middle step in the manifestation process. The first is about not settling for less than you deserve: if an opportunity is coming your way but you’re looking ahead to something even bigger, perhaps now is not the time to settle. Roxie uses the example of manifesting a great partner, going on an amazing first few dates with a certain person, and then realizing that they’re starting to be inconsistent: this is a test from the universe, and your own self-worth will help you walk away from that situation. The other side of this step is about how you meet challenges and rejection, and your ability to bounce back from those tests without losing your confidence.
       

      5. Embrace gratitude without caveats
      “Cultivating an attitude of gratitude is a key and integral part of manifestation,” Roxie says on The Everygirl Podcast. “The manifesting sweet spot is knowing where you want to go whilst being entirely grateful for all that you already have.” According to her, manifesting cannot just be about bringing new things into your life; it also has to be about feeling appreciative of the things that are already there. There are many gratitude practices to try, but Roxie’s favorite is a positivity journal, where you write down every single good thing that happened to you today, big and small.

      6. Turn envy into inspiration
      Envy is often coded in our society as an entirely negative emotion, but Roxie sees the flip side in her manifestation practice. It’s something that we all feel, and can turn into a powerful tool, as it shows us where we still need healing: it opens our eyes to our own scarcity mindsets. Envy can be turned inside out into inspiration by leaning into an abundance mindset and believing that there is enough out there for everyone, including ourselves.

      7. Trust in the universe
      This final step in Roxie’s manifestation routine is all about letting go. Impatience and desperation do you no favors in the manifestation process, and trusting in the universe looks like truly believing that the things you have worked for will come to you in time. It’s the mental equivalent of submitting the job application, shutting your computer screen, and not obsessively checking your email for the next several days, because you believe so strongly that what you deserve will come to you. As Roxie says on The Everygirl Podcast, “Strengthen that magnetic, unwavering confidence that you know everything is going to be OK.” More

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      15 Resolutions To Make for a Better Relationship in 2023

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      I see all you goal-getters out there—you’re setting goals for your career and your finances and you’re journaling affirmations for your mental and physical health. I’m proud of you! So why not set intentions for your love life while you’re at it? A fresh year is a perfect opportunity to think about what you and your partner want the next 12 months of your relationship to look like.
      So whether you want to talk through relationship resolutions together or make individual goals to be a more mindful partner, we are sharing 15 ideas that can help you kick off a whole new year of #relationshipgoals.
      Important note: We have these resolutions broken down into categories (based on how long you’ve been with your partner), but know that all of these resolutions can be helpful to implement at any point in your relationship!

      If you only recently started dating…

      Make your partner laugh more
      We try to be funny and impress on first dates, but after a few dates (when the first date jitters are gone and you’re not as worried about being “fun and cool”), we put less effort into impressing our significant other. However, laughing together makes you feel closer and makes any time you spend together more enjoyable. So this year, instead of always telling your funniest jokes to your coworkers around the water cooler, save some for your partner.

      Build common goals to achieve together
      While you’re busy making your own New Year’s resolutions (better budgeting and eating more greens, here we come!), make sure you clue your partner into what you want out of this year and learn what they want as well. Build common goals together, whether it’s financial (grow your savings) or wellness (put away screens an hour before bed). Making goals for your life together or sharing your personal goals will feel like you’re on a team, and you’ll both feel more supported.

      Try something new
      Whether it’s taking a class, going to a new restaurant, or experimenting in the bedroom, experiencing firsts together sets a great foundation for a relationship and can help keep dates fresh and exciting from the very beginning. But keep in mind that it’s important to try new things solo too. Taking up a new hobby, planning a solo trip, or learning a new skill can give you a chance to focus on yourself and to ensure that you have activities that you enjoy outside of your relationship. If you and your partner both have your own interests that you are genuinely passionate about, you will always have something new to talk about.

      If you’ve been together for a while…

      Be more physically affectionate (in unexpected ways)
      Those of you in LTRs probably can relate to the struggle—after a long time together and through the busyness of life, hand-holding, kissing, and intimacy becomes restricted to routine. Kisses when you say goodbye, hand holding occasionally, and sex is restricted to post-bedtime (and maybe even only specific nights of the week). Bring out the innocent days of your relationship’s youth and make out like a teenager during a random time in the day, hold hands or snuggle when you watch TV on the couch, and give your partner random hugs throughout the day. Physical intimacy immediately corresponds to emotional intimacy, so making the physical a priority (and switching up the routine) will make you feel emotionally closer.

