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      From CEOs to Registered Dietitians: 15 Women Share The Supplements They Take and Why

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      Maybe you don’t see every new supplement as a shiny new toy like I do, but there’s no doubt that the wellness world is confusing AF. Between probiotics, collagen, vitamins, and countless brands with pretty packaging, it seems like a new brand or supplement comes out every day that many of us feel like we need to achieve optimal health. It’s like every wellness influencer and doctor swears by a different vitamin that I believe in my heart will finally be the secret to healing all of my symptoms, getting radiant skin, or giving me more energy. The end result? A lot of money spent on smoothie add-ins and bottles of pills, and a whole lot of confusion over what our bodies actually need. For the betterment of humanity (and I’ll be honest, for selfish reasons), I interviewed 15 practitioners, trainers, educators, and all-around wellness advocates on the supplements they take, in an attempt to demystify the supplement world once and for all and find the best supplements. FYI, this advice is not meant to further confuse you and make you spend $$$ in a desperate attempt for perfect health. Instead, it’s to show that everyone is different and needs different things–including wellness experts.
      If you’re interested in upgrading your supplement routine (me, always), this article is intended to spark inspiration, help you identify what your body needs, and then talk to your doctor about some options that might be right for you.

      1. Berrion Berry, Period Educator, Practitioner, and Founder of The Flo Academy

      Source: @thefloacademy

      “When it comes to supplements, I’m very specific because optimum hormone health is a must for me. Every day, I take a menstrual multivitamin called Ovamoon. It has a lot of micronutrients and vitamins like B vitamins for energy, chromium to boost mood, taurine for estrogen metabolism, and papaya enzymes to support digestion. When I’m on my period, I take Semaine, a plant-based period pain relief, and it truly works wonders for me. It contains ingredients like Boswellia for anti-inflammation, silymarin to support the liver and reduce bloating, and quercetin to help lessen cramps. I love to keep my vitamin and supplement situation simple and uncomplicated.”

      Source: @danielleduboise

      “I’m eight months pregnant, so I take The Foundation: Prenatal every single day. It was created because we struggled to find a prenatal that met our high standards for purity and potency. It’s plant-based and specifically formulated for optimal health throughout the stages of pregnancy and motherhood with choline, chlorella, folate, iron, and omega-3. As a busy mom, I know there are days when I won’t be able to get in all my greens and essential nutrients, so it gives me such peace of mind that my baby and I will be supported.”

      3. Les Alfred, Personal Trainer, Nutrition Coach, and Host of the Balanced Black Girl Podcast

      Source: @balancedles

      “I keep my supplement routine pretty simple and vary what I take depending on my needs. On a typical day, I take a women’s multivitamin, a probiotic, and an adaptogen blend in my morning coffee or tea. The week before my period, I take a B-vitamin supplement and magnesium.”

      4. Dr. Mona Vand, Pharmacist and Digital Creator

      Source: @monavand

      “I personally think supplements and multivitamins are often overused. Instead, I always recommend a micronutrient panel (which is a much more comprehensive blood work panel than a regular CBC) to see what you’re deficient in, and then individually add whatever you have low levels of. Here’s what I take based on my needs: 
      CoQ10: This is a great one for anyone! It supports heart health, overall antioxidant function, and enhances fertility. It hits a broad range of benefits that make it a no-brainer.
      Iron: I take an iron supplement because I tend to run low on iron and ferritin, which is your body’s storage of iron. Low iron can be common in vegans and vegetarians, so I suggest getting a comprehensive micronutrient panel to check your levels and then supplementing if needed.
      Vitamin D: I like a vitamin D supplement because many people are deficient in it. Personally, I avoid sun exposure at all costs (no thank you hyperpigmentation, melanoma, and premature wrinkles!), which means I’m missing out on the natural source of vitamin D, so supplementing is helpful. 
      In terms of natural powders/supplements that I like to add into smoothies, my favorites are spirulina, chlorophyll, and high-quality collagen (Bulletproof is an incredible high-quality brand).” 

