This lead us to a rabbit hole discussion of the age of nostalgia sweeping our nation, and perhaps a whole generation, consumed with the incessant thought of how life could have been had they been born about 20 years earlier. In a time predominantly defined by big tech and social media, it seems natural that the generation that missed out on all the silliness y2k brought with it would be longing for the simpler times. As predicted by almost any apocalyptic film ever, simpler is, was, and always will be, better!

Not only are gen z’ers brooding for a bygone time, they’re right there with millennials who are leading the tribe down y2k lane, with hoardes adopting a “dumb phone” policy, turning their apartments into a 90’s rom-com environment, and some even going so far as to raise their kids exclusively via VHS programming. Was the past really better, or are we turning into our parents and romanticizing a past that was taken from us too soon?

Vintage is taking over high fashion. 90s mania is taking over red carpets. And books are in vogue again! Oh my. But is everything newly-chic really just something very well preserved and forgotten? Perhaps some things are better left in the past, like the continuous body shaming of anyone who wasn’t a rail-thin size zero. Or the lack of equality or accurate female representation in any media thrust upon us. Or, even, the cruel dissection of young women coming into themselves. It seems for all the cutesy, whimsical nostalgia the 90’s/early 2000’s hold, there is also a lot that was left to be desired. But we’re not here to focus on that. What I’m here to discuss is how you, like that millennial-mourning man child, can too live your life with the whimsy and romanticization of the noughties.

The first step? Well, ditching the smart-phones to start. Whether that means for certain hours of the day, or completely switching to a “dumb phone.” This reconnects you back to day-to-day life and actually being present (whether that’s a good thing or not is up to you, tbh).

The second, and perhaps the most pressing, is of course the fashion! With the noughties we got boho chic, weirdly galactic, space themed clothes and interiors, low rise jeans with an array of embellishments, silk camisole tops that saw the streets more than the sheets, and so many other questionable fashions that can usher in your inner y2k character arc.

After you’ve ditched modernity and chosen a theme, you can now begin to lead the life of your very own Lorelai Gilmore, whether that means finding your local coffee shop and taking a residency, or or applying for a job that caters to this very subject.

Was the past really something magical and hopeful, and more than anything, simple? Perhaps it was. Or perhaps we saw it from a lens of simplicity because we knew nothing else. So, my advice to all who aspire to enter their leading-character-in-a-rom-com era, you can be an Andie Anderson, an Andie Sachs, or even a Daria, but if you do it, commit to the bit! Us 90’s kids wouldn’t have done it any other way.

Y2K notebook!

Martini Y2K phone case

Low-Rise Flare jeans

Bootcut Flare Jeans

Ultra-Low Rise Jeans

Dumb Phone link

The iconic y2k lip gloss!

More bedazzled everything,please

A necessary accessory for any y2k lover

Biblical Juicy pouch

A charm bracelet and homage

For the butterfly It-Girls

For the DIY It-Girls

Mantra of the Week:“You’ve got to get up every morning with determination if you’re going to go to bed with satisfaction.” — George Lorimer

Song of the Week: Forever Young - Youth Group

Horoscope for the Week

Aries

You’re going to feel a strong urge to say exactly what you’re thinking this week. Consider feeling it privately. Not every thought needs to become a developing situation.

Taurus

You’ve decided you need something you discovered approximately eleven minutes ago. It’s not an impulse purchase if you can already picture where it’s going to live.

Gemini

Your social battery will be operating on a completely unpredictable schedule this week. You’ll make plans enthusiastically and then spend the next 48 hours wondering who authorized them.

Cancer

Someone is going to say something completely normal and you’re going to detect a tone. Was there a tone? Irrelevant. You’ve already discussed it with three people.

Leo

You’re craving a little extra attention this week, but you’d rather die than directly ask for it. Luckily, there are several perfectly good photos of you waiting to be posted.

Virgo

You’re fixing a problem nobody else has noticed yet. Will they appreciate you for preventing it? Probably not. Will you quietly resent them for that? Absolutely.

Libra

You’re trying very hard to keep the peace this week. Unfortunately, you also have opinions. Expect at least one “I don’t care either way” followed by several extremely specific preferences.

Scorpio

You’ve noticed one tiny inconsistency and unfortunately that’s all you needed. By the end of the week, you’ll have timestamps, supporting documents, and absolutely no intention of bringing it up casually.

Sagittarius

You’re getting bored, which historically has not been great for your decision-making. Before booking something, texting someone, or changing your entire life, maybe go for a walk.

Capricorn

You’ve somehow turned your free time into a list of deliverables. If you catch yourself saying you’re “behind” on relaxing, please close the Notes app immediately.

Aquarius

Someone wants to have a serious conversation and you’ve already prepared several jokes to prevent that from happening. Unfortunately, they may ask how you actually feel. Stay alert.

Pisces

You’re about to mistake a coincidence for a sign from the universe. Could it mean something? Sure. Could you also just really want it to mean something? Listen to your mind, before jumping with your heart.