      Change your argument language
      The way you speak has a huge impact on everything from the closeness in your relationship to the way the two of you communicate. When you’re articulating something you’re mad about, always use “I feel” instead of “You did.” Focus on why you felt hurt, instead of what they did to make you feel that way. Say, “I feel like you don’t appreciate all that I do because I worked hard on a dinner that you came home late for,” instead of “You messed up because you’re late.”
      Say “I understand” when making a point, and acknowledge their defense instead of ignoring it or feeling put off (i.e.”I understand you’re under a lot of stress at work, and I’m proud of you for all the extra effort you put in. But sometimes, it makes me feel like I’m on the back burner”). Always remember that the fight should be the two of you against the problem, not the two of you against each other. The goal should be how to avoid the problem in the future, not who was right about the problem in the past.

      Show love with your partner’s love language
      By now, I’m sure you’ve realized that your partner doesn’t exactly feel love the way you show it and might not give love the way you feel it. We call this “love language,” and it is arguably the single most important quality in happy relationships. If you haven’t yet, take the quiz with your significant other to find out if your love languages are acts of service, words of affirmation, quality time, gifts, or physical touch. Then, identify the ways in which you can act in your partner’s love language on a regular basis, and live more consciously with their love language in mind.

      If you live together…

      Have tech-free time together
      Even if you and your partner are spending plenty of time together, you might be surprised to find how little of it you actually spend truly focused on each other. The prime culprit for these distractions? Our phones. In fact, most of us check our phones 96 times a day, leaving little time to give our loved ones our undivided attention.
      Make an agreement with your partner to put your phones away for at least some of the time that you spend together. Without the distraction of group messages or the temptation to scroll through social media, you will have more time to truly listen to and engage with each other.

      Make sex a priority
      Although you and your partner might have been tearing each other’s clothes off when you first got together, sex tends to become less of a priority as your relationship lengthens—especially when you live together. For many of us, the realities of life get in the way of having the kind of long and loud sex sessions that are the mainstay of many early relationships. But sex can be one of the most important and intimate parts of a relationship and should be treated as such.

      Plan a trip
      If you can make it work in the new year, scheduling a trip could be a game-changer for your relationship. Getting out of your day-to-day routine and spending an extended amount of quality time will make you feel more connected than ever. If an overnight trip isn’t an option for budget, time, or otherwise, try a day trip to a nearby beach, theme park, or landmark. The idea is to spend time together that doesn’t consist of unloading the dishwasher, making a grocery list, or sitting on the couch.

      If you’re engaged…

      Acknowledge the things you appreciate about each other
      Especially when you’re overwhelmed with wedding planning, it can be easy to take your partner for granted. But research from the Gottman Institute and Love Lab at the University of Washington found that one of the best markers of a long-lasting relationship is how often one partner acknowledges when the other does something positive, according to The Atlantic. This theory of the “culture of appreciation” suggests that if you regularly express gratitude, affection, and respect for your partner, you create a positive perspective within your relationship that prevents feelings of contempt from arising later on. It suggests that the perfect formula for a healthy relationship relies on couples having five positive interactions for every negative interaction.
      Although you don’t need to be keeping score, try to be mindful of the kinds of comments that you and your partner exchange. Are they negative as much or more often as they are positive? And how often do you praise or express your appreciation for your partner? Trying to reframe these interactions will help to ensure that you both feel loved and respected and strengthen your relationship.

      Talk about the future
      It’s important to know that you and your partner are heading in the right direction, and talking about the future can be a good way to do this. Where do you see yourself in 10 years’ time? How would you like your relationship to develop now and once you’re married? What exciting plans can you make over the next year? Talking about the future not only ensures that you want the same things, a crucial factor in the success of any relationship, but can also ignite your excitement about what lies ahead for you both.