      5. Valerie Agyeman, RD, Women’s Health Dietitian, and Founder of Flourish Heights

      “I take vitamin D regularly. As a result of blood work, I found that I was vitamin-D deficient and was prescribed vitamin D. Now, I keep up with labs to make sure I am within the normal range for my body. Vitamin D plays a big role in women’s health, from immune support to mood regulation, so it’s something I make sure to keep up. It’s important to obtain nutrients from food first, but taking a multivitamin regularly helps me fill those nutritional gaps, especially for moments where my eating pattern is all over the place, because… life. Also, I’ve been taking magnesium regularly for the past year, and it’s helped with stress and sleep, along with other things. ”

      Source: @iamsahararose

      “As an Ayurvedic Author and Practitioner, I love to take Ayurvedic herbs that come from whole plant ingredients and work with the entire system of the body. My favorite brand is Banyan Botanicals. One I’ve been taking every day is their Adrenal Nourish, which is incredible for balancing adrenal fatigue. I also practice breathwork, dance, and meditation to bring my body into balance.”

      7. Amanda Kloots, Professional Dancer, Celebrity Trainer, and Instructor at Studio B

      Source: Amanda Kloots

      “I love Bite Gummies right now! I take three different gummies every day: Baby Face, a youth-boosting gummy with superfood ingredients like silica, acai, omegas, and collagen; C-Food for skin-nourishing greens like sea moss, kale, kiwi, aloe, papaya, and spirulina; and Lighten Up, which is an antioxidant powerhouse with ingredients like apple cider vinegar, pomegranate, beetroot, and B vitamins.”

      8. Erika Polsinelli, Kundalini Breathwork Healer and Founder of Evolve By Erika

      “First and foremost, I believe so much of our minerals and nutrients should come in its truest form: fruits and vegetables. As it gets colder outside, I love drinking green juices first thing in the morning to get extra nutrients in, and I add ginger to my water to help boost immunity. I also take zinc and vitamin D, which also help to boost immunity. Vitamin D is also said to help combat depression, which helps in the colder winter months. Probiotics are also essential in my routine.”

      9. Maya Feller, MS, RD, CDN, Nutrition Expert and Author

      Source: @mayafellerrd

      “I’m currently taking zinc, magnesium, curcumin, vitamin-D, and using CBD topically to support my system during a time of stress.”

      10. Lo Bosworth, Founder and CEO of Love Wellness

      Source: @lobosworth

      “I always start my day with the Daily Love Multivitamin, Good Girl Probiotics, and Perfect Condition Vitamin. These three are the baseline to not only my nutritional needs, but they are also helping to keep my gut health in check. I’m also a huge fan of Bye Bye Bloat, a Love Wellness fan-favorite. Anytime that I’m feeling a bit bloated, it really does the trick (especially around the holidays!).”

      11. Chevy Laurent, Fitness Instructor and Founder of RydeFYR

      Source: @chevylaurent

      “I regularly drink the Tone It Up Protein Powder, but in the last several weeks, I’ve started to use the new Gummy Vitamins. I like the multivitamin specifically formulated for women and the ACV gummy, but my favorite is the Vitamin C immunity support gummy. I love how these products are made by women that I know, love, and trust. I’m committed to taking them regularly because it’s so important to focus on doing everything you can to improve your overall health, especially during these crazy 2020 times.”

      Source: Serena Loves

      “I’m a huge proponent of eating a rainbow of whole foods to get your most bioavailable source of vitamins, minerals, and core nutrients. However, I am just as enthusiastic about including high-quality supplements to give added support and balance to the body. I am ritualistic about taking certain vitamins because of the many years of experience I have with my own body and working with clients. After my daily warm lemon water, I start with a liquid elixir that is a blend of mushroom tinctures, apple cider vinegar, whole leaf aloe, herbal immunity blend, and colloidal silver. I follow that with a Just Add Water, which is a superfood blend. Throughout the day, I take a variety of supplements and vitamins, including a probiotic, nootropic brain support blend, L-Lysine, zinc, evening primrose oil, turmeric (Elixinol), cranberry, and magnesium glycinate (before bed).”

