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      The Ultimate Sunday Reset Checklist for a Better Week Ahead

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      Ladies, it’s time for us to break up with the pre-Monday jitters. While I believe the adage “if you do what you love, you’ll never work a day in your life” rings true, shifting from laid-back weekend vibes to 9-5 work mode isn’t exactly a cakewalk. Without fail, when the clock strikes 3 p.m. on Sunday afternoon and the last hours of the weekend are dwindling, the anxiety sets in: I ruminate over the impending list of to-dos waiting for me, and the thought “if only I had one more day” plays on repeat as if I could will it enough to come to fruition. 
      There’s no denying Monday has a way of showing up too quickly, but with some planning and get-ahead hacks, you can, dare I say, be excited about the workweek. Read on for a breakdown of the ideal Sunday reset to combat the Monday blues and start the week off right.

      1. Get moving 
      I don’t have to tell you that dwelling on what you didn’t get to do over the weekend isn’t going to make a case of the Mondays go away. The best solution? Stop with the pity party and move your body. Because, when do you ever regret a workout? Breaking a sweat will rev up your feel-good hormones, letting those “Debbie Downer” thoughts and feelings fall by the wayside. And when you have obé Fitness to turn to, there’s no shortage of workouts at your fingertips to snap you out of a funk. Whether you feel like dancing it out, crave cardio boxing to work out your stress, or need to slow it down with some Pilates or restorative yoga, they’ve got you covered. Plus, with live and on-demand options that range from 5-60 minutes, you can check off scheduling your week of workouts. To get you started, use code TEG50 for a 7-day free trial + 50% off your first month of obé! 

      obé Fitness
      Live & On Demand Classes
      Use code TEG50 for a 7-day free trial + 50% off of your first month of obé Fitness!

      2. Do a quick clean-up and get organized 
      IMO, there’s nothing worse than my house in disarray: the bed not made, miscellaneous clutter on the kitchen counters, laundry piled up. Call me a perfectionist or anal (it’s no secret I’m a Type One)—a clean and organized space equals peace of mind. So before you call it a day on Sunday, ask Alexa to set a timer for 10 minutes and throw a load of laundry in the washer, put strewn items where they belong (that goes for the stack of papers you’ve been avoiding on your desk), purge anything you no longer need, and do a quick sweep of high-traffic areas. So when Monday morning rolls around, you can start fresh and get straight to killing it at work. 

      3. Wash your makeup brushes
      I’m here to deliver the dirty truth: Your brushes are hotbeds for bacteria. If you can’t remember the last time you gave your cosmetic tools a good scrub, they’re long overdue for one. While it’s not the most fun thing to do and you have bigger fish to fry, sudsing up in the name of preventing breakouts is 100 percent worth it, if you ask me. What’s more, giving your makeup brushes some weekly TLC can extend their lifespan and help make beauty products go on easier and smoother.

      4. Be fully present
      PSA: Practicing mindfulness doesn’t have to be a daunting task. When you roll out of bed (hopefully bright-eyed and bushy-tailed) Sunday morning, make it a point to live in the moment, no matter how you decide to spend the day. It’s only natural to think about what you’re going to do or eat next, but when you find your attention wandering from the present, take a pause. That can look like taking a deep breath, focusing on your five senses, going for a walk, connecting with a loved one, or saying affirmations aloud. By learning to stay present, we can rewrite the anxiety-ridden thinking that Monday brings and begin to look at it in a positive way. 

      5. Get between the sheets
      If there’s one day to sleep in and stay in bed all day, it’s Sunday (although, I can’t be the only one who fantasizes about it every morning), making it the ideal day to engage in sexual activity. Whether it’s a morning quickie or experimenting with new sex positions, the Sunday romp is where it’s at. The cherry on top? Orgasms reduce stress, helping shake off those Sunday Scaries. And if you’re going at it alone, even more reason to get sexy (you don’t need a partner to have a good time, BTW).

