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      Fall Is the Perfect Time To Manifest Your Dream Life–Here’s Why

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      Fall is finally upon us. After the unprecedented heat waves that many of us experienced this summer, it is an especially welcome shift. Of course, there’s another reason fall is such an exciting time. And, no, it doesn’t have to do with pumpkin spice. Fall is an incredible time of year to activate your manifestation practice, get clear about everything you want in life, and start making it all happen.
      If you are unfamiliar, manifestation is a practice that allows you to visualize and set intentions for what you want to draw into your life. It also allows you to initiate the energy and actions that will attract it to you. Technically, there is no “wrong” time to start a manifestation practice, but there are windows throughout the year that present more fertile ground to plant your seeds. Whether you’re a newbie or looking to boost your practice, here’s why you should dedicate extra time and energy this season.

      Why is fall the best time of year for manifestation?
       
      There’s a lot of “fresh start” energy
      Don’t wait until the new year to envision what you want and call it into your life. Fall is ripe with back-to-school energy, even if you’re not in school. It signifies a “return to the norm” after summer. Just as kids return to school after months apart from friends, adults adjust from a vacation mindset back to work mode.
      In general, it’s a time when people feel refreshed, reinvigorated, and ready for whatever comes next. It’s the perfect time to dream up what you want to get out of the year ahead. Plus, it just so happens that dreaming up what you want is the first step to manifestation. Just like you would start each school year thinking about what you want to accomplish, tap into your creative energy and write out goals. Piece together vision boards. Meditate on what kind of life you’d like to build for yourself in the months ahead.

      Fall forces you to go inward
      As summer weather brings us rooftop happy hours and beach days, fall weather ushers us inside for more rest, relaxation, and alone time. With more time spent indoors, it’s the perfect time to mentally go inward as well. When you take the time to get quiet, you can get clearer about what you want in life. Additionally, you can map out some of the steps that will help you get there. So next time you find yourself curled up on the couch with your favorite hot beverage in hand, consider using that time to reconnect with yourself. Meditate or journal about your core values, how you want to show up in the world, or what small steps you can take to get the life you want. 

      It’s the most mystical time of year
      You are probably familiar with fall holidays like Halloween and Día de los Muertos. However, you might not know that some of their origins can actually be traced to a Celtic festival called Samhain, which marks the end of the harvest season. Halloween, Día de los Muertos, and Samhain all embrace the belief that fall signifies a “thinning of the veil” between the physical and spiritual world. (There’s a reason the Sanderson Sisters can only come back on Halloween.) In fact, during Samhain, people often wore costumes to try to evade the more mischievous sprites. (Yes, that’s where the tradition of Halloween costumes comes from).
      No matter your religious or spiritual beliefs, many worldly traditions acknowledge a strong connection to spirituality this time of year. Tap into that energy (even just for fun!) to open your mind a bit more to the possibility of miracles and magic in your manifestation practice. You are co-creating with the universe, after all. If there’s a time of year when the universe can hear you a little more clearly, all the better.

      Fall is the time to reap your bounty
      Another reason the Samhain holiday is so applicable to manifestation is that it blends mysticism with something far more tangible: the harvest. Samhain is a celebration of the bountiful summer, which allows the community to prepare for the long winter. Manifestation might seem like it’s all about looking forward, but a key part that is commonly forgotten is to also feel gratitude for how far you’ve already come. Checking in with yourself about how life feels in the moment can help you find clarity on what exactly it is you’re looking to change. It can help you find what you might already have that you want more of.
      When you take the time to appreciate what you have already been able to harvest in your life, however small, it opens you up to see more of the good in things. For example, if you want to manifest a relationship, feel gratitude for the love you already have. If you want more financial success, feel gratitude for being able to pay your bills or buy the $5 PSL. It will attract more of that thing to you. So take a cue from harvest season and appreciate your bounty–AKA your already amazing life.

      Ready to start manifesting? Start here:
      You deserve the life that calls to you. And with all the energy backing you this season, I hope you get everything your heart is reaching for and more. You’ve gathered all the ingredients from summer, and you’re ready to put it to work. If I’ve managed to convince you that this is the best time to start your manifestation practice (it is!), you might be wondering how to begin. You can check out our 101 Guide to Manifestation, manifestation journal prompts, or daily habits to manifest your goals, but here are some of my favorite tips for getting started:

      Take a brief account of where you are currently. Make a list of what is working, what might not be working, and what you’d like to invite into your life.
      List out your goals through journaling, or if you’re more visual, through scrapbooking or vision boarding. I feel like physically writing or cutting and pasting images helps make your list feel more real.
      When you make your list, meditate on the ways you can become the person you will be. Try to personify that person in your day-to-day, which will help shift your energy into accepting everything that is headed your way.
      Take baby steps forward. Maybe it’s reaching out for an informational interview about a career change you’re considering. Perhaps it’s an internal action, like talking with a therapist to work on feeling worthy of whatever it is you desire.
      Trust that you’ve got this. You are working toward your dreams, and that’s an incredible feat on its own. If you’re able to keep moving in the direction of your desires, you will get there. Trust. And remember, setbacks can sometimes be steps forward in disguise.

      The Everygirl’s Guide to Manifestation More

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      in lifestyle and culture

      How I got my job as… Founder of a leading online luxury destination platform

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      2 hours ago

      Welcome to the Emirates Woman weekly series ‘How I got my job as…’ where we speak to some incredible entrepreneurs and businesswomen both based in the UAE and globally to find out about their career paths that led them to where they are now; what their daily routines look like; the advice they’d give to those starting out; and the hurdles they’ve had to overcome.
      This week we chat with Martha Waslen, founder of DayAway, a leading online destination platform for guests to discover and book curated luxury daytime experiences in the UAE. Designed for both travellers and residents, the unique platform offers a variety of restorative daytime escapes including wellness and dining experiences.
      As a leading technology and lifestyle leader, Waslen has collaborated with luxurious hotels in the region to give users the ultimate rejuvenating package.
      Emirates Woman sat down with the brand’s founder to find out more about her career and how she found inspiration to create this enticing luxury destination platform in the region.
      What was your favourite subject at school?
      Any class that involved debate. I think my mind must be physiologically wired to play Devil’s Advocate because I always love to consider different perspectives of the same debate, which is why I should have maybe been a lawyer.
      What was your first job?
      My very first job was working as a lifeguard at a country club in high school. Hardly anyone ever went in the pool, and I spent most days just lounging poolside. It was the best job ever.