      13. Ariel Belgrave, Health & Fitness Coach and Creator of The L.E.A.N. Method

      “My two favorite vitamins or supplements that I take regularly are the Women’s Formula from Smarty Pants and Tone It Up’s Apple Cider Vinegar Gummies.”

      14. Alana Kessler, MS, RD, Founder of Be Well by AK

      “I take vitamin D and K for anti-inflammation, heart health, and bone health; Glutamine for gut integrity; milk thistle (glutathione) for detox support, magnesium for neuromuscular support; and a B-complex for hormone health, cellular metabolism, and energy.”

      15. Jasmine Marie, Breathworker and Founder of black girls breathing

      Source: black girls breathing

      “As I navigate being a founder, space maker, and human during a collectively hard time, the most reliable supplement for me has been magnesium. I take it orally and absorb it through my skin by adding epsom salts to baths. I can tell a difference in my cycles, energy levels, and overall body when I take it. A hot and piping peppermint tea is also a favorite in the colder months during the evenings or when I’m reading, and I drink it iced during the summer months when I’m trying to limit coffee.”

      Please consult a doctor before beginning any treatments. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical or mental health condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this article. More

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      Can’t Afford A Peloton? Try This Inexpensive Workout Equipment

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      I think it’s safe to say that we’re all starting to see the appeal of having a home gym. Depending on where you live, it may be a while before your local gyms are back up and running at full capacity, so it’s time to find some at home fitness solutions that don’t involve breaking the bank.As lovely as it would be to have a Peloton at home so you can pedal all your worries away, many of us are looking for more affordable solutions. We rounded up nine inexpensive workout equipment options for you so you can step up your home fitness game without ruining that budget you created for the new year.

      Kettlebell
      Kettlebells are a great addition to your workout routine, especially if you don’t want to invest in a full set of weights. However, they are heavy and a bit of a pain to lug around if you need to build up your strength. To avoid needing to walk home from Target with a kettlebell in hand, I order mine from Amazon, so even if they are super heavy, they’ll be delivered to your door for free. A kettlebell is an ideal tool for enhancing squats and lunges, which can keep your workout session simple, yet effective. This set of three smaller kettlebells is a great place to start if you’re new to strength training.

      3-Piece Kettlebell Set

      This set of three smaller kettlebells is a great place to start if you’re new to strength training.

      Jump Rope
      Are you ready to make your workout a bit more fun? We thought so. Jump ropes are a really fun way to squeeze in some cardio while stuck inside.

      Exercise Bike
      If you’re majorly missing the gym, you might want to invest in some larger workout equipment. Just because a Peloton isn’t in your budget, doesn’t mean you can’t replicate a similar workout.

      Fitness Sliders
      This is one of the smallest pieces of workout equipment on this list, which makes it ideal for apartment dwellers like me who are beginning to feel a bit claustrophobic thanks to their lack of square footage. For the days that you want to amp up your usual workout, see if you can incorporate fitness sliders.

      Obé Sliders

      These flat discs go beneath your hands and feet and create resistance and tension during floor exercises like lunges.

      Source: Amanda Shapin Michelson

      Resistance Bands
      There are a few reasons to love resistance bands. Not only does this tiny-but-mighty strength-building tool help build tension in your muscles (that’s a good thing), but they are inexpensive and really compact. When you’re ready to start traveling again, a resistance band is the perfect addition to your suitcase if you’re looking to squeeze in a quick-but-effective workout at your hotel.

      Mini Trampoline
      For even more fun than a jump rope, why not bounce off a hard day? I first discovered mini trampolines during studio pilates classes. I came for the reformer machines, but stayed for the trampolines. Not only is it really fun to jump on a trampoline, but I’ve found they give a great cardio workout and can build up core strength. There are tons of benefits of using a trampoline in your workout. They can improve endurance and develop better balance, coordination, and motor skills. Not to mention, they’re a great way to relieve stress and tension.

      Dumbbells
      If you’re short on storage, dumbbells can be a major space saver compared to some workout equipment. You can add these little weights to your existing exercises, or you can start a routine that really focuses on toning your arms.