      6. Treat yourself  
      Let’s be honest, who doesn’t like receiving gifts? Treating yourself to something that brings you joy will help flip the script on a negative mindset. For me, the simple act of taking myself on a matcha latte date instantly boosts my mood (the caffeine pick-me-up doesn’t hurt either). Then, there’s always retail therapy to turn a frown upside down (hello, new matching set). If it’s food that speaks to you, cook up some comfort food with your bestie IRL or over Zoom. And if all else fails, there’s always chocolate. It’s been shown to improve your mood, after all.

      7. Set boundaries
      If there’s one surefire way to dredge up the all-too-familiar anxiety, it’s having to follow through on an engagement you didn’t want to say “yes” to from the get-go. So be honest with yourself and only commit to plans you truly want to participate in, no matter what day of the week. If that means getting over FOMO and declining a GNO or dinner date invitation ahead of time to take care of your needs, brava! And it doesn’t only apply to your social calendar—don’t agree to taking on another project or helping a co-worker with a task if you’re already spread too thin. You’ll be a better friend, partner, and employee when you show up for yourself. 

      8. Establish an intention or goal
      Banish the Sunday Scaries by setting a clear objective, or your “why,” for the upcoming week. Perhaps you want to feel good. What are things in your control that you can do this week to give you that warm, fuzzy sensation? Is it working out, volunteering, or quality time with your SO? Having an attainable purpose to set your sights on will not only help create a positive association with the week ahead but also ease any fears of what might or might not happen. 

      9. Give yourself a lymphatic massage
      OK, I know it doesn’t come close to going to the spa and actually getting a rubdown, but your body will thank you for some in-between upkeep à la you. Did I mention lymphatic drainage massage detoxes the body of gunk that has built up in your tissues, boosting your immune system, reducing water retention, and promoting relaxation (read: you look and feel better)? Convinced? Once you’ve got the green light from your doc, give it a go. 

      10. Wind down early 
      ICYMI, self-care Sunday is a thing. Do yourself a favor and start your wind-down routine an hour earlier Sunday night to allow yourself ample time to just chill (don’t get that confused with Netflix and chill). Resist the urge to cue up your latest show obsession or doomscroll and opt for pre-bedtime activities that promote relaxation, like reading, journaling, or listening to music. You’ll be glad come Monday morning when you feel well-rested and ready to take on the day. The best part? You’ve set a positive tone for the entire week. Back-to-work dread, be gone!

      I Grilled a Life Coach and Her Tips Will Transform Your Anxiety

      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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      Workout Clothes So Trendy, You’ll Want to Wear Them 24/7

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      Lacking motivation to work out? The fix might be as simple as a wardrobe upgrade with some new cute workout clothes. When you feel like your best self, you’ll be more likely to treat your body better. Whether you’re looking for motivation to get sweaty or you plan on living in activewear all year long (same), we’ve rounded up the cutest activewear that 2022 has to offer (because you deserve to look as good as a workout makes you feel).
      Between “it” colors (give me all the neon and pastel shades!), more luxe fabrics, and trendy new details, your activewear is about to be the chicest section of your wardrobe (watch your back, blazers!). 

      In this article

      Sports Bras

      Tops

      Bottoms & Dresses

      Shoes

      All the Cool Girls on TikTok Are Obsessed with This Workout Clothing Brand More

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      6 Easy Habits I Do Every Day That Have Made a Huge Difference in My Stress Levels

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      In 2022, you don’t need to be a fortune 500 CEO or Olympic athlete to feel overwhelmed by stress; 55 percent of Americans say they experience stress daily. This means stress has become so ingrained into our lives that it is now the norm and a feeling most of us believe is normal instead of something that needs to be identified and fixed. But just because it’s common doesn’t mean it has to (or should) be accepted. Stress can take a serious toll on the body, and if we’re not careful and don’t take steps to monitor our stress levels, it can lead to some pretty scary health risks. 
      I’ve had my ups and downs dealing with stress, and when I was 26, I was diagnosed with interstitial cystitis, a condition known to be influenced by stress levels. Until this point, I had unknowingly let stress control my life, and now it was controlling my body. I wasn’t willing to continue living with that, so I decided changes had to be made. Today, I can gladly say that stress no longer controls my life, thanks to a few simple daily habits I’ve incorporated. Spoiler alert: They’ve helped heal my body and lower my stress levels. 