      What brought you to Dubai?
      Dubai is such a beautiful and vibrant city, and we are very excited about the opportunity for our business to grow throughout the UAE and to meet with our incredible hotel and lifestyle partners who have helped make the hospitality scene in Dubai what it is today.
      What inspired you to launch DayAway? Talk us through the concept.
      We launched DayAway as a platform to connect luxury 5-star hotels to the growing experience economy through revolutionary software that allows hotels to maximise revenue from their underutilized facility spaces. Since our launch in May 2021, we’ve expanded to five countries and will soon offer a wide range of experiences curated by private yacht companies, helicopter operators, luxury retail boutiques, and award-winning cocktail bars and restaurants as well. We’re on our way to being the leading online destination for booking luxury experiences worldwide. We will be announcing a range of B2B software solutions to a global network of hospitality & travel brands in the coming months, and an innovative Web3 framework for our partners to expand their brand presence using blockchain, NFTs and metaverse technology.
      What are the key elements of your role?
      As the CEO of a tech startup, I wear many hats. My role includes everything from strategizing about how we will scale our tech globally across multiple travel and hospitality verticals, to spell-checking copy on our website and responding to customer service emails. Fortunately, I have an incredible team of rockstar developers, marketers and business development managers that allow me to focus most of my time on planning for the future of our business.
      Talk us through your daily routine.
      I have two young toddlers, so my mornings start very early and are usually filled with a mix of getting the kids ready for school while simultaneously preparing for early morning calls with partners and investors based in the US (which is the evening their time). The rest of my days are filled with exciting meetings, calls, coffees, and lunches with decision-makers from a wide range of industries – from travel and hospitality to Web3 and venture capital. As much as I’m able, I still love to pick up my kids from school in the late afternoons and be home to tuck them into bed before starting calls again with partners in the Middle East, Europe, and North America.

      What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps?
      The path for entrepreneurs is a rocky one, filled with all kinds of challenges, but I always keep the Tony Robbins quote in mind that “success is 80 percent psychological and 20 percent skill.” If you stay positive, and mentally tough, incredible things are possible.
      What is the best piece of advice you ever received?
      I’ve received so many great pieces of advice and have been fortunate to have incredible role models and mentors. Some of the best advice I’ve received was to read a book called The Slight Edge by Jeff Olson. Lessons from that book are a daily reminder not to be intimidated by big goals, but to break them down into smaller, more achievable goals. Everything is possible if you work towards your dreams, bit by bit, day by day. Don’t let your highs get too high or your lows get too low – just stay on course, don’t get discouraged and keep accumulating small wins along the way. One day you’ll wake up, look back, and be amazed by everything you’ve achieved.
      And what is the worst?
      In the early days of DayAway, I was advised by a few prospective investors to just focus on the Web2 side of our business, and not distract myself with Web3 integrations. They thought our Web2 business was “good and profitable enough” and that we didn’t need to complicate the platform by integrating blockchain technology. What I don’t think they realise is that any tech company they’re investing in that isn’t considering how blockchain can help their business grow community, and ease unnecessary operational frictions, is already out of date.
      What has been the biggest challenge you had to overcome?
      The biggest challenge has been overcoming my own self-doubt, and my own illusions about what I was – and more importantly, what I was not capable of achieving. You really don’t know what you’re capable of until you try, and when you push yourself to what you believe is your absolute limit, I think many people realise that those limits they thought they had don’t really exist. There are no limits.
      What are the future plans for your brand?
      We are so excited about the future of DayAway and the innovative tech solutions we’ll be announcing in the coming months, including white label solutions that allow our partners to sell experiences directly to their customers on a global level, software that for the first time ever will allow travel agents to make commissions on booking experiences for their clients, and of course building a bridge to bring millions of people into the world of Web3. anyway has recently announced the launch of our Founder’s Key NFT. Commemorating our transition into Web3, the Founder’s Key is the first blockchain-enabled membership and loyalty program of its kind that unlocks exclusive access and benefits to luxury experiences worldwide. The Founder’s Key, along with future DayAway NFT collections and metaverse experiences, will build the foundation for what we hope will be the wider tokenisation of memberships and loyalty programs in hospitality and travel.
      – For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied  More

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      in health and weelbeing

      I’ve Been on Autopilot for Months—Here Are 5 Ways I’m Getting It Together This Fall

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      Lately, I’ve been going through some major life changes. I’m talking about switching career paths, ending a nearly five-year relationship, and moving across the country—all at once. To say that this has been an overwhelming experience would be an understatement. As I’ve been navigating the changes as they come, I’ve found myself more in “survival” mode than normal.
      Many of the things I love to do, my mental health, and my physical well-being have been put on the back burner while I’ve tried to stay afloat. Think circa 2020 when we were all just trying to get by, understand how the world was changing, and simply take things day by day. We were living on autopilot, and maybe some of you, like me, have stayed in that stagnant place for a little too long. 
      Now that I’m starting to feel more settled in a new routine, I’ve decided it’s time to regain control of my life. It’s important to me that I craft a better future for myself. I want to start chasing my goals once again. Like everything in life, that’s easier said than done. I’ve realized it will take a lot of effort to get back on track. While I’ve needed to give myself grace the last few months, I know it’s time to hit the ground running. Here’s exactly how I plan to get it together this fall:

      1. Join a personal development group
      The easiest way I’ve found to stay in a slump is to try to get out of it on my own. As human beings, we need community, support, and genuine connections. This is exactly what Topknot was able to provide me.
      If your best friend were also an affordable life coach who encourages you with forward-thinking and tangible ways to achieve your goals, you’d have Topknot. Their goal is to be an affordable alternative to one-on-one life coaching, where you meet with other women in a personal development club to discuss ways to achieve your goals. 
      Ever since my first Topknot session, I have been obsessed. I’ve left each one feeling energized and motivated. Before the first session, Topknot asked me to provide a goal. In my case, I chose to advance my career. Topknot matched me with another individual with a similar goal. For 40 minutes, she and I discussed the issues that have held us back from achieving our goals. We also discussed tangible ways to overcome the setbacks and strategic timelines for measuring success. 

      The Topknot website guided the discussion for us, strategically offering discussion points that allowed us to come to the conclusions we did. Maybe the most impressive part of the session was that you were given the option to add alerts from their website to your personal calendar. These alerts remind you to work on the action steps you previously set. 
      Through the support of my personal development group members, the constructive conversation I had with my partner, and the accountability aspects of Topknot, I’ve achieved real day-to-day progress. The best part? It is a low-cost, hassle-free platform for women who want to invest in personal growth. Interested in learning more? Click here to start a free trial membership of Topknot Time and start slaying your goals today.

      Source: Vlada Karpovich | Pexels

      2. Journal
      You’ve probably heard us talk about journaling more than once. (I think that just shows how important it is not to let your thoughts consume your brain.) As a writer, it may seem like journaling would come easy to me. But truthfully, as much as I love to write, putting my thoughts and feelings down on paper was—and still is—something I have to work on. Likewise, you don’t have to be “good at writing” to take up journaling. 
      The great thing about journaling is that no one but you has to read it. As the ultimate act of self-care, think of it as a quiet time to be with yourself and your thoughts. Instead of having thoughts racing around in your mind all day, give those words home on a piece of paper. One of the things I’ve loved most about taking up journaling is that it’s helped me sleep better. It used to take me so much longer to fall asleep because I would stay awake thinking. I would think about my to-do list, all of the upcoming changes, and everything else that was worrying me. Leaving everything on the page before bed gives me a solid reason not to have all these thoughts when it comes time to lie my head down.

      3. Go to the gym
      It’s no secret that regular exercise can make you feel good. Your brain is literally releasing “happy” chemicals. After being in what felt like survival mode for months, my physical health turned for the worst. I wasn’t eating well, and my workout routine was almost nonexistent. And if there’s one thing that can kick you while you’re down, it’s not feeling confident in your own skin.
      While I pay very little attention to the number on the scale, the effects of not prioritizing my physical health were showing in most aspects of my life. I was feeling extra tired and lacking motivation. And, to be honest, when my clothes didn’t fit as well as they used to, I felt uncomfortable in my skin. 
      Making the commitment to exercise regularly was something that I needed to do. The beauty of getting into a fitness routine is that it can be ever-changing. One day I’ll feel super motivated and take a high-intensity workout class. On other days when I need a slower pace, I can opt for a more meditative yoga session. For me, getting out of the house and spending time moving my body means starting to feel better in my skin again and improving my mental health exponentially.

      Source: Andres Ayrton | Pexels

      4. Reprioritize old hobbies
      While dealing with several life changes simultaneously, the things I once enjoyed had to be put on the back burner. One hobby that hurt me to lose was reading. I’ve loved reading all my life. So, seeing that become less and less of a priority was a hard pill to swallow.
      To get myself back on track, I decided to reprioritize this hobby that I love. First, I got a library card, which made it significantly easier to read more because I’m not spending $15-20 per book. Then, I set aside time in my days specifically for reading. I even started a bookstagram. Getting back into a hobby I love has been like reconnecting with an old friend. It’s just what I’ve needed to start to feel like “me” again. Even if you don’t already have a hobby you love, there’s no better time to start exploring your options. The great thing about hobbies is that they give you something to focus on. When you prioritize a new activity, you show yourself that you can be motivated. And the first time you do something successfully in your hobby, you will get feelings of accomplishment that can accompany you throughout the rest of your daily life.

      5. Say “yes” more
      There’s nothing like your comfort zone to keep you in a stagnant place. One of the most rewarding decisions I’ve made lately is choosing to say “yes” when opportunities arise—even when it means leaving the comfort of my couch and favorite TV show (The Vampire Diaries, obviously). 
      For instance, I was recently invited to a golf event with about 45 people. Of those 45, I personally knew four of them. Oh, and I had never golfed a day in my life. Do I sound unhinged for saying yes to this event? Probably. But I also am so glad that I did. As it turns out, golf is pretty fun, and I wasn’t as bad at it as I thought. On top of that, I was able to meet so many people who were all incredibly nice and welcoming. I even made a few actual friends out of the experience. 
      All that to say, good things happen when we step out of our comfort zones. A great way to get out of a slump is to make yourself do things—even an activity that is nearly foreign to you—and spend time with other people. 

      7 Tips To Change Your Mindset so You Can Manifest Your Dream Life

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

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      Need a Boost in Your Wellness Routine? Try These 5 Things a Naturopath Expert Does Every Day

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      Recently, I found myself in a wellness funk. I hadn’t exercised in a while, and most of my meals were DoorDash deliveries. After weeks of sitting on the couch and eating cheese-covered carbohydrates, I was ready for a wellness reboot. So, I reached out to Bianca Melas, a certified BHSc Naturopath, and Pilates instructor, to learn her top tips for staying healthy. Read on to discover Bianca Melas’s non-negotiables to help her look and feel her best every day. 