      Adjustable Dumbbell Weight Pair

      This adjustable dumbbell set comes with removable weight bars that allow you to set your desired weight. That way, you don’t have to keep repurchasing weights as your strength begins to build.

      Stability Ball
      Remember that episode of The Office, where Dwight sat on a stability ball in lieu of a desk chair? Now that most of us are working from home, we can work on our core strength and balance just like Dwight did. Of course, you won’t want to sit on a stability ball all day, but it’s an easy way to make your next Netflix binge session feel more productive, and is a peaceful way to end a high-intensity workout.

      Stability Ball

      This stability ball includes a pump for easy inflation.

      Under Desk Elliptical
      A what? An under-desk elliptical is a compact piece of workout equipment that allows you to get your fitness on under your desk. 

      Under Desk Elliptical

      This device is a multitasker’s dream and will make those unnecessary Zoom meetings feel a lot more productive.

      Source: Colorjoy Stock

      Elliptical Machine
      If you want the real deal when it comes to an elliptical machine, the price isn’t as bad as you would think. You won’t be able to sneak this workout in during conference calls, but you will be able to turn your nightly Netflix session into a solid workout. 

      Yoga Mat
      If you’re like me, you’ll appreciate any workout that allows you to lay down on the floor. Certain elements of barre, pilates, and yoga occur laying or sitting down. Score. Make the experience a lot more enjoyable by investing in a high-quality yoga mat (which will still be cheaper than one month at most gyms).

      Running Shoes
      Running is a great workout and an ideal way to get some fresh air and sunshine after being cooped up inside all day. One way to help support your body during a run is to invest in a pair of high-quality running shoes. No, your basic tennis shoes won’t do the trick. The right running shoe for you will depend a lot on your body and your personal preferences, so there is no one-size-fits-all recommendation.

      Rowing Machine
      Rowing isn’t just for arm strength. With proper technique, a rowing machine can give you an exhaustive full-body workout that will leave your core burning. When you’re ready to get started, try this 30-minute drill workout. 

      Magnetic Rower

      Row all your problems away on this surprisingly sleek rowing machine that has thousands more five-star reviews than you’ll probably ever want to read. More

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      HOLY SH*T: Our Favorite Wellness Brand Is Having a 50% off Sale This Week

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      This week is kind of like purgatory: the stress of gifting and excitement over Christmas is over, but the what-am-I-going-to-do-on-NYE stress and will-I-actually-stay-awake-until-midnight question still loom ahead of us. Getting any work done feels like a joke, and without the ability to go anywhere and see anybody, this week just feels like a waiting game. But this is actually a very important time we can all use to spend on ourselves: prioritizing self-care, spending free time in fulfilling ways, and buying ourselves gifts that will make us feel good.Our CBD go-to and favorite self-care brand, Equilibria, must have gotten the memo on “self-care week” too. Equilibria has been an Everygirl favorite for a while now: Maddie takes the soft gels for stress-relief, Abigail swears she sleeps better after taking a bath with the bath bombs, and I can’t get enough of the treatment oil to soothe inflammation and dry skin. If you’ve been interested in trying CBD, looking to add some more stress-relief into your life, or made your New Year’s resolutions to be treating yo’self more in 2021, now is your chance. 

      Source: @equilibriawomen

      From December 26 through December 31, Equilibria is giving the ultimate gift of high-quality products at a discounted price; score 50 percent off all new subscriptions to kick off 2021 with a bang (or more like a relaxing, self-indulgent, and restorative nudge). That’s right: you can finally try the products our team loves and uses every day, for a fraction of the price. Pro tip: we always recommend subscribing anyway, so you won’t have to remember to refill. And trust me, you will want to refill.

      offer ends 12/31/20

      Equilibria
      The Brilliance Box

      The Brilliance Box includes Daily Drops for fast-acting, targeted relief, Daily Softgels for a sustained-release, and topical Relief Cream for local discomfort, so you’re getting everything you need.