      1. Move your body
      There are a lot of reasons to move your body on a daily basis aside from just the physical benefits, and reducing stress is one of them. When we move our bodies, we release endorphins, help to regulate our emotions, provide oxygen to the brain, and show our bodies we value them. Moving your body doesn’t have to mean working out every day. It can mean going for a walk, doing some light stretching, or engaging in an activity you love, like paddle-boarding or dancing. Once you shift your mindset from “I have to work out today” to “I get to move my body today,” this habit can become something you look forward to instead of something you dread. 

      2. Regulate your emotions 
      If you’re anything like me, you didn’t grow up learning how to talk about your emotions and feelings. It wasn’t until I was in my mid-twenties that I actually leaned into the power of expressing my emotions in a safe environment. We deal with a lot as human beings, like the ups and downs that come with relationships, work, and personal development. That’s a lot to keep inside, which is why it’s important to express what we are feeling, whether it be through therapy, journaling, or talking to friends or family. Regulating emotions allows you to let go of people and situations that no longer serve you and the stress that comes with them. 

      3. Meditate
      Meditation has had the biggest impact on my stress levels (and I was a skeptic at first). After researching and learning more about the different types of meditation, I found a daily routine that works for me: I switch between breathwork, guided meditations, sound baths, and silent meditations. Everyone is different, so finding a meditation method that works for you can take some time, but the most important takeaways I have learned are that there is no wrong way to meditate, and sticking with it is key. Whether you meditate for five minutes or 20, your body will thank you.

      4. Limit caffeine intake
      I have always been sensitive to caffeine. I’m that person who gets jittery and can’t fall asleep at night when I have a cup of coffee. Yet, I still give in to my craving from time to time. Caffeine affects everyone differently, and if you’re like me, you’ve had to change your relationship with it. These days I switch between coffee, green tea, and matcha, which provides a better balance for me. I sometimes add coconut water to my coffee to help with its dehydrating effect, but I never drink coffee on an empty stomach or after 3 p.m. Now, coffee in the right amount and scenarios don’t make me jittery or fluctuate my stress levels. It just brings me joy (as all coffee should). 

      5. Get enough sleep 
      You’ve probably heard celebrities like J.Lo and Jennifer Aniston say the secret to their healthy skin is lots of water and a good night’s sleep, and who are we to argue with them? According to the Sleep Foundation, adults aged 18-64 should get 7-9 hours of sleep each night. Sleep affects every part of our bodies, from our brain and cognitive skills to our energy levels throughout the day. Personally, I am much more irritable on the days that I get under seven hours of sleep. If we are constantly not getting enough sleep, it puts a strain on our bodies, leading to higher stress levels.

      6. Talk to your doctor about a B-12 supplement
      Yes, stress and fatigue can also have to do with nutrient deficiencies. Supplements can be a great aid when you’re not getting enough natural vitamins from your diet. With that said, I always recommend talking to your doctor before taking any new supplements. As someone who sticks to a mostly vegetarian diet, which doesn’t often contain foods with a lot of B-12, it made sense that I was deficient in it and why I felt a significant reduction in my stress levels once I started taking it. Studies have shown that there is a link between vitamin B-12 deficiency and energy levels, so it’s no surprise that I had more energy after taking the supplement. The best part? My stress has become much more manageable. 

      I Grilled a Life Coach and Her Tips Will Transform Your Anxiety More

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      3 Manifestation Techniques Our Wellness Editor Swears Transformed Her Life

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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.