As we graduate and move on from curriculums, and schedules, and deadlines- we find less and less to hold ourselves accountable, and more reasons to procrastinate. Losing the structure that was meticulously crafted for us and thrust into a world where failure could likely mean unemployment.

New Years, then, becomes our adult fresh start; our tabula rasa; a phoenix rising from the ashes (of a year riddled with poor decision making). When we inevitably forego our resolutions and continue living with hedonistic abandon, we use September, and fall, as our second-coming of sorts. Reasonable? Probably not. But somewhat reassuring knowing that the year can be split into two truths: the resolutions you give yourself at the beginning of the year and the ones you actually maintain from the start of fall onwards.

My personal favorite is to invest in a new journal and find a way to incorporate it into my life in a way that benefits maintaining a schedule, a routine, and habits that will hopefully better my questionable decision making. Below, a few personal favorites that I’ve found actually do the job in a way that is both fun and creative, but also in keeping with my theme of studious and refined. Will a planner change my life in a vast way? No, but it will introduce orderliness in an infinitesimal way that will encourage me to introduce more micro-habits that will!

Listen- nothing is worse for anxiety than the fear of not knowing and wondering, “what if?” It can replay in your head for days, haunt you into the night, and leave you procrastinating through your actual busy days because you’re stuck between a metaphoric rock and a hard place. Creating minute changes that provide some structure, then, can channel that anxiety into something productive. A new hobby, perhaps? A fall cooking class? A weekly workout? Whatever you choose to incorporate into your Second-New Year, being organized about it might actually inspire you to see it through.

Journal here

Link here!

Planner here!

Planner here!

Mantra of the Week:

“Your talent determines what you can do. Your motivation determines how much you’re willing to do. Your attitude determines how well you do it.” — Lou Holtz

Song of the Week: These Days- Nico

ARIES
You don’t need closure. You need to stop checking their Instagram like there’s going to be a press release.

TAURUS
Your bank account would like to remind you that “fall wardrobe” is not an emergency expense category.

GEMINI
You’ve told three different people three different versions of the same story. Somehow, they’re all true.

CANCER
Stop romanticizing people just because they were nice to you twice. The bar is currently in hell’s basement.

LEO
You’re entering a powerful new era of doing things exclusively because you know you’ll look good doing them.

VIRGO
You cannot organize your way out of an existential crisis. But a new Notes app list certainly won’t hurt.

LIBRA
Your biggest challenge this week is making a decision without conducting a focus group of seven friends first.

SCORPIO
Someone thinks you’re mad at them. You weren’t, but now that you know they’re worried about it, you kind of like it.

SAGITTARIUS
You’re one minor inconvenience away from booking a trip you absolutely cannot afford. Godspeed.

CAPRICORN
You’ve been “so busy” for six consecutive months. At some point this is no longer a busy week. This is your personality.

AQUARIUS
You’re about to disappear for 48 hours, respond to nobody, then return to the group chat with “wait what happened.”

PISCES
The person you invented in your head and the person you’re actually talking to are unfortunately two different people.

The guilt that compounds from this belief is debilitating because you’re wondering whether you’re the catalyst in your own success. Do you just not care as much as others? Are you really so flippant with your health and wellbeing? Or has the overconsumption of today’s age run us dry?

Just a few short years ago, it seemed that a new wellness trend had at least a good 6 months of lifespan in it before we moved on to the next newer, shinier, more expensive trend- but those 6 months really gave you the length and legs to see if this was something you could incorporate into your daily routine for the long haul. Nowadays, you’re lucky if you have even two weeks to test out a new fad before the internet, and all its technologically advanced iterations, are shoving a far superior discovery down your throat. Listen, I’m not reminiscing over the days where a cigarette and coffee counted as breakfast, and a cigarette and Diet Coke were dinner, but there needs to be some leeway.

Personally, I’ve subscribed to a brand of wellness I like to call: convenient vitality. I, too, want to be the best version of myself that utilizes my 6-9 as much as she slaves away in her 9-5, but I fear I am of the variety that prefers to restore during a blissful slumber and make it to work just in the knick of time; this is-the sleeping hours-where I preserve my vitality. Or so I tell my boss when I’m a few minutes (hours) late for work and on a deadline. I am under no illusion that I function best on little sleep, rigorous, early morning exercise, and a list of supplements as long as my arm. I choose to find a time in my day when I know I’ll have energy and that small, sliver of hope to do some light cardio, and some vitamins that I have been told via a holistic doctor that I am in deep need of replenishing. My vanity can only suffer so much laziness and indignity! Otherwise, I would say I’m a healthy mix of fretting over not doing enough and straining myself overzealously.

I find the best course of action in these ever trying times (and this incredibly trying economy) is to see an actual functional doctor, get proper blood panels and other such necessary tests, and supplement yourself based on necessity rather than trending forecasts. Overloading yourself on a routine touted by a longevity “expert” will do more harm down the line; I promise you, a few missed doses of creatine without knowing the how- or why- won’t be the cause of your untimely end.