      Plan more dates
      If this one seems like it’s too hard of a goal to set with your busy schedules and with the craziness of wedding planning, you probably just need to reevaluate your definition of “date.” A date should be any time the two of you get quality time alone, whether it’s dinner and a movie or a walk to your local coffee shop in the morning. For the record, it does not mean watching TV before falling asleep or eating dinner while you’re on your phones. Schedule a date and take it seriously—even if you’re tired or short on money, commit to making quality time a priority. This could mean sitting down to a homemade dinner or going on a picnic in the park. Aim for a specific number (once every week or two), and schedule it into your calendars so it can’t be pushed back or forgotten.

      If you’re married…

      Consider therapy
      Even if you don’t have any serious “problems,” an outside, unbiased professional can help you better communicate with each other. This not only avoids more serious problems in the future but will make your communication GREAT instead of just “fine.” However, if you have been struggling with some long-term fights or bigger problems that you’re having trouble solving on your own, a relationship psychologist is the perfect resource to help you work through issues and get your relationship back to a more loving, trusting, or happy place.

      Say “I love you” more
      When do you say “I love you” in your relationships? When you’re hanging up the phone? When you’re going to bed? It’s the same as physical touch—when it becomes routine, it loses some of its special meaning. You could never say “I love you” too much, but it is possible to not say it enough. Make sure to voice it at unexpected times like after they make you dinner, while giving them a hug, or just sending a random text in the day at when they’re at work. Say “I love you” more than you talk about household chores, to-do lists, or fights.

      Forgive and forget
      Anyone in a relationship has been through the cycle—one person does something that bothers the other, there’s a miscommunication, the fight escalates, someone apologizes, and the fight (hopefully) ends. We all also know the feeling of forgiving because you just want the fight to be over or because you don’t know what else to do, but not totally getting over it. We see this in the next fight, when we can’t help but resort to bringing up our partner’s mistakes that caused the last incident. If you’re forgiving your partner, that means you should “forget” it. It means that you’ve worked through it, you’ve seen their perspective, and feel they have seen yours. Your relationship will be better because you understand each other better, so don’t forgive until you feel that way, and don’t bring up past fights or mistakes in new arguments—if you’ve actually forgiven, that means the past issues are understood miscommunications, not problems that need more working through.

      10 Ways to Maintain The Spark in a Relationship More

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      7 Ways To Make the Most of the Week Between Christmas and New Year’s

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      If you’re staring at your calendar wondering just what on earth you’ll do during the week between Christmas and New Year’s Eve, I’m here to help you take full advantage of that precious time off. Whether you want to check some things off your to-do list or kick back and take it easy, I’ve rounded up seven activities that I always try to do during this period away from work. Don’t let your hard-earned free time go to waste! Here are some of the best things you can do to make the most of the week between Christmas and New Year’s.

      Catch up with faraway friends and loved ones.
      Given that many people are off work the week between Christmas and New Year’s, this can be a great time to schedule those long overdue coffee dates, happy hours, and everything else you wish you had time for during the rest of the year. I love using this period as a chance to catch up with long-distance loved ones, too. Text your college crew and get some FaceTime dates on the calendar, or take some time to finally call your grandma as you take a leisurely afternoon stroll. As a bonus: If you’ll be spending this period of time alone, chatting with loved ones will help you feel a bit more connected to those who care about you.

      Tackle an organization project.
      New year, new ultra-organized me, am I right? Maybe not, but I do find that taking on an organizing project during my time off (even if it’s a small one) always makes me feel productive and ready to start the new year on the right foot. My hall closet, for example, always reverts to a danger zone no matter how much I try to stay on top of things, so I like to give it a big clean-out once a quarter. Determine one way that you can streamline your life before January rolls around. Maybe that means finally sorting through your expansive collection of beauty products or taking unwanted clothing to a donation center. Trust me, you’ll feel much better after setting aside an hour or two to get organized ahead of the new year!

      Shop post-holiday sales.
      Are those holiday gift cards burning a hole in your wallet already? I’m with you. I love shopping post-Christmas sales to stock up on items I’ve had my eye on all season long. The day after Christmas, for example, is a great time to head to Target and grab heavily discounted holiday decor to tuck away for next year (for years, my mom, sister, and I would do this all together, which was always a blast). Maybe online shopping is more your speed, which makes things even easier. Change into your comfiest clothes and spend a cozy morning scouring the internet for the best deals of the year. Keep an eye out for sales on items you’ll rely upon throughout the year: makeup and skincare products, bedding, travel gear, and more.