      Equilibria
      Daily Treatment Oil

      This luxurious oil renews skin to calm inflammation, hydrate, and nourish. The perfect fix to dry winter skin!

      Equilibria
      Mindful Mineral Soak

      With over 30 nourishing minerals, this powerful bath soak uses gardenia and jasmine aromatic oil blends along with calming CBD to purify and destress.

      Source: @equilibriawomen

      Equilibria
      Daily Softgels

      Perfect for all-day balance, Daily Softgels are a slow-release product, resulting in long-lasting effects.

      Equilibria
      Balance Bath Bombs

      The perfect gift for yourself: add to a bath when you need an extra dose of relaxation and self-care. You’ll feel instant relief and have your best sleep that night.

      Source: @eacourts | @equilibriawomen

      Equilibria
      Daily Drops

      Use Daily Drops to help increase feelings of calm and balance throughout the day. Perfect for targeted, fast-acting results.

      Equilibria
      Relief Cream

      A topical cream that works deep into muscles to soothe aches, pains, and even period cramps.

      Equilibria
      Mindful Mineral Soak

      With over 30 nourishing minerals, this powerful bath soak uses gardenia and jasmine aromatic oil blends along with calming CBD to purify and destress.

      As per FDA guidelines, Equilibria CBD is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or ailment. As always, consult with your physician before starting any new program that may interact with your current health plan.

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

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

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      ‘Tis the season for resolutions! Some of us love a new, clean slate of goals (@eights), while others look at them as an unwinnable chore (ahem, four), but there’s no denying that having something to look forward to this year is a great way to start it. The key to a New Year’s resolution you can keep is keeping your goals attainable. And what better way than making sure it aligns with your personality already? Your enneagram type is a quick snapshot of you, so we’re helping you pick one goal you might not have thought of yet (or it’s already top of mind!) that you can work toward this year.

      Start a meditation practice
      Ones have resolutions lists filled to the brim, but they’re likely forgetting to add self-care at all. Ones could benefit from the calm and clarity of meditation, and developing a whole practice around it is the kind of routine and order type ones find so much joy in.
      READ: Think Meditation Isn’t for You? Here’s What to Try Instead…

      Create a cleaning routine
      After the dumpster fire that was 2020, twos are looking to get organized to take on any new challenges that 2021 throws their way. Create a cleaning routine you can follow daily, weekly, monthly, bi-annually, and annually will give you the flexibility to clean as you go instead of doing big clean-outs every few months (you know, before company comes over). Plus, twos will love putting their new routine in their planner, on the fridge, in a notebook, or anywhere they can access it.
      READ: 7 Areas to Clean and Purge for The New Year

      Develop a new meaningful connection
      Threes have an abundance of lofty goals for their career, health and fitness, mental well-being, and more, but they likely haven’t turned their attention toward relationships just yet. It can feel daunting to think about creating all of these new relationships and making new friends, but adjusting the goal to something tangible, like meeting one new person, is something anyone can accomplish (especially a goal-getting type three!). 
      READ: 10 Career Connections You Need to Make By the Time You’re 30

      Take on a special project
      Fours love to get into their own little world and create; the mundane parts of a task bore them to tears. They love to get started on many new projects, even when they don’t have time for it. Make it a point to take on one really special project this year that you devote a lot of time to. You’ll feel so accomplished in the end, and all of those late nights creating something will be your epitome of joy. 
      READ: 100 Projects Our Readers Are Doing in Isolation

      Start investing
      Ringing in a new year for a five is all about preparing and getting ready for the year—because we all know a five likes to have all the information before they make their way into a project. This year, take your financial goals to the next level by making a point to start investing. Whether you’re already a pro and are brushing up on your financial literacy and trying something new or starting from scratch, this task will likely involve a lot of reading—which the Rory Gilmores of the enneagram will certainly appreciate.
      READ: The App That Will Help You Finally Master Your Personal Finances