In recent years, I’ve devoted myself to studying different wellness practices that have been prevalent and proven since the ancient times: Ayurvedic and Traditional Chinese medicine. My path to discovering these remedies came by chance, and sadly by necessity, as I was dealing with a diagnosis I did not believe modern medicine could help me with. The practices, and their teachings, transformed how I approach my health and wellness journey in ways that no modern advice has been able to mimic.

Ancient texts and proof, though limited and stemming more from a mind-over-matter approach, have done me wonders. So, I implore you to do your own research, take the time you need, and build out a health and wellness journey that follows a protocol you’ve built to cater to YOU and not one that was catered and manufactured for you in a marketing office convinced of a one-size-fits-all approach. Your greatest investment is your health, and your greatest ally is you.

Mantra of the Week:

“Your health isn’t a trend to keep up with. It’s a relationship to keep tending.”

Song of the Week:

I Will Always Love You - Dolly Parton

YOUR WEEKLY HOROSCOPE

♈️ Aries 🔥

This week, you’re being asked to practice patience. Unfortunately, you have none. Try not to start a fight just because someone took 45 minutes to text back.

♉️ Taurus 💸

You deserve a little treat. The problem is you’ve been saying that every day for three weeks. Your bank account would like to be removed from this narrative.

♊️ Gemini 🎭

You’ve told four different people four slightly different versions of the same story. Not because you’re lying. Because each audience deserved its own edit.

♋️ Cancer 🔍

Someone’s energy feels “off” and you will be dedicating approximately 70% of your mental bandwidth to figuring out why. They’re probably just tired. You will not be accepting that explanation.

♌️ Leo ✨

You’re entering a period of increased confidence, magnetism, and checking who viewed your story. Post the picture. You already know you look good.

♍️ Virgo 📋

You’ve made a detailed plan for something that absolutely does not require a detailed plan. Unfortunately, nobody else is following it correctly. Stay strong.

♎️ Libra ⚖️

A decision needs to be made this week. Naturally, you’ll ask six people what they think, ignore all of them, and choose the thing you wanted in the first place.

♏️ Scorpio 🕵️‍♀️

Your intuition is trying to tell you something. And by “intuition,” we mean the FBI-level investigation you completed at 1:14 AM. The evidence is unfortunately compelling.

♐️ Sagittarius 🎉

A terrible idea is going to sound extremely fun this week. We both know you’re going to do it, so at least charge your phone first.

♑️ Capricorn 🧘‍♀️

You’re dangerously close to turning something that was supposed to be relaxing into another task to excel at. You do not need to be the best at having a weekend.

♒️ Aquarius 👽

You’ve emotionally detached from a situation so successfully that you’re starting to wonder if you ever cared at all. Growth? Avoidance? Who’s to say.

♓️ Pisces 🎬

One mildly meaningful interaction is about to become an entire cinematic universe in your head. There’s already a soundtrack. Please remember you have spoken twice.

My personal belief is that vacation romances are, for the most part and with the fewest exceptions, casual and fun. The chances of Julio from Portugal being your soulmate as you dance till dawn off the coast of a Spanish island are probably slim, but not impossible! All that being said, I wholeheartedly advocate for casual and foreign romances that could turn into life-altering relationships. However, do you pursue the romance with the laissez-faire attitude of agreeing to meet at a crowded beach club at “some point in the night,” or with the formality of planning a dinner where you both divulge your most intimate details and traumas whilst sipping a vintage red?

If you were both in your hometowns, it would seem obvious that at the very least some effort would need to be put into the plans so as not to seem careless. But vacation rules dictate that it must always be easy, breezy, and (hopefully) beautiful, so where does that leave us? Do we just invariably lower our standards on trips because we know the impermanence of the situation? Or do we take our lists, our expectations, and our dignity, and demand the bells and whistles? I suppose it’s circumstantial to each person and their situation, but from recent experience, I must say: keeping my expectations high was rewarding and pleasant.

I was whisked away to a romantic candlelit cave that doubled as a restaurant, overlooking the Balearic Sea and littered with couples in an enchanted daze. While living my best Taylor Swift bridge, about six minutes into our conversation, I realized this man was, in fact, not my soulmate. Not even second-date worthy. But the paella I devoured as I actively tried to tune him out was priceless! As I chewed that gluttonous, greasy treat and looked out onto the water crashing over the rocks under the moonlight, I realized that no matter what he said (which I truly can’t recall, as I was in a metaphorical food high), this would still be up there on my list of tolerable first dates, because I am, first and foremost, a prized cow who likes to eat well.