      Get closer to that yearly reading goal.
      Whether you aimed to finish 10 different books or you’re well on your way to 100, there’s no time like the week between Christmas and New Year’s to finish your TBR list with a bang. Once you’re done with that last novel, make a list of your top titles of 2022 and share them with fellow book-loving friends. Then pre-order a few reads that you’re excited about for 2023! I love checking my mail to find a novel that I ordered months back; it’s the perfect mini surprise.

      Whip up a new (healthy) recipe.
      After weeks of holiday treats, you might be craving something a little more nutritious. Why not use your free time to try out a new healthy recipe that you’ll be able to replicate throughout the year? I’m always looking for new workday lunches, and by perfecting a recipe now, I’ll be less likely to run to Sweetgreen every time I’m craving kale. One of my favorite places to source new recipes is Pinterest—I like to save a few meal ideas that look good and then pull them up while at the grocery store to ensure I gather all the necessary ingredients.

      Play tourist in your own city.
      How often do you get to stroll around your city on a weekday? Take advantage of your time off work and book tickets to a theater matinee, check out that new museum, or simply admire all the holiday lights one more time before they come down. Even if traveling is off the table during your break from work, pretend to be a tourist in your own city by indulging in activities that you wouldn’t normally do on a weekday. Living in New York City, for example, I’d love to spend a slow December morning at the Met followed by a delicious weekday brunch and a brisk stroll through Central Park.

      Binge-watch a show.
      Who says that every moment of your time off needs to be productive? It certainly doesn’t—maybe all you want to do after a stressful year at work is simply lay back and veg out. So many amazing shows have come out with new seasons recently (like Dead to Me, The Sex Lives of College Girls, and The White Lotus), and if you haven’t gotten a chance to stream them yet… well, now you know what you’re doing for the rest of the week! If the weather outside is particularly dreary, even better! You officially have plenty to do while cooped up indoors.

      7 Ways To Celebrate New Year’s Eve at Home More

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      Here’s What Healthy Women Do Every January To Stick With Their Health Goals All Year

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      In theory, I am all about resolutions. As a Capricorn and Type Three Enneagram, I thrive on setting goals and succeeding at whatever I put my mind to. However, after many years of setting resolutions only to look back at the end of the year and be dismayed at my lack of results, I’ve realized it wasn’t the goals I was setting for myself that were the problem. It was the social pressure of setting an often large, unrealistic resolution or two and trying to carry them out all at once. So I say we ditch making resolutions in the traditional sense this year and, instead, try to implement a different approach: making smaller changes we can see through little by little. Ahead, six practices healthy women use every year to set health goals and actually stick with them. 

      1. Schedule smaller goals throughout the year
      Even before the clock strikes midnight, we come across “new year, new you” marketing everywhere we turn. Whether it’s via social media, articles, or commercials, we’re encouraged to become a new person right off the bat. What’s more, there’s a mentality of we’re all in this together, making January the easiest month to stick with your health goals. But healthy women know that in order to set themselves up for success in the long-run, breaking up their goals into smaller micro goals is key.
      Maybe you start by setting one large goal in January and identifying the actionable steps you need to take to achieve it, then set micro goals accordingly. For example, if you want to drink more water, start by increasing your intake by two ounces a week (perhaps with the help of a motivational water bottle), then another two ounces, and so on. The little wins you get every time you improve will be the encouragement you need to make it to the finish line. No matter when you decide to set goals, you can evolve a lot in one, three, or six months, so keep setting goals as you progress throughout the year. 

      2. Categorize your goals
      If you have a long list of health goals and feel overwhelmed by how you will achieve them all, categorizing is a great place to start. We all want to better our health, but it doesn’t happen overnight, and sometimes too much too quickly can lead to burnout and defeat. Try categorizing your health goals by physical health, mental health, sleep, nutrition, etc. Then pick one goal from each category to start with, and start slow. By separating your intentions into different categories, it’ll help create balance in your wellness routine. And focusing on one goal at a time can help get you closer to reaching others. For example, improved mental health is likely to give you more energy for exercise and eating a well-balanced meal after a workout can help with muscle recovery. 