      Take up a new hobby
      Sixes are called “The Loyalist” for a reason: they’re committed and stick to the things they love, which can make it hard for them to bust out of a comfort zone or try something new. We’re about to spend a little more time at home in 2021, so now more than ever is the time to learn a new skill and really delve deep into it. In typical six fashion, you won’t stop until you’ve mastered it.
      READ: 21 Hobbies You Can Start at Home—Today
       

      Read more books in different genres than your usual
      Hopping into a whole new world through a book? The exact vibe of a seven. They love anything with adventure or a thrill (even when that “thrill” comes from a solid hate-to-love romance trope). However, make a point to step out of your usual box this year and try some new genres, like nonfiction, contemporary fiction, and sci-fi. 
      READ: I Read Nearly 150 Books in 2020—Here Are 10 I Recommend
       

      Create a morning routine
      Eights are pretty typically night owls, so mornings don’t look as blissful as they’d like. However, they need those free hours in the morning; getting straight into a day’s full of work is draining. Try a few different morning routines—whether they include meditation, journaling, working out, meal prepping, or reading a book in bed—and see which sticks. 
      READ: 12 Morning Routine Hacks for a Calmer Day
       

      Try a weekly social media detox
      The people-pleasing nature of a nine loves to scroll through their feeds and double-tap every single thing their friends and family have been up to, but after a while, this can do the opposite effect of making you feel joyful. Make it a point to try a weekly social media detox. You don’t have to delete every social account you love, just remove the apps one day a week or use the screen time limiter function on your phone. Our editor tried this, and it changed her entire relationship with her phone! 
      READ: 7 Things to Do At Night Besides Stare At Your Phone More

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      7 Lessons From 2020 We’re Bringing Into 2021

      by

      Considering the blockbuster-worthy, 12-month, traumatic event that was 2020, even the most enthusiastic “new year, new me” advocate is probably tempted to skip the whole resolution thing this year (or forever). I must admit that I am an avid New Year’s resolution writer; there’s just something about setting down a year’s worth of intentions on paper that feels magical to me. But this year I’m feeling a little different. As 2020 (also known as the most drawn-out, sped-up, chaotic year in recent memory) comes to a close, I realized that this was a year that life forced a lot of very necessary lessons on me. And despite my very valid apprehension about 2021, I owe it to myself, to bring those lessons along with me. 2020 taught me a hell of a lot—here are some things I definitely don’t want to forget in the New Year. 
      1. Some days (or weeks), you’ll accomplish absolutely nothing—and that’s OK
      Throughout this pandemic, my productivity came in waves—some days all I could find the energy to do was shower and eat handfuls of cereal. I felt so frustrated with myself because I’d always said “if only I had more time…” and now here I was, with an excess of time, and squandering it. And so I’d plan my days out—‘Learning Tuesdays’, ‘Writing Wednesdays’—in hopes of forcing productivity, and end up feeling totally overwhelmed. Now, I try to listen to my body’s natural rhythms; to be guided by my energy’s ebb and flow, rather than try to fight it. These past few months have shown me that our desire to create needs to be coupled with moments of rest. We won’t always be in a pandemic, but the rules don’t change—real productivity comes with peace, and peace comes from mental, physical, and emotional rest. So rest.

      Source: @jaceyduprie

      2. Personal space is not negotiable
      I’m eagerly awaiting the day that face masks are a thing of the past, but I will definitely be maintaining my six feet of distance. Having a mandated personal bubble has shown me that people (often men) really have been encroaching on my space in a way that I’ve never enjoyed. And yet, I’ve just been allowing it. But now that I know the peace that comes with the appropriate amount of breathing room, I’m never going back. Back it up, please!

      Source: @jahirka

      3. Dressing up has everything to do with you, and nothing to do with anyone else
      My Leo sun already knew this, but this year definitely solidified it for me. There were a lot of days this year where I just didn’t feel like myself, and doing my hair, putting on something nice, and adding a swipe of my favorite Fenty lipstick made a huge difference. I’d look at myself in the mirror-like, “sure, you might have lost your job in the middle of a pandemic, but sis, don’t you look good?” Getting all dolled up for no one’s benefit but my own gave me the boost I so desperately needed at times. And I learned a very valuable lesson: there’s no one who deserves me showing up as my best self more than me.