So I direct the question to you: would I have been better off saving my time and including my friends in this unfortunate event, dancing under strobing lights in a room heavy with bass from a popular DJ? Or was the paella alone worth the lost time? And is the time ever really “lost,” since each date and each person is supposed to teach you something about yourself? I could be making that last part up in order to quell my ever-screeching anxiety about the future, but alas, with great delusion comes great responsibility. As someone who suffers from crippling fomo and will show up to the opening of an envelope, time is more valuable than anything else. Time spent on a date that could’ve been a short meal was also not ideal. My take? Perhaps be slightly more discerning in the future. I shall, of course, continue my travels with an optimistic mind and the open heart of a romantic on steroids looking for her one true love!

Mantra of the Week:

“Embrace the journey, because within change lies potential.”

Song of the Week:

Adela- Ain't In LA

Your Week in Astrology:

♈️ Aries 🔥

You’re entering your “I’ll just do it myself” era this week. Try delegating before you accidentally acquire three new jobs and a resentment problem. The stars say you’re right, but maybe don’t say I told you so out loud.

♉️ Taurus 💸

Your bank account would like a word. Unfortunately, you’re currently unavailable because you found something you “literally need.” Treat yourself within reason (emphasis on within reason).

♊️ Gemini 🫠

Your social calendar is thriving. Your social battery? Different story. This week, you may find yourself making plans with the confidence of someone who will absolutely want to cancel them later. Proceed accordingly.

♋️ Cancer 🦀

Someone’s energy feels off, and naturally you’ve already constructed seven possible explanations. Before you spiral, consider the deeply unsettling possibility that it has nothing to do with you. Protect your peace.

♌️ Leo ✨

Attention is coming your way this week, which is obviously where it belongs. Accept the compliments, post the picture, wear the outfit. Just remember: mysterious is hotter than explaining yourself.

♍️ Virgo 📋

You have a plan. You have a backup plan. You have a backup plan for the backup plan. Unfortunately, the universe has decided to freestyle this week. Your assignment: let one thing happen without trying to optimize it.

♎️ Libra ⚖️

A decision is looming, and asking 14 people what they think has somehow made things worse. Deep down, you already know what you want. Pick it before someone introduces a third option.

♏️ Scorpio 👀

Your intuition is suspiciously accurate this week. You don’t need screenshots, witness testimony, or a 47-slide presentation to prove your point. Observe quietly and let people reveal themselves.

♐️ Sagittarius ✈️

You’re craving a little excitement, which historically has been dangerous for everyone involved. Book the trip, make the plan, flirt with the stranger. Just maybe don’t make any irreversible decisions after 11 p.m.

♑️ Capricorn 🧘‍♀️

You’ve been productive enough. Seriously. Nobody is giving out medals for answering emails at 10:47 p.m. Close the laptop and do something completely useless for once. Consider it personal growth.

♒️ Aquarius 👽

You’re feeling slightly detached this week, but in a chic, mysterious way. Take your space, ignore the group chat for a few hours, and return when you’re ready to interact with society again.

♓️ Pisces 💗

Your imagination is working overtime, and unfortunately it has access to your romantic life. Before turning one interaction into a six-season love story, wait for a second date. Dream big, just maybe not that big.

My personal favorite is a tangible, physical vision board, with visual aids and inspiring photos- anything from beautiful locations I see online to people whom I look up to- whatever inspires you fires you up! Some find it easier to chronicle their progress and goals in written form, in a journal or notebook, with annotations and adjustments to acknowledge their progress. There is no one way to manifest the life you want to leap towards, you need only to start. So, below, we encourage you to pick one of 3 ways to become the architect of your dream life!

1. Get a large, white cardboard paper and begin to glue images that inspire you, or visuals that provide you with the vision of what you want. Below each image, or next to it, describe what you want and how you’d feel having received it. Something along the lines of, “I would love to visit ____and it would make me feel so incredibly grateful to share this experience with my loved ones!”

2. Buy a notebook that evokes joy or happiness within you, whether it be your favorite color pattern or texture, and start journaling in there of all the things you want and how you’d feel if you’d received them. You can itemize the list, or free form write it. Begin to thank the universe for blessing you for all that you have and all that you’re getting- remember, an attitude of gratitude!

3. If freestyling your goals and dreams can get a little tricky for you, you can purchase a pre-written gratitude/manifestation journal with guided prompts that help you get to the place you need to be. There are step by step guides for how to figure out what you want, how you can actualize it, and continue the pattern of working towards that, gratefully and with clarity!

Holiday Mantra

Your Mantra to start this week is: 

I am a beacon of light, success, happiness, and calm.I  am a magnet for all that I desire.

Song of the Week: Boom,Boom,Boom - Vengaboys 

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It’s not always easy to appreciate the good when you're constantly surrounded by so much worrying news, familial problems, work dilemmas, and so much more! You feel like your enjoyment could be taking away from acknowledging the pain and suffering of the world around you- but, it’s quite the opposite, in fact. Taking the time to appreciate what you have, like your family and friends being in good health, or knowing you have a full year to look ahead, full of new opportunities and adventures, can be especially difficult. 