      3. Keep a journal
      Keeping yourself accountable to your goals is one of the biggest challenges and why so many resolutions fail. So the healthiest women know that tracking their progress (without shame or pressure) while staying curious about their intention can help them stay motivated when the newness of resolutions wears off. By keeping a progress journal, you’ll have a dedicated place to update and keep track of your successes, giving you clarity on what areas you might need to work on more or what goals you need to adjust. Journaling is also a great way to reflect on your intentions behind the goals you make and whether or not they will actually help you become your highest self. Think of your journal as your sacred space dedicated to your self-improvement—a safe space where you can ask yourself tough questions, push yourself to improve, and look back on weeks, months, or years later to see how far you’ve come. 

      4. Plan monthly check-ins
      Healthy women always treat their goals like monthly check-ups. Sure, you feel empowered about keeping a goal when you first set it, but a month or two goes by, and it’s easy to let it fall by the wayside. By checking in with yourself on your goals and progress once a month, you can assess what is working, what needs to be changed, or if you need to set a new goal entirely. For example, setting the goal of going to a HIIT class twice a week might work great in January, but when summer rolls around and you’re traveling or busy with other activities, that goal may be harder to achieve. And that’s OK. By checking in monthly, you can adjust to your life circumstances and still feel good about your progress.

      5. Set a positive environment
      PSA: Your environment plays a huge role in whether you achieve your goals. So set yourself up for success by eliminating distractions. For starters, survey your home and office and identify anything that could hinder you from sticking with your goals. If you want to cut down on your screen time, try placing your phone away from your bed. That way, you won’t engage in the ever-tempting morning or pre-bedtime scroll. Or if you want to get rid of tech neck, set up your desk with essentials that your body will thank you for.  If you want to meditate every morning, write a sticky note reminder on your bathroom mirror so you don’t forget. Even the healthiest women need a little help in achieving goals, and these little changes in your environment can go a long way.

      10 Habits of Women Who Are Always in Shape More

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      in lifestyle and culture

      8 editor-approved podcasts for the ultimate audio fix this season

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      2 hours ago

      VIEW GALLERY/ 8 IMAGES
      For some much-needed escapism, podcasts are an ideal way to unwind.
      With an ocean of stories, interviews, in-depth discussions and trusted voices, they’ve become an interesting source of information that caters to a wide variety of audiences.
      From honest fashion reviews to female empowerment discussions, the topics are endless and can get you addicted in no time.
      To listen, you simply access the podcast through any of the streaming platforms including Spotify, Apple, Amazon and other smaller platforms, making it a click away.
      So whether a morning commute or a long-haul flight, you’re sure to be entertained with vital information through any of these information-fuelled podcasts.
      With the proliferation of podcasts, finding one to effortlessly incorporate into your daily routine can be quite the task and hence, Emirates Woman is here to help.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature Image: Instagram @marshallheadphones More

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      Got Post-Holiday Blues? Here are 7 Things to Do Today To Feel Happy and Excited

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      The decorations are coming down, Hallmark Christmas movies have come to a screeching halt, work is going back to its regularly scheduled programming, the last of the figgy pudding is gone, and we’re saying good riddance to 2022. Chances are the high of all the holiday cheer has given way to feelings of loneliness and sadness, AKA the post-holiday blues. While the symptoms of post-holiday blues are short-term, there’s no denying they are very real. Rest assured, they’re normal and you’re in good company. We’re coming down from the intense hustle and bustle of holiday preparations, shindigs, indulgences, and travel and facing the letdown of going back to business as usual. That said, there are things you can start doing today to snap out of the post-season funk. Read on for seven tips on how to feel happy when you’ve got the post-holiday blues. Time to get back in the groove.

      1. Move your body intentionally
      Call it a holiday hangover or a case of the post-fa-la-la-la-la blahs—no matter how you look at it, you’re in an emotional slump and you want out. Your workout routine may have been non-existent amidst the holiday madness, so what better time to shake off those “meh” feelings with a solid sweat sesh than today? When you have obé Fitness and its community at your fingertips, you don’t have to leave the comfort of your own home (who wants to bear the frigid temps?) and you’ve got built-in accountability. Start with one of their Express Classes because 10 minutes is all you need to get those endorphins going. In fact, exercising for just 10 minutes a day can make a difference—and have lasting, measurable effects on your health. What’s more, with 20+ class types and over 10,000 on-demand classes to choose from, there’s a workout for every mood, level, and fitness style. To banish the post-holiday blues once and for all, use code EGYEAR for one-year access to obé fitness for just $99 ($70 off)!