      4. Black lives still matter
      This year was a tumultuous one, and for many of us, a wake up call, especially when it comes to issues of racial injustice. But the work does not and cannot stop in 2020. No one wants to be a ‘black square’ ally, where posting that black square back in June is the extent of your engagement with racial issues. You still need to buy Black, you still need to support Black women, and you still need to call out your racist colleagues, neighbors, and family members. Keep that same energy in 2021 and beyond; the work is not done.
       

      Source: @localwanderer

      5. You’re better than stressing over a few extra lbs
      Full disclosure—I’m still working on this one! While I understand that a little extra weight is NBD in theory, putting it into practice is where things get a little shaky. But here’s the thing, guys, maybe we did gain a little weight over this year… but like, so what? No seriously, so what? We survived every single thing this year has thrown at us—how dare we beat ourselves up over a couple of inches! Our bodies are operating constantly and dynamically on our behalf (even in a pandemic); let’s give them a little grace, shall we? It helps to remember that your body is not some future goal, but a current, wonderful reality. I used to see my post-HIIT sweat as calories burned, ergo, potential lbs lost. Now, I try to embrace the exhaustion and endorphins, focusing on the fact that I’ve done something that serves my body.

      6. Falling in love with your bare face is beautiful
      This year stripped me bare in a lot of different ways. Even though I certainly spent days in lockdown, thinking wistfully about my next visit to my wax girl, nail tech, lash girl, etc., the time forced me to come to terms with my face without the enhancements. And I started finding things I liked—the shape of my cheekbones, how my skin looks like the perfect cup of coffee, the way my smile reaches all the way to my eyes. I hadn’t realized how much I relied on the extra stuff to feel satisfied about the way I look and the process of becoming reacquainted and falling in love with my naked face feels really, really good. This doesn’t mean I don’t still love a perfect brow and a bomb highlight (cause I do), but I’ve also become OK with leaving home with just sunscreen and lip balm. We call that growth!

      Source: @onairplanemode__

      7. No more waiting for a ‘special occasion’
      I’m no longer putting down that bottle of wine for later or saving that outfit for a special date. Forgive the cliché, but life is short! I don’t think we consider how much of our life we spend waiting—waiting for the right moment, the right weather, the right mood, the right crowd. I’m here to say the right ‘whatever’ is exactly when and where you want it to be. If you feel like the right time to pop a bottle of champagne is on a Thursday evening after clearing a particularly daunting inbox, then so be it, darling! Forgive this second cliché, but being alive is the special occasion! More

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      How to Support Friends Who Are Spending the Holidays Alone

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      While this time of year is traditionally full of opportunities for celebration, there are many for whom the holidays can be an isolating and difficult season to get through. With the year that we’ve had, it’s also likely that for some, this is their first holiday season alone. And while spending time with ourselves is a great way to explore and invite growth into our lives, it can be particularly challenging to find the positive in being by yourself during a time of year when we’re expected to feel nothing but happy holiday joy.The good news is that while virtual chats have become our go-to—albeit exhausting—means of communication, there are many ways you can connect with and support loved ones from a distance. From dropping off baskets filled with homemade goodies to exchanging cards expressing your gratitude and love, below are 10 ideas that’ll help you foster connection and build community this season.

      1. Check in
      Reaching out is a great place to start. Be sure to ask before you assume how they’re responding to being on their own for the holidays. It’s possible that they’re looking forward to not having to endure a long family meal, and of course it’s also possible that they’re heartbroken over not being able to go home or gather with loved ones. By checking in, you’re inviting your friend to share their truth, and you’re offering them the space to be heard. 
      This is also a great time to provide additional outlets for your friend if they need extra support. Maybe that’s encouraging them to connect with their therapist or schedule a phone or Zoom call with their family. Listen as they voice their needs, and respond with resources that can further support them.