      If you’ve been on the internet anytime in the past year, you’ve probably seen the word “manifestation” float across your feed a few times, and if you’re confused, you’re not alone. From TikToks with bizarre visualization techniques (no, I’m not going to picture my crush sleeping and whisper that they should marry me in their imaginary ear) to Instagram posts confusingly explaining the law of attraction, it’s hard to know what manifestation really means, and even harder to know what it can do for you.
      The Everygirl Wellness Editor, Josie Santi, has been studying and practicing manifestation techniques for nearly two years, and shares everything she’s learned on this week’s episode of The Everygirl Podcast. Recommended by wellness experts, thought leaders, and life coaches, manifestation can be boiled down to defining your dream life and then taking action in order to achieve that dream life. As Josie says, it’s about thinking of your current desires as insight into what’s meant for your future. In Episode 5 of The Everygirl Podcast, Josie shares a comprehensive explanation of what manifestation is (and what it is not), as well as tips to start practicing it and work toward your dream life today. Read on for three of Josie’s favorite journaling prompts for manifestation she shares, and tune in to the episode to hear more.

      1. “Future You” Journaling
      This method just may be the simplest form of manifestation journaling to incorporate into your everyday life. “Future You” journaling involves picturing how your life would go if you were to approach every situation as your highest self. Josie recommends treating “Future You” journaling like a diary entry for the best version of yourself, as if you were currently living that life in the present, even if your life RN looks totally different. Time to drown out the voices of anyone who has ever called you spacey, because this prompt really is daydreaming in diary entry format.
      As you journal, ask yourself how your highest self would show up in their day-to-day life. On the podcast, Josie explains that this practice is not only limited to one single day or week in your life: you can Future You journal before everything from a big presentation at work to sitting down to do your taxes to identify how your highest self would show up in specific situations (and then to actually show up that way!). On the other end of the spectrum, you can Future You journal about aspirational, exciting events that you are manifesting into your life; no scenario is too big or too small for this exercise.

      2. Gratitude Journaling
      One of the key points in the episode is that gratitude for your current situation is essential to manifesting a life that might be even more fulfilling in the future. Since the law of attraction is all about being grateful for things you want to manifest as if you already have them, practicing gratitude for the life you’re currently living can ensure that you are bringing in as much of that positive energy as possible.
      According to Josie, gratitude is one of the aspects of manifestation that can be the easiest to skip, but is arguably the most important. This is what separates manifestation from simply wanting or wishing: gratitude fuels the abundance mindset that is essential for manifestation. Josie suggests journaling about things you want more of in your life that you are already grateful to have in the first place. For example, if you’re manifesting a deeper connection with someone in your life, take time to journal about how thankful you are for your current relationship with that person, or if you’re manifesting greater wealth, feel gratitude for the ability to pay your rent or get coffee a couple times a week, etc.

      3. Highest Self Journaling
      Similar to Future You journaling, Highest Self journaling involves tapping into the everyday habits of your highest self, the version of you that you hope to manifest–instead of visualizing the situation as your highest self (like Future You journaling), you are identifying who your highest self is, which is why this exercise is especially helpful for beginners. Who does your highest self surround herself with? What does her career look like? What does she wear? What’s her morning routine like? These are the questions that will help you paint a mental picture of the person you know you are capable of becoming.
      Josie explains that highest self journaling can help you tap into a specific, easy-to-visualize version of yourself that you can carry throughout your life, showing up as that girl with each decision you make. It’s sort of like constantly asking WWBD (What Would Beyoncé Do) except instead of Beyoncé, it’s your own best possible version of yourself. As Josie says, this is one of the best ways to identify habits that will help you step into your highest self and dream life that you can implement as soon as you put down the pen. More

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      in lifestyle and culture