      2. Reset your eating and sleep habits 
      So we’ve established that the holiday rush didn’t leave much room (or energy) for working out, and if we’re being honest, the same went for keeping up our healthy eating and sleep habits. Between the cookies everywhere you turn and the Christmas movie marathons, who can blame us? I don’t have to tell you that those slices of pumpkin pie and glasses of eggnog can mess with your gut health (hello, bloat) and not prioritizing your beauty sleep can throw off your mood and energy. So hit reset on your diet by keeping the water coming to aid in digestion and prevent constipation and focusing on veggies and other whole, unprocessed foods to help keep you stay satiated and regular. While you’re at it, re-establish a consistent sleep schedule and get a solid 7-9 hours of shuteye in every night. Bonus points: Getting quality Zzzs can help you eat healthier (how’s that for a two-fer?).

      3. Think ahead and make plans to look forward to 
      After the spark of the holiday season has faded, it’s hard not to think back on the good times and feel a sense of dread (womp womp). Instead of ruminating on the past, try thinking about the future to help you feel better in the now. After all, giving yourself things to look forward to—no matter how small—can reduce stress and boost mood. In fact, simply visualizing and anticipating your future (best) self can lift your spirits. Whether it’s the matcha latte you plan to grab on your way to work, the new pair of boots you’re expecting in the mail, or your long-awaited trip to Iceland, make it a point to relish in the upcoming things and experiences that excite you. The result? You’ll cheer up in no time. And don’t forget to pepper in mood-boosting activities (the more the merrier!) throughout the year to spread the joy. 

      4. Spruce up your home
      We’re still in staying in season, which means spending more time at home. Do yourself and your mood a favor by doing a quick sweep of your abode. As empty as it may feel with the tree gone and all the tinsel stored away, it’s the ideal time to clean and declutter every nook and cranny. Because a tidy, organized space can improve your well-being, and there’s nothing more satisfying than checking off the dirty dishes in the sink, the growing piles of laundry, and the clutter on your desk. So pop in an inspiring podcast and get to it! Then, hygge your home with warm elements (you can never have enough candles), layered textures (give me all the warm throw blankets), and natural touches (a new plant, anyone?). Bottom line: Making your crib comfy cozy translates to optimal health and happiness. 

      5. Reflect and set intentions 
      While this may be a given when the New Year and resolutions are top of mind, setting attainable goals—whether health, personal growth, career, or relationship-related—makes us happier. Jumpstart the year by reflecting on what your highest self looks like, creating clear and realistic objectives to become her, and planning out actionable steps to achieve them. Perhaps you want to level up your meditation practice. What are things in your control that you can do each day or week to improve it? Is it dedicating two minutes first thing in the morning to sit in stillness, listening to one guided meditation every afternoon to break up the day, or exploring a new technique each week until you find the one that suits you best? Having an achievable purpose to set your sights on will help enhance your well-being in the present, while progressing toward it will help bring about ongoing happiness and satisfaction.  

      6. Pile on the self-care
      PSA: Now is the time to especially listen to what your mind and body need. Your “me” time and healthy routines have taken a back seat to the whirlwind of the holidays, and enough is enough. Enter: all the self-care. While there’s no one-size-fits-all self-care practice, you can take your pick—from journaling and going for a walk to diving into that must-read novel and blocking off your entire Sunday for Pilates, a lymphatic massage, and a mani-pedi. It goes without saying that you don’t have to do it all at once (but by all means!)—do what works and feels best for you, and switch it up from time to time according to your ever-changing needs. Whatever you choose, you can expect reduced stress levels, higher self-worth, and overall improved well-being. Who says you can’t give yourself gifts (material or in the form of self-care) year-round? 