      Meet the expert
      Biana Melas
      Certified Clinical Naturopath
      Bianca is an accredited Pilates instructor for Alo Moves and certified Clinical Naturopath. She works to empower her clients with the knowledge that movement can serve as medicine and heal the body in unimaginable ways.

      1. Meditate
      Raise your hand if you’ve ever snapped at your partner after a long day or become flustered by a stressful situation at work. While we’d all love to play it cool and roll with the punches, that’s hard to do without a regular mindfulness practice. Melas is a big fan of getting her zen on: “Meditation allows me to still my mind and become grounded, so I’m less reactive and more responsive to those around me.” Neuroscience backs this daily ritual. A 2016 study found that 20 minutes of meditation can reduce your brain’s reactivity, helping you respond calmly to negative emotions. 

      2. Stay hydrated
      We all know that drinking enough water is essential for physical well-being. However, many of us still rely on caffeine to get through the day, only sipping on water occasionally. Make hydration a priority and take a page from Melas’s book. “I start each morning with lemon water and then continue to consume 2-3 liters of water throughout the day to maintain hydration. This is key for digestion, glowing skin, and energy,” explains Melas. If you’re like me and struggle to drink enough water, our wellness editor, Josie Santi, recommends a motivational 64oz water bottle. Since this bottle is larger than others, you won’t need to refill it throughout the day. This removes an added barrier between you and hydration. 

      3. Have a supplement routine
      Even the healthiest eaters struggle to get all the nutrients they need from food alone. That’s where supplements come in handy. Multivitamins, probiotics, and CBD all have the ability to upgrade your wellness routine from good to great. But you have to take them regularly if you want to experience their benefits. That’s why Melas preaches the importance of consistency: “Consistency is always key. Maintaining a healthy diet and taking supplements daily helps me meet my nutritional needs and achieve my health goals.”

      4. Change your workout expectations
      When most people think about exercise, they assume they need to slog through a grueling hour-long workout for their activity to “count.” This unrealistic expectation makes it less likely that you’ll work out on days when you’re busy or simply aren’t feeling it. Instead of forcing herself to hit the gym, Melas adapts her workouts to fit her life so that she can move every day. “No matter how long I have, I move every day, even if it’s just 10 minutes. It doesn’t need to be crazy or intense—just walking in the sunshine with my puppy is enough some days,” she said.

      5. Incorporate small actions of self-love
      In an age where social media glorifies unrealistic beauty standards, most of us deal with low self-esteem or dissatisfaction with our bodies. In fact, some research shows that women who interact with social media posts report lower self-confidence afterward. While you might not always like how you look, cultivating a self-love practice can help combat low self-esteem. Melas recommended finding little moments throughout your day to give back to yourself. These small actions of self-love will look different for everyone, but if you need a few ideas, Melas’s favorite self-love activities include dry brushing, spending time in nature, and reading a good book.

      5 Techniques for Sexual Healing, According to an Embodiment Coach More

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      in health and weelbeing

      Knowing This Fact About Your Body Could Be the Secret to Peak Health

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      Have you ever wondered why your friend can eat dairy without any side effects while you suffer from bloating? How can one person swear by the keto diet while someone else sees no difference? According to Boston Medical Center, an estimated 45 million Americans will try a diet plan each year. Maybe you’re among the millions who have dabbled with keto, vegan, Atkins, Mediterranean, or one of the many other diets out there. You’ve spent time trying different food combinations or rearranging your eating schedule. You’ve told yourself it would all be worth it because this diet will be the one that works. Yet, now you’re six months down the road and don’t see the results you had hoped for.
      There’s a reason diet culture is overwhelming and disappointing. The truth is, our bodies are all different. While one diet may make your friend, sister, or coworker feel amazing, it might not be the right fit for you. We’re all about ditching diets and eating whatever makes your body feel good, but there may be an explanation for why different ways of eating work for different bodies.
      Enter: the Blood Type Diet. Founded by Dr. Peter J. D’Adamo, the Blood Type Diet provides individualized solutions for each person’s blood type. Instead of looking at one diet as a solution for everyone, the Blood Type Diet breaks down each person’s blood type and uses that information as the basis for nutrition. I’m usually turned off by anything with “diet” in the title, but this one seems different. It proves that diets are not a one-size-fits-all method. Read on for my deep dive into what the Blood Type Diet really is and whether or not it’s worth trying out.

      What is the Blood Type Diet?
      As Dr. D’Adamo explains in his book Eat Right For Your Type, there are four universal blood types: Type O, Type A, Type B, and Type AB. Each type possesses a different antigen with its own chemical structure. Your blood type plays a huge role in how you absorb nutrients. This means that your blood not only affects how you respond to infections, stress, and bacteria, but it also affects the body’s response whether you eat a croissant or eggs for breakfast.
      In his research, Dr. D’Adamo found that different foods have different lectins, and those lectins produce a chemical reaction between blood and the food you eat. Sometimes the reaction leaves us feeling satisfied and energized, while other times, the reaction causes us to feel symptoms like indigestion, bloating, or fatigue. The Blood Type Diet looks at how different lectins in foods are absorbed by different blood types. Eating based on your blood type can increase nutrient intake, improve gut health and digestion, and support overall immune function, according to Dr. D’Adamo.
      Of course, nutrition is only one piece of the puzzle. Any wellness method is incomplete without factoring in the role of stress and exercise. (We can eat all the healthy food we want, but unless we also factor in high-stress levels and a sedentary lifestyle, we won’t feel our very best.) Dr. D’Adamo agrees. So, he’s included research on how different blood types need different forms of exercise to cope with stress, as well as a stress and exercise plan for each blood type.