      12 of the most Instagrammable cafés in Dubai to visit ASAP

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      Lifestyle

      by Sarah Joseph
      2 mins ago

      VIEW GALLERY/ 12 IMAGES
      Dubai’s burgeoning café scene is growing by the day.
      With unique offerings and an endless array of food and beverage options, these quaint cafés offer a space for like-minded individuals to connect or enjoy some alone time with a book.
      Known for its aesthetic interiors and artisanal coffee culture, each creative space allows a quick escape from any mundane routine.
      If you’re looking for a midweek refresh or a co-working environment to inspire you, we’ve compiled some of the most inspiring and Instagrammable spaces for your next visit.
      For more on luxury lifestyle, news, fashion and beauty follow Emirates Woman on Facebook and Instagram
      Images: Supplied & Feature image: Instagram @nofiftyseven More

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      Wellness Girlies Are Raging about Sea Moss Gel—I Asked Experts If It’s Worth the Hype

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      Just when you thought you’ve seen and tried every wellness trend, a new one pops up. If your algorithm on Instagram or TikTok is anything like mine, then sea moss has probably graced your screen a handful of times. You may have seen it as an added ingredient in Hailey Bieber’s viral $17 Strawberry smoothie from Erewhon or from people stepping into their “wellness era” by having a spoonful a day and sharing their experience on TikTok, but if you’re still wondering “WTF is it?!,” keep reading as I share whether or not it’s worth the hype. Of course, I turned to the experts to share all of the health benefits that this viral superfood has to offer and to find out if we should really be adding it to our wellness routines.

      In this article

      WTF is sea moss?
      Sea moss, otherwise known as Irish moss, may be a new phenomenon for many, but its healing properties have actually been common knowledge for those living on the coasts of North America, the Caribbean, and Europe. In fact, the Irish have actually used its nutrient-dense qualities as medicine since the 1800s, and Jamaicans have used it to make a creamy and delicious drink that they consider to be a “love potion,” as it is believed to increase libido. This superfood is a species of red algae and has a gelatinous consistency, making it very easy to turn into powders or pastes, easily blendable for smoothies, and a great agent for thickening foods and formulas. 

      What are the health benefits?
      Everyone is entitled to their own opinion, but I’d like to think that we could all reach an agreement that sea moss doesn’t exactly scream this looks delicious. So the main motivator to incorporate this superfood is its nutrients and their benefits. “Sea moss may help support your immune system and your gut health, due to it being a good source of fiber and good bacteria,” explained Kylene Bogden, MS, RDN, a Sports Dietician and Nutrition Expert trained in functional medicine. As a strong source of fiber, sea moss is commonly used as a prebiotic. As an aid for creating more healthy bacterial growth, it can lead to better immunity.
      Jordan Dorn, a certified holistic nutritionist, agreed that the recommended daily intake (1-4 tablespoons, or 4-8 grams), contains essential amino acids, vitamin C, vitamin A, omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and 92 of the 102 minerals that our bodies need, including zinc, iodine, iron. And we can’t forget about the beauty benefits. The powerhouse ingredient is extremely rich in Taurine, a sulfur that contains amino acids, which, when ingested, can help the body to produce collagen.
      Of course, it is always important to consult with your healthcare provider first before adding any supplement or food to your diet, but the superfood may be more than just a TikTok fad, thanks to the extensive history of eating sea vegetables for health benefits in various parts of the world and how many nutrients sea moss packs in a small serving.

      What does it taste like?
      Unlike some superfoods that have a strong flavor that can sometimes overpower what you’re eating, like coconut or ginger, sea moss has a very mild taste. With that being said, the flavor is a little earthy and is very similar to seaweed or even oysters but is easily masked when added to smoothies, soups, or desserts. Whether you’re eating it raw, making a gel yourself, or purchasing a gel or paste at a store, the consistency is sticky and thick and can range from slightly crunchy to soft. 