      2. Support their rest
      Many of us have at least a couple days off from work around the holidays, and 2020 plus a busy season means everyone is in need of more than a little rest. Curate a line-up of their favorite holiday episodes, send them a roundup of books they’ll love, or put together a soothing playlist of songs that will put them at ease. Not only are you sharing tools and resources that will help them unwind, but you’re also letting them know that their health and well-being is important to you.

      3. Marathon your favorite holiday movies 
      I’ve waxed poetic about The Holiday being my favorite Christmas movie more times than I can count. And while a Nancy Meyers script combined with scenes of a picture-perfect English village is enough to make me happily burrow away for several days without human contact, there’s really nothing better than watching your favorite holiday movies with friends. Whether that’s telepartying on Netflix or FaceTiming while you watch Happiest Season, there are plenty of ways you can still connect over the beautifully-cheesy films we can’t get enough of during this time of year. 
      Pull on your coziest PJs, mix up a batch of your favorite holiday-themed snack (I’m going for Muddy Buddies), and get ready for hours-long texting convos about whether or not The Princess Switch or The Princess Switch: Switched Again is the superior Vanessa Hudgens performance (we’re awaiting your honest thoughts!).

      4. Dream together
      Next time you’re chatting with your friend, let your focus shift to the future for a bit, and share how good it’ll feel when you can get together, go for dinner, or even just see each other from closer than six feet again. While a disheartening news spiral can make us all feel a little hopeless at times, it’s important to remember that it won’t always be this way. Dreaming up possibilities for a future trip to Europe together can brighten up any challenging day, and the only thing that’s better than travel planning is taking the vacation itself.

      5. Drop off a basket filled with their favorites
      There’s a reason sharing gift baskets with new neighbors was once a staple of every guide to etiquette. Putting together a collection of your friend’s favorite things—snacks, baked goods, the cedar-scented candle they can’t get enough of—and dropping it off on their front step is a thoughtful surprise anyone would be happy to receive. You can even pack your friend dinner plus a bottle of wine or pair store-bought jam with an assortment of homemade baked goods. Whatever it is you think they’ll look forward to the most, fill the basket with that.

      6. See the lights 
      Pack up your holiday beverage of choice (I’m pouring peppermint hot cocoa), and set out in your respective cars to find the prettiest holiday lights. A quick Google search for holiday light displays in your city will likely turn up helpful results, and you can always ask around for recommendations from those in the know. When you get to your destination, bundle up, walk around, and get ready to ooh and aah at all the winter wonderlands you find.

      7. Go virtual, but challenge yourselves to get creative
      With months of Zoom-only interactions behind us, Zoom fatigue is very real. But it’s also possible that it’s the way that we’re interacting virtually that’s contributing to the drain. Virtual happy hours were fun for about a minute, but it’s time that we branch out and find all the many amazing classes, performances, exhibitions, and more that we have access to now that we’re all online. DIY a winter wreath, tune in for a virtual performance, cue up an online workout, or learn how to create gorgeous lettering like an artist. Whatever you decide to do, it’ll be an opportunity for you to connect, grow, and learn something new together.

      8. Go for a socially-distant walk
      Walks are the real MVP of quarantine, and if you live in the same city, send a text to see if your friend wants to go for one together. Not only are endorphins, sunshine, and connection a game-changing combo for your mental space, but you’ll also get the opportunity to catch up in-person, even if from behind a mask.

      9. Volunteer together
      Whether you’re spending the holidays alone or not, giving back can raise anyone’s spirits and reminds us of all we have to contribute. See what opportunities are available right now in your community or go online for ideas. Connect with an organization that’s distributing hand-written letters to senior facilities or gather up donations to bring to your local food bank. Any option you choose will have the same effect: Boosted empathy and a reminder of what this season is really all about.

      10. Send a little “thinking of you”
      What are the things about your friend for which you’re the most grateful? Maybe it’s their vulnerability, their strength, or their kindness. Maybe it’s their ever-expanding imagination that keeps you inspired. Make a list of all the things you love and appreciate about them. Write your list in a card and drop the little love note in the mail.
      Whether that’s a DM, text, or a small note in the mail, it’s a simple gesture that can have an amazing impact. Sometimes the simplest things matter most. More