So, this year, we’re making it official: by writing down 31 things you are grateful for, for every day of December, to remind yourself whenever you feel down or uninspired or forlorn, of everything small and large that you have to be grateful for! Whether it’s the impending snow that’s about to fall down and your getting to witness it- write it down! A new relationship to look forward to? Write it down! By romanticizing your life and appreciating all that comes with it, you will encourage more excitement, more love, and more joy to envelop you for the holiday season and the next year!

Holiday Mantra

Your Mantra to start this week is: 

For the next month, everything I see will be magical, everything I read will be electric, and everyone I encounter will be inspiring.

Song of the Week: All I Want for Christmas - Mariah Carey

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Instead of focusing on what the holidays should mean- family, friends, love, and laughter- we focus on the things we don't have- financial stability, a partner, or anything else that may be plaguing us. We don't find time to find gratitude for our health and well-being but instead focus on all the things wrong, so this holiday season, i challenge you to the 5 rules to adhere to from My Therapist Says.

1. Plan, Plan, PLAN: If you plan ahead, you’ll win instead! Planning your budget, your schedule, your routine, and your to-do list will ease the burden of the overwhelming amount of work that comes with the holidays. There’s no shortage of stressors, especially during a busy season, so alleviate some of the pressure by at least having a plan and even if you happen to deviate from it, you still know where to go, what to do, how much you can spend, and who to see!

2. The Art of No: Saying ‘no’ will be your ally and your confidant during the festive season! We often take on more than we can carry, burdening ourselves with the stress that comes with attending too many dinners, dinner parties, work events, or anything else that may be adding unnecessary stress in an already trying time. Say yes to the things you actually want to do and the people you actually want to see!

3. Don’t Forget to Breathe: Finding time for yourself, your mind, and your body is of the utmost importance. You should have a system down for being able to channel some tranquility, even in the most unlikely of places! And yes, I do mean your annoying step-mother’s house!

4. Share and Care: Sharing how you feel and being honest with your family and friends is important at any time, but during the holidays, it’s a great way to bond with loved ones, be there for eachother, and forge new friendships for the years ahead. Being kind and empathetic for those spending the holidays alone or currently dealing with a loss; being present for friends nursing internal troubles; all the kindness you can spare will go a long way with those suffering in silence.

5. Be Real and Have Fun: Be realistic about what your expectations are, and have fun! Once you know the reality of things, and acknowledge that, there is nothing stopping you from enjoying yourself and allowing the festive season to envelop you like your favorite throw on a cozy, Christmas day! We all tend to dwell on things, and that’s okay- but remember to tae time in between to appreciate what you have, who you have, and most of all, appreciate yourself!

Monday Mantra

Your Monday Mantra to start this week is: 

 I emit love to all who meet me, all who now me, and all who need it.

Song of the Week: My Only Wish - Britney Spears

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Glimmers can come in various forms, such as a stunning sunset, a cute gesture from a loved one, or achieving a personal goal! Something as simple as doing yoga for a week or whatever else you’ve set your sight on, if you accomplish it, you give yourself that small boost that can then grow bigger! By actively seeking out and embracing glimmers in our day-to-day lives, we can cultivate a more positive and resilient mindset, making it easier to navigate difficult times.

The presence of glimmers can have a profound impact on our mental health by counteracting negative emotions or thoughts throughout the day. When we consciously focus on and appreciate the glimmers around us, it shifts our attention away from stressors, worries, or anxieties, allowing us to experience moments of peace and contentment. It’s so rare that we just sit back and really enjoy and appreciate the moment. Glimmers act as a reminder that there is always something beautiful or uplifting to be found, even in challenging situations. By incorporating glimmers into our daily routine, whether through practicing gratitude or engaging in activities that bring us joy, we can change everyday from an okay one to a great one, and every week, we will have something to look forward to. Start with a small, uplifting thing to change your day, just to get used to giving your body and mind a moment of peace, happiness, and that boost to better your overall self!!

Monday Mantra

Your Monday Mantra to start this week is: 

I am one with my body, my mind, and my soul, cultivating only love and light.

Song of the Week: New York City - Among Savages

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Now if you’re reading this, raise your hand if you're a perfectionist! 🙋‍♀️ I feel you. I'm the queen of setting impossibly high standards for myself. Gotta have the perfect grades, perfect body, perfect life!

But let’s be honest… that kind of thinking is setting us up for major anxiety.

Perfectionism is an admirable quality, but taken too far, it can lead to anxiety and paralysis. As women, we often hold ourselves to impossibly high standards, striving for flawless grades, appearances, relationships - an idyllic life. But this relentless pursuit of perfection comes at a cost.

The voice inside telling us we're not good enough is perfectionism anxiety rearing its ugly head. This condition has us terrified of mistakes and falling short, rendering us frozen and unable to start tasks or achieve goals. How does such paralysis serve our growth?

Of course, flawlessness is appealing. But the constant pressure to be perfect is far from a walk in the park, leading to excessive self-criticism, fear of failure, and heightened stress. True, we wish to emulate role models like Beyonce. But we must accept that a flawless life exists only in our wildest dreams.