      7. Get outside
      There’s a reason it’s called nature therapy. While we’re staying indoors more this time of year, we can reap a host of mental health benefits by being one with nature: increased happiness, decreased anxiety, stress, and depression, and better focus. Try forest bathing (AKA a nature walk) where you connect with nature through your five senses, visit a local botanical garden, participate in a sound bath, play with your dog in a park, or sip your morning coffee on your balcony. The world is your oyster. A study published in The Journal of Positive Psychology showed that just five minutes in nature can make you happier. For the times you’re too cozy in bed to move or it’s a tad too cold to bear staying outside for a prolonged period of time, you can bring the outdoors in by adding plants to your home, cueing soothing nature sounds via an app, or using a light therapy box to mimic the effects of being in the open air. 

      How Experts Say To Cope With Seasonal Depression

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

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      Healthier Holiday Dessert Recipes a Registered Dietitian Swears By

      by

      If you ask me, the holidays aren’t complete without your favorite, nostalgic foods. Even as an adult, I still look forward to decorating sugar cookies this time of year. Between work parties, family celebrations, and holiday festivities with friends, it can seem like dessert options are never-ending. But that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy yourself or you have to forgo them altogether. 
      While I believe all foods can be enjoyed in moderation as a part of a healthy diet, it’s also important to be mindful of added sugar consumed during the holidays and beyond. Luckily, there are countless festive dessert recipes that incorporate healthy fats, natural sweeteners, and fiber without sacrificing taste. Keep reading for a round-up of healthier holiday desserts you can enjoy this season. 

      Source: Fit Foodie Finds

      Source: Sweet Potato Soul
       

      Source: Fit Foodie Finds

      Source: Fit Foodie Finds

      Source: Eating Bird Food

      Source: Real Food with Jessica
       

      Source: Eating Bird Food

      Source: The Clean Eating Couple

      Source: Eating Bird Food

      Source: Eating Bird Food
       

      Source: Real Food with Jessica
       

      Source: Ambitious Kitchen
       

      Source: Eating Bird Food
       

      Source: Eating Bird Food
       

      Source: Eating Bird Food

      10 Festive Non-Alcoholic Cocktails to Try This Season More

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      6 Holistic Experts Share Their Most Powerful Tip To Boost Libido

      by

      So you’ve lost that lovin’ feeling (cue Tom Cruise, AKA “Maverick,” singing in Top Gun). That’s OK—being in a sexual rut is totally normal (and you’re not a failure for experiencing it). Not convinced? According to a survey conducted by Headspace and Peanut, 75% of women have experienced low sex drive. What’s more, another study found that only 10% of women easily reach the “Big O” on a regular basis. But let’s be real: Being in good company doesn’t help the situation when all you want is to get in the mood and get down to (horizontal) business. The good news is there are simple and natural ways to help kick your sex drive in high gear. I sought the advice of a range of holistic experts—from a doctor of Chinese medicine to a certified sexological bodyworker—on how to have better orgasms and libido. Ahead, they share their most powerful, orgasm-guaranteed tips for improving libido. Goodbye, dry spell. Hello, mojo.  

      1. Dr. Taz Bhatia, M.D.

      Meet the expert
      Dr. Taz Bhatia, M.D.
      Integrative Health Expert, Founder of CentreSpringMD, PBS Host, and TEDX Speaker
      Dr. Taz is a board-certified integrative and holistic medicine physician who gained national recognition as a best-selling author of the books, “What Doctors Eat” and “Super Woman RX.” She also has her own PBS special, “Super Woman RX with Dr. Taz.”

      “While there may not be scientific evidence on their effect, certain foods are known to get a rise out of your libido. And who doesn’t need an excuse to indulge in a little chocolate? Chocolates, oysters, figs and hot peppers are said to have aphrodisiacal powers. While tomatoes and broccoli aren’t the sexiest foods in the fridge, they are known to excite your libido as well. You can also try pomegranate juice; its deep sultry color is stimulating and can give you a boost in the bedroom. But be sure to toss out the baked goods and the cheese plate, as refined carbs like white bread are libido killers.”

      2. Kiana Reeves

      Meet the expert
      Kiana Reeves
      Sex Educator, Sexological Bodyworker, Pelvic Care Practitioner, and Certified Doula
      Kiana Reeves has been practicing in the field of sexual wellness and female reproductive health for over 10 years. Her career began in birth work as a full spectrum doula, working with mothers and families during birth, postpartum, abortion, and miscarriage. Her background in pleasure, intimacy, and sexuality is informed by her work as a certified somatic sex educator.