      Recommendations for each blood type
      If you’re Type O
      Dr. D’Adamo found that people with Type O blood respond best to a diet based on animal proteins while avoiding dairy and grain products. “Type O’s can efficiently digest and metabolize meats and seafood because they tend to have high stomach-acid content,” he explained. But it’s important to balance meat products with vegetables and fruit to avoid over-acidification. When it comes to exercise, he recommended intense physical exercise like HIIT or weight training because it “makes the muscle tissue more acidic and produces a higher rate of fat-burning activity.”

      If you’re Type A
      For Type A’s, Dr. D’Adamo recommends limiting meat and dairy products, as they are poorly digested, but moderate quantities of seafood (3-4 times a week) can have beneficial effects. Focus more on plant foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, grains, etc. Type A’s can tolerate wheat products and gluten more than other blood types. But they shouldn’t eat in excess, or else their muscle tissue will become overly acidic. For exercise, Type A’s thrive by engaging in gentle and meditative movements to help manage stress, such as yoga, Tai Chi, stretching, walking, or Pilates. 

      If you’re Type B
      Type B’s can benefit from a balanced diet of all types of foods, including meat, dairy, seafood, and grains. However, Dr. D’Adamo suggests limiting corn, buckwheat, lentils, peanuts, and sesame seeds, as they contain a certain lectin that affects the efficiency of your metabolic process. This results in fatigue, fluid retention, and hypoglycemia. As for exercise and stress, Type B’s are able to manage stress well. They do best with moderate activities such as tennis, hiking, cycling, walking, yoga, jogging, or light weight training. 

      If you’re Type AB
      For those with the rarest of all blood types, Type ABs, their plan requires a combination of the Type A and Type B plans. Unlike Type A’s, meat in small portions can be beneficial. A balanced diet of all foods works for your system—including dairy, grain products, fruits, and vegetables. The key with Type AB is portion size and frequency, so eat smaller meals more frequently. When it comes to exercise, Type ABs have inherited a Type A stress pattern. So, Dr. D’Adamo recommends following the Type A exercise plan of gentle movement to help decrease stress. 

      The verdict
      We like that the Blood Type Diet is a personalized wellness plan that looks at a person’s genetics and bio-individuality. However, use it as a starting point or a way to experiment when finding what works best for your body. Don’t follow the plan to a T. As with every diet, some experts swear by it while others disagree. For example, Dr. Josh Axe, DNM, CNS, DC—a leading doctor and founder of Ancient Nutrition—believes that the Blood Type Diet may help some people, but it’s not necessarily the best for everyone. There are other factors that determine how we digest nutrients than just blood type, like hormones.
      Bottom line: The best way to determine what foods to eat and what exercise to do is to listen to your body. Period. Looking to your blood type for insight on nutrition and movement might make you feel amazing, but the same effects can be achieved in other ways too. The Blood Type Diet isn’t necessarily for everyone, but it shows that diets need to be more personalized and cater to an individual’s body type, food preferences, and biological history. Our bodies are all different, and how we eat should cater to that uniqueness. If you’re thinking of experimenting with the Blood Type Diet, talk to your doctor and know that your body is always the #1 expert about which foods and exercise are best for you.

      Is the WIEAD Trend Helpful or Harmful? More

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      This Product Helps Me Sleep Like a Baby, and I Can’t Stop Recommending It

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      Even Beyonce has trouble sleeping, yet when I started struggling with falling and staying asleep, I thought it was just my problem. ​​You see, the phrase, “I’ll sleep when I’m dead,” has never been something to come out of my mouth. I’ve just never had an issue with getting quality shut-eye. But with work deadlines, personal responsibilities, and, let’s be honest, too much TikTok keeping me up at night, sleeping like a baby became a thing of the past.
      Since sleep is a form of self-care, I made it my mission to get a better night’s sleep. Along the way, I stumbled upon one truly glorious product that I refuse to shut up about: Equilibria’s Sleep Gummies. And I can’t stop recommending them to everyone I know.

      Equilibria
      Sleep Gummies
      Sleep Gummies are formulated with CBD, CBN, chamomile, and L-theanine, so falling asleep and staying asleep are easier.
      Use code THEEVERYGIRL for 25% off sitewide at Equilibria—both new and returning customers eligible until end of month! Code stackable with subscription savings

      Why I Tried Equilibria’s Sleep Gummies
      When I started experiencing trouble falling and staying asleep, I did what every person does: I turned down the tea aisle of my grocery store to grab the first box of bedtime tea I could find. I made myself a cozy cup of tea, thinking I was sipping my woes away. Yet, much to my dismay, the tea didn’t do the trick.
      I have friends who swear by melatonin to help them sleep through the night. So, on my next trip to the store, I snagged that. Long story short: I now blame melatonin for sleeping through my alarm, missing my workout class, and getting charged a no-show fee. 
      I never used either of those products again. However, since I’m not a quitter, I did a little more research on how to get better sleep and finally turned to Equilibria’s Sleep Gummies. Equilibria’s products are some of my favorites for managing anxiety, productivity, and mood (shoutout to the Softgels). So, I figured their Sleep Gummies would be a reliable bet.

      My First Impression 
      After getting over my fear of sleeping through another workout class, I took one gummy about an hour before bed, knowing that the onset time was 30-60 minutes. (Tip: The longer you chew your Sleep Gummies, the faster they’ll kick in.) As someone who orders a Dirty Shirley with extra maraschino cherries, I immediately loved the Bordeaux Cherry flavor. In about 45 minutes, I was feeling calmer—which I anticipated since that is how other Equilibria CBD products make me feel—but I was hopeful that they would help me sleep, too.
      And they did. My restfulness subsided, my head hit the pillow, and I was out like a light. The best part? I made it to class on time, feeling refreshed and well-rested. I felt on top of the world after a quality sleep and a workout I didn’t dread waking up for.
      Try them out for yourself and use code THEEVERYGIRL to score 25% off sitewide at Equilibria—new AND returning customers eligible until 9/30! Code also stackable with subscription savings.