      How do I add it into my wellness routine if I don’t want to eat it plain?
      1. Add it to smoothies or sauces
      When sea moss is in a gel or paste, it makes for a great addition to smoothies, sauces, or stews because it can also work as a thickener for a richer consistency. As delicious as Hailey Bieber’s Erewhon smoothie is (I had to see what the hype was all about), purchasing it for $17 is unjustifiable for many (and rightfully so). Here is a personal recipe I’ve used that’s easy, cost-effective, and delicious:
      3-4 dates, pitted
      1/2 banana
      1 tsp vanilla extract
      1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
      2 tbsp sea moss gel
      1/4 cup nut butter (I usually go for almond or cashew butter)
      1 cup of milk of choice

      2. Topically
      Good news if ingesting the sea moss sounds awful to you. “When applied topically, the amino acids boost your skin’s production of collagen, revealing firmer, glowing skin,” explained Lesley Thorton, holistic esthetician and the founder of skincare brand KLUR. “In skincare, it works as both a humectant and emollient, making it highly beneficial for all skin, especially individuals that are dry and easily irritated.” Since sea moss is so high in vitamins and minerals, it makes for a super-ingredient on the skin too, thanks to its anti-inflammatory and glow-boosting properties (and might even help conditions like acne, eczema, or psoriasis).

      3. Supplements
      If you’re a “texture person” or not a fan of the flavor, taking it in capsules is a perfect way to still take advantage of all of the health benefits of sea moss. Juliana Tamayo MS, RDN, a clinical dietician based in Washington, D.C., recommends Oweli’s Organic Sea Moss Veggie Capsules for those who’d rather take a simple route of incorporating supplements into their daily routine. If you don’t want to take a pill, a powdered version is a great option to add to any recipes without the texture of sea moss gel.

      Why Are People Taking a Shot of Olive Oil in the Morning, and Should I? More

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      10 Hacks Healthy Women Always Use While Grocery Shopping

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      Every Sunday afternoon, I look forward to my weekly grocery run. Forget walls filled with colorful shoes–give me a produce section overflowing with ripe vegetables, and I’ll be raving about it all week. There is something about a grocery haul that leaves you not only full and satisfied for the week but also feeling accomplished.
      Don’t get me wrong, I was not always this girl. I used to dread grocery shopping. The lines, the overwhelming selection, and don’t get me started on the price of fruit. I would leave the store feeling like I spent too much money and had no meal plan to show for it. The good news? We’re here to change that. Read on for the hacks healthy women always use while grocery shopping. 

      1. Write a grocery list
      This might be the biggest saving hack when it comes to grocery shopping, and it’s so easy! Not only will writing a list save you from overbuying food that ends up being thrown out, but it will also help you determine what items you can use for multiple meals, especially if you are buying for just yourself. Simply figure out what you want to cook for the week and then see where items can be used more than once. Once you have that down, you’ll be saving money and food.

      2. Never shop on an empty stomach
      When your blood sugar drops, your body wants immediate relief. If that happens when you’re grocery shopping, it can mean adding more sugary and salty snacks to your cart that you probably don’t need. While we’ve all been guilty of this at some point, try to schedule your grocery shopping after you have eaten to avoid spending more money than you need. 

      3. Shop in season
      Our bodies naturally crave fruits and vegetables that are in season, and it’s important to honor that. In-season produce tastes better and is usually cheaper. If it’s summer, stock up on peaches, cherries, and other stone fruits that are sweet and provide extra energy. Or opt for vegetables such as peppers, cucumbers, and tomatoes that are great for a summer salad. In the winter, try citrus fruits, which are high in vitamin C and great for fighting colds and the flu, as well as vegetables you can add to soups, such as squash, sweet potato, and carrots. 

      4. Read the nutrition label
      The food industry is very good at hiding what they put into products, which is why it’s so important to read the nutrition label. When an item says “low sodium” or “sugar-free” on it, there could be other not-so-good-for-you ingredients lurking in them, like other forms of sugars or added toxins. If you are unsure about a product and can’t pronounce half its ingredients, see if there is a healthier alternative. The best part about the food industry today is that there are many alternatives. Stores such as Thrive Market or Whole Foods (while a little pricey) might have cleaner substitutes.