Progress necessitates self-compassion, allowing room for missteps and growth. To thrive, we must release the crippling need for perfection and focus instead on fulfillment.

Try this: begin a passion project for enjoyment rather than praise. Savor the process, imperfections and all. Your mind and body require rest, not relentless striving. Stumbles are inevitable on one's journey.

We are multifaceted women, not one-dimensional archetypes. Let us shed perfectionism anxiety and embrace our complexity. Our only real failure is letting fear impede our potential. Say it with me sisters: "I am beautifully imperfect and that is my superpower!"

Monday Mantra

Your Monday Mantra to start this week is: 

I create my own path and walk it with joy.

Song of the Week: Is It Over Now - Taylor Swift

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Have you heard about this silent walking thing? It's like the latest self-care trend for the mind! Now, before you think I've gone all zen-obsessed, hear me out. This is legit.

Silent walking is basically taking peaceful strolls all by yourself without talking or checking your phone. I know, shocking concept these days, right? But get this - it's said to be super good for mental health and reflection. A solo, tech-free walk? A perfect recipe for getting our minds right!

See, when we walk in silence surrounded by nature or somewhere chill, it creates space to connect with ourselves on a deeper level. No convos, no notifications, just us and our thoughts getting some much-needed quality time. And in this nonstop, crazy world, don't we all need that?

Silent walking lets you tune in to your feels, get introspective, and maybe uncover some inner wisdom. No need to fill the space talking - the silence holds the magic! It's like hitting the reset button for your brain. And who couldn't use that?

Now more than ever, we're searching for calm and clarity, am I right? Well, research shows silent walking can reduce stress, improve concentration, boost creativity...all kinds of good vibes! It's the perfect mindfulness practice for queens like us needing to take a healthy break from the pressure to always be stimulated and "on".

So why not give it a try? Set a time, grab your fave sneaks, and walk out your worries, girl! Silent walking just might lead you to a brighter, more centered you. Your mind will thank you. This is self-care for the soul! Loving this practice for us!

Monday Mantra

Your Monday Mantra to start this week is: 

Progress is better than perfection. Perfection is unobtainable, but progress is always possible.

Song of the Week: Harvest Moon - Poolside

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Ever heard of shadow work? It's this super cool method where we look into the corners of our minds and deal with those unresolved feels, old hurts, and parts of us we kinda try to ignore. Shout out to Carl Jung – that genius Swiss dude – who said we all have this shadowy part that needs some love and understanding to truly grow and shine.

Now you’re probably wondering where this came from.

A couple of years ago, I hit this point in my life where I felt stuck. You know that feeling? Like you're just going through the motions, and life's become this predictable loop. It wasn't depression, but it was like living in this gray zone. Then, during a girls' weekend trip to a yoga retreat in Sedona (totally recommend, by the way!), I attended a workshop titled, "Unearthing the Unseen: A Journey to Wholeness". Sounds deep, right?

That's where I was introduced to the magic of shadow work. And by magic, I mean this eye-opening, transformative, sometimes tear-jerking method of diving deep into the self. I learned about Carl Jung and how he believed we all have parts of ourselves we don't always acknowledge.

At first, I was skeptical. Why would I want to dredge up old feelings? But then, during a guided meditation, something clicked. Memories surfaced, emotions swelled, and I realized there were aspects of myself that I'd been sidelining or even suppressing.

And you know what? Taking that journey with my shadows didn't just help me confront past traumas. It also made me more aware of patterns I'd unknowingly repeated in relationships, career choices, and even in how I treated myself.

Now, why should you care? Well, if you've ever felt like something's holding you back, or if you've ever wondered why you react a certain way in specific situations, shadow work might just be your key. It's a personal journey, for sure, but it's one that can lead to profound understanding, self-acceptance, and ultimately, growth.

So, how do we do this shadow work? We light up those inner dark corners with things like meditation, journaling, maybe even therapy, and just some good ol' self-reflection. Especially with all the crazy stuff happening in the world now, ain't it about time we gave our minds some TLC? Life might throw us curveballs, but that doesn't mean we let our minds go all haywire.

By doing shadow work, we get this awesome chance to really get ourselves. We face and embrace those parts we might usually avoid, and that's super empowering. Yeah, it can be tough – like looking at old embarrassing photos – but the growth? Girl, it's so worth it! Loving this journey for us!

And the best part? Shadow work helps us break out of those annoying habits where we might be our own worst enemy. By understanding our shadows, we see how they play into our everyday life – influencing our choices and feelings.

I'm not saying it's a one-size-fits-all answer. But for me, and maybe for you, it's a path worth exploring. So, why not dive in and see what's lurking in your shadows? You might just discover a brighter, more authentic you waiting to shine.

Monday Mantra

Your Monday Mantra to start this week is: 

Embrace the journey, for within change lies endless potential.