      “Get clear on what you want your sex life to look like and become dedicated to it. We’re creatures of habit and sometimes our habits don’t support the type of passion and sexual connection we actually want. Ask yourself (and your partner if you have one) how many times a week you want to spend connecting sexually and then put it on the calendar. This will prepare you mentally to set that time aside, and then commit to using all of your tools to awaken and stir your own desire. This can look like sensually massaging each other, dancing together, taking a bath with aphrodisiac herbs before you connect, and using all-natural supportive sexual wellness products to help activate the process of arousal and pleasure so that when you do engage sexually, you really are able to feel the pleasure you desire.”

      3. Sarah Donner

      Meet the expert
      Sarah Donner
      Integrative Hypnotherapist, Holistic Health Coach, and Founder of Siva Wellness
      Sarah Donner is the founder of Siva Wellness, a brand that focuses on improving mental health through integrative hypnotherapy and holistic health coaching. Donner is a certified expert in Reiki, holistic health coaching, and hypnotherapy.

      “Balancing your hormones is key to better libido and life in general. Getting a full hormone panel done and making educated decisions from there is an amazing start. Building a relationship with your body and observing how you feel during the different stages of your cycle, after a stressful month at work or when you are on vacation, can give you a lot of clues already. The key here is to listen and take notes. There are great natural remedies, like ashwagandha, seed cycling, reducing caffeine consumption, and decreasing stress, that help balance your hormones.”

      4. Dr. Janine Mahon 

      Meet the expert
      Dr. Janine Mahon
      Doctor of Chinese Medicine
      A visionary in women’s self-care, Dr. Janine Mahon is a nationally board-certified acupuncturist and herbalist (NCCAOM) and a licensed doctor of Chinese medicine. Dr. Mahon is the founder and creator her own line of restorative oils and elixirs formulated to help support a deeply-connected, intimate sense of wellbeing.

      “What we choose to think about greatly impacts our health (yes, it is easier said than done!). There are always things to worry about and we don’t want to deny those emotions. Taking a brief moment throughout the day and choosing to notice beauty in whatever form inspires you is key in transforming that energy to awaken your libido. Our Qi (life force energy) needs to be abundant and flowing smoothly for us to experience good health. When a person lives under constant stress and pressure from the feelings of worry, anger, and fear, our Qi starts to be consumed, which in turn depletes our sexual energy and libido. When this energy is drained, we do not have enough to feed our spirits and create joy.”

      5. Steph Morris

      Meet the expert
      Steph Morris
      Love, Sex & Relationship Coach and Breathwork Facilitator
      Steph Morris is a sex and relationship coach who works with women to experience the magic within their bodies and own who they are so that they can live a turned-on and turned-up life. She guides women to balance their masculine and feminine energies and unlock their sexual power so that they can feel more pleasure, have better orgasms, and create the intimate and loving relationship of their dreams.

      “By slowing down and bringing in different textures, flavors, smells, temperatures, speeds, and music, you allow yourself to get the mood warmed up, and your body slowly starts to open up. Engaging your senses and savoring in the experience gets you into your body and turned on before you’ve even moved into any sexual activity. This is essential for women as the average time it takes for a woman to warm up and get turned on is between 20 and 40 minutes. Your body has to be a full ‘yes’ before you move into any sexual stimulation, a very important factor in determining whether an orgasm occurs. Light a candle, play some sensual music, and get some essential oils and toys to weave in your senses and warm you up before getting sexual.”

      6. Lisa Bermudez

      Meet the expert
      Lisa Bermudez
      Yoga Teacher and Ayurveda Expert
      Lisa Bermudez is an Ayurvedic coach, yoga teacher, educator, writer, and skydiver. She has completed dozens of certifications across a wide scope of practices in yoga, meditation, Ayurveda, and Reiki. Her credentials in Ayurveda include a 100 hour training from the Sister Science along with several other Ayurvedic coaching certifications.

      “If you’re operating from a place of love at all times, you’ll already be tapped into your self-care and you’ll also understand how important loving communication is.  The way you talk to yourself and to the people in your life directly reflects your quality of life.  When you’re loving and feeling loved, you’ll be more aligned with what you need to have a healthy libido and better orgasms.”

      What “Libido” Really Is
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