      5. Don’t underestimate frozen produce
      While I consider the frozen section one of the more indulgent aisles in the grocery store (frozen pizza and ice cream always call my name), it also contains some hidden gems, such as frozen produce. Of course, we love our produce fresh, but produce doesn’t always last through the week, so always having some frozen veggies and fruit on hand is a must (stir fry or smoothie, anyone?). Plus, they will keep for a long time, so you don’t have to worry about them spoiling anytime soon. 

      6. Opt for grass-fed and organic meat and dairy
      You know the saying, “You are what you eat?” Well, it couldn’t be any more relevant than when it comes to shopping for meat and dairy products. It may not shock you that not all animals are treated the same or fed just grass, which is why it’s important to select meat products thoroughly. Yes, it is more expensive to buy organic and grass-fed, but this is one of the areas most experts agree is worth splurging on. Read the labels and shop local if it’s available as well. 

      7. Know your splurges versus savings
      Like anything in life, there are areas where you splurge and areas where you save. When it comes to grocery shopping, this applies as well. Consider splurging on meat products, dairy, and the dirty dozen (the highest pesticide-sprayed crops, so you’ll ideally want to buy them organic). If you’re looking to save a little for the higher-priced organic options mentioned, buy seasonings as well as nuts and seeds in bulk. You can also save on canned goods and broths.

      8. Choose healthy and filling snacks
      I am a huge snacker. Mid-morning, later afternoon–you name it, I’m snacking. While you should always eat when you’re hungry instead of based on times of day (that’s called intuitive eating!), snacking can often mean packaged foods high in sugar, added toxins, and sodium. Plan ahead for snack time by buying healthy and filling snacks that will keep you satisfied. Some game-changers are hummus with crackers or vegetables, popcorn, mixed nuts, or greek yogurt with berries.

      9. Don’t overshop
      Figuring out portion sizes is never easy (I always struggle with pasta). And while we don’t want to have to make multiple trips to the grocery store because we didn’t buy enough, we don’t want to overshop either. Survey what you already have at home before heading to the store, and keep the mindset that less is more. While certain items can be kept in the freezer or last beyond their in-store expiration date, fresh produce has a shelf life, so make sure you are only buying what you need to reduce food waste and to only spend the money you need to.

      10. Shop for your body
      The world of health and wellness is full of many options, and when it comes to choosing items at the grocery store, it’s important to listen to your body above all other advice. Even foods that are considered “healthy” might make not make you feel good, or vice versa. Figure out what works and doesn’t work for your body and shop according to that information first and foremost.

      7 Healthy Eating Hacks Hilary Duff’s Nutrition Coach Swears By More

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      All the Cool Girls on TikTok Are Obsessed with This Workout Clothing Brand, so I Tried It

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      If you’ve spent any time on the Internet over the last few months, you’ve likely heard of Halara, the trendy new activewear brand that all the cool girls are wearing. Everyone swears their pieces are Lululemon quality without the Lululemon price tag, so I obviously had to try them out. I was nervous about buying without trying on since it’s an online-only company and I’m picky about the fit of my workout clothes, but the website had glowing product reviews and the TikTok girlies assured me the clothes lived up to the hype. With that in mind, I placed my order and eagerly awaited the arrival of my package (for about two long weeks). So without further ado, here are the best-selling items I tried from TikTok’s favorite inexpensive athleisurewear brand and my honest thoughts. 

      1. Everyday Dress
      This is one of the pieces I see all the cool girls wearing, and now I understand why. It combines all the things I love about some of their other pieces: It has a similar fit to the cropped tank, the comfortable fabric of the high-waisted shorts, and the form and function of the biker shorts. I don’t know that this would be a go-to gym fit, but it’s a great option for a hot girl walk, casual brunch, or quick game of tennis (or an attempt to play tennis, if you’re like me). It’s also an easy piece to dress up or down. I love that you can easily throw on a jacket or tie a flannel around your waist and swap your tennis shoes for sandals to completely change the look.  