      Source: @equilibriawomen

      The Verdict
      After about a week of taking one gummy before bed, I increased my intake to the full serving—two gummies. When I say I didn’t move in the middle of the night, I mean it. You know how sometimes you think you had a good night’s sleep, but you remember rolling a bit or waking up for a second? Well, you haven’t experienced a truly uninterrupted, good night’s sleep until you’ve tried these.
      One thing I know calms me down and helps me feel relaxed is CBD, so I don’t know why I didn’t try Equilibria’s Sleep Gummies sooner. After taking them, I fall asleep easier and sleep better throughout the night. They last 4-8 hours, and I sleep better now than I ever have.
      Equilibria states that their Sleep Gummies “help balance a healthy sleep-wake cycle for a luxurious night’s sleep,” and believe me, I feel like a well-rested, luxury-living queen every morning now. And the flavor? It’s the Bordeaux cherry on top. 

      Equilibria
      Sleep Gummies
      Sleep Gummies are formulated with CBD, CBN, chamomile, and L-theanine, so falling asleep and staying asleep are easier.
      Use code THEEVERYGIRL for 25% off sitewide at Equilibria—both new and returning customers eligible until end of month! Code stackable with subscription savings

      5 Things Successful Women Do Before Bedtime

       
      This post is sponsored by Equilibria, but all of the opinions within are those of The Everygirl editorial board. More

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      Is There Such a Thing As “Too Much” Self-Care? It’s Time We Reevaluate How To Care for Ourselves

      by

      We are in the self-care era. The concept is so popular and widely embraced that it seems everyone is doing face masks and daily breathwork. But with so many voices applauding new rituals and practices in the name of wellbeing, it can feel a little overwhelming to keep up with it all. And that sensation of feeling overwhelmed begs the question: Is all of this actually making us healthier and happier?
      When scrolling through #wellness TikToks or my Instagram feed, I’m often reminded of how easy it is to get so obsessive about eating “clean” that it actually becomes stressful. The irony, of course, is that stress is bad for us too–including over-stressing about food. So, where else in our wellness routines do we care so much about hitting the mark that we inexplicably miss it? As it turns out, a lot of places. We can be so rigid with being “healthy” that it becomes unhealthy. So, could the same be true with our culture’s self-care obsession? 
      Before we dive in, you should know that I am pro-wellness. Like big time, it-saved-my-life kinda stuff. But as with all passions, there’s a tipping point. I believe we should all have self-care routines. I believe our bodies deserve (and need!) time, energy, and resources to help them feel their best. But sometimes, we become so mindless with our habits—and get so involved in the latest trends—that the practices meant to help us become harmful. Here’s how to know if your self-care routine is truly caring for you and tips to reevaluate your self-care practices now.

      When self-care becomes damaging
      The wellness industry means well. However, in the name of making money, it can play a little too much into our fears. It can make us feel like we’re not doing, paying, or being enough. Like, “Hey, are you zen enough? Are you going to wrinkle quicker than you should? Are your insides quietly decomposing before their time? Good news! There’s a skin cream, green powder, or alt-therapy for that!”
      It’s like there are two different versions of caring for yourself. First, there are self-care practices you do because you love yourself and know you deserve rest, care, and joy. These practices support a healthy relationship with self-care. They help us feel good, and they don’t suffocate the rest of our lives. Then, there are self-care practices you do because you don’t feel good enough as you already are. This can become a stressful obsession with the impossible pursuit to make your body and mind forever flawless.
      I’ve experienced both forms, and if you’re into wellness like I am, you probably have, too. Thankfully, I’ve learned a few things about identifying self-care practices and whether or not they’re genuinely caring for you. So, read on for some key tips to reevaluate your self-care routine and make sure it’s actually caring for you.

      Tips to Reevaluate Your Self-Care Routine
       
      Get honest with yourself
      Before you can even begin to protect yourself against accidental self-sabotage, you need to have “the talk.” What kind of relationship do you currently have with self-care? Is it flirtatious and fun? Committed and energizing? Or does it talk down to you and make you feel small? Do you feel pressure to keep it up? Does it feel like a chore? If you feel uncomfortable in your relationship with self-care, you can repair it. Awareness is one of the greatest powers at your disposal. Simply acknowledging where you’re at can give you the power to shift course.

      Name your fears
      Whether or not you have a healthy relationship with self-care, you undoubtedly have some wellness-related fears. For instance, I sometimes fear that I’m accidentally doing something bad for me that I think is good for me—like a health supplement that is actually filled with toxins. Other fears might include that you’re aging too fast, falling behind with your health, or that you have to strive for perfection. Maybe you even have some internalized fatphobia or orthorexic behavior where food that’s not considered nutritious can make you feel anxious. 
      Naming your fears allows you to pause before they get the best of you. Additionally, seek therapy to work through mindsets holding you back. When you feel triggered to start a new self-care practice, consider this: Will it feel good or stressful to incorporate this into your routine? Does the idea of dry brushing your entire body every single morning give you hives or get you excited to assess the results? A little nervousness when trying something new is normal. However, if maintaining a budding practice has become a stressful ordeal, you might be doing it out of fear rather than care. Either reframe your relationship to the practice or reexamine if it should be in your routine at all.