Song of the Week: About You - The 1975

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(Source: Magzter)

So this Sunday, we are focusing all on the art of blocking out the noise and grounding your body, your mind, and your spirit to a point where you are entirely in control and at ease. Below, 3 of the most calming and centering practices I have used when faced with anxiety inducing situations. 

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Monday Mantra

Your Monday Mantra to start this week is: 

I am the strength and love I wish to see in the world.

Song of the Week: Unchained Melody - Righteous Brothers

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The whole idea is to set aside some chill-out time. It’s about stepping away from chores, gadgets, and all that noise, and just being with your thoughts. It might sound a bit weird, but folks from the Netherlands say it's a way to clear your head, get creative, and feel refreshed. By letting our minds just roam free, it’s like taking a mini mental break.

Adding some Niksen time to our daily routine is a simple yet effective way to escape the fast life. It can be as simple as finding a comfy spot to sit and daydream, going for a relaxed walk with no real destination, or enjoying a cup of tea while you're lost in thought. It's a little hideaway from the non-stop buzz. By allowing ourselves to do absolutely nothing, we can find a nice balance and feel better overall.

So, in the midst of the daily hustle, Niksen is a gentle reminder to take a break, breathe, and enjoy the simple act of doing nothing. Try it today, let yourself relax in the calm, and find your own little slice of peace in those quiet Niksen moments.

Monday Mantra

Your Monday Mantra to start this week is: 

With each day, I invite good vibes and clear paths, making room for simple joys and welcoming the unexpected.

Song of the Week: Dancing In The Moonlight - Jubel 

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Cozy cardio is all about finding joy in movement without sacrificing your relaxation time. Instead of torturous burpees and intense HIIT workouts, this trend encourages gentle exercises like stretching, yoga, and low-impact dances. Picture yourself lunging in your comfiest sweatpants, doing squats with a hot cup of herbal tea in hand, or even bopping around to your favorite tunes with a fluffy robe on. All these activities, while burning calories and raising endorphins, benefit your overall state of being!

But don't be fooled by the cozy atmosphere - these workouts are designed to get your heart pumping and endorphins flowing. The focus is on gentle yet effective movements that promote flexibility, strength, and self-care. Embrace the magic of cozy cardio and say hello to a workout routine that is as comforting as a warm hug. Who needs a gym when you can snuggle up and twerk it out in the coziest corner of your home? Below, 3 of our favorite cozy workouts that are fun, effective, and accessible to everyone!

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Monday Mantra

Your Monday Mantra to start this week is: 

Only love and happiness await me this week, bringing blessings, light, and abundance into my life.

Song of the Week: One More Time - Blink 182

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Organizing my week ahead on a Sunday evening is one of my favorite ways to ground myself after a weekend filled with movement and a lot of chaos. I like to include the right amount of meditation, exercise, and healthy habits to ensure my week is positively conducive to not only my mental health but my health as a whole. Below, I’ve linked planners with timestamps that personally suit my style best as they aid in my knowing where and when exactly I have to be.

1. Joy Daily Planner

2. Daily Productivity Planner

Clearing out clutter and cozying up my personal space is another Sunday activity that is beneficial overall and helpful in the grand scheme of things. Though these small adjustments seem inconsequential they do make a difference if you just stick to them and continue to set a routine for yourself that is all about furthering the best ‘you’ you can be!

Organization is truly powerful - it provides a sense of control and order amidst the chaos of everyday life. By taking time to tidy, plan, and prepare on Sundays, you set yourself up for a calm, focused week ahead. A decluttered space leads to a decluttered mind. A thoughtfully planned schedule removes stress and uncertainty. Meal prepping leads to better eating habits. Establishing these organizational rituals not only impacts your home and work life, but all areas of your health and wellness.

Spending Sunday evenings organizing your planner and calendar specifically can make a world of difference. Mapping out your appointments, meetings, and deadlines reduces anxiety about the week ahead. Similarly, scheduling in time for self-care, exercise, and fun ensures you honor your personal needs too. Writing a clear, realistic to-do list provides direction and motivation. And setting weekly goals keeps you focused on priorities. Staying on top of your schedule promotes productivity, positivity, and peace of mind.

Beyond planning out your week, organizing and decluttering your physical space clears mental clutter too. Take time to tidy your home office, bedroom, closets, and more. Toss out what you don't need, put items back in their designated spots, deep clean surfaces, and create peaceful order. You'll be amazed at how refreshed this makes you feel. A clean, organized environment also improves focus and efficiency. Decluttering reduces stress levels and encourages mindfulness.

Don't underestimate the impact even small organizational habits can have. Tasks like making your bed, meal prepping healthy grab-and-go items, laying out your clothes, or setting up your coffee maker make mornings smooth. Visualizing your goals, writing in a journal, or reading an inspiring book become beneficial rituals. Even simple repetitions like organizing your keys and bag by the door bring calm. Turn organization into self-care.