      2. High-Waisted Pocket Shorts
      As someone who carries her weight in her legs and booty (I’m coming for your brand, Kim K), I’ve struggled with the way shorts fit me for as long as I can remember. With that in mind, I didn’t have high hopes for these, but they had plenty of five-star reviews from girls saying the shorts were comfortable and cinched their waists. They also looked great on the model, so I was interested to see if they’d work for me too. 
      While they were super comfortable and probably could have been worn as lounge shorts, they didn’t quite live up to my expectations. I prefer my shorts a bit longer so I feel covered while working out and to help avoid the dreaded inner thigh chaffing. The fabric is so thin and soft which feels amazing, but they do ride up and bunch easily. Also, the leg openings aren’t nearly as roomy as they look on the model. 5/10, would wear again, but not my #1 pick for tough workouts. 

      3. Ruffle Hem Shorts
      Let’s just say my relationship with these shorts is complicated. I actually liked the way these shorts fit better than the High-Waisted Pocket Shorts because they had a looser fit in the legs. But, dare I say… too loose? The baggier fit of these combined with the ruffle hem (which was originally the main selling point for me) made them feel more like sleepwear than workout wear. Halara does refer to these as “casual” shorts, which makes sense considering their fit, but since they weren’t included in their loungewear section, I hoped they could still be worn outside the house. This pair could definitely work for some people, but I’d stay away from them if you want to feel more covered up and put together while jumping around in your workouts. For lounge shorts, however, they are perfection. 

      4. Padded Tank Top
      I’ve never been one for the crop top life—even during my peak party girl days. But I’ve been loving the look of long-line sports bras lately, so I thought I’d finally give the trend a try. Lo and behold, I’ve found my new favorite workout top. It’s a little tight (I followed the size chart), but that just means it works well for more high-impact workouts and is supportive, despite not having adjustable straps. I find that the tighter fit also helps the top stay in place so you don’t have to worry about the hem rolling up while you’re moving around. 
      And the quality? Top-notch. I was fully expecting the removable pads to shift and fold like some of my cheaper workout tops, but they have stayed in place even after a few cycles in the wash. I was also impressed that the white fabric wasn’t see-through at all. Now I’m thinking I need one in every color. 

      5. High-Waisted Biker Shorts
      Call me Princess Diana because these shorts have become part of my everyday wardrobe. They’re as soft as the High-Waisted Pocket Shorts but are a little thicker, so they feel more substantial and can pass the squat test. What they don’t pass, unfortunately, is the roll test. I find that I have to pull them down frequently, but that could be because they’re a little tight and would be resolved if I sized up. For me, they’re tough to wear as workout gear for intense workouts like running or HIIT, but I’ve been loving them for walks, stretching, and on-the-go outfits. 

      6. Side Pocket Biker Shorts
      There’s something about these biker shorts that didn’t do it for me the way the traditional Biker Shorts did (but don’t get me wrong, I still liked them enough that I’ll be pairing all my oversized tees and sweatshirts with them). Even though I ordered both pairs in the same size, this pair fits much tighter, and they roll up more than the regular Biker Shorts. I also may or may not have ripped a seam or two pulling them over my legs and butt. What I do love about them, though, is Halara’s signature pet hair-resistant fabric. I wasn’t sure that it would make much of a difference, but as a cat mom, I’ll take all the help I can get. Since I’ll mostly be wearing these at home and for running errands, it’s nice that I don’t have to reach for a lint roller between cuddling my fur babies and getting groceries. 

      @arianalee99 I can’t take it off 😍 @halara_official #halaragirls #halaradress #halaraeveryday ♬ original sound – Samantha Clement

      The verdict
      I have to give it to the TikTok girls on this one. Halara’s quality, styles, and affordable price point make it a great alternative to Lululemon and Alo. My hope is that as the brand continues to grow, they show more diversity in body shapes and sizes in their models so mid-size and plus-size girls get a sense of how the pieces will fit. After some trial and error though, I was able to find some pieces that I feel good in and look forward to wearing during my next gym session or Target run. 

      Items I’m buying next: 

      20 Workout Sets So Good, You’ll Actually Be Excited to Go to the Gym More