      Reconnect to your “why”
      Your “why” is the opposite of fear–it’s what lights you up! If you are invested in self-care, it’s likely because it feeds something in you that makes you feel good. Maybe the endorphins from your exercise routine make you feel unstoppable, or the after-glow from your evening ritual makes you feel pampered AF. This is what self-care is all about. Connecting to what drives you can reinvigorate your relationship with self-care.
      For example, the reason I want to exercise is to feel strong and powerful. Whenever exercise feels stale for me, I connect to my “why,” and it completely renews my energy. When I connect to the affirmation “I am getting stronger” throughout my workout, it’s less of a burden and more invigorating. The aftermath of the workout is also more enriching because I’m focused on how good it feels instead of checking a chore off of a list.
      Reconnecting to your “why” is also a great tool to reach for if you notice your fears are starting to run the show. Your “why” will connect you to your values. This might expose some of your fears as nonessential. For example, maybe you’re being told the skin cream you love isn’t as effective as a trendy new face oil, and it’s triggering a fear that you’re behind the curve. Is having the most effective solution what’s really important to you? Or is “effective enough” OK? If the skin cream you already have makes you feel radiant, smells amazing, and elicits all the relaxing vibes, isn’t that the goal? You don’t have to chase the trends or latest products if what you’re already doing meets your needs for self-care.

      Eliminate the phrase “I should” 
      When push comes to shove, “should” is a shaming word. When you are connected to your “why,” self-care comes from I want to, not I should. So if you’ve tried all the steps above and still find yourself feeling overwhelmed by your desire to keep up, hunt for the places you tell yourself, “I should.” I’m going to say something radical: When it comes to self-care, you aren’t obligated to do anything. Self-care means making time and energy to care for yourself, and that’s it! When we talk about self-care in today’s world, we have this image that it’s about bubble baths and gym memberships. But self-care can literally look like anything: a nap, a glass of wine with friends, skipping the gym for an hour of TV because you need it more, or going to therapy.
      If there’s something that you know could be “good for you,” but you just don’t want to do it, that’s OK. Feeling pressured to do something defeats the whole purpose of self-care. So next time you hear yourself utter an “I should” about your wellness routine, try swapping it with “I want to.” If that doesn’t feel right, then guess what? You might not want to, and that’s OK! Our desires—and our capacity to carry them out—ebbs and flows throughout our lives. Something that feels hard now might feel rejuvenating later. In the meantime, there are other self-care methods that will strike your fancy. Find what speaks to you, and I give you full permission to drop the rest.

      Make your own definition of self-care
      Ultimately, you are in charge of what self-care means to you. (That’s where the “self” part comes from!) It can be tempting to try keeping up with the trends, but the constant seeking and second-guessing can drag you down. It’s up to you to advocate for your own relationship to care. What feels good for you isn’t going to light everyone else up, and vice-versa. We are so lucky to be living in an era where self-care is applauded and encouraged.
      With an abundance of resources and suggestions at our disposal, it’s up to us to decipher which practices will have the most impact on our minds, spirits, and bodies. And most importantly, you do not have to try them all. When you trust your gut, make friends with your fears, and lean into your “why,” your self-care routine will care for, recharge, and energize you.

      This article discusses obsessive thoughts, but it is not meant to treat or diagnose. Please take care of yourself if these topics could be triggering, and always seek professional help if you are struggling with an eating disorder or disordered thoughts or behaviors.
      Call the National Eating Disorders Association Helpline at 1-800-931-2237 for support, reach out to a qualified medical professional, or, for a 24-hour crisis line, text “NEDA” to 741741.

      How To Make Time for Self-Care When Your Life Is a Hot Mess More

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      6 Tips To Help You Transition From Hot Girl Summer to Cozy Girl Fall

      by

      I felt it today: the first cool, crisp signs of the cozy fall season to come. After a few brutal weeks of heat and humidity, I’m more than ready for all that’s good and wonderful about this season. Reflecting on falls passed, I’ve always known the September cool-off to be one of the most inspiring transitions. While some hate saying goodbye to the freedom of summer and the easy-breezy beach days that celebrate warm weather, I’ve always felt like my best self wrapped in a fuzzy blanket with a candle lit.
      Luckily, there’s a term for that: Cozy Girl Fall. Like it sounds, the moniker defines the vibe of the season post- “Hot Girl Summer.” The past several months have meant embracing the idea of hotness in every sense—from saying yes to new adventures to embodying your most confident self. And while we can still be “that girl” in any season, designing our wellness routines looks a little different when the leaves start to fall.
      The welcome return of my favorite wellness rituals comes along with Gilmore Girls reruns, knitting marathons, and warm mugs of cider. (I reserve my PSL addiction for candle scents only.) My fall wellness routine keeps my mind settled, my body happy, and my emotional health at peak fall bliss. So, read on for the wellness tips, tricks, and ideas that pair perfectly with a cozy pair of sweats, your favorite fall beverage, and a big embrace of all things Cozy Girl Fall™.

      1. Take time to reflect
      I’m a stickler for carving out time to connect with myself and take stock before making any changes. As we move away from Hot Girl Summer, the push to gather indoors, layer up your wardrobe, and swap out smoothies for soups can feel like a total 180. While it can be exciting to jump right in, first, give yourself the opportunity to set an intention for where your fall is headed. Is this the season you work on yourself? Do you want to socialize more with friends or perhaps make some new ones? Are there major projects or goals you’d like to get after this fall? I’m all for a good theme, and the same is true for my seasons. Seasons can be a helpful reminder to stay on track and accomplish what you’ve set your sights on. So this fall, try identifying one area you’d like to focus on and stick with it. 

      2. Do a life edit
      After I’ve taken the time to reflect, I feel prepared to do a life edit. I first learned about the practice from the Almost 30 podcast. Essentially, the idea is that a key part of manifestation is clearing the space to prepare for and invite what you really want into your life. Because my summer was filled with lots of travel, a packed social life, and—honestly—overcommitting, I’m entering fall feeling more than a little disorganized and scattered. It applies to all parts of my life—both my physical environment and my headspace. 
      Setting aside the time to do a life edit in the fall has helped me infuse my routines and schedule with intention. Instead of being bogged down by old stories, people who drain me, and physical objects that no longer resonate with me, I’ve found that everything moves more smoothly now. The desires I’m pursuing enter my life more easily.
      I followed the Almost 30 program, but there are simple ways you can do it on your own. 