The power of organization is real. But don't let it become a source of anxiety either. Start small, focus on areas that uplift you, and stay flexible. Tidy and plan with purpose, but leave room for spontaneity too. Use organization to create space for what matters - deeper connections, creativity, adventures, and joy. Be strategic but hold it all loosely. Find what organizational rituals make you feel your best!

Monday Mantra

Your Monday Mantra to start this week is: 

Only love and happiness await me this week, bringing blessings, light, and abundance into my life.

Song of the Week: Pretty Isn’t Pretty - Olivia Rodrigo

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It starts with one small step that turns into a pattern that in turn becomes a habit and eventually, a lifestyle. Implementing small changes throughout your day, your week, or your year, can impact you greatly in the grand scheme of things.

You have to live with an alignment of consistency and small progress- anything where you can reward yourself, or feel proud, even something small and seemingly inconsequential. 

For me, that looks something like waking every morning, partaking in a 5-10 minute meditation and doing something every day that impacts both my body and mind positively. That could be a short walk, a game of tennis, or even a cooking class! So, this week- start your goal of amending one thing a day to benefit an OVERALL you. 

Monday Mantra

Your Monday Mantra to start this week is: 

I am a vessel of love, light, and inspiration, ready for any new opportunity that comes my way.

Song of the Week: It’s Time - Imagine Dragons

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1. Pillow talk: Upgrade your pillow game, sis. Get one that's so fluffy, it feels like you're sleeping on a cloud made of puppies. Sweet dreams guaranteed. Try this Casper Pillow.

2. Pajama party: Choose the fabric, fit, and style that most puts you at ease, because our body is incredibly responsive when we feel uncomfortable so it’s important to be as detail oriented as possible. We love these soft bamboo ones and the come in different colours, including a cute sand coloured pair for the neutral aesthetic girlies

3. Netflix and no chill: Sorry, boo, but late-night binge-watching isn't your friend. Swap out that Netflix marathon for a good book (we recommend The Alchemist if you haven’t read it yet, it’s a must) or some lavender-scented relaxation. Your sleep cycle will thank you. And that also means no phone 2 hours to 30 minutes before bed. Not only will your body and mind finally relax from the over stimulation but you can channel that time into some healthy meditation practices- remember, a clear mind does wonders. 

Monday Mantra

Your Monday Mantra to start this week is: 

Believe in yourself, push your limits, and embrace every opportunity that comes your way. With determination and hard work, you have the power to achieve greatness.

Song of the Week: Vampire - Olivia Rodrigo

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In addition to breathing for your body, there are other things you can do that instill the confidence that you may be lacking for that prosperous, fresh new start. A planner to organize all your thoughts, goals, and steps for the next few months. A timetable to productively schedule out your day. Even something as small as making a one-day-a-week appointment that is just for you! It is the small things that make a difference on the grand scale of things- you want to live your life beautifully and to its full potential, so whatever small practices aid you in that quest must be adhered to!

This week, your purpose should be for you; a complete focus on what will work best for you in the coming days/weeks/months, so you can be the best version of yourself to your family, your friends, and most of all, yourself.  

Monday Mantra

Your Monday Mantra to start this week is: 

I am open and willing to the best the universe has to offer and all the blessings that come my way.

Song of the Week: Swimming - Le Youth

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Whilst they may seem silly or somewhat ridiculous from the outside, these rituals guide me in more ways than one when it comes to grounding me back to where I want my mind and spirit to be. Whether it’s chanting a mantra of positivity, or following a 15 minute uplifting guided meditation- it not only helps, but prepares me for whatever the week ahead has in store. These meditative rituals are simple as they can be done anywhere and everywhere. If I feel that I need more uplifting energy that day, I’ll do them on my walk and before bed- or I’ll do them as I eat breakfast and then as I’m resting. The great thing about finding something so ritualistic and constant is that there are no rules; the only rule is consistency. The consistent need to maintain positive mental well-being. 

Monday Mantra

Your Monday Mantra to start this week is: 

I am strong, grounded, and grateful in body, mind and spirit. What I wish for gravitates towards me.

Song of the Week: Nicki Minaj - Barbie World (with Aqua)

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Instead of going over all the things you regret and wish you hadn’t said/done, think instead of all the wonderful things you are proud of, the incredible people who surround you, the small acts of kindness you experienced/performed, and anything else that may cross your mind in gratitude. It seems like a small thing, to be done with quickly and never thought of again, but if you really sit still, meditate, and let your mind explore the crevices of gratitude, you’ll be surprised at how much you can positively influence your day and your life.

So, as you wake, after you have your coffee/tea/matcha, find a comfortable place, get into a seated position, close your eyes, and really focus on every small thing you can think of. When you are done, you will feel lighter, happier, and more uplifted, looking forward to a fresh, new week ahead. At this point, you might want to journal, as we suested last week, in any way that you feel inspired to do so.

Monday Mantra

Your Monday Mantra to start this week is: 

I am light, love, and all that is good; only love and light surround me, and only love and light emanate from me.

Song of the Week: Brown Eyed Girl - Van Morrison

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