      Divide your life into six different parts: digital, spatial (home life), finance, wellness, mental, and relationships.
      Spend time in each of these areas. Journal about where you’re feeling stressed or blocked in each of them. Reflect on what it would look like for you to feel more confident and at peace within each area. 
      From there, take time to sort through everything that relates to each of these parts of your life. Spend a few days clearing out your phone of old text messages, apps you never use, and contacts you’d rather not “accidentally” reach out to late on a Saturday night. Marie Kondo your apartment, understand where your money is going each month, and make a realistic budget. Are there relationships that have run their course? Tackle it all.
      By splitting up your life into these sections and focusing on each, you’ll end your life edit feeling more confident about what you’re keeping and how you’re spending this season.

      3. Prioritize workouts that align with your shifting energy
      Your body needs different things in different seasons, and we’re meant to adapt—that goes for movement too. Personally, I’m less inclined to do a high-energy HIIT sesh in November than my summer self may have been. Having a Cozy Girl Fall is all about staying true to where your energy, mindset, and emotions are during this time of the year. By all means, follow your natural inclination to get cozy! We’ve ditched the idea that cuddling up and enjoying a good book should be considered lazy. Rest is a key part of wellness.
      That being said, it’s still important to connect with joyful workouts and fitness routines that connect you to your body and mind. During the colder months, prioritize gentle yoga flows, Pilates (everyone’s doing it), and slow walks.

      4. Double down on your immune-supporting routine
      Supporting your immune system is key throughout the year, but with cold and flu season upon us, balancing (not boosting) your immune system is top of mind. I’m not going to lie, though. It feels like everywhere I turn, there’s some supplement or wellness influencer trying to sell me a magical immunity elixir or pill. Needless to say, there’s a lot of info to sift through. We have our work cut for us in trying to separate fact from fiction. So what do I do when wellness feels complicated? I seek out the simplest ways to ensure that my body is getting what it needs. Talk to your doctor about keeping your immune system at its peak this season. Here are some of my go-to tips:

      Eat a whole foods diet that’s rich in vitamins and nutrients. Keep an eye out for carotenoids, B vitamins, vitamin C, and zinc, which are especially beneficial for supporting the immune system. Get your 7-9 servings of fruits and veggies, and prioritize whole grains, legumes, and nuts.
      Explore the wide (and delicious) world of fermented foods. Picks like kimchi, sauerkraut, kefir, tempeh, kombucha, and yogurt add tang to your daily diet while aiding immunity. 
      Cook with more spices and herbs. Dr. Erin Stokes and Tieraona Low Dog M.D. recommended loading up on flavors like garlic, ginger, basil, cilantro, and cinnamon since they are immune-supporting powerhouses.

      5. Start a mood-boosting routine
      If you are prone to seasonal affective disorder or just feel less energized when the weather gets bleaker, you should start talking to a doctor or therapist now. In addition to seeking professional help, start a mood-boosting routine to help keep you as energized and happy as possible for the months ahead. For example: 

      Try light therapy. Get as much sunlight as possible throughout the day—especially first thing upon waking up. (Even sitting by the window can make a difference if it’s too cold to get outside.) If you’re going through cloudy stretches where there’s limited or no sunlight, order a lightbox or light therapy device.
      Lean on a schedule. As someone who has experienced depression apart from seasonal shifts, I can say that sticking to a schedule has been immensely supportive in helping me keep up with everyday activities when I don’t have the energy or desire. What’s more, a schedule can give you things to look for throughout the week that can boost your mood. So while you’ll want to pencil in your working hours, be sure you’re also setting aside time to see your friends, watch a movie, or do another cozy activity that you love.
      Talk to your doctor about your vitamin D intake. Because we absorb vitamin D primarily through sunlight, the season’s darkness can lead to low vitamin D levels. This can, in turn, perpetuate symptoms of SAD. Check your vitamin D levels and talk to your doctor about whether supplementation is right for you.

      Remember: Any wellness practice isn’t one-size-fits-all. Experiment with the tools that resonate with you to find what works best.

      6. Commit to a weekly self-care date
      We’re calling it now: A weekly self-care ritual is the new morning routine. While I find keeping #thatgirl Reels on repeat an inspiring social media habit, the sped-up videos of my favorite influencers running through their morning routines can be a bit intimidating–especially in the fall when we want to sleep in. Enter: a once-a-week meeting with yourself to weave in some wellness and self-care.
      While you can do this any day you’d like, I’ve found that my natural fall rhythm sets aside Sunday as my slower, self-care-focused day. (It helps that my partner is tied up with football for 12 hours.) I’ve also found this incredibly helpful in terms of getting over my Sunday scaries. Knowing that I have several hours to spend as I want helps me feel set up to dive into the week ahead. Additionally, I feel refreshed knowing I took time to pour into myself without letting the rush of obligations get in the way.
      Some ways you can spend your self-care Sunday during #CozyGirlFall:

      Take your favorite book to a new coffee shop and cozy up for a few hours.
      Take a bath with a stack of your favorite magazines and most luxurious products.
      Hot girl walks are seasonless. Pop in your favorite podcast, bundle up, and get moving.
      Meal-prep cozy and comforting fall meals. I love making soups, cooking grains, and chopping up squash for bowls. (Oh, and don’t forget the dessert.)
      Plow through a few episodes of a new show, and try one of these activities to keep you off your phone while you’re watching.
      Invest some time in a new hobby–punch needle embroidery, anyone?

      Of course, it’s also important to carve out time for your daily wellness rituals. But it can be overwhelming to feel like you have to fit it all in during the 30 minutes you have before you log onto work. Remember: Fall is all about embracing our cozy, quiet, and slower lives. You don’t have to do everything to do enough.

      How To Update Your Wellness Routine for